Planning Commission Action Memorandums 2018REGULAR
MEETING
a/Re&tf qtz
INCORPORATED `_.VARY 24, 1957
ACTION MEMORANDUM
PLANNING COMMISSION
TUESDAY, AUGUST 21, 2018
NO. 2 PORTUGUESE BEND ROAD
ROLLING HILLS, CA 90274
(310) 377-1521
FAX (310) 377-7288
CITY OF ROLLING HILLS
6:30 P.M.
1. CALL MEETING TO ORDER
A regular meeting of the Planning Commission of the City of Rolling Hills was called to order by
Chairman Chelf at 6:31 p.m. on Tuesday, August 21, 2018 in the City Council Chamber, at City Hall, 2
Portuguese Bend Road, Rolling Hills, California.
2. ROLL CALL
Commissioners Present:
Commissioners Absent:
Others Present:
Cardenas, Cooley, Seaburn and Chairman Chelf.
Kirkpatrick (excused).
Yolanta Schwartz, Interim City Manager.
Jane Abzug, Assistant City Attorney:
Julia Stewart, Acting Planning Director.
Yvette Hall, City Clerk.
Tavisha Ales, Civil Engineer, Bolton Engineering Corporation.
Raymond Medak, Architect.
3. APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA
ACTION: Approved as presented.
4. PUBLIC COMMENTS ON MINUTES AND ANY ITEM NOT ON THE AGENDA
None.
5. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
A. July 17, 2018 Adjourned Regular Meeting of the Planning Commission
ACTION: Commissioner Cardenas moved that the Planning Commission approve the revised
minutes of the Adjourned Regular Meeting of the Planning Commission held on July 17, 2018 as
presented. Commissioner Seaburn seconded the motion, which carried without objection
(Kirkpatrick absent).
Action Memo
Planning Commission Meeting
August 21, 2018
Page 1 of 4
6. RESOLUTIONS
A. RESOLUTION NO. 2018-08. A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING
COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF ROLLING HILLS GRANTING APPROVAL FOR
A SITE PLAN REVIEW, CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT, AND VARIANCES TO
CONSTRUCT A NEW 1,325 SQUARE FOOT DETACHED GARAGE, TO BE
LOCATED IN THE FRONT YARD WITH 490 CUBIC YARDS OF GRADING; TO
EXCEED • THE MAXIMUM PERMITTED DISTURBANCE OF THE LOT; AND
FOR MINOR ADDITIONS TO THE RESIDENCE IN ZONING CASE NO. 940 AT
38 PORTUGUESE BEND ROAD, LOT 18-RH, (WHEELER).
ACTION: Following public comment, Commissioner Seaburn moved that the Planning
Commission adopt the revised Resolution No. 2018-08 granting approval of the applicant's
request in Zoning Case No. 940 at 38 Portuguese Bend Road as presented. Commissioner
Cardenas seconded the motion, whichcarried without objection (Kirkpatrick absent).
B. RESOLUTION NO. 2018-09. A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING
COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF ROLLING HILLS AUTHORIZING A LOT LINE
ADJUSTMENT BETWEEN TWO LOTS AT 0 BUGGY WHIP DRIVE (LOT 175 -A-
2 -MS) AND 25 CREST ROAD WEST (LOT 175 -A -1 -MS) RESULTING IN A NET
TRANSFER OF 5 GROSS SQUARE FEET AND GRANTING A SITE PLAN
REVIEW AND VARIANCES IN ZONING CASE NO. 944 (CZYZYK/CHANDRAN).
ACTION: Following public comment, Commissioner Cardenas moved that the Planning
Commission adopt the revised Resolution No. 2018-09 granting approval of the applicant's
request in Zoning Case No. 944 at 0 Buggy Whip Drive and 25 Crest Road West as presented.
Commissioner Cooley seconded the motion, which carried without objection (Kirkpatrick absent).
