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HomeMy WebLinkAbout06-01-2015 ARC Item 2 ARCH-0917-2015 (2120 Santa Barbara Avenue) ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW COMMISSION AGENDA REPORT SUBJECT: Design review of a mixed-use project with 3,000 square feet of commercial space and 69 residential units located on the east side of Santa Barbara Avenue. PROJECT ADDRESS: 2120 Santa Barbara Avenue BY: Phil Dunsmore, Senior Planner FILE NUMBER: ARC 96-14 FROM: Phil Dunsmore, Senior Planner Phone Number: 781-7522 E-mail: pdunsmore@slocity.org RECOMMENDATION: Approve the design of the project based on findings and subject to conditions. SITE DATA Applicant Covelop    Representative Steve Rigor, Arris Studios  Zoning C‐S‐H (Service‐Commercial with  the Historical Preservation  overlay)   General Plan    Services and Manufacturing    Site Area 1.62 acres    Environmental  Status     Categorically exempt under Class  32, Infill Development, of the  CEQA Guidelines.  SUMMARY The applicant is seeking design approval of a mixed-use project adjacent to Miner’s Hardware that will include 69 residential units and 3,000 square feet of commercial space. The Architectural Review Commission conceptually reviewed this project on January 21, 2015 and provided feedback to the applicant team to proceed with a final design. The Cultural Heritage Committee reviewed the project design on February 23, 2015 and found the design consistent with the Railroad District Plan. On May 13, 2015 the Planning Commission approved the Use Permit to allow the mixed-use project along with a 15% parking reduction. Now the applicant is ready for final design review. 1.0 COMMISSION’S PURVIEW The project is a new development on a site predominantly utilized for parking and storage adjacent to Miner’s Hardware. The ARC’s role is to review the project in terms of its consistency with the Railroad District Plan and Community Design Guidelines (CDG) The Meeting Date: June 1, 2015 Item Number:2 PJD PC-2 - 1 ARC-C 96-14; 2120 Santa Barbara (The Junction – June 1, 2015) Page 2 Planning Commission evaluated the project in terms of consistency with the Zoning Regulations, which requires specific design standards be met for mixed-use projects. Relevant excerpts from these documents are included or referenced in the analysis where pertinent. 2.0 PROJECT INFORMATION 2.1 Site Information/Setting Site Size 1.62 acres  Present Use & Development Parking lot , accessory structures, and small retail buildings south of  Miner’s Hardware  Topography Generally level  Access Santa Barbara Avenue & Emily Street  Surrounding Use/Zoning North:  C‐S‐H; Miner’s Hardware & nursery  East:  C‐S‐H; service businesses & railroad tracks  West:  C‐S‐H; Brooks Woodcraft, Rib Line, Pacific Energy  South:  C‐S‐H & PF‐H; SLO Motorsports, Stalwork, Fire Station 1  The project site is 1.63 acres and is located on Santa Barbara Street between Miner’s Hardware and SLO Motorsports. The site is paved with asphalt, contains several accessory structures utilized for storage, and contains a small retail space adjacent to Santa Barbara Street. All remaining existing structures would be removed for the proposed project, none of which meet the definition of a historic resource. 2.2 Project Description The project is a mixed-use project consisting of 69 residential dwelling units with 3,000 square feet of retail space on the ground floor adjacent to Santa Barbara Street. Residential dwellings consist of 43 studio apartments and 26 one-bedroom apartments in a three-story configuration. Some of the units would be above the retail space at Santa Barbara Street with the remainder of the units towards the rear of the site surrounding an outdoor courtyard. 90 vehicle parking spaces are provided along with 6 motorcycle spaces and a total of 43 bicycle parking spaces, both long and short term. A portion of the project bridges over the parking area, connecting the residential units above the commercial building to the residential units towards the rear of the site. 2.3 Project Statistics Final approval of the project design is contingent on findings for consistency with both the Railroad District Plan architectural guidelines and the Citywide Community Design Guidelines. PC-2 - 2 ARC-C 96-14; 2120 Santa Barbara (The Junction – June 1, 2015) Page 3 Statistics  Item Proposed 1 Ordinance Standard2  Street Yard Not Indicated  15 feet   Max. Height of Structure(s) 35 feet 35 feet Building Coverage (footprint) Not known 75%  Parking Spaces 90 + 6 motorbike+ 43 bicycle With 15% reduction= 91+ 5  Motorbike  Landscaping Not yet Shown Municipal Code Section 17.87  (Water‐efficient landscape  standards, 12.38.090  (landscaped parking areas),   Grading Site previously graded (nearly  level), and partial asphalt  Refer to Municipal Code  15.04.040 and 16.20.040  (grading permit required)  Notes: 1. Applicant’s project plans    2. City Zoning Regulations  3.0 PROJECT ANALYSIS The primary review criteria for a development project at this location are the Railroad District Plan Architectural Guidelines (Attachment 3). The Railroad District Plan supplements the Community Design Guidelines and is specific to this district. The general design theme of the district is referred to as “Railroad Vernacular” which is a blend of small and medium scale residential and commercial buildings that were originally constructed to house railroad workers and support railroad activities. The guidelines are designed to influence new construction to complement the district, while not replicating historic buildings. Exhibit 1: Proposed Design as seen from Santa Barbara Street The project should also be reviewed for consistency with the Citywide Community Design Guidelines, specifically chapters 3.1, Commercial Project Design Guidelines, and chapter 5.4 PC-2 - 3 ARC-C 96-14; 2120 Santa Barbara (The Junction – June 1, 2015) Page 4 Multi-Family Housing Design. 3.1 PREVIOUS REVIEW On May 13, 2015, the Planning Commission’s review focused on the site location and the appropriateness of a residential land use within a commercial district. The Zoning Regulations, MC 17.08.072 prescribe specific design standards for mixed use projects within commercial zone. The Planning Commission found that the project site complied with these design standards. The majority of the Commission’s testimony focused on bicycle parking, vehicle parking and the design of public improvements along Emily Street (Attachment 5). Since the ARC’s review on January 21, the project design has been revised several times to accommodate direction from the ARC, CHC and Planning Commission. The CHC found the project consistent with the Railroad District Plan. At the January 21 ARC hearing, staff and the ARC provided specific directional items. The following discussion highlights the how the plans have responded to the directional items: 1. Submit complete plans with all of the required information on the City’s checklist for final architectural approval. Provide a colors and material board and specifications for all windows, lighting, colors, materials and other building features. Staff Response: The applicant team has submitted a complete set of architectural plans, a colors and materials board and other details that meet City application requirements (Attachment 2). 