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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes 07/10/2002 . . . DO~ R r~~ AN IrG~' 'Eft" E S I=: J~lri I ~J II, I,.~ WAS H I N G TON, U. S. A. DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT AGENDA PLANNING COMMISSION 321 East Fifth Street July 10, 2002 I. CALL TO ORDER 7 p.m. II. ROLL CALL III. APPROVAL OF MINUTES: Meetings of June 12 and June 26, 2002 IV. PUBLIC MEETING: REZONE REQUEST - REZ 02-05 - CLARKE - 910 East Eighth Street: Request to rezone one lot, approximately 7,000 square feet in area, from RS-7, Residential Single Fami]y to CO, Commercial, Office. PUBLIC HEARINGS: 1. SHORELINE CONDITIONAL USE AND VARIANCE - SMA 02-06 - EHM - 201 West Front Street: A proposal to allow a hotelJrestaUfant/conference center in the Central Business District within the shoreline area. The structure will have a maximum height of 66' with an overall height of approximately 55' to 661. 1 b. CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT - CUP 02-07 - EHM - 201 West Front Street: A proposal to increase the maximum height from 45' to approximately 66' for a structure within the Central Business District. 2. STREET VACATION PETITION - STY 02-01 - YMCA - Portion ofthe 3/4 alley between Francis and Eunice Streets: Petition for vacation of that portion of the 3/4 alley abutting Lot 15 of Lewis and Mastick's Subdivision of Block 63, and Lot 6, Block 3 Cain's Subdivision to the Townsite of Port Angeles. 3. CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT - CUP 02-06 - CRE-ECH - 402 East Lauridsen Boulevard: Request to allow a music school in the Commercial, Office CO zone. V. COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE PUBLIC VI. STAFF REPORTS . . . VII. REPORTS OF COMMISSION MEMBERS VIII. ADJOURNMENT PLANNING COMMISSIONERS: Chuck Schramm (Chair), Fred Hewins (Vice), Fred Norton, Bob Philpott, Mary Craver, Rick Porter, Len Rasmussen PLANNING STAFF: Brad Collins, Director; Scott Johns, Associate Planner; Sue Roberds, Assistant Planner. . MINUTES PLANNING COMMISSION Port Angeles, Washington 98362 July 10,2002 7:00 p.m. ROLL CALL Members Present: Bob Philpott, Fred Hewins, Chuck Schramm (late), Rick Porter, Leonard Rasmussen Members Excused: Fred Norton, Mary Craver, Chuck Schramm had stated at the previous meeting that he had a conflict with another meeting and expected to be in attendance but late. Staff Present: Brad Collins, Scott Johns, Ken Dubuc, Timothy Smith, Michael Quinn Public Present: Sherry and Paul Creech, Clyde Boddy, Carl D. Alexander Jr., Craig Ritchie, D. Hagawara, Chris Muir, Randal Jay Ehm, Chuck Turner, Bill Roberds, Dan McGuire . Vice Chair Hewins called the meeting to order in the absence of Chair Schramm. APPROVAL OF MINUTES Commissioner Philpott moved to approve the minutes of the June 12, 2002, meeting as revised, with findings and conclusions included. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Rasmussen and passed unanimously. Commissioner Philpott moved to approve the minutes of the June 26, 2002, meeting. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Rasmussen and passed unanimously. . PUBLIC MEETING: REZONE REQUEST - REZ 02-05 - CLARKE - 910 East Eighth Street: Request to rezone one lot, approximately 7,000 square feet in area, from RS-7, Residential Single Family to CO, Commercial, Office. Associate Planner Scott Johns presented the staff report. Commissioner Rasmussen asked why the applicant was requesting the zoning be changed to CO and not CN. Director Collins indicated that the question should be directed to the applicant, however there was a precedent in the 8th Street neighborhood along Race Street of moving from CN to CO and that the proposed rezone would provide a transition from CN on the west to RS- 7 on the east of the subject lot. Commissioner Rasmussen asked the applicant Chuck Turner the question as to the reason for the requested rezone to CO instead ofCN. Mr. Turner said that it was in response to a recommendation from staff at the time of application. . . . Planning Commission Minutes July 10,2002 2 Commissioner Rasmussen then asked if the rezone of a single lot to CO would constitute a spot zone since no other properties in the area were zoned CO. Director Collins answered that the standard for spot zoning was not dependent on the size of the parcel but had other criteria based on whether the parcel was isolated and not related to the surrounding area, which in this case was not the situation. The CO zoning was a less intense zoning classification than the adjacent CN zoning and that the less intense zoning would provide a transition from the CN zone to the RS-7 zone, which is adjacent to the subject site on the east. If the request had been for a rezone to CN, it would not have changed the staff recommendation. Following a brief discussion, Commissioner Porter moved to recommend approval of REZ 02-05 to the City Council citing 7 findings and 4 conclusions, changing the typographical error in finding #4, the parenthetical CO to CN. Recommended Findings and Conclusions for REZ 02-05 Findings 1. The applicant, Denise E. Clarke, is requesting a rezone of Lot 7, Block 276, Townsite of Port Angeles, from RS-7, Residential Single Family, to CO, Commercial, Office. Conclusions: 2. The subject site is comprised of one standard sized lot, 50' by 140' (total of 7,000 square feet) and is developed only with a small storage building and some landscaping. The Comprehensive Plan designates the lot as being on an imprecise margin between Low Density Residentia] and Commercial. The subject property is adjacent to Commercial Neighborhood (Cew to the west and Residential, Single Family (RS-7) to the east, north and south. The purpose of the CO zone is as follows: "This is a commercial zone intended for those business, office, administrative or professional uses which do not involve the retail sale of goods, but rather provide a service to clients, the provision of which does not create high traffic volumes, involve extended hours of operation, or contain impacts that would be detrimental to acfjacent residential areas." 3. 4. 5. 6. The SEP A Responsible Official issued a Determination of Non-Significance for the proposal on July 8, 2002. 7. The public comment period for this application fan from June 7, 2002, to June 24, 2002. During this time, the Department of Community Development received one letter from a neighbor expressing support for the proposed rezone. 1. The entire Comprehensive Plan was reviewed and the policies found to be most directly related to the proposed rezone include: Growth Management Element, Goal A, Policy La; Commercial Goal D. Policy 1 and Goal E. Policies 3, 7, and 8; Planning Commission Minules July 10.2002 3 . Economic Development Element Goal A, Policy 5. The proposed rezone is consistent with the Comprehensive Plan's Growth Management Element, Policies Ala, e, and 1: Land Use Policies Al and 2 Dl' , , , Economic Development Element Policies Al and 2. 3. The proposed rezone is compatible with surrounding land uses and zoning ordinance designations. 