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10/04/2007 1 i t Community and Economic Development Department (A L I f O R N I A GRAND TERRACE PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING OCTOBER 4,2007 The regular meeting of the Grand Terrace Planning Commission was called to order at the, Grand Terrace Civic Center. 22795 Barton Road. Grand Terrace. California. on October 4.2007 at 7:00 m.m..by Chairman Wilson: PRESENT: Doug Wilson, Chairperson Matthew Addington, Vice Chairperson Torn Comstock, Commissioner Darcy McNaboe, Commissioner Gary Koontz, Planning Director John Lampe, Associate Planner Rich Shields, Public Works Jerina Cordova, Planning Secretary ABSENT: Brian Phelps, Commissioner 7:00 P.M. CONVENED,SITE:AND ARCHITECTURE REVIEW BOARD/ PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING • Call to Order • Pledge of Allegiance led by Tom Comstock • Roll Call • Public address to Commission shall be limited to three minutes unless extended by the Chairman. Should you desire to make a longer presentation, please make written request to be agendized to the Director of Community and Economic Development. 1 22795 Barton Road • Grand Terrace, California 92313-5295 • 909/ 824-6621 PUBLIC PARTICIPATION RITA SCHWARK 21952 Grand Terrace Road Ms. Schwark requested information from the Planning Commission relating to the difference of an R1 and an R2 zone in reference to the Agricultural Overlay, in writing. Ms. Schwark believed there is only one street that can handle a traffic delay. Chair Wilson asked if there were any other comments from the public. After no participation, Chair Wilson closes the public participation. ITEMS 1. MINUTES: Planning Commission Meeting Minutes of July 19, 2007 RECOMMENDATION: Approval MOTION PC-18-2007 Vice.Chair Addington made a motion to approve (with said correction to page 7) Commissioner Comstock seconded a motion to approve (with said correction to page 7) MOTION VOTE 4-0-0-1 Motion carries with Commissioner Phelps Absent REOUEST TO SPEAK PATRICIA FARLEY 12513 Michigan Street Ms. Farley expressed a concern about not having exact wording in the minutes. She believes that a summary of what is said is inaccurate as to the intent of what is said. Director Koontz asked the Planning Commission if they wanted verbatim minutes. Vice Chair Addington indicated that the summary is easier to review. Director Koontz informed the Planning Commission that we normally do the verbatim minutes on controversial items. Commission Mc Naboe suggested that staff type verbatim of the public comment and summary for the Planning Commission. 2. MINUTES: Planning Commission Meeting Minutes of August 16, 2007 RECOMMENDATION: Approval 2 - MOTION PC-19-2007 Commissioner McNaboe motion to approve Vice Chair Addington seconded a motion to approve Vice Chair Addington requested a correction to change"36 sq. ft." to "360 sq. ft.". MOTION VOTE 4-0-0-1 Motion carries with Commissioner Phelps Absent ADJOURN SITE AND ARCHITECTURE REVIEW BOARD/PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING CONVENE PUBLIC WORKSHOP SESSION 1. SUBJECT: Landscaping Plan for the Blue Mountain Senior Villas At the June 21, 2007 meeting of the Planning Commission the Commission considered and approved this project however they wanted to take another look at the landscape plans. The City Council heard and reviewed this project on August 28, 2007 and they concurred with the Planning Commission to review the landscaping of the project. Once it is reviewed and approved it will go back to the City Council an additional time. Director Koontz, presented a map to the Planning Commission of the Original plan that was _ approved a few years ago. He explained that the City received a new landscape plan dealing with a smaller piece of land and, as requested, he presented something of comparable nature to the original landscape plan to the Commission. The developer, architect, Director Koontz, and the Assistant City Manager came up with adding rose gardens, a restricted play area, shading around benches and sensory garden areas. After Director Koontz's, presentation he asked the Planning Commission for their opinion on the landscaping plans. Chair Wilson opened the floor up to the Planning Commission for commenting. Vice Chair Addington suggested a water feature, e.g. standing fountains, pond, etc. Director Koontz explained that by adding a water feature it would require upkeep and maintenance. Commissioner Comstock reminded Chair Wilson that Commissioner Phelps provided a written suggestion and asked that it be added to the record. Director Koontz briefly summarized Commissioner Phelp's suggestion. Director Koontz responded to Commissioner Phelp's suggestion and stated that the detailed design would be discussed when Richard Shields Public Works Director was available to answer. Chair Wilson questioned why covered- parking wasn't addressed as recommended. Director Koontz explained that this plan only addressed the landscaping. Chair Wilson requested a water feature, if it could be accommodated. Steve Berry, Assistant City Manager, described a few challenges in maintaining a water feature and informed the Commission that the City would not be responsible for maintenance of a water feature. 