2. Meet the zoning regulations setback requirements by providing a minimum of 15 feet between the building and the public right of way at Santa Barbara Street. Staff Response: The project footprint has been revised to meet the street-yard setback at Santa Barbara Street. 3. Revise the design of the north elevation to provide additional relief to the mass and roof plane of the building thereby reducing the repetitive design of the north elevation. Staff Response: The applicant team has revised the Santa Barbara Street elevation and the north elevation several times to respond to ARC, CHC and Planning Commission comments. The retail entries now face Santa Barbara Street, and the north elevation has been slightly modified with the addition of a mansard roof to reduce the apparent height. Colors have also been modified to reduce the emphases of the tower features and integrate the building façade. Transom style window elements have been added to the storefront windows. PC-2 - 4 ARC-C 96-14; 2120 Santa Barbara (The Junction – June 1, 2015) Page 5 Exhibit 2: Building elevation, January 2015 Exhibit 3: Building Elevation, May 2015 4. Consider incorporating elements that add to the emphasis of ‘Railroad Vernacular” architecture, further emphasizing the residential components of the project. Staff Response: Building colors, windows, storefronts and roof elements have been modified to respond to Railroad Vernacular architecture. The ARC should determine whether additional architectural elements should be added to further the projects compatibility with the Railroad District while emphasizing the residential component. 5. Where stucco is identified as an exterior treatment, utilize a smooth plaster as required by the Railroad District Plan. Staff Response: The project incorporates a variety of building materials including standing seam metal, cast in place concrete and stucco. A condition of approval has been added to ensure that the stucco will be a smooth stucco as required by the Railroad District Plan. 6. Provide a complete landscape plan that complements the building design, screens utility PC-2 - 5 ARC-C 96-14; 2120 Santa Barbara (The Junction – June 1, 2015) Page 6 features, and provides screening and shading for parking areas. Provide details and landscape plans for the courtyard to create a useable outdoor open space area for residential occupants. Staff Response: The revised project plans now include a conceptual landscape plan (Attachment 2). The plan includes and appropriate palette of trees, parking lot landscape, and landscape for the outdoor use area associated with the residential project adjacent to the pool. During this extreme drought, the City Utilities Department will prohibit the installation of lawns and other landscape that requires irrigation more than 2-times per week. If the landscape prohibition is still in place at the time of development, the applicant will be required to install an interim landscape plan that will only include drought tolerant landscape. 7. A sign program will be required either as a condition or as a part of the approval of final plans. The sign program shall include information on the sizes, locations, colors, materials, and types and illumination of signage proposed for the commercial portions of the building and the overall site. Project signs shall be designed to be compatible with the architecture of proposed buildings and to complement the Railroad District. Staff Response: The revised building elevations include appropriate locations of conceptual signs that meet the intent and requirement of the Sign Regulations. 8. Include detailed information on pedestrian pathways, lighting, location of backflow prevention devices, and screening of mechanical equipment. Staff Response: The revised plans now include a preliminary utility plan that identifies above ground plumbing, and other items that will need to be integrated into the project design. The backflow prevention device is shown on the project plans near the driveway entrance at Santa Barbara Street adjacent to the commercial portion of the building within a patio area adjacent to bicycle parking. These features are typically required to be screened with landscape or building features. A condition of approval has been added to require screening of this device. This could be accomplished by a low decorative wall, utility box cover, or other site feature that can be integrated into the patio area. Exhibit 4: Portion of Front Patio illustrating above ground plumbing installations. Location of backflow prevention device PC-2 - 6 ARC-C 96-14; 2120 Santa Barbara (The Junction – June 1, 2015) Page 7 9. Provide information on loading areas (i.e. indicate if truck loading areas are needed) and refuse enclosures. Loading areas (including bays for individual buildings) and refuse enclosures are to be screened from street and off-site views and are to be architecturally integrated with the design of the project. Staff Response: The applicant is proposing to improve Emily Street from Roundhouse Street to the project driveway at the rear of the site. The rear of the site will accommodate trash service and trash enclosures as shown in the exhibit below. Exhibit 5: Emily Street improvements, rear site access and location of trash service. 3.2 Other Site Improvements: a. Lighting: No site lighting has been identified in the parking area. Conditions of approval have been added to ensure parking pole lights and building wall lights are consistent with the City’s Night Sky Preservation Ordinance and complement the project. b. Drainage/Grading: The site is located outside of a known flood zone and was previously graded and paved for parking areas and buildings. Revised plans now include a preliminary grading plan. A final drainage plan is currently being prepared by the applicant team in order to meet requirements. c. Other site amenities: The site plan has now been modified to enhance the pedestrian and bicycle experience. Bicycle parking has been substantially increased as directed by the Planning Commission, and a bicycle tool kiosk and café style seating area has been provided along with building entries along Santa Barbara Street as shown in the graphic on page 8. PC-2 - 7 ARC-C 96-14; 2120 Santa Barbara (The Junction – June 1, 2015) Page 8 Exhibit 6: Multi-Modal diagram. 4.0 ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW As proposed the project will qualify for an exemption from CEQA in accordance with Section 15332, In-Fill Development Projects, of the CEQA Guidelines. 5.0 RECOMMENDATION Approve the design of the project, based on findings and subject to conditions as provided in the attached resolution. 