2. Commissioner Philpott seconded the motion which carried 4-0. PUBLIC HEARING: SHORELINE CONDITIONAL USE AND VARIANCE - SMA 02-06 - EHM - 201 West Front Street: A proposal to allow a hotel and conference center with a restaurant and lounge in the Central Business District within the shoreline area. The structure will have a maximum height of 66' with an overall height from approximately 55' to 66'. Associate Planner Scott Johns presented the staff report. Vice Chair Hewins announced that Commissioner Schramm had arrived and was now in attendance. . Vice Chair Hewins opened the Public Hearing. Randal Jay Ehm, 2707 California Avenue, Seattle. The applicant, spoke in favor of the project, stating that he had been working with the City for several months in preparation of the project, and his financing was in place and that as soon as the project was approved and permits in place work could begin. Mr. Ehm pointed out that the project would employ approximately 120 persons and that construction contracts would be available to local contractors. Bill Roberds, West 54 Misty Lane, Port Angeles spoke in favor of the project. Mr. Roberds is a member of the board of the Building Industry Association of Washington and stated that their organization frequently held statewide conferences and would they like to have alternative sites in western Washington to hold those conferences. The City of Port Angeles has many things to offer but is lacking a facility of the scale necessary to handle such a gathering. Carl Alexander Jr., 235 West 12t" Street, Port Angeles spoke in opposition to the project and handed out written material supporting his statements. Mr. Alexander indicated that the size of the facility was too large for the site, causing problems with parking, height, and public access. He urged that the Commission maintain objectivity about the City's financial interest in the project. He expressed concern over a lack of a condition requiring the Waterfront Trail to be located along the waterfront. Mr. Alexander pointed out that the site plan indicated 35 parking spaces waterward of the building and that was in conflict with the Shoreline Master Program. Commissioner Philpott asked Mr. Alexander ifhe knew how many rooms were available at the Red Lion Inn. Mr. Alexander did not know that number. Staff had not done that analysis either. . Chris Muir, 214 West 2nd Street, Port Angeles. Mr. Muir handed out a written statement and spoke in opposition to the project, stating negative impacts to the views of the shoreline of Port . . . Planning Commission Minutes July 10, 2002 " Angeles Harbor and beyond. He asked the commissioners to go to James Park and see for themselves how the staff view analysis was not consistent with his impression of the view. He disputed the accuracy of the staff view analysis. Mr. Muir stated that he was a resident at the top of the bluff between Oak and Cedar Streets and he did have a personal interest in the view. He also expressed concern about the impacts from project lights on the night sky and asked the Commission to add a condition regarding the lighting of the project. Craig Ritchie, 212 East 5th Street, Port Angeles spoke in opposition to the project. He asked that the City not let economic development blind them. The jobs created by the project would all be low wage and unsustainable. He stated that the parking issues were a shell game to skirt the issues of required parking. The development of the waterfront park area would be a cost to the City and not to the developer as it should be. Mr. Ritchie spoke to RCW 90.58.320 that requires a limitation to height in the shoreline areas and its relation to overriding public benefits. Mr. Ritchie questioned the constitutionality of the use of shoreline properties owed by DNR for private use and also felt that the application was invalid because the property owner (DNR) had not acknowledged the application. He also indicated that there were inadequacies in the stormwater management plan. Commissioner Porter asked if a similar Anacortes case was overtured due to procedural issues as opposed to substantive issues. Mr. Ritchie believed that it was substantive, not procedural. Commissioner Porter asked Mr. Ritchie if the Commission were to fine that a proper analysis had been done, that it was found that there would not be a substantial number of individuals affected and that there was an overriding public interest, would it be impossible for the Commission to legally conclude the application should be approved? Mr. Ritchie contended that it would be impossible for the commission to make that finding stating that it can't be found that there is an overriding public interest and they can't get around the physics and geography ofthe site that the project would block views. Commissioner Porter asked if Mr. Ritchie had materials that refuted the view analysis done by staff. Mr. Ritchie had no infonnation to refute the view analysis but did disagree with their findings. Vice Chair Hewins asked what kind of water-dependent economic development would defeat the view argument, stating that there is currently a 75 foot tall building that is water-dependent on the shoreline. Would the impacts to the view not be greater for a larger building that was water- dependent at that location? Mr. Ritchie stated that the shoreline issues would still apply but not the constitutional issues. Commissioner Philpott asked Mr, Ritchie who he was representing. Mr. Ritchie indicated he represented himself and Todd McClaskey. Mike Quinn, 321 East Fifth, Port Angeles. Speaking for himself and as Port Angeles City Manager. Mr. Quinn clarified the Shoreline Master Program intent of maximizing water- dependent uses and water-oriented uses and explained that the Master Program's Goal #1 states that Port Angeles will utilize the shoreline to maximize water-oriented industrial, mixed commercial, educational, cultural, and recreational uses. Laws of the state allow for flexibility of uses, and it is not confined to water-dependent uses. Mr. Quinn also pointed out that the height limits were not static and flexibility was allowed through the Conditional Use process where it is deemed necessary. Mr. Quinn also clarified that the City had in its possession a signed letter of agreement between all property owners and parties indicating not only awareness of the project but also support for . . . Planning Commission Minutes July 10, 2002 5 the project. The permanence of the proposed trail and park and the maximizing of the park area were also emphasized. Mr. Quinn also emphasized that the City of Port Angeles, although historically a resource extractive city is now interested in the quality of its environment as well as its economic development and is attempting to strike a balance between the two. Mr. Quinn responded to Mr. Alexander's issues of the project seeming to be too large for the chosen site by indicating that the City's chosen urban development pattern in the downtown area is that of increased density. He also pointed out that this is why there is a unique need for a parking structure in the downtown. Commissioner Rasmussen asked Mr. Quinn ifhe could answer the question of what would be overriding public interest. Mr. Quinn responded that shoreline use, maximizing shoreline water- oriented uses, economic development for the entire community, improved traffic circulation, public access to the waterfront, downtown