3 WILLIAM KAMINSKY Burns AvenueNivienda Avenue Mr. Kaminsky described the park as having a wall along the street that would or could hide the park. He suggested an open area that was a little more inviting. Director Koontz informed Mr. Kaminsky that there was never a block wall proposed along the frontage. JEFFERY MCCONNELL Walnut Avenue Mr. McConnell requested drought tolerant plants. Chair Wilson explained that is required by Ordinance. Director Koontz confirmed said types of plants with the landscape architect. Chair Wilson invited the public to look at the plans. RITA SCHWARK 21952 Grand Terrace Road Ms. Schwark asked if the park was a public park with barbeque pits. Chair Wilson explained that the park is meant more as a meditative park. Ms. Schwark also wanted to know if there was a Noise Ordinance that would be enforced. Director Koontz explained that it would be opened just like every other park in the City from Dawn to Dusk. PATRICIA FARLEY 12351 Michigan Street Ms. Farley wanted to know how the City planned to control the noise. Commissioner Comstock explained that the idea of the park was meant for those with a slower life style. RAYNELL ENGLISH 22600 Brentwood Street Ms. English wanted answers to three questions. She first inquired on the easements for utilities. Her next question was the acreage of the parcel in comparison to last summer. Staff answered that it had 2.6 acres compared to 4 acres because the elevation was dropped to 2 stories. Director Koontz could not answer the inquiry as to the easement for utilities or underground utilities. Public Works Director, Richard Shields, was not available for this meeting. Chair Wilson mentioned that prescriptive easement rights could be the case. Ms. English lastly wanted to know if the elevation was going to go down. Mr. Wilson answered that it would go down about 2%. PATRICIA FARLEY 12513 Michigan Street Ms. Farley informed the Planning Commission that she spoke to an attorney regarding utility companies putting utility lines on properties without easements. It was said that it could not be t done if there was not an easement. She summarized a case where the resident was building a 4 - pool on his property and broke the utility lines, the utility company threatened with a lawsuit so the resident suggested taking the lines off of his property. Vice Chair Addington reiterated his opinion on having a small water feature. Chair Wilson suggested looking into underground utility lines. Commissioner Mc Naboe liked the plan and was neither for nor against a water feature and concurred with the opinion for underground utility lines. Commissioner Comstock suggested a birdbath as a water feature. Director Koontz explained that all comments will be taken back to City Council for their opinion. 2. SUBJECT: Response to Comments from Planning Commission Meeting August 16, 2007 Director Koontz informed the Planning Commission and the public of what he was covering in his memorandum. Chair Wilson noted that Bobbi Forbes was to be added to the notification list. He covered the questions that were asked from the meeting dated August 16, 2007 and started with the definitions of R 1 and R2. 1. Provide definitions for the R-1-and R-2 zoning classifications. Section 18.10.020 of the City Zoning Ordinance defines R-1 and R-2 zoning as follows: R-1.7.2 (Single Family Residential District): This district is intended for single family residential uses with a single home on an individual lot. Second units (granny flats) are also permitted. The minimum lot size is 7,200 square feet with a maximum density of five (5) dwelling units per gross acre. R-2 (Low Medium Density Residential District): This district is intended for single family residential use and low density multiple family development. These include duplexes, tri-plexes and' four-plexes. The minimum lot size is 10,000 square feet with a maximum density of nine(9) dwelling units per gross acre. Chair Wilson explained the uniqueness of having the opportunity in adding a second unit/granny flat in the City of Grand Terrace. WILLIAM KAMINSKY BurnsNivienda Mr. Kaminsky wanted to know the maximum coverage of the lot area and how big of a house you can put on the lot. John Lampe, Associate Planner, informed Mr. Kaminsky that the Zoning Code has a specific limit and you can't cover a certain percentage of the lot with building or structure. Per the zoning code it is it is fifty percent (50%) coverage for R1 and sixty percent (60%)for R2. 