6.0 ATTACHMENTS 1. Vicinity (Land Use) map 2. Reduced-scale project plans 3. January 21, 2015 ARC Minutes 4. February 23, 2015 CHC Minutes 5. May 13, 2015 PC Minutes 6. Railroad District Plan Architectural Guidelines 7. Resolution approving the project design. PC-2 - 8 C-S-S-H R-2 C-S-H PF R-1 R-2 R-2 R-2 PF-HR-2 PF-H R-2 R-2 R-2 C-S-H R-2 R-2-S O R-2-S R-2-S R-1-PD C-S-H C-N R-2 R-2 C-N-H-MU R-2 C-S-S-H-MU C-N C-S-H-MU R-1 C-N C-N C-N C-S-H C-N C-N R-2-S R-2 C-NR-2 C-N C-S-HPF R-3R-3-H R-2 R-2 M C-N PF C-N R-2-SR-2 C-R-S-H B R O A D HIGH UPHAM CH O R R O EM I L Y ST O R Y SA N T A B A R B A R A SOUTH RA C H E L ELLA BRANCH G A R D E N CHURC H SW A Z E Y LA W T O N ME A D O W J E N N I F E R ROUNDHOUSE FLORENCESANDERCOCK BISHOP VICINITY MAP File No. 96-142120 Santa Barbara ¯ ATTACHMENT 1 PC-2 - 9 PC-2 - 10 PC-2 - 11 PC-2 - 12 PC-2 - 13 PC-2 - 14 PC-2 - 15 PC-2 - 16 PC-2 - 17 PC-2 - 18 PC-2 - 19 PC-2 - 20 PC-2 - 21 PC-2 - 22 PC-2 - 23 PC-2 - 24 PC-2 - 25 PC-2 - 26 PC-2 - 27 PC-2 - 28 PC-2 - 29 PC-2 - 30 PC-2 - 31 PC-2 - 32 PC-2 - 33 PC-2 - 34 PC-2 - 35 PC-2 - 36 PC-2 - 37 PC-2 - 38 PC-2 - 39 PC-2 - 40 PC-2 - 41 PC-2 - 42 DRAFT SAN LUIS OBISPO ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW COMMISSION MINUTES January 21, 2015 ROLL CALL: Present: Commissioners Patricia Andreen, Ken Curtis, Suzan Ehdaie, Amy Nemcik, Allen Root, Vice-Chair Greg Wynn, and Chairperson – Position Vacant Absent: None Staff: Senior Planner Phil Dunsmore, Associate Planner Marcus Carloni, Associate Planner Rachel Cohen, Supervising Civil Engineer Hal Hannula, and Recording Secretary Diane Clement ELECTION: Commr. Wynn was elected unanimously as Chairperson and Commr. Ehdaie was elected unanimously as Vice-Chairperson. ACCEPTANCE OF THE AGENDA: The agenda was accepted as presented. PUBLIC COMMENTS ON NON-AGENDA ITEMS: There were no comments made from the public. PUBLIC HEARINGS: 1. 2120 Santa Barbara Avenue. ARC-C 96-14; Conceptual review of a mixed-use project with 69 dwelling units and 3,000 square feet of commercial space; C-S-H zone; Pat Arnold and Damien Mavis, applicants. (Phil Dunsmore) Commr. Wynn recused himself from consideration of 2120 Santa Barbara Avenue because he sometimes works for the applicant. He left the meeting. Senior Planner Dunsmore presented the staff report, recommending continuation of the project to a date uncertain with direction to staff and the applicant on items to be addressed in plans submitted for final approval. PUBLIC COMMENTS: Lea Brooks, SLO, stated her family has a business, Brooks Woodcraft, across the street, which will be affected by this project. She noted a discrepancy between the public notice, stating a lower square footage and only 49 units, and the staff report. She stated she supports infill projects but did not see mention of bicycle parking so she ATTACHMENT 3 PC-2 - 43 Draft ARC Minutes January 21, 2015 Page 2 hopes the project will be reviewed by the Bicycle Advisory Committee. She suggested separate parking for residents, employees, and customers. She noted that Santa Barbara Street is heavily traveled by cars and bikes so there needs to be sufficient setback to make it safe to go in and out of Miners. She added that she has seen a lot of pedestrian traffic crossing this street. She stated she supports the Emily Street bike path and was glad to hear that the target population is not students. Myron Amerine, SLO, stated that the plot map does not include any bike facilities when there should be one space per residence. He noted that the applicant anticipates renting to millennials, some who will not have cars and some who will have expensive bikes. He added that the City has a 20% mode share shift goal which should be reflected in this project. He stated that if the homeless center will have 50 bike spaces, this project should have at least 25. Anne Wyatt, SLO, supported this project and noted she likes the the bridge, the long wall, and the towers. She suggested a variance for the towers. She added that the mix of studios and one-bedroom units will meet the needs of the growing number of single- person households. She noted that this is a huge opportunity to provide more bike- friendly facilities, including access to Emily Street, and that the bike enclosure here should be really enclosed. She also supported the troweled plaster suggested by staff. There were no further comments from the public. COMMISSION COMMENTS: Commr. Andreen stated the speakers made good suggestions, especially about bicycles. She noted that she wants to see how the architectural style relates to the surrounding buildings and added that she likes the idea of a band around the building and mullions, as mentioned in the staff report, to break up the windows. She approved of the tower height and stated that she understands the applicant's position about the long side and suggested that some color variation might help. Commr. Curtis stated he thinks the types of residential units are good and, when the project comes back to the Commission, he wants to see drawings that show adjacent structures and more information on site circulation, especially since there is a shared driveway with Miner’s. He noted that the staff report shows the project does not have the required number of vehicle parking spaces so he wants to know if an exception will be requested or more parking provided. He added that the living units could be shared by two people. He stated he tends to share staff's concern that the long façade on the Miner’s side needs to be broken up. He suggested the bridge structure be reduced to just the first floor to break up the skyline of the building from the Miner’s side. He expressed concern that, while the structure facing Santa Barbara Street does incorporate some of the Railroad Vernacular style, the other sides do not, and the two elements do not marry well. He noted he was referring to the shed roofs on the front. He encouraged consideration of building materials that might reflect the Railroad Vernacular style, such as brick and metal. He stated he has some concern with the stucco but not with the towers which help break up the design. ATTACHMENT 3 PC-2 - 44 Draft ARC Minutes January 21, 2015 Page 3 Commr. Nemcik agreed with recommendation 3 to break up the north elevation but appreciated the difficulty because it would never really be viewed that way. She noted she would like to see it done just a little more so it does not look accidental. She stated that she really likes the two-story bridge and the way it cuts through but suggested that perhaps it should be brought down just a little. She stated that this is a great project. Commr. Root stated he is fine with the tower height and is not as concerned about the massing and articulation as he is about the level of detail. He stated he agrees with Commr. Nemcik that if the bridge were made a little more shallow, that could be enough. He suggested picking an element, such as light or dark gray, and playing that up with lintels, cornices, etc., to enhance the rhythm. He added he would be in favor of pulling the bridge out with other materials with expressed pronounced details. He agreed with the speaker comments about circulation and bike storage. Commr. Ehdaie agreed with the other Commissioners and asked if it would be possible to show the pedestrian access between the residential and the retail/commercial components. She supported adding bicycle parking. She noted that she bikes on Santa Barbara Street and knows there is a safety issue there that should be addressed. Senior Planner Dunsmore stated having good visual access through the site is a design issue. He added that the City will determine if public improvements are required so that vehicles entering and exiting can be easily seen. Engineer Hannula stated that even something as simple as the driveway approach design is important to get cars off the street quickly. He noted that bikes and buses complicate that and that the southern driveway design is heading in the right direction. Commr. Curtis stated that the main entrance to the apartments at the rear needs more emphasis and that it is just the width of the sidewalk right now. He suggested creating a little more outdoor space there and emphasizing that space architecturally. He stated he does not know why there are two entrances to the front of the residential building that are so close together. He noted the need to draw attention to the main lobby. There were no further comments made from the Commission. COMMENT AND DISCUSSION: 2. Staff: a. Agenda Forecast—Feb 2, 2015, four items: mixed use on Santa Barbara Street close to Railroad Square, adjacent to Del Monte Café; new location for SLO Brewery on Aero Vista; Bluebird Salon on Marsh; and affordable housing at 860 Humbert. 