beautification, increased tax base, and increased recreational opportunities would be in the public interest. Commissioner Rasmussen asked Mr. Quirm to address the storm water issue brought up by Mr. Ritchie. Mr. Quinn indicated that the City is impacted by a number of stormwater issues and that the City is working toward resolution to the issues of stonnwater and it will receive a lot of attention in the near future. Timothy J. Smith. City Economic Development Director spoke to the issue of defining public interest by relating the process that has been followed to solicit support and public interest. The Lodging Tax Advisory Committee and the Downtown Forward Advisory Committee were involved in working out the issues of this proposal and the initiative to the City to pursue a conference center. There being no further public comment, Vice Chair Hewins closed the public hearing. Director Collins indicated that staff would revise the list of Shoreline Management Program Goals and Policies cited to include those that were pointed out by Mr. Alexander as missing from the analysis. Director Collins reminded the commission that because the issue was a Shoreline Conditional Permit and Variance that they would only be making a recommendation to the State and not making a final decision. Other points that were made were that a substantial portion of the proposed building would be located outside of the shoreline jurisdiction, and that public enjoyment of the shoreline is water-related recreation. The City has spent years preparing the subject site for this type of project by moving the inner harbor line and rezoning the site to separate commercial uses from industrial uses. This is the first viable proposal for the site in 25 years. The proposal is compatible with shoreline access and the chosen urban design of the city. Commissioner Porter asked how many views would be affected by the location of the hotel. Director Collins surmised that approximately 6 houses and a condominium structure would have views effected. He suggested that the Commission ask Mr. Muir that question, since Mr. Muir was a resident of that area. Mr. Muir indicated that approximately 15 residences would be effected. Commissioner Schramm indicated that an additional 3 residences located east of Laurel Street would also likely be effected. Following a brief discussion, Commissioner Philpott moved to recommend approval of SMA 02-06 citing the following 4 conditions, 18 findings and 13 conclusions with the addition of a 19th finding, stating "Chris Muir 214 W. 2nd Street, testified that there are 6 homes (plus 2 . . . Planning Commission Minutes July J 0, 2002 6 duplex units) and 7 condominium units between Oak and Cherry Streets along the top of the bluff overlooking the subject site. Three more homes which have views ofthe subject site, are located east of the subject site" and the addition of language in conclusion # 6 to state that "views of a significant number of homes will not be negatively impacted by the proposed Structure". Conditions of Approval 1. The project must manage stormwater runoff in a manner acceptable to the City of Port Angeles Department of Public Works and Utilities or consistent with the Stormwater Management Manual Western Washinr!fon. Prior to issuance of a building pennit, a storm water management plan must be approved by the Port Angeles Department of Public Works and Utilities. 2. The Department of Natural Resources will require that the Waterfront Trail be relocated from its current location which now follows City streets along sidewalks to cross the DNR portion of the site and follow the waterfront as a condition of approval of a land exchange. This will place the Trail between the proposed development and the shoreline. The proposed Waterfront Trail segment shall be constructed as shown across the DNR (north) portion ofthe site. The project must provide a parking plan that is acceptable to the City showing a minimum of 336 parking spaces before any building permits are issued. The project must show how it will meet the setback requirements established in PAMC 17.24.200.A.3, prior to the issuance of any building permits. 3. 4. Findings Based on the information provided in the Planning Department Staff Report for SMA 02-06 dated July 10, 2002, including all information in the public record file, comments and testimony presented during the public hearing, the Planning Commission discussion and deliberation, and the above listed conditions of approval, the City of Port Angeles Planning Commission hereby finds that: I. The applicant Randal Jay Ehm applied for a Shoreline Substantial Development Conditional Use Permit on May 10,2002. The application was detennined to be complete on May 23, 2002. The application is identified as Attachment B to the June 26, 2002 Community Development Department Staff Report for SMA 02-06. The Department of Natural Resources will require that the Waterfront Trail be relocated from its current location which now follows City streets along sidewalks to cross the DNR portion of the site and follow the waterfront as a condition of approval of a land exchange. This will place the Trail between the proposed development and the shoreline. In accordance with legal requirements of the City of Port Ange]es and the State of Washington, the notice of application and subsequent hearing process was advertise in the Peninsula Daily News' legal section on May 22, 2002. A public notice was posted on the site on May 22, 2002. The public comment period for this application ran from May 22, 2002, to June 12,2002. No comments were received from the public. 2. 3. 4. . . . Planning Commission Minutes July 10. 2002 7 5. There are no over water structures proposed. 6. The City's Fire Department and the City's Building Division recommended no conditions of approval specific to this application. 7. The project, as conditioned, is consistent with the Port Angeles Shoreline Master Program. Those most relevant include the following: Chapter 3 General Goals- A. Shoreline Use Element Goals 3,6 - 10; B - Economic Development Element Goals] - 5; D - Conservation Element 4 - 6; E. Public Access Element Goals I - 3; F. Recreation Element, Goals 1 and 2; Chapter 4 General Policies and Regulations C. Clearing and Grading, Policies I and 2, Regulation I; D Environmental Impacts, Policy 1, Regulations I, 3 - 9; E - Environmentally Sensitive Areas Regulation I, 2, and 3; F - Kelp Beds, Eelgrass Beds, Herring Spawning Areas, Smelt Spawning Areas, Shellfish Areas and Other Critical Salt Water Habitats Policies 1,4,5 and Regulation 13; I. Parking, Policies I -3, Regulations 2,3,5,6; J - Public Access Policies 1,2,3 and 5 and Regulations 1,4, 6, - 11; N - Water Quality Policies I and 2 Regulations 1 and 2; Chapter 6 Shoreline Use Policies and Regulations, C. Commercial Development, Policies 1, 3 - 5 Regulations 1 - 5; and Use Table H;. The project, as conditioned, is consistent with the Port Angeles Comprehensive Plan. Those most relevant include the following: Growth Management Element Goal A, Policy 1; Land Use Element, Commercial goals and Policies, Goal D., Policy I, Goal F Policies I and 2; Open Space Objective I, Goal I, Policies I and 2, goal J, Policies 3 and 5; Conservation Element Goal A Policy I, Goal B, Policies 1, 2, 6, 9, 10, II and objective 3; Goal D, and Policies I and 4; Economic Development Element Goal A Policies 2, 4, 6 and Goal B. 8. 