5 - RITA SCHWARK 21952 Grand Terrace Road Ms. Schwark requested clarification on the definition of a dwelling unit. She had some confusion in regards to the amount of families allowed on an acre: She requested the zone change to R1. Director Koontz briefly summarized that the maximum density is 9 dwelling units per acre. Chair Wilson included there were a quite a few factors that determined the allowable units per acre. For example a condominium project that would have nine dwelling units which would have a bedroom and a bathroom. Ms. Schwark questioned if the single apartment of a four-plex was one dwelling unit, or is the four-plex as a whole one dwelling unit. Director Koontz confirmed to Ms. Schwark that a four-plex equals four dwelling units. As an example Director Koontz explained about a project that was presented to the Planning Commission that was eight dwelling units to the acre but because of the terrain of the design the developer was only allowed up to three units for that acre. JANISE MCSCHINOFF 21816 Vivienda Avenue Ms. Mc Shcinoff believed the majority-of the people in her neighborhood came to a consensus stating they wanted the area zoned R2, with control. They didn't want to leave out those that had duplexes and fourplexes that would not be able to rebuild in the event of a fire. They wanted them to be able to rebuild however control the amount of units per the acre. t Chair Wilson reviewed the definition of R2 and informed Ms. Mc Schinoff that it was the City's standard. This would allow those residents that were already there to keep that type of unit. If it burned down then they could build up to nine units if their property allowed. Director Koontz added that any project proposed in that area, would have to go through a Site & Architectural Review before the Planning Commission. 2. Summarize the Agricultural Overlay. Section 18.53 of the City's Zoning Ordinance defines the"AG" (Agricultural Overlay) zone. It permits"limited agricultural uses in areas that have historically contained such uses and where current lot size is sufficient to provide a compatible relationship between limited agricultural uses and the underlying district's residential uses." The keeping of farm animals is permitted with the number of individual species governed by the size of the parcel. Please see the attached Zoning Ordinance Section for additional provisions. Director Koontz reviewed the definition of the Agriculture Overlay. He stated that all animals must be kept a minimum of 70 feet away from the adjacent dwellings, schools and churches. He indicated there is also a limitation.on the number of different kinds of animals you could have. He explained that you could have most domestic farm animals as well as exotic animals with a 6 - Conditional Use Permit. The Conditional Use Permit for an exotic animal would have to be heard by the Planning Commission. Chair Wilson needed clarification on whether you could have that same privilege outside of an Agricultural Overlay. Director Koontz stated that any type of large animal is only permitted in the Agricultural Overlay zone at this time. Chair Wilson confirmed that he was referring to an exotic animal. Director Koontzg ave an example of having a macaw bird in your house versus a pig in your back yard on a 7,200'sq. ft. lot. There would be a problem with that. Chair Wilson explained that the Planning Commission reviewed a case with pot belly pigs. 3. Define One Unit Attached,One Unit Detached,and Two Unit Attached One Unit Attached: A condominium or "row house" type project with individual residential units attached by side walls: Director Koontzstated that this term is seldom used in California and it is used back east where they have row housing. One Unit Detached: Standard single family residential unit on a single parcel. Director Koontzstated that this is exactly what the definition states that it is. Two Unit Attached: Duplex units of two residences attached by a side wall. i Director Koontzstated that this is exactly what the definition states that it is. Multiple Family: Attached units that may be condominiums, townhomes or apartments where units are attached side-by-side,stacked,or clustered. Director Koontzstated that this is exactly what the definition states that it is. 4. Consider adding the "AG" (Agricultural Overlay) zone to certain parcels along the south side of Palm Drive. Director Koontzexplained that five property owners at the top of Palm Avenue requested an Agricultural Overlay on their property. Staff solicited opinions from the adjacent properties that would be affected by the designation. Staff received comments in opposition of this request and also would oppose the request for the following reason: you can't restrict the zone and you could have up to six horses on a piece of land. If you look at the configuration of the lots there is not a lot of flat property to put corrals. You must keep horses 70 feet away from the property line and most of the properties don't meet that standard. Residents in that area made complaints about noise, odors and flies. If you read the Zoning Ordinance it talks about keeping agriculture in areas where there was agriculture historically. 