C. RESOLUTION NO. 2018-10. A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING
COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF ROLLING HILLS GRANTING APPROVAL FOR
A SITE PLAN REVIEW AND CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT FOR
CONSTRUCTION OF A 2,124 SQUARE FOOT MIXED -USE STRUCTURE AND
779 CUBIC YARDS OF GRADING IN ZONING CASE NO. 934 AT 8 CREST
ROAD EAST, LOT 192 -A -2 -MS, (JOHN TU).
ACTION: Following public comment and discussion, Commissioner Cardenas moved that the
Planning. Commission adopt the revised Resolution No. 2018-10 granting approval of the
applicant's request in Zoning Case No. 934 at 8 Crest Road East as presented. Commissioner
Seaburn seconded the motion, which carried without objection (Kirkpatrick absent).
D. A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF
ROLLING HILLS AUTHORIZING A LOT LINE ADJUSTMENT BETWEEN TWO
LOTS AT 3 MIDDLERIDGE LANE NORTH (PORTIONS OF LOT 11 -MR) AND 6
MIDDLERIDGE LANE NORTH (PORTIONS OF LOTS 12, 13, 14, AND 15 -MR)
TO ALTER THE LOTS BY 51,624 SQUARE FEET AND GRANTING A SITE PLAN
AND VARIANCE IN ZONING CASE NO. 945. (TILLES/ WILSON FAMILY
TRUST).
Action Memorandum
Planning Commission Meeting
08-21-18
2 of 4
ACTION: Following public comment and discussion, Commissioner Cardenas moved that the
Planning Commission adopt the revised Resolution granting approval of the applicant's request in
Zoning Case No. 945 at 3 Middleridge Lane North and 6 Middleridge Lane North as presented.
Commissioner Seaburn seconded the motion, which carried without objection (Kirkpatrick
absent).
7. PUBLIC HEARINGS ON ITEMS CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS MEETING
A. ZONING CASE NO. 939. Request for a Site Plan Review to construct a new 385
square foot residential addition; demolish an existing swimming pool, pool deck, pool
equipment, and covered porch; legalize a 220 square foot area of the main residence; a
Conditional Use Permit to convert the existing 1,560 square foot stable to a mixed -use
structure (recreation room and storage); and Variances for multiple encroachments into
the front yard setback and an increase in disturbance beyond the 40% maximum
allowed. The subject property is located at 9 Johns Canyon Road, Lot 170 -A -1 -MS,
(David Stone).
ACTION: Following public comment and discussion, Commissioner Cardenas moved that the
Planning Commission direct staff to draft a Resolution granting approval of the applicant's
request in Zoning Case No. 939 at 9 Johns' Canyon Road as presented. Commissioner Seaburn
seconded the motion, which carried without objection (Kirkpatrick absent).
8. NEW PUBLIC HEARINGS
A. ZONING CASE NO. 946. Request for a Site Plan Review to construct a 685 square
foot residential addition with a new porte cochere, remodel the 2,708 square foot
existing residence, and to enlarge an existing deck resulting in raised, out of grade deck
in the rear of the residence; and Variances to locate a portion of the raised deck in the
side setback and to waive the requirement for a stable and corral set aside area. The
subject property is located at 2 El Concho Lane, Lot 7-GF, (Boos/Patterson).
ACTION: By consensus, the Planning. Commission scheduled a field trip on September 25, 2018
to visit the site at 2 El Concho Lane.
9. OLD BUSINESS
None.
10. NEW BUSINESS
None.
11. SCHEDULE OF FIELD TRIPS (September 25, 2018)
2 El Concho Lane
ACTION: By consensus, the Planning Commission scheduled a field trip on September 25; 2018
to visit the site at 2 El Concho Lane.
Action Memorandum
Planning Commission Meeting
08-21-18
3 of 4
12. ITEMS FROM STAFF
A. Schedule of Planning Commission meetings for the remainder of the year (oral)
Acting Planning Director Stewart presented and discussed the schedule of upcoming PC meetings. She
indicated that some of the PC meeting dates are not scheduled on the third Tuesday of the month.