9. The application materials were sent to the Department of Ecology (DOE), Department of Natural Resources, and the Washington State Department ofFish and Wildlife (WDFW), for review. Conditions of approval were recommended. 10. The aquatic shoreline is defined by the City's Environmentally Sensitive Areas (ESA) Ordinance, Chapter 15.20, as a "beach and associated coastal drift process area". Buffer and protective standards for these areas are generally deferred to the Shoreline Master Program. The site meets the criteria of a previously disturbed Environmentally Sensitive Area. Approval of SMA 02-06 shall also be deemed as approval for the activity in accordance with Chapter 15.20 PAMC. The State Environmental Policy Act (SEP A) Responsib]e Official issued a Determination of Non-Significance for the project on June 28, 2002. The City of Port Angeles has analyzed the impacts of the proposed hotel/conference center on views from adjacent and nearby properties, as well as those from the bluff between Oak and Cherry Streets. The City of Port Angeles has analyzed the impacts of the proposed hotel/conference center on potential shade cast over the shoreline of Port Angeles Harbor. 11. 12. 13. 14. . . . Planning Commission Minutes July 10, 2002 8 The conference center will provide meeting space ~or 600 to 700 people. The applicant (a.k.a. Pier Group L.L.C.), the Port of Port Angeles (port), the City of Port Angeles (City), and the State of Washington Department of Natural Resource (DNR), signed a letter of intent regarding the development of a hotel, restaurant and convention center on June 21, 2002. 17. The City's Comprehensive Plan and Zoning Code designate the subject site for commercial uses. 15. 16. 18. The subject property has remained undeveloped for the past 25 years, and the Port of Port Angeles has not received viable proposals for use of the property for traditional Port purposes during this period. Conclusions Based on the information provided in the Department Staff Report for SMA 02-06 dated July 10, 2002, including all of the information in the public record file, comments, and testimony presented during the public hearing, the Planning Commissionis discussion and deliberation, and the above listed condition of approval and the above listed findings, the City of Port Angeles Planning Commission hereby concludes that: 1. The proposal, as conditioned, would not negatively affect critical saltwater habitat. 2. The proposal, as conditioned, is consistent with the Shoreline Master Program. 3. The proposal will increase public access to the shoreline and increase public open space. 4. The proposal as conditioned will meet the purpose and intent of the Port Angeles Zoning Code. 5. Shoreline developments that are designed with the least environmental impact to the shoreline and its resources is in the best public interest and welfare and furthers the goals and intent of the Shoreline Management Act and Shoreline Master Program. 6. A portion of the view of Port Angeles Harbor from the top of the bluff overlooking the harbor will include the proposed hotel/conference center. The proposed hotel/conference center will not obstruct bluff views of Ediz Hook, the shipping lanes of the Straits of Juan de Fuca, or Vancouver Island for a significant number of homes. 7. The proposed hotel/conference center will obstruct some street level views of the harbor. The additional height above the height allowed in the CBD zone will not impact those VIews. 9. 8. The proposed hotel/conference center will not create a substantial shadow over the shoreline of Port Angeles Harbor. The proposed hotel/conference center will provide opportunities, not currently available, for the City of Port Angeles to host large group conferences and thereby benefit the local and statewide tourism industry. The Port of Port Angeles and the State of Washington Department of Natura] Resources, owners of the subject property, have provided written documentation of their knowledge of and permission for the proposed development application to the City of Port Angeles. 10. Pfanning Commission Minutes July J(), 2001 9 . The proposed site plan provides substantial public open space, including an extension of the City's Waterfront Trail, between the proposed development and the Shoreline. The height of the building serves the public interest in this public access to Port Angeles Harbor by saving site area that would be needed for the complex of uses in a shorter building with a larger footprint. ]2. The proposed site plan limits the area proposed for on-site parking and also serves the public interest in public access to and use of the shoreline by saving site area that would be needed for parking on-site, if parking were not provided per City requirements off-site. 13. The Port of Port Angeles, the State of Washington Department of Natural Resources, and the City of Port Angeles have taken many steps, such as relocating the Inner Harbor Line north of the subject property for nonindustrial purposes, in support of the best interests of the Port, the State, the City, and the Community. 11. Commissioner Rasmussen seconded the motion which carried 5-0. CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT - CUP 02-07 - EHM - 201 West Front Street: A proposal to increase the maximum height from 45' to approximately 66' for a structure within the Central Business District. Associate Planner Scott Johns presented the staff report. . Vice Chair Hewins opened the public hearing. Carl Alexander Jr., 235 West 12th Street, Port Angeles requested that the same written comments that he had presented for SMA 02-06 to the commission be entered for this proposal as well. eris Muir, 214 West 2nd Street, Port Angeles requested that the same written comments that he had presented for SMA 02-06 to the commission be entered for this proposal as well. There being no further public comment, Vice Chair Hewins closed the public comment. After brief discussion, Commissioner Philpott moved to approve CUP 02-07 with 4 conditions, citing 21 findings and 16 conclusions. Conditions: I. The project must provide a parking plan that is acceptable to the City showing a minimum of336 parking spaces before any building permits are issued. 2. All parking areas must be appropriately landscaped and screened from public access areas. 3. he project must manage stormwater runoff in a manner acceptable to the City of Port Angeles Department of Public Works and Utilities or consistent with the Storm water Management Manual Western Washington. Prior to issuance of a building permit, a stormwater management plan must be approved by the Port Angeles Department of Public Works and Utilities. The project must show how it will meet the setback requirements established in . 