3. Commission: ATTACHMENT 3 PC-2 - 45 Draft ARC Minutes January 21, 2015 Page 4 ADJOURNMENT: The meeting adjourned at 8:38 p.m. Respectfully submitted by, Diane Clement Recording Secretary ATTACHMENT 3 PC-2 - 46 DRAFT SAN LUIS OBISPO CULTURAL HERITAGE COMMITTEE MINUTES February 23, 2015 ROLL CALL: Present: Committee Members Sandy Baer, Thom Brajkovich, Patti Taylor, Victoria Wood, Vice-Chair Jaime Hill, and Chair Bob Pavlik Absent: Committee Member Platt Staff: Senior Planner Brian Leveille, Senior Planner Phil Dunsmore, and Recording Secretary Erica Inderlied ACCEPTANCE OF THE AGENDA: Chair Pavlik inquired about the number of project units shown on the agenda versus the number of project units shown in the staff report for hearing item 2. Senior Planner Dunsmore confirmed that 69 units is the correct number. The agenda was accepted as presented. MINUTES: Minutes of January 26, 2015, were approved as presented. PUBLIC COMMENTS ON NON-AGENDA ITEMS: There were no comments from the public. PUBLIC HEARING ITEMS: 1. 2120 Santa Barbara Avenue. ARC 96-14; Review of a mixed-use project with 49 dwelling units and 1,200 square feet of commercial space; C-S-H zone; Pat Arnold and Damien Mavis, applicants. (Phil Dunsmore) Phil Dunsmore, Senior Planner, presented the staff report, recommending that the Cultural Heritage Committee adopt a resolution recommending that the Architectural Review Commission find that the project is consistent with the Railroad District Plan and approve the design of the project subject to additional directional items which he outlined. Damien Mavis, Heather Wiebe, and Stephen Rigor, applicants offered a presentation and responded to Committee Member inquiries regarding architectural details and site planning. PUBLIC COMMENTS: Lea Brooks, SLO, neighboring property owner, stated that bicycle racks would be a critical part of project design that appear to be missing. PC-2 - 47 Draft CHC Minutes February 23, 2015 Page 2 Myron Amerine, SLO, voiced support for the project and its walkability and bicycle compatibility. He noted that the architectural treatment could be enhanced and scale reduced from the point of view of the railroad side. There were no further comments made from the public. In response to public comment, Senior Planner Dunsmore noted that bicycle racks are planned for the project. COMMITTEE COMMENTS: Committee Member Brajkovich voiced support for the project; inquired whether the potential historical significance of the small to be demolished had been examined. Senior Planner Dunsmore responded that the site has no known historical resources and that an evaluation was not necessary. Committee Member Wood noted that there is no entryway on the project’s Santa Barbara Avenue frontage; Rigor responded that the doors are placed closest to project parking. Committee Member Wood voiced concern about the inclusion of corrugated metal; voiced support for the project overall. Vice-Chair Hill opined that entry doors on Santa Barbara Street will be imperative; voiced support for the project as otherwise presented. Committee Member Brajkovich concurred. Committee Member Baer voiced support for the project. Chair Pavlik inquired whether windows would be operable; Rigor responded that residential windows would be operable, while commercial windows would be sealed. There were no further comments made from the Committee. On motion by Vice-Chair Hill, seconded by Committee Member Baer, to adopt a resolution recommending that the Architectural Review Commission find that the project is consistent with the Railroad District Plan and approve the design of the project subject to additional directional items as outlined in the staff report, and further revised as follows: 2. Refine the window designs and consider the use of divided light windows, a taller bulkhead, transom windows and other features that complement the Railroad District Plan. 4. Adjust height and detail of the tower features on the south elevation to comply with 35-foot maximum height limit. 6. Reevaluate the inclusion of pedestrian entryways on Santa Barbara Avenue. PC-2 - 48 Draft CHC Minutes February 23, 2015 Page 3 AYES: Committee Members Baer, Brajkovich, Hill, Pavlik, Taylor, Wood NOES: None RECUSED: None ABSENT: Committee Member Platt The motion passed on a 6:0 vote. PC-2 - 49 DRAFT SAN LUIS OBISPO PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES May 13, 2015 CALL TO ORDER/PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE ROLL CALL: Commissioners Hemalata Dandekar, Michael Draze, John Fowler, Ronald Malak, William Riggs, Vice-Chairperson Michael Multari, and Chairperson John Larson Absent: None Staff: Deputy Community Development Directors Doug Davidson and Kim Murry, Senior Planner Phil Dunsmore, Deputy Director of Transportation Tim Bochum, Supervising Civil Engineer Hal Hannula, Assistant City Attorney Jon Ansolabehere, and Recording Secretary Erica Inderlied ACCEPTANCE OF THE AGENDA: The agenda was accepted as presented. MINUTES: Minutes of April 8, 2015, were approved as presented. PUBLIC COMMENTS ON NON-AGENDA ITEMS: There were no comments from the public. PUBLIC HEARINGS: 1. 598 Princeton Place. APPL-0978-2015: An appeal of a Code violation of MC 17.17.055 Front Yard Parking; R-1 zone; Aaron, Katherine/Gambucci, Joseph et ux., appellants. Kyle Bell, Assistant Planner, presented the staff report, recommending that the Commission adopt a resolution denying the appeal and supporting the Director’s decision to uphold the citation, based on findings and subject to conditions which he outlined. Joseph Gambucci, property owner and appellant, noted desire to preserve the residential character of the neighborhood; commented on negative impacts resulting from student-occupied rentals in the neighborhood; stated that the parking upon his property can be interpreted to be legal non-conforming, and that adequate maneuverability exists with the site’s current configuration. PUBLIC COMMENTS: Amelia Gambucci, SLO, inquired as to the seemingly inconsistent enforcement actions against other similar parking situations throughout the City. There were no further comments from the public. ATTACHMENT 5 PC-2 - 50 Draft Planning Commission Minutes May 13, 2015 Page 2 COMMISSION COMMENTS: Assistant City Attorney Ansolabehere made reference to the case of James Disney v. the City of Concord, in which the Court upheld the City’s ability to regulate vehicle parking in front yards. Commr. Malak