7 Chair Wilson opened up to the public for their comments on the Agriculture Overlay. JEFFREY McCONNELL Walnut Avenue Mr. McConnell stated that he brought the petition at the request of one of the property owners at the top of the hill. Mr. McConnell reviewed the staff report and had one concern about access. Mr. McConnell wanted to know who exactly complained about crossing their property. Mr. McConnell used the communities of San Fernando Valley that used an "H" in their zoning for"Horses" as a suggestion for those areas that can support horses. JANISE McSCHINOFF 21816 Vivienda Avenue . Ms. McSchinoff lives in the area near the flood plain zone and she has 3.5 acres of land. She is set up for 22 horses; however, the zoning only allows for 6 horses. CHUCK HORNSBY 22656 Brentwood Street Mr. Hornsby owns 2 horses in Riverside. Mr. Hornsby said any community, small or large, are better off when there are animals around. Mr. Hornsby said that a common complaint of a lot of people is that they are awakened by a rooster or the horses are always naying. Mr. Hornsby said the City should do everything they can to make as much of the City admittable to animals. Chair Wilson asked Director Koontz what lots were physically able to maintain a horse environment with all standards met. Director Koontz indicated there was one or two in his opinion; and, offered a detailed analysis. JANET RIDGE Terrace Avenue Ms. Ridge indicated that she has been a resident in Grand Terrace for approximately forty two years. She owns horses and requested the Agriculture Overlay be put back in her area. She also requested the allowance of owning more than six horses. JEFFREY McCONNELL Walnut Avenue Mr. McConnell informed the public that he spoke to Warner Hodgen regarding the Agriculture Overlay on his land and he objected to it. Mr. McConnell asked Director Koontz to make a call to Warner Hodgen or Aaron Hodgen to confirm his wishes. i 8 PATRICIA FARLEY 12513 Michigan Street Ms. Farley responded to Mr. McConnell's comments and indicated that it was a good example where the City had changed the zoning that affected people more than three hundred feet away. The people in that area should have known of any zone change in their area. Ms. Farley indicated that she would relate it in her comments on the General Plan later on in the evening. Chair Wilson informed Ms. Farley that he personally knew that the area received public notice because he was involved in the change. WILLILAM KAMINSKY BurnsNivienda Mr. Kaminsky made a suggestion to have the residents get a permit for the animals they wish to have on their property as oppose to an Agriculture Overlay. He indicated that if your property is capable of holding animals that you intend to house you should be able to have them. However, if it is not capable you should not be able to do it. Mr. Kaminsky believes that this would be simpler than trying to establish a zone. Chair Wilson questioned 'staff as to whether there was a possibility of a conditional use (� permit in a circumstance of that nature without an Agriculture Overlay. Director Koontz informed Chair Wilson that it is a possibility to create an ordinance; however, there is not one in place. Director Koontz went on to inform the Commission the only way to have animals is through the Agriculture Overlay. Commissioner Comstock asked if there were properties in town that already contained all the necessities to hold animals that were already established before any of the zone changes and are in the middle of residential neighborhoods. Director Koontz informed Commissioner Comstock that the property he used as an example currently had an Agriculture Overlay. 3. SUBJECT: General Plan Update Workshop Land Use Element Housing Element(State law review) Director Koontz informed the Planning Commission that tonight's topic would include the General Plan Land Use Map. He planned on discussing a couple items including the area near Blue Mountain: It was originally designated for rural residential uses. At the Planning Commission's direction it was made Open Space. Staff received a letter from the property owner's attorney and they are not happy. Staff spoke to the City's Attorney and he indicated that we need to be careful about designating that area as Open Space. It l 9 could be construed as a "taking" which means the City may have to buy it from those people. Director Koontz urged the Planning Commission to review it once again. Chair Wilson directed his comment towards Patricia Farley explaining that this was an example of a zone change where the resident objected and the City was forced to reevaluate the zone change: Director Koontz informed the Commission that there is a possibility to consider it as part of an alternative; considering the need for alternatives as part of the EIR. Commissioner Comstock is not in favor of taking away property owners rights. Vice Chair Addington admitted that this topic .came about because he aquired input from the community. Commissioner McNaboe was also not in favor of taking others land or the land use they originally purchased the property with. PATRICIA FARLEY 12513 Michigan Street Ms. Farley had the understanding there was not to be development