4. Planning Commission Minutes JlIly 10.1001 10 . P AMC ] 7.24.200.A.3, prior to the issuance of any building permits. Findings: Based on the information provided in the Planning Department Staff Report for CUP 02- 07 dated July 10, 2002, including all infonnation in the public record file, comments and testimony presented during the public hearing, the Planning Commission discussion and deliberation, and the above listed conditions of approval, the City of Port Angeles Planning Commission hereby finds that 1. The applicant Randa] Jay Ehm submitted a Conditional Use Permit application for a hotel and conference center building, with portions of the building reaching a maximum height of 66 feet on June 19, 2002. The application was determined to be complete on June 19,2002. The application is identified as Attachment B to the July 10, 2002 Community Development Department Staff Report for CUP 02- 07. . . 2. In accordance with legal requirements of the City of Port Angeles and the State of Washington, the notice of application and subsequent hearing process was advertise in the Peninsula Dailv News' legal section on June 23,2002. A public notice was posted on the site on June 20, 2002. The public comment period for this application ran from June 23,2002, to July 8, 2002. One comment was received from the public stating opposition to the proj ect. The application materials were sent to the Department of Ecology (DOE), Department of Natural Resources, and the Washington State Department ofFish and Wildlife (WDFW), for review. Conditions of approval were recommended. The site is located in the Central Business District (CBD) zone where the maximum allowed height is 45 feet per PAMe Section 17.24.200.B. The site is described as that portion of first class tidelands Block 2 and Block 2A, Port Angeles tidelands west of Laurel Street, Clal]am County , Washington described as follows: Tidelands Block 2A as shown on survey recorded May 3, 2002 under Auditor's File Number 2002-1084452 and filed in Volume 49 of Surveys, Page 50, Records ofClaUam County, Washington. The site is 3.81 acres in size and is currently occupied with a paved parking lot for long-term parking for the Coho Ferry. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. The site meets the dimensional standards established in PAMC 17.24.200.A.1 & 2 for nonresidential uses in the CBD. 9. Section 17 .24.041.A.4 & 8, and E.1 states that hotels, restaurants and conference centers are allowed uses in the CBD zone. A portion of the project lies within 200 feet of the shoreline and is therefore subject to the regulations of the Shoreline Master Program. The Shoreline Master Program does not specify a height limitation for non-water-oriented uses in the 10. Planning Commis.lion Minutes July JO, 2002 1l . . 20. 21. . Conclusions: 11. Urban Harbor Designation. The Shoreline Master Program defers to the zoning ordinance height requirements for non-water-oriented uses in the CBD. Chapter 6., Section F., Recreational Development Regulation 5. of the Shoreline Master Program indicates that "In approving shoreline recreational developments, the City shall encourage the developer to maintain, enhance or restore desirable shoreline features including unique and fragile areas, scenic views and aesthetic values. To this end, the City may adjust and/or prescribe project dimensions, location of project components on the site, intensity of use, screening, parking requirements and setbacks, as deemed appropriate to achieve this intent. " The Comprehensive Plan designates the site as Commercial. The adjacent properties are also designated as Commercial. One comment from the public was received by the Clallam County public comment center and forward to Port Angeles Department of Community Development on June 24, 2002. The comment was in opposition to the project based on the loss of public open space, not on the height of the building. The comment was from Cheryl and Ray Peters, of the All-View Motel. A Determination of Non-Significance issued on June 28, 2002 (DNS 922) will be adopted for this proposed action on Ju]y 10,2002. The City of Port Angeles has analyzed the impacts of the proposed hotel/conference center on views from adjacent and nearby properties, as well as those from the bluff between Oak and Cherry Streets. The City of Port Angeles has analyzed the impacts of the proposed hotel/conference center on potential shade cast over the shoreline of Port Ange]es Harbor. 17. The conference center will provide meeting space for 600 to 700 people. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 18. The applicant (a.k.a. Pier Group L.L.C.), the Port of Port Angeles (port), the City of Port Angeles (City), and the State of Washington Department of Natural Resource (DNR), signed a letter of intent regarding the development of a hotel, restaurant and convention center on June 21, 2002. 19. The City's Comprehensive Plan and Zoning Code designate the subject site for commercial uses. The subject property has remained undeveloped for the past 25 years, and the Port of Port Angeles has not received viable proposals for use of the property for traditional Port purposes during this period. Chris Muir, 214 W. 2nd Street testified that there are 6 homes(plus 2 duplex units) and 7 condominium units between Oak and Cherry Streets along the top of the bluff overlooking the subject site. Three more homes which have views of the subject site, are located east of the subject site. Planning Commission Minuter July} 0, 2002 12 . . . Based on the infonnation provided in the Department Staff Report for CUP 02-07 dated July 10, 2002, including all of the information in the public record file, comments, and testimony presented during the public hearing, the Planning Commission's discussion and deliberation, and the above listed condition of approval and the above listed findings, the City of Port Angeles Planning Commission hereby concludes that: 1. As conditioned, the proposed hotel and conference center is consistent with the purpose of the CBD zone and compatible with surrounding uses. If the proposed use complies with certain definitions and the design and perfonnance standards set forth by the Zoning Code, then it can be deemed consistent with the Zoning Code. 2. As conditioned, the proposal is consistent with the intent of the Comprehensive Plan's Growth Management Element Goal A, Policy la, Ie, Ii; Land Use Element Commercial Goals D, Policy I, Goal F, Policies 1 & 2; Open Space Goal I, Policy 2, Goal J, Policy 3; Conservation Element Goal A, Policy I, Goal B, Policies 2, 6, & 9 and Objective 3, Goal D, Policy I; Economic Development Element Goal A, Policy 2, 4, & 6, Goal B. 3. As conditioned, the proposal is consistent with the intent of the Shoreline Master Program. As conditioned, the proposal is consistent with the requirements for approval of a conditional use permit as specified in P AMC 17.96.050. 5, As conditioned, the proposal is consistent with the Parking Ordinance, PAMC 14.40. 4. 