spoke in opposition to staff’s request; noted the apparently moot nature of the issue of the legality of the parking space. Commr. Fowler spoke in support of staff’s recommendation; noted the apparent legal basis for denying the appeal. Chair Larson spoke in opposition to staff’s recommendation; noted emphasis on the issue of the legality of vehicle parking, rather than the legality of the driveway itself. Commr. Draze spoke in support of staff’s recommendation; noted apparent ready availability of legal solutions to the problem. Vice-Chair Multari spoke in opposition to staff’s recommendation; noted the apparently moot issue of the legality of the parking space, and the unreasonable burden of compliance upon the property owner. Commr. Dandekar spoke in support of staff’s recommendation; noted sympathy for the property owner’s situation; noted concern about the potential for setting precedent by failing to enforce code. There were no further comments from the Commission. On motion by Commr. Riggs, seconded by Chair Larson, to adopt a resolution denying the appeal and supporting the Director’s decision to uphold the citation, based on findings and subject to conditions contained in the staff report AYES: Commrs. Riggs, Dandekar, Draze, Fowler NOES: Commrs. Larson, Malak, Multari RECUSED: None ABSENT: None The motion passed on a 4:3 vote. Chair Larson stated that the Planning Commission’s decision is appealable to the City Council. 2. 2120 Santa Barbara Avenue. USE-0916-2015: Review of a mixed-use project with 69 multi-family units and 3,000 square feet of retail space, and a mixed-use parking reduction, with a categorical exemption from CEQA; Covelop Management, Inc., applicant. ATTACHMENT 5 PC-2 - 51 Draft Planning Commission Minutes May 13, 2015 Page 3 Phil Dunsmore, Senior Planner, presented the staff report, recommending that the Commission adopt a resolution allowing approval of the mixed-use project and a 15% parking reduction, based on findings and subject to conditions which he outlined. Commr. Draze noted that, while he did not attend the March 11, 2015, meeting where this item was previously heard, he had thoroughly reviewed the minutes and was comfortable taking action. Supervising Civil Engineer Hannula clarified that designs for pedestrian improvements such as bulb-outs will depend on final engineering details. Steve Rigor, project architect, made a presentation; summarized changes made to the project proposal since its previous hearing. PUBLIC COMMENTS: Glen Matteson, San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum, stated that having the property developed may deter illicit activity; noted preference for Emily Street improvements as shown in staff’s “Option A” diagram, which will interfere least with the Museum’s neighboring property. Brad Larose, San Luis Obispo Railroad Museum, noted preference for the Emily Street improvement configuration as shown in “Option A,” noted an existing access gate that would be impeded by an eight-foot sidewalk, if constructed. Myron Amerine, SLO, noted concern that the proposed configuration of Emily Street improvements will prevent its future pedestrian and bicycle connectivity to Broad Street; noted preference for Emily Street improvements as shown in “Option B.” Lea Brooks, nearby property owner, spoke regarding connectivity concerns; noted support for rerouting pedestrian activity away from Santa Barbara Avenue. There were no further comments from the public. COMMISSION COMMENTS: In response to inquiry from Vice-Chair Multari, Deputy Director of Transportation Bochum clarified that Emily Street is intended to eventually be connected to High Street; commented on the flexibility of various circulation configurations; noted desire to minimize negative impacts upon the Railroad Museum property. Commr. Draze spoke in support of the project and utilizing Emily Street configuration “Option A,” with modifications to accommodate the Railroad Museum property; spoke in support of additional bicycle parking; spoke in opposition to further parking reduction. Commr. Dandekar spoke in support of the project and utilizing Emily Street configuration “Option A,” with modifications to accommodate the Railroad Museum ATTACHMENT 5 PC-2 - 52 Draft Planning Commission Minutes May 13, 2015 Page 4 property, spoke in support of additional bicycle parking and the addition of a car share space; spoke in opposition to further parking reduction. Commr. Fowler spoke in support of the project and utilizing Emily Street configuration “Option A,” with modifications to accommodate the Railroad Museum property; spoke in support of additional bicycle parking, the addition of a car share space, and an increased parking reduction. Chair Larson noted public comment received from local businesses and prospective tenants in support of the project, and received from members of the public in opposition to the project. Larson spoke in support of the project and utilizing Emily Street configuration “Option A”; noted neither support for nor opposition to further parking reduction. Commr. Riggs spoke in support of additional bicycle parking, the addition of a car share space, and requiring a full 20% parking reduction. Vice-Chair Multari spoke in support of the project and utilizing Emily Street configuration “Option A,” with modifications to accommodate the Railroad Museum property; spoke in support of additional bicycle parking. There were no further comments from the Commission. On motion by Commr. Draze, seconded by Commr. Malak, to adopt a resolution allowing approval of the mixed-use project and a 15% parking reduction, subject to findings and conditions contained in the staff report, with the following additional revisions: a. Amend Condition 7 to memorialize that staff will refine the details of Emily Street improvements in accordance with “Option A” as depicted in the staff report. b. Add Condition 11 to read as follows: “43 long-term bicycle parking spaces, or no fewer than one bicycle parking space per studio apartment unit, shall be provided.” c. Add Condition 12 to read as follows: “An electric vehicle charging station shall be added to the commercial portion of the project, in a manner acceptable to staff and in accordance with current standards.” AYES: Commrs. Draze, Malak, Dandekar, Fowler, Multari, Larson NOES: Commr. Riggs RECUSED: None ABSENT: None The motion passed on a 6:1 vote. ATTACHMENT 5 PC-2 - 53 Draft Planning Commission Minutes May 13, 2015 Page 5 On motion by Commr. Riggs, seconded by Chair Larson, to require a 20% parking reduction, and encourage applicants to consider the establishment of at least one car share space. AYES: Commrs. Riggs, Larson, Fowler NOES: Commrs. Dandekar, Draze, Malak, Multari RECUSED: None ABSENT: None The motion failed on a 3:4 vote. The Commission recessed at 8:44 p.m., and reconvened at 8:53 p.m., with all members present except Commr. Riggs. 