up the side of Blue Mountain. She wanted clarification that the area wouldn't be allowed to have a wall of homes along the side of the mountain. Chair Wilson confirmed that it was not and that there were heavy restrictions on construction in that area. Chair Wilson explained that once you are above a certain elevation difference you have a very slim chance of development in that area. He also confirmed the reason why that particular area has been vacant. Director Koontz informed Ms. Farley that the Open Space element restricts development above 1,450 feet. WILLIAM KAMINSKY BurnsNivienda Mr. Kaminsky felt that we intermix the thought of residential versus commercial. He used an example of public utility companies going above the City's head to get what they want. Director Koontz explained that public utility companies have to go through a review before the Planning Commission. If it is the state they would have to go through Sacramento however, they would still have some form of process that would include public notice. PATRICIA FARLEY 12513 Michigan Street Ms. Farley indicated for that very reason they don't have the right to take residential property on Michigan Street and put in their businesses. Director Koontz asked if-the Planning Commission wanted to change the zoning to low density or leave it the way it is. 'There was a consensus from the Planning Commission to leave the zoning the way it is. 10 RITA SCHWARK 21952 Grand Terrace Road Ms. Schwark voted for low density zoning in her area. She informed the Planning Commission that the west side of Grand Terrace did not have curb, gutter, street lights. She explained that because of the slope it will cause too much rain if there was any new development. PATRICIA FARLEY 12513 Michigan Street Ms. Farley needed clarification on what topic was being discussed. Director Koontz informed her that he was discussing the area near Grand Terrace Road and Vivienda Avenue. The topic was whether the Planning Commission was deciding to change the General Plan Designation. Ms. Farley added that the maps from the Planning Department have been wrong. Ms. Farley showed the public the location on the map where her mother's home was located. She explained that Mr. Schwertfeger took a residential property and put in a business. Ms. Farley claimed that Mr. Schwertfeger changed the zoning on his deeds. She said that it was illegal and unconscionable. Ms. Farley explained that the area would never be industrial as long as she was alive. Chair Wilson questioned the accuracy of the maps. Director Koontz explained what was occurring was a work in progress and nothing had been approved to date. Commissioner Comstock addressed the drainage issues on the west side of Grand Terrace. He inquired if the City planned on upgrading the drains in that area. Director Koontz informed Commissioner Comstock that he would look into it and as far-as he knew there are no plans. WILLIAM KAMINSKY Burns AvenueNivienda Mr. Kaminsky preferred low density on the west side of Grand Terrace Road. Mr. Kaminsky requested that the north side of Vivienda be a higher density. Vice Chair Addington requested additional opinions from the property owners because he did not feel a clear consensus was reached. Director Koontz explained that his letter was as specific as he could write it. 11 JANICE McSCHINOFF 21816 Vivienda Avenue Ms. McSchinoff wanted to know what letter was sent out. Director Koontz said the letters were sent out to those that were affected by the zone change. Ms. McSchinoff was in favor of changing the zoning-until the comment was made that if it was burned down, nine houses could be rebuilt. Ms. McSchinoff now prefers low density. RITA SCHWARK 21952 Grand Terrace Road Ms. Schwark asked if she was able to take the consensus for the west side of Grand Terrace. Mr. Wilson okayed Ms. Schwark taking the consensus. Commissioner Comstock directed a question towards Director Koontz asking him to finish what he was saying and to inform the Planning Commission of those who received the letter. Director Koontz explained how staff came up with the addresses of those affected in this area. It is-his opinion that half are favoring low density and the other half leaving it the way it is. Director Koontz didn't have paperwork in front of him to confirm that notion. Chair Wilson explained that it was necessary to have an accurate consensus. He explained that if there was a unilateral down zone it could come across as a type 'taking' CHARLES HORNSBY . 