6. The proposed building will impact views from the street level and neighboring buildings and from the bluff to the south of the project. The increase in height above the allowed 45 feet to 66 feet will not have a negative impact on views from the street or surrounding buildings. Views from the bluff will include the proposed building, however, the 21 foot increase in height over the 45 foot allowed, will not obscure or negatively impact those views. The increase in height above the allowed 45 feet to 66 feet will create a shadow over the water of Port Angeles Harbor for short periods of the day only during the shortest days of the year. The proposal will improve public access to the shoreline of Port Angeles Harbor by incorporating a section of the Waterfront Trail and public open space into its design. A portion oftbe view of Port Angeles Harbor from the top of the bluff overlooking the harbor will include the proposed hotel/conference center. The proposed hotel/conference center will not obstruct bluff views of Ediz Hook, the shipping lanes of the Straits of Juan de Fuca, or Vancouver Island. The proposed hotel/conference center will obstruct some street level views of the harbor. The additional height above the height allowed in the CBD zone will not impact those views. The proposed hotel/conference center will not create a substantial shadow over the 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. Planning Commission Minutes July 10, 2002 13 . shoreline of Port Angeles Harbor. The proposed hotel/conference center will provide opportunities, not currently available, for the City of Port Angeles to host large group conferences and thereby benefit the local and statewide tourism industry. 13. The Port of Port Angeles and the State of Washington Department of Natura] Resources, owners of the subject property, have provided written documentation of their knowledge of and pennission for the proposed development application to the City of Port Angeles. 12. . 14. The proposed site plan provides substantial public open space, including an extension of the City's Waterfront Trail, between the proposed development and the Shoreline. The height of the building serves the public interest in this public access to Port Angeles Harbor by saving site area that would be needed for the complex of uses in a shorter building with a larger footprint. 15. The proposed site plan limits the area proposed for on-site parking and also serves the public interest in public access to and use of the shoreline by saving site area that would be needed for parking on-site, if parking were not provided per City requirements off-site. The Port of Port Angeles, the State of Washington Department of Natural Resources, and the City of Port Angeles have taken many steps, such as relocating the Inner Harbor Line north of the subject property for nonindustrial purposes, in support of the best interests of the Port, the State, the City, and the Community. 16. Commissioner Porter seconded the motion which passed 5-0. STREET VACATION PETITION - STY 02-01 - YMCA - Portion of the 3/4 alley between Francis and Eunice Streets: Petition for vacation of that portion of the 3/4 alley abutting Lot 15 of Lewis Mastic's Subdivision of Block 63, and Lot 6, Block 3 Cain's Subdivision to the Townsite of Port Angeles. Planning Director Brad Collins presented the staff report. Vice Chair Hewins asked about the required turn-around area for fire equipment not being included in this case. Fire Marshal Dubuc answered that as proposed, access would continue through the property and that if the alley were to be blocked, further review by the Fire Department would be required and either a turn-around or some other acceptable method for access would be required. Vice Chair Hewins opened the public hearing. Dan McGuire, 313 Hancock Avenue, Port Angeles, representative of the YMCA, handed out site plans to the Commission members and explained that the local YMCA was a small facility and needed to be expanded to meet local demand. The recent expansions have not kept pace with expanded usage. The site coverage requirement of 50% limits expansion on the site, and . vacation of the alley would add area to the property and allow for physical expansion. Commissioner Rasmussen asked Mr. McGuire if the YMCA will be back again for consideration of other actions to further expand the YMCA's campus. Mr. McGuire stated that there were . . . Planning Commission Minutes July 10. 2002 14 board members that have discussed the possibility of further expansion in the block, however the financial reality was such that it is not likely that the YMCA will be able to acquire more land and that their plans are to expand their facilities on the land currently owned by the YMCA. Commissioner Rasmussen asked why the YMCA would not seek a new location where they would be able to create the facility that they would like, since they have parking problems, they are essentially gutting one of their buildings and will still be undersized. Mr. McGuire indicated that it was financially unfeasible and that the current location was centrally located in the city and located near 3 City park facilities which made the current location quite ideal for the YMCA. Vice Chair Hewins asked how the condition of not obstructing the alley fit with the plan to close the alley. Mr. McGuire stated that the YMCA would like to stop the vehicle traffic through the alley and that indications had been that neighbors would also like a fence to separate the YMCA form those homes. Pennission from the Fire Department would have to be sought and that there were ways that through traffic could be stopped and still meet Fire Department requirements. Clyde Boddy, 520 Rose Street, Port Angeles, a member of the YMCA spoke in favor of the project. There being no further public comment, Vice Chair Hewins closed the public hearing. Commissioner Porter moved to approve STV 02-01 with 2 conditions, citing 10 findings and 7 conclusions. Conditions: I. There shall be no obstruction ofthe vacated right-of-way without prior express written permission from the Port Angeles Fire Department. 2. No construction will occur in the vacated right-of-way over the existing sewer facilities or under the power lines without relocation of the utilities at the direction of the City's Public Works and Utilities Department. Relocation or undergrounding of the utilities shall be at the applicant's expense. Findioe:s: I. A valid petition requesting the vacation of that portion of the 3/4 alley abutting Lot 15, Block 63, Lewis and Mastick's Subdivision of Suburban Lot 22 and Lot 6, Block 3, Cain's Subdivision to the City of Port Angeles, better known as 723 and 725 East Fourth Street, and 302 South Francis Street, was submitted to the City of Port Angeles on May 10,2002, by Dan Maguire, Executive Director of the Clallam County YMCA. An easement for service to the City's sanitary sewer main located in the alley which services lots west to Eunice Street in this location will be needed to continue service in the area. If future plans include building construction in the alley area, the line will need to be moved at the property owner's expense. An easement shall be retained under the existing primary power line that exists in the alley. If the property owner requests conversion of a portion of the utility, such relocation shall be underground at the property owner's expense. Twenty-four hour unrestricted access shall be required for the existing or relocated electrical facilities. 3. Planning Commission Minutes July 10, 2002 15 . . The Fire Department must be contacted prior to any such construction to ensure that the alleyway remain clear for Fire access. The Fire Department must be consulted prior to any new construction at the site or before changes are made that may impede current access for existing structures. 