3. City-wide. GENP-1267-2015; Review of General Plan Conformity Report, Capital Improvement Program proposed as part of 2015-2017 Financial Plan; City of San Luis Obispo—Community Development Department, applicant. Deputy Community Development Director Murry presented the staff report, recommending that the Commission report to the City Council that all projects/purchases in the Capital Improvement Plan proposed as part of the 2015-2017 Financial Plan comply with the City’s General Plan. Deputy Director of Transportation Bochum responded to Commission inquiries. PUBLIC COMMENTS: There were no comments from the public. COMMISSION COMMENTS: Vice-Chair Multari requested future clarification from staff regarding the ways in which planned transportation-related Capital Improvement Projects fit into the modal hierarchy priorities adopted as part of the Circulation Element update.discussed in the past. Chair Larson requested that staff make location of the future improvements to the accessibility of Capital Improvement Program documents easier to find for the public on the City’s website. There were no further comments from the Commission. On motion by Commr. Draze, seconded by Vice-Chair Multari, to report to the City Council that all projects/purchases in the Capital Improvement Plan proposed as part of the 2015-2017 Financial Plan comply with the City’s General Plan. AYES: Commrs. Draze, Multari, Dandekar, Fowler, Malak, Larson NOES: None RECUSED: None ATTACHMENT 5 PC-2 - 54 Draft Planning Commission Minutes May 13, 2015 Page 6 ABSENT: Commr. Riggs The motion passed on a 6:0 vote. COMMENT AND DISCUSSION: 3. Staff a. Agenda Forecast Deputy Community Development Director Murry gave a forecast of upcoming agenda items; noted the release of the City’s final updated General Plan. 4. Commission Commr. Malak requested that staff return within 30 days with a proposed date for the Planning Commission to receive a presentation about investigate best practices for water and energy conservation for new and altered residential and commercial uses, in order to receive public input and potentially request development of standard conditions for development projects to incorporate higher energy and water efficiency features. ; report back on the topics separately within 30 days to determine a date for the Commission to invite public input and consider making a recommendation to Council regarding the same. Commr. Fowler Multari requested that the presentation report include a summary of current requirements, policies, and practices. Chair Larson requested that the report focusing on water be made the priority. Commr. Draze requested that staff keep the Commission informed of key items, such as the City’s response to the Governor’s action on drought being considered by the City Council on June 2nd. ADJOURNMENT: The meeting was adjourned at 9:25 p.m. Respectfully submitted by, Erica Inderlied Recording Secretary ATTACHMENT 5 PC-2 - 55 ATTACHMENT 6 PC-2 - 56 ATTACHMENT 6 PC-2 - 57 ATTACHMENT 6 PC-2 - 58 ATTACHMENT 6 PC-2 - 59 ATTACHMENT 6 PC-2 - 60 ATTACHMENT 6 PC-2 - 61 ATTACHMENT 6 PC-2 - 62 ATTACHMENT 6 PC-2 - 63 RESOLUTION NO. ####-15 A RESOLUTION OF THE SAN LUIS OBISPO ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW COMMISSION APPROVING THE DESIGN OF A MIXED-USE PROJECT TO CONSTRUCT 69 RESIDENTIAL UNITS AND 3,000 SQUARE FEET OF COMMERCIAL SPACE AT 2120 SANTA BARBARA STREET ARC-96-14 WHEREAS, the Architectural Review Commission of the City of San Luis Obispo conducted a public hearing in the Council Hearing Room of City Hall, 990 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, California, on January 21, 2015, to conceptually review the project design pursuant to a proceeding instituted under ARC- 96-14; and WHEREAS, the Cultural Heritage Committee of the City of San Luis Obispo conducted a public hearing in the Council Hearing Room of City Hall, 990 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, California, on February 23, 2015, to review the project and recommended the ARC approve the project subject to conditions; and WHEREAS, the Architectural Review Commission of the City of San Luis Obispo has duly considered all evidence, including the testimony of the applicant, interested parties, and evaluation and recommendations by the staff at said hearings. WHEREAS, the Architectural Review Commission of the City of San Luis Obispo conducted a public hearing in the Council Hearing Room of City Hall, 990 Palm Street, San Luis Obispo, California, on June 1, 2015, to review the project design pursuant to a proceeding instituted under ARC 96-14; and WHEREAS, notices of said public hearings were made at the time and in the manner required by law; and NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Architectural Review Commission of the City of San Luis Obispo as follows: SECTION 1. Findings. The Architectural Review Commission hereby grants final approval to the project (ARC 96-14), based on the following findings: 1. The project will not be detrimental to the health, safety, or welfare of those working or residing in the vicinity since the proposed project is consistent with the site’s zoning designation, and will be subject to conformance with all applicable building, fire, and safety codes. 2. As conditioned, the design theme of the project can be found consistent with the Railroad District Architectural Guidelines because the project reflects design elements suggested by the guidelines and does not attempt to mimic or copy historic architecture. PC-2 - 64 Resolution No. ARC-####-15 Page 2 2120 Santa Barbara Street, ARC 96-14 3. The scale and massing of the building is compatible and complementary to nearby structures and is within a suitable location adjacent to other commercial development adjacent to the railroad. 4. The project’s design is consistent with the design principles contained in Section 4.0.19 of the Land Use Element since the building fits within the context and scale of nearby existing development and the addition is setback from the street maintaining the existing building’s street presence consistent with the historic pattern of development; and, does not obstruct views from, or sunlight to, publicly-owned gathering places. 5. Consistent with the City’s Community Design Guidelines, the project incorporates articulation, massing, and a mix of color/finish materials that are compatible with the neighborhood and complementary to other development in the Railroad District. 6. As found by the Planning Commission, the project meets the Municipal Code design standards for a mixed-use project within the C-S zone. SECTION 2. Environmental Review. The project is categorically exempt under Class 32, In-Fill Development Projects; Section 15332 of the CEQA Guidelines, because the project site is surrounded by urban uses and is consistent with the general plan land use designation. The approval of the project would not result in any significant effects relating to traffic, noise, air quality, or water quality. SECTION 3. Action. The Architectural Review Commission hereby grants final approval to the project with incorporation of the following conditions: Planning Department 1. Final project design and construction drawings shall be in substantial compliance with the project plans approved by the ARC. A separate full-size sheet shall be included in working drawings submitted for a building permit that list all conditions, and code requirements of project approval as Sheet No. 2. Reference should be made in the margin of listed items as to where in plans requirements are addressed. Any change to approved design, colors, materials, landscaping or other conditions of approval must be approved by the Director or Architectural Review Commission, as deemed appropriate. 