22656 Brentwood Street Mr. Hornsby commented that the Planning Commission meetings can go on for hours if you were to add up the amount of times meetings are held. He reiterated the comments from the Planning Commissioners in regards to taking property away from the residents. Mr. Hornsby said that Vice Chair Addington made the most telling remark when he said that people just want to keep things the same. Mr. Hornsby felt there is a misconception between the Planning Commission and City Council that people want to keep things the same. He doesn't believe there is any expectation for the residents however they deserve consistent changes in the City. Chair Wilson didn't feel there was enough information for a decision. Chair Wilson suggested giving the residents in that neighborhood an additional chance to comment. Chair Wilson suggested that Rita Schwark go ahead and take the consensus of the residents in that area. Commissioner Comstock explained to Rita Schwark that it was really important not to steer the residents into her opinion of how the area should be zoned. He suggested presenting them the options and having them choose as oppose to informing them of which is good or bad in her opinion. Chair Wilson requested names and telephone numbers of those that were surveyed so that staff could verify opinions. 12 - Director Koontz clarified that his presentation was a proposal to be accepted or rejected. His main objective for his presentation was to start writing the EIR. He informed the public that the EIR required alternative plans. He explained the process of taking it to a public hearing and the ability to change it after reviewing all of the alternatives. He stressed that the process was merely the beginning of the process. Commissioner Comstock said to the public that the Planning Commission was reviewing the General Plan that was created twenty years ago or so and the uses of the land were different today as oppose to back then. Director Koontz pointed out the General Commercial area on the General Plan map and asked the Planning Commission if they wanted it to go back to Commercial as an alternative. Commissioner McNaboe asked if the intent was to change it to Industrial as an alternative or the primary. Director Koontz said he was going to recommend it Industrial for now, however if the Planning Commission wanted it as Commercial it was fine. Chair Wilson recommended General Commercial with a viable alternative. Director Koontz commented that they could choose as many alternatives as they wanted. Vice Chair Addington recommended leaving it the way it was or changing it to something lighter such as Office Commercial. PATRICIA FARLEY 12513 Michigan Street Ms. Farley believed that anyone who cared about preserving safety, health and property rights would not take Industrial Zone and put it in Residential. Chair Wilson said that the Planning Commission will show that area as General Commercial and entertain a Mixed Use. Director Koontz confirmed the comment by Chair Wilson. Chair Wilson requested a definition of Mixed Use. Director Koontz said it was a potential mixture of Commercial, Office, Business Park and Residential. RITA SCHWARK 21952 Grand Terrace Road Ms. Schwark addressed the zoning on the west side of Grand Terrace. She wanted to know what the difference between R1 and the R2 was. She believes there is only one street in the west side that could handle high volumes of traffic. Chair Wilson informed the public that they were not trying the uses they are giving an example of how you can use it as a tool along with some viable alternatives. PATRICIA FARLEY _ 12513 Michigan Street 13 Ms. Farley's family knew the Wilden family and she believed there is a difference t between the Wilden Company and Schwertfeger. The Wilden Company had always been located in an industrial zone and there is a difference with the Schwerfeger Company because it was changed to industrial zone. Ms. Farley believed it was outrageous to take an industrial zone away from the Freeway and move it to the middle of the City and zone it as Mixed Use. Chair Wilson declared that it was not the intention of the Planning Commission to "pocket zone" for any particular purpose. He reiterated that what was occurring was a "starting point". JANICE McSCHINOFF 21816 Vivienda Avenue Ms. McSchinoff asked if there was an agreement on her Agriculture Overlay. Chair Wilson explained that it was "tabled" for the moment due to the fact of lack of information. Gary Koontz explained that the discussion included the General Plan and not Zoning. However staff did not have a problem in designating that area as an Agriculture Overlay. WILLIAM KAMINSKY Burns AvenueNivienda. ( Mr. Kaminsky suggested that the color purple on the map should be next to another color. Chair Wilson explained that there was a significant topography difference in the area he was describing. Mr. Kaminsky suggested a higher density for the area. Mr. Kaminsky wanted a guarantee that things were going to stay the same - Director Koontz moved on to the next item. He pointed out the K & J Plating area and informed the Planning Commission that he desired a commercial use for that corner. Vice Chair Addington concurred. Commissioner Comstock concurred and questioned if the contaminated soil was cleaned up. Director Koontz informed Commissioner Comstock that he was close and it would occur before the new high school went in. Director Koontz moved on to the Redevelopment Project area. He presented it as Mixed Use and informed the Commission that he planned on moving forward with