5. The site is currently zoned RS-7, Residential Single Family. A rezone to PBP, Public Buildings and Parks was recommended to the City Council by the Planning Commission. The rezone will be considered by the City Council on July 16, 2002. 4. 6. The City's Public Buildings and Park(PBP) zone requires that a 6-foot visual screen consisting of a solid fencing, landscaping, or other materials shall be provided in the yard abutting residentially zoned land. 7. The City's Comprehensive Plan and Land Use Map were reviewed for consistency with the proposed vacation of right-of-way. 8. The vacating of a street is categorically exempt from a State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA) review per Section 197-11-800 (2) (h) of the Washington Administrative Code. 9. The site was posted and required publication appeared in the Peninsula Dai/v News on May 22, 2002. One letter of opposition was received by a neighbor during the public comment period which is included in the July 10, 2002, staff report and analysis. This action constitutes a recommendation to the City Council that will act on the petition at a public hearing on August 6, 2002. 10. Conclusions: A. As conditioned, traffic patterns on surrounding streets would not be negatively impacted by the vacation. Traffic in the 3/4 alley would be markedly reduced by eliminating through traffic from the east where the YMCA site is located. Access to properties at the west end of the 3/4 alley would not be disrupted and would become more residentially oriented. B. Low density residential development patterns in the area will not be affected by the proposed vacation. C. Future construction plans that involve impediment to the vacated alley right-of- way area will require approval of the City's Fire Department to ensure that access is not impeded to uses in the area. This would include construction of fencing. D. The retention of easements for sewer service and power will ensure that the vacation will not interfere with the public's health, safety or welfare. . E. The proposal is consistent with the goals and policies of the City's Comprehensive Plan, specifically the following Comprehensive Plan policies have been found to be most relevant to the proposal: Land Use Element Goa] B, Policy B.1, Goal D, and D.2; Transportation Element Goal B; Utilities and Public Services Element Goal B, Policy B.3, Goal D; and Capita] Facilities Element Goal B. Planning Commission Minutes July 10, 2002 17 . The residential development pattern in the vicinity will not be affected by the vacation of right-of-way. G. As conditioned, the street vacation is in the public interest. F. Commissioner Philpott seconded the motion which passed 5 - 1 with Commissioner Hewins voting against the motion. Commissioner Hewins stated that his negative vote was because he believes the City gives preferential treatment to the YMCA that might not be provided to other non-profit agencies. CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT - CUP 02-06 - CREECH - 402 East Lauridsen Boulevard: Request to allow a music school in the Commercial, Office CO zone. Planning Director Brad Collins presented the staff report. Vice Chair Hewins opened the public hearing. There being no public testimony, Vice Chair Hewins closed the public hearing. Commissioner Porter moved to approve CUP 02-06 with 3 conditions, citing 15 findings and 5 conclusions. Conditions: . Approval is for Paul and Sharon Creech to conduct a music academy at 402 East Lauridsen Boulevard. Activities of the use shall be as proposed in the application received by the City Department of Community Development on May 26, 2002. Subordinate pianofinstrument/accessory sales will be pennitted in support of the academy use. The applicant is aware that retail sales is not permitted to be the main use ofthe site per the City's Commercial, Office zone. 2. The applicant shall provide a parking layout per the City's parking lot design standards indicating the provision of at least 12 off-street parking spaces. Parking spaces shall be striped and improved per City standard parking requirements. 1. 3. Specific interior floor plans shall be submitted to the City's Fire Department prior to occupancy for approval by the Fire Department. Findings: Based on the information provided in the Planning Department Staff Report for CUP 02- 06 dated May 26,2002, including all information in the public record file, comments and testimony presented during the public hearing, the Planning Commission discussion and deliberation, and the above listed conditions of approval, the City of Port Ange]es Planning Commission hereby finds that: . 1. The applicants Paul and Sharon Creech applied on May 26, 2002, for a conditional use permit to conduct a music academy in the Commercial, Office (CO) zone at 402 East Lauridsen Boulevard. The site is physically located at the southeast comer of Lauridsen Bou]evard and Peabody Street. Planning Commission Minutes July J 0, 2002 18 . . . Music academy activities are permitted by conditional use permit under Section 17.20.160(0) of the Port Angeles Municipal Code. Section 17.96.050 ofthe Port Angeles Municipal Code allows that conditional use permits may be permitted for specified uses at specified locations within the City of Port Angeles under. The purpose of a conditional use pennits is as follows: Purpose of a Conditional Use Permit: The purpose of a Conditional Use Permit shall be to assure that the maximum degree of compatibility between uses shall be attained. The purpose of these regulations shall be maintained with respect to the particular use of the particular site and in consideration of other existing and potential uses within the general area in which such use is to be located. Conditional Use Permits are not transferrable to another location and may be considered by the Planning Commission as follows: The Planning Commission shall consider applications for Conditional Use Permits of uses as specified in the applicable Chapter of the Zoning Regulations. The Planning Commission may grant said permits which are consistent and compatible with the purpose of the zone in which the use is located, consistent with the Comprehensive Plan, and not contrary to the public use and interest. The Planning Commission may refuse to issue a Conditional Use Permit if the characteristics af the intended use as related ta the specific proposed site are such as would defeat the purpose of these Zoning Regulations by introducing incompatible, detrimental, ar hazardous conditions. In each application the Planning Cammission may impose whatever restrictians or conditions they consider essential to protect the public health, safety, and welfare, and to prevent depreciation of neighboring property. 4. The subject site is near the end of a limited node of Commercial Office (CO) zoning in the area which exists from Chase Street to approximately 500 feet east of Peabody Street along Lauridsen Boulevard. The commercial designation includes the site and a commercial use (Boulevard Hair Design) east of Peabody Street in this location. Properties north and south of the site are zoned RS-7, Residential Single Family. 2. 3. 4. 