2. The project design shall be in compliance with all conditions of approval approved by the Planning Commission at the May 13, 2015 hearing. A copy of the use permit conditions shall be included on the construction permit submittal. 3. Plans submitted for a building permit shall include and clearly identify the colors and materials of all proposed building surfaces and other improvements on elevation drawings. 4. Plans submitted for a building permit shall include window details indicating the type of materials for the window frames and mullions, their dimensions, and colors. Plans shall PC-2 - 65 Resolution No. ARC-####-15 Page 3 2120 Santa Barbara Street, ARC 96-14 include the materials and dimensions of all lintels, sills, surrounds recesses and other related window features. 5. The locations of all lighting, including bollard style landscaping or path lighting, shall be included in plans submitted for a building permit. All wall-mounted lighting fixtures shall be clearly called out on building elevations included as part of working drawings. All wall- mounted lighting shall complement building architecture. The lighting schedule for the building shall include a graphic representation of the proposed lighting fixtures and cut- sheets on the submitted building plans. The selected fixture(s) shall be shielded to insure that light is directed downward consistent with the requirements of the City’s Night Sky Preservation standards contained in Chapter 17.23 of the Zoning Regulations. All lighting installations shall be designed to complement the Railroad District Plan. 6. Mechanical and electrical equipment shall be located internally to the building. With submittal of working drawings, the applicant shall include sectional views of the building, which clearly show the sizes of any proposed condensers and other mechanical equipment. If any condensers or other mechanical equipment are to be placed on the roof, plans submitted for a building permit shall confirm that parapets and other roof features will adequately screen them. A line-of-sight diagram shall be included to confirm that proposed screening will be adequate. This condition applies to initial construction and later improvements. 7. A final landscaping plan, including irrigation details and plans, shall be submitted to the Community Development Department along with working drawings. The legend for the landscaping plan shall include the sizes and species of all groundcovers, shrubs, and trees with corresponding symbols for each plant material showing their specific locations on plans. a. Any proposed landscape lighting shall be shown on plans submitted for a building permit and plans shall clearly indicate lighting to utilize a narrow cone of light (no brighter than approximately 15 watts) for the purpose of confining the light to the object of interest. 8. The location of any required backflow preventer and double-check assembly shall be shown on all site plans submitted for a building permit, including the landscaping plan. Construction plans shall also include a scaled diagram of the equipment proposed. Where possible, as determined by the Utilities Director, equipment shall be located inside the building within 20 feet of the front property line. Where this is not possible, as determined by the Utilities Director, the back flow preventer and double-check assembly shall be located in the street yard and screened using a combination of paint color, landscaping and, if deemed appropriate by the Community Development Director, a low wall. The size and configuration of such equipment shall be subject to review and approval by the Utilities and Community Development Directors. 9. Any proposed signs are subject to review and approval of the Community Development Department and subject to a sign permit. The Community Development Department may approve proposed signs if found consistent with applicable sections of the sign regulations and provided signs are in keeping with the character and context of the building. The PC-2 - 66 Resolution No. ARC-####-15 Page 4 2120 Santa Barbara Street, ARC 96-14 Community Development Director may refer signage to the ARC if signs appear to be excessive in size or out of character with the project. 10. The project shall be responsible for providing affordable housing units or an in-lieu fee in accordance with the City’s Housing Element. 11. Bikes: Long and short-term bicycle parking shall be provided in accordance with Table 6.5 of the Zoning Regulations and as shown on the plans dated May 20, 2015. Bicycle parking shall be installed at highly visible locations that are as close to the main entrance of the destination as possible and located at least as conveniently as the most convenient automobile parking space. Dimensioned locations and details of the short and long-term bicycle parking shall be provided on the project’s construction plans including rack design, location, clearances and circulation needs for users in compliance with manufacturers’ standards. Each parking space shall include a 2x6 ft. footprint unless noted otherwise by the manufacturer. a. Approved short-term bicycle rack designs include the inverted “U” or “Peak Racks”. “Ribbon” type racks are not approved for use in the City. b. Long-term bicycle parking may consist of lockers installed either within or outside the building. As an alternative, a lockable room within the building that is labeled and reserved for bicycle storage may substitute for bicycle lockers. Provide details and specifications for bicycle lockers/rooms to the satisfaction of the Planning Division. Engineering Division 12. Projects involving the construction of new structures requires that complete frontage improvements be installed or that existing improvements be upgraded per city standard. MC 12.16.050. This property is located in the railroad historic district. All required frontage improvements shall be completed in compliance with approved railroad historic district plans. The city is evaluating new options to the board sidewalk that is referenced in the district plans and that was previously included in the City Engineering Standards. 13. The building plan submittal shall show any sections of damaged or displaced curb, gutter, sidewalk, or driveway approach shall be repaired or replaced to the satisfaction of the Public Works Department. Any sections of damaged board sidewalk located along the Santa Barbara frontage shall be repaired or replaced to the satisfaction of the Public Works Department or may be replaced with the new district sidewalk standard. 14. The building plan submittal shall include all required Emily Street improvements per City Engineering Standards and to the satisfaction of the Public Works Department. The Emily Street paveout shall tie into competent pavement material at Roundhouse Street. The transition from pavement to gravel on Emily Street shall be completed to prevent the unravelling of the pavement and migration of the loose gravel and debris onto the improved street. Pedestrian access shall be provided to 25’ past the new driveway entrance off Emily Street in accordance with ADA and City Engineering Standards. The new curb ramps and PC-2 - 67 Resolution No. ARC-####-15 Page 5 2120 Santa Barbara Street, ARC 96-14 off-site receiving ramp shall be constructed in accordance with ADA and City Engineering Standards. 