a developer in discussing a specific plan. Director Koontz was not sure if it would include residential due to the decline in the current market. It could include commercial, offices or light industrial business park. Director Koontz explained there was definitely a specific plan on its way for review and there is a possibility it may be when the General Plan was heard. If there needed to.be any changes they would be able to be changed at that time. Chair Wilson asked if it was currently General Commercial. Director Koontz explained that the northern part was General Commercial and the southern part was Industrial. Director Koontz did not see any Industrial uses in the project with the exception of a business park. 14 PATRICIA FARLEY 12513 Michigan Street Ms. Farley wanted to address an issue on Michigan Street near Barton Road. She explained that it is General Commercial and that some of the businesses should not be there and should be in an Industrial area. Hazardous materials are located in some of those businesses and are not being reported. Director Koontz concluded his Land Use plan and invited the Commission or public to comment. Ms. Farley explained that it is not hard to have a nice community and still have commercial. Ms. Farley suggested interesting, small community businesses and housing above on a nice street. Ms. Farley recommended that the Planning Commission and staff have to do something about the trucks in Grand Terrace that go down Mount Vernon Avenue and Michigan Street. Ms. Farley believes that roads would some come from Moreno Valley and Reche Canyon. Ms. Farley feels that if nothing is done about the trucks, Grand Terrace will be an-unpleasant place to live. Ms. Farley referred to the packet and referenced that the City contained Section 8 housing in The Highlands and it would be in the Senior Villas. She doesn't believe that she is getting the correct facts from the City. Ms. Farley suggested taking advantage of the fact that the City was located near UCR. She believes the kids in college would enjoy a one room place over a business near a bakery. Chair Wilson made it clear that other than the traffic issue, Ms. Farley recommended the area designated would include a multiple use with living areas over commercial. Ms. Farley agreed if it was in the center of the City. Chair Wilson asked Director Koontz if there was an alternative to the area being discussed. Director Koontz said that he could take all of the Commercial area along Barton Road and designate it as Mixed Use. Commissioner Comstock did not agree to the suggestion of the area being Mixed-Use however, he agreed to it as an alternative. Director Koontz explained that-there was a lot of things going on with Caltrans. He informed the Planning Commission that the City received a preliminary application for the Town Square project. They provided an alignment that would connect Commerce Street to Vivienda Avenue through a four-way intersection and a piece of Michigan Street will be removed. Caltrans wants to help improve the freeway access. Chair Wilson informed the public that the topic was not going to be debated. Vice Chair Addington was okay with mixed use as an alternative but not the main idea because he believes that it increases density. 15 RITA SCHWARK 21952 Grand Terrace Road Ms. Schwark wanted information on what was going into the old Stater Bro's warehouse. She believed that the west side of Grand Terrace would be affected by traffic due to trucking companies. Ms. Schwark wanted to confirm if Grand Terrace was researching the possibility of expanding Section 8. Chair Wilson asked to her to wait until the end of the workshop. • Information to Commissioners Chair Wilson requested information on the reuse of the Stater Bros. warehouse in Colton in order to respond to Ms. Schwark. Director Koontz informed the Commission that he has had various discussions with Colton staff and to his understanding the warehouse has been sold and it will continue to be warehousing. Chair Wilson commented on the ruining of the bridge due to warehousing traffic. Director Koontz explained that the City has been working with Caltrans and Colton for years to try and get it rebuilt. He explained that Richard Shields of Building and Safety is making progress in order to get the bridge rebuilt as soon as possible. Chair Wilson and Vice Chair Addington both volunteered to any committee that is working on the project. Director Koontz responded to Ms. Schwark's question in regards to Section 8. He informed the Commission that he would like to discuss it at the next meeting because there is a section that refers to Section 8. Vice Chair requested some structure to the Agenda. He stated that he was lost on topic along with one of the public speakers. • Information from Commissioners ADJOURN PUBLIC WORKSHOP SESSION NEXT PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING TO BE HELD ON OCTOBER 18.2007 Respectfully Submitted, Approved y, -6irector Koontz, Planning Director Doug Wilson Planning Commission Chairman 16