5. Lauridsen Boulevard in this location is a 100 foot right-of-way that is developed to a 70-foot width with curb, gutter, and pavement. Peabody Street abuts the property on the west and is improved. Sidewalk is developed along Peabody Street (west side). A Clallam Transit bus enclosure is located close to the property west of the site. Uses immediately surrounding the area that are not residential include Jefferson School, located northwest of the subject property, the Port Angeles High School, four blocks south of the site on Park Avenue, and the commercial Boulevard Hair Design site, immediately east of the site. Residential uses are found south across Orcas Street, north across Lauridsen Boulevard, and 13th Street. 6. Planning Commission Minl/les July 10.2002 19 . . . The proposed music academy is to provide primarily piano lessons at the subject location. The applicants conduct a similar activity from a site located in the City's Commercial Neighborhood (CN) zone on Eighth Street which will be relocated. A subordinate retail area is planned for those students or members of the public who wish to purchase pianos and various music accessories. 8. PAMe l4.40.050(N) requires 8 parking spaces per classroom for junior colleges. The proposal indicates four areas where instruction and practice can take place within the building. The applicant indicates that a maximum of 10 students would visit the academy a day. Scheduled workshops would be composed of no more than 10 students per workshop with possibly two teachers. During the school term workshops would occur irregularly. One summer camp is planned where workshops are planned daily for a week. 7. The site contains an asphalted area where 10 to 12 off-street parking spaces could be developed. Proposed parking sites are not striped. A gravel area is also present at the rear of the structure which could be developed and provide an addition 6 to 8 spaces on-site. The City's Parking Ordinance requires 8 spaces per junior college classroom. Classroom/instruction areas equal a total of 623 square feet which could be compared to the size of one junior college classroom. Individual instruction/practice areas will be occupied by a piano and, given the size of each room, will only allow for the instruction of one or two students at a time. Office space, calculated at 1 :400, would require one parking space for a total of 9 spaces for the proposed activity (8 for the classroom and 1 for the office area.) 10. The applicant feels the location is prime for benefit to students and public due to the site location between the Port Angeles High School and Jefferson Elementary school, the location on a main traffic route, and being across the street from the public library. 9. 11. Instruction will be on a regular basis Monday through Saturday 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. with lessons scheduled by appointment at various times up until 8 p.m. Three to five persons will be employed by the husband and wife owners for a total of five to seven employees. 12. Reviewing City Departments had no objection to the use. Those comments were taken into consideration in review of the proposed permit. The Public Works and Utilities Department indicated that a detailed parking plan must be submitted and approved prior to occupancy ofthe structure identifying parking that has been improved to City standards. A minimum of 12 parking spaces will be required for the proposed activity. Notice of the intended use was posted in the Peninsula Dailv News on June 13, 2002, with notice sent to surrounding property owners within 300 feet of the location per Section 17.96.140 P AMC. No comments were received as a result of that action. 13. . . . Plannillg Commission MillUles July 10.2002 20 14. The City's State Environmental Policy Act Responsible Official issued a Detennination of Non significance for the proposed land use activity on July 8, 2002. This satisfies the City's responsibility under SEP A. Conclusions: Based on the above findings, the City of Port Angeles Planning Commission hereby concludes that: 1. The proposed music academy is consistent with the City's Comprehensive Plan and Land Use Map, speci fically Growth Management Goal A and Policy I ( a); Land Use Element Goal A and Policy 2; Goal D, Policy 1; Land Use Element Commercial Goal D and Policy 1; Economic Development Element Goal A, Policy 8; Goal B; and Goal B, Policy 2. 2. The proposed use is consistent with the purpose of the Commercial, Office zone, as it is compatible with adjacent residential, commercial, and public uses. 3. As conditioned, the proposal is consistent with the requirements for approval of a conditional use permit as specified in PAMC 17.96.050. 4. As conditioned, the proposal is consistent with Section 14.40 of the Port Angeles Municipal (Parking). As conditioned, the proposal is in the public interest. 5. Commissioner Philpott seconded the motion which passed 5-0. COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE PUBLIC None. ST AFF REPORTS Director Collins passed out a definition of Quasi-public. Vice Chair Hewins pointed out that the definition needed to be included into the Zoning Code. Director Collins stated that this would not be the end of this issue REPORTS OF COMMISSION MEMBERS Vice Chair Hewins indicated that he would most likely not be present at the next meeting. Commissioner Philpott stated that he had asked Craig Ritchie who he represented and the answer was Todd McClaskey and asked ifthe other commission members knew who Mr. McClaskey was. There was no response so Commissioner Philpott asked Director Collins to inform the Commission members. Director Collins indicated that Mr. McC]askey was the owner of the Best Western Lodge. Commissioner Philpott asked Director Collins ifMr. McClaskey had previously had an interest in the site of the proposed hotel and conference center that had been considered earlier in the meeting. Director Collins stated that Mr. McC]askey's father had been the original Planning Commission Minlllcs Jllly 10. 2002 Page 21 . applicant of a similar project at that site. ADJOURNMENT The meeting adjourned at 11 :40 P.M. Brad Collins, Secretary CJVltlcl5f~1~ t/illrramm, Chill, Frq;{ ~txCla:r PREPARED BY: S. Johns . . · FORTANGELES WAS H I N G TON, U. S. A. . PLANNING COMMISSION ATTENDANCE ROSTER AND TESTIMONY SIGN..UP SHEET N . - Meeting Agenda of: J UL-j 1 b)~ PLEASE NOTE: IE you plan to testify, by signature below, you certify that the testimony given is true and correct under penalty of perjury by the laws of the State of Washington. Si nature below DOES NOT REQUIRE ou to testi - it on acknowled es OU1 resence. Agenda Item No. It') -02-0)... ~P/ 5'kd o~-o ~ t? Z -6 $tI"'.4- 0 2 -0 (, 2 -c) ..p'( 4 -11~ -vc CY,4 - 0"--0 .1. (j1/i 02 -o? S/h4 6 2- -O~ ..... e, 90-"1. oz.C&,j;;-CIJ h'- · ~ORTANGELES f. WAS H I N G TON. U. S. A. . PLANNING COMMISSION AITENDANCE ROSTER AND TESTIMONY SIGN-UP SHEET N ~ ID,,2-007- Meeting Agenda of: ~ _ PLEASE NOTE: IF you plan to testify, by signature below, you certify that the testimony given is true and correct under penalty of perjury by the laws of the State of Washington. . Signature below DOES NOT REQUIRE you to testify - it only acknowledges your presence. NAME: ADDN'H:'~"". Agenda Item No. J.SjJ} ~k.rQ~ ..s l..{ N. fVlI~1V J vv . fA- .1.sJ~t1 tJ-2-O( I