13. ITEMS FROM THE PLANNING COMMISSION
None.
14. ADJOURNMENT
Hearing no further business before the -Planning Commission, Chairman Chelf adjourned the meeting at
7:22 p.m. to an adjourned regular meeting of the Planning Commission scheduled to be held on Tuesday,
September 25, 2018 beginning at 7:30 a.m. for the purpose of conducting a site visit to 2 El Concho
Lane. The next regular meeting of the Planning Commission is scheduled to be held on Tuesday,
September 25, 2018 beginning at 6:30 p.m. in the City Council Chamber, Rolling Hills City Hall, 2
Portuguese Bend Road, Rolling Hills, California.
Action Memorandum
Planning Commission Meeting
08-21-18
4of4
MINUTES OF AN .
ADJOURNED REGULAR MEETING
OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION
JULY 17, 2018
FIELD TRIP MEETING:
PRESENT:
Chairman Chelf, Vice Chair Kirkpatrick, Commissioners Seaburn, Cardenas and Cooley
Yolanta Schwartz, Interim City Manager
Julia Stewart, Acting Planning Director
John F. Signo, Contract Planner
Joseph Czyzyk, Owner/Applicant
Thomas Yuge, P.E., Cetech Engineering, Engineer
James Aichele, resident
Dan Rentsch, Belzberg Architects
Sungmi Hyun, Belzberg Architects
Leah Mirsch, Councihnember/resident
Clint Patterson, resident
Rick Boos, resident
Tavisha Ales, P.E., Bolton Engineering Corp., Engineer
Tony Inferrera, Architect
Austin Su, resident
Chairman Chelf called the public hearing to order at 7:30 a.m. at 0 Buggy Whip Drive.
A. ZONING CASE NO. 944. Request for a Lot Line Adjustment between two parcels of land
for properties at 0 Buggy Whip Drive (APN 7569-024-022) (Mr. and Ms. Joseph Czyzyk) and 25
Crest Road West (APN 7569-024-023)(Mr. and Ms. Rama Chandran), Rolling Hills, CA, resulting
in an increase in lot size at 25 Crest Road West and a decrease in lot size at 0 Buggy Whip of 5
square feet; Request for Variances for 1) altering lots already less than the minimum- lot size
required by the Municipal Code, 2) a change to a non -conforming structural coverage on one of the
properties 3) a slight decrease in a non -conforming net lot area on one of the properties; and 4)
creating a new structural encroachment into a side yard setback. The Project has been determined to
be exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act, (CEQA) pursuant to Class 5, Section
15305, Minor Alterations in Land Use Limitations, of the CEQA Guidelines.
Acting Planning Director Stewart explained the proposed lot line adjustment and pointed out
property lines, easements, and access. She gave a brief history of the properties andsurrounding
area and the reason for the lot line adjustment.
Chairman Chelf stated that the Planning Commission approved a previous lot line adjustment
between the properties a few years ago. Acting Planning Director Stewart confirmed the approval
and stated that it was not recorded and allowed to expire, thus the need for the current application.
The applicant and property owner, Mr. Czyzyk, explained that he and his neighbor failed to record
the previous lot line adjustment, but are inclined to complete it this time.
All present then observed the staking showing the location of the property lines and easements, and
walked along the driveway and the proposed lot line adjustment to the western portion of the
property.
The project engineer, Mr. Yuge, explained that the proposed lot line generally follows the fencing
between the properties. However, it does not follow exactly for purposes of balancing the square
footage for each property.
Mr. Czyzyk explained the properties were once one lot that was subdivided decades ago. However,
the subdivision was not properly surveyed resulting in the property line traversing his driveway and
a portion of his property on the other side of the dividing fence where he has no access. The
proposed lot line adjustment will adjust the property line so that his driveway is entirely on his
property and the portion of his land that he does not currently have access to will be given to his
neighbor. No physical improvements will be made.