15. The Emily Street improvements will require a public improvement plan submittal. The plan shall be developed per City Engineering Standards and shall be submitted with a Public Works Department application and will be subject to the public improvement plan review and inspection fees in effect at the time of application. 16. The extent of street improvements and paving of Emily shall transition northerly of the new access driveway approach and the existing Sears Warehouse access gate. The limits of paving and sidewalk improvement north of the new access driveway shall consider the existing access requirements for the gate leading to the SLORRM fenced encroachment in Emily Street. The project development plans and Emily Street improvement plans and final drainage report shall consider any run-on for the upslope and off-site watersheds. 17. The building plan submittal shall include all required parking lot improvements, dimensions, space dimensions, maneuverability, materials, space and aisle slopes, drainage, pavement marking, signage, and striping in accordance with the Parking and Driveway Standards and disabled access requirements of the CBC. 18. The building plan submittal shall show all parking spaces to be able to be entered in one movement. All spaces, drive aisles, etc. shall be designed so that all vehicles can exit to the adjoining street in a forward motion in not more than two maneuvers. For purposes of maneuverability, all required and proposed covered and uncovered spaces shall be assumed to be occupied by a standard size vehicle. Parking spaces adjacent to a post, column or walls require an additional foot in width per City Engineering Standard 2220. 19. A common driveway agreement shall be recorded in a format provided by the Planning Division prior to building permit issuance. 20. Provisions for trash, recycle, and green waste containment, screening, and collection shall be approved to the satisfaction of the City and San Luis Obispo Garbage Company. The respective refuse storage area and on-site conveyance shall consider convenience, aesthetics, safety, and functionality. Ownership boundaries and/or easements shall be considered in the final design. Any common storage areas shall be maintained by a Property Owner’s Association or under a similar property maintenance agreement if applicable. 21. The building plan submittal and public improvement plan submittal shall include a complete utility plan. The plan shall show all existing and proposed public and private utilities. All existing wire utilities shall be shown for reference. All new wire utilities shall be underground. The undergrounding of utilities shall be completed without a net increase in utility poles within the public right-of-way. PGE plans shall be provided in conjunction with the development plans unless otherwise approved as a deferred submittal item. 22. The building plan submittal shall show and label the water services and water meters for the respective uses. A separate water meter is required for the residence apartment complex, PC-2 - 68 Resolution No. ARC-####-15 Page 6 2120 Santa Barbara Street, ARC 96-14 commercial space and for landscape irrigation. The proposed new water services shall be installed in a meter manifold in accordance with City Engineering Standards #6210 and #6260. 23. The building plan submittal shall show all existing and proposed improvements related to the proposed Miner’s subdivision. The plans shall show all existing and proposed lot lines, easements, site and utility improvements related to this project. 24. The building plan submittal shall include a complete drainage report. This development shall comply with the Waterway Management Plan Drainage Design Manual. The drainage report shall consider historic offsite drainage tributary to this property that may need to be conveyed along with the improved on-site drainage. The building plan submittal shall consider the historic drainage off of the existing developed site and shall include provisions for a safe overflow to replicate the historic runoff. Otherwise, an off-site drainage easement/agreement may be considered. The report shall include the proposed Emily Street improvements. 25. The building plan submittal shall show compliance with the Post Construction Stormwater Requirements (PCR’s) as promulgated by the Regional Water Quality Control Board for redeveloped sites. Provide a complete Post Construction Stormwater Checklist as available on the City’s Website. The preliminary checklist submitted for ARC is out of date and shall be replaced with the new form in conjunction with the project drainage report. The PCR's shall include the new impervious Emily Street improvements. 26. The building plan submittal shall include an operations and maintenance manual for the Post Construction Stormwater improvements. A private stormwater conveyance agreement will be required and shall be recorded prior to final inspection approvals. 27. General Construction Activity Stormwater Permits are required for all stormwater discharges associated with construction activity where clearing, grading or excavations result in land disturbance of one or more acres. The building plan submittal shall include a copy of the Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP). Incorporate any erosion control measures into the building plans as required by the Board, identified in the SWPPP, and in accordance with Section 10 of the City’s Waterways Management Plan. Include reference to the WDID number on the grading and erosion control plans for reference. 28. The building plan submittal shall include the required street trees. Street trees are generally required at a rate of one 15-gallon street tree for each 35 linear feet of frontage. The City Arborist shall approve the tree species and planting requirements. At least two of the required Street trees shall be planted in the existing tree wells located in the Santa Barbara Street board sidewalk in accordance with City Engineering Standard 8130. Street trees shall be planted in tree wells or in a parkway for the new Emily Street improvements per City Engineering Standards. Utilities Department PC-2 - 69 Resolution No. ARC-####-15 Page 7 2120 Santa Barbara Street, ARC 96-14 1. All proposed sewer laterals shall connect to Santa Barbara Street. Consistent with City standards, any existing laterals at the property that are not proposed for reuse shall be abandoned at the City’s main. 2. Consistent with the City’s Solid Waste Enclosure Standards, please include size, capacity, and location of the solid waste enclosures to serve the project. Applicant will need to contact the General Manager of San Luis Garbage Company (SLG) at 805-543- 0875, and obtain in writing that the proposed enclosures and collection method meets the SLG requirements. On motion by Commissioner ___________, seconded by Commissioner _____________, and on the following roll call vote: AYES: NOES: REFRAIN: ABSENT: The foregoing resolution was passed and adopted this 1st day of June, 2015. _____________________________ Phil Dunsmore, Secretary Architectural Review Commission PC-2 - 70