Commissioner Seaburn made a motion that staff prepare a resolution of approval for the Planning
Commission to consider. It was seconded by Commissioner Cardenas.
-1-
07-17-18 Minutes
Planning Commission Adjourned Regular Meeting
There being no further discussion, the public hearing in Zoning Case No. 944 was then continued
to the evening meeting on July 17, 2018 beginning at 6:30 pm.
B. ZONING CASE NO. 934. Request for a Site Plan Review and Conditional Use Permit to
construct a detached 2,124 square foot mixed use structure, which would include a garage, and
grading of 779 cubic yards of dirt for the structure at 8 Crest Road East, (Lot 192 -A -2 -MS), Rolling
Hills, CA, (John Tu). This is a modified version of a previously. viewed mixed -use structure.
Currently the property is being developed with a single-family residence and accessory outdoor
amenities. The project has been determined to be categorically exempt (Class 3) pursuant to Section
15303 of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines.
Acting Planning Director Stewart explained that this is the third time the Planning Commission is
visiting the subject property to consider the proposed project. It was previously approved by the
Planning Commission, however, the Rolling Hills Community Association was not satisfied with
the architecture of the structure, which looked like a stable and required the applicant to make
modifications. She explained that the mixed -use building would be reduced from 2,210 square feet
to 2,124 square feet, and grading would include 300 cubic yards cut and 446 cubic yards fill. She
explained the driveway, design, and proposed uses. The architect, Ms. Hyun, explained that the
overall ridgeline would be reduced by 2'-6".
Commissioner Cardenas indicated the intent of the previous approval was for the building to look
like a barn. Acting Planning Director Stewart explained that the Rolling Hills Community
Association required the architecture to be changed to match the residence and that a covered trellis
be included as an architectural feature. Chairman Chelf indicated his preference for the previous
design. The neighbors also stated a preference toward the previous design. Chairman Chelf added
that the ridgeline will be lowered, but the Planning Commission has no purview over architectural
design. Commissioner Cardenas stated that the Planning Commission minutes should be shared
with the Rolling Hills Community Association so they could understand the Commission's desire
for the structure to look like a barn.
Councilwoman Mirsch asked if there are any variances associated with the project. Acting Planning
Director Stewart answered there are none.
The Planning Commission directed staff to communicate their preference of the previous design to
the Rolling Hills Community Association and continued the item to the Planning Commission's
evening meeting of July 17, 2018.
C. ZONING CASE NO. 940.. Request for Site Plan Review, Conditional Use Permit, and
Variance to construct a new approximately 1,325 square foot detached garage, to be located in the
front yard, with some grading, to exceed the maximum disturbance allowed at 38 Portuguese Bend
Road (Lot 118-RH) Rolling Hills, CA, (Steve and Lori Wheeler). The project has been determined
to be categorically exempt (Class 1, 3, and 4) pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act
(CEQA) Guidelines, Sections 15301, 15303, and 15304.
Acting Planning Director Stewart gave the presentation and explained the need for the Site Plan
Review, Conditional Use Permit, and Variance request. All present were able to walk up and down
the driveway and observe the proposed project. The applicant, Ms. Ales, explained the maximum
ridgeline height would be 15'. Acting Planning Director Stewart indicated the northwestern corner
of the detached garage would have approximately 5' of footing exposed from grade because it is
partly on a slope.
Interim City Manager Schwartz explained that the Fire Department requires a 20' -wide driveway to
the front of the existing residence. Ms. Ales explained this is because the existing garage would be
converted to livable space in addition to other improvements to the house. If the proposed project
was only for -the -detached --garage; -the-Fire-Department-would not -require -the- driveway to be-
widened in front of the house.
Chairman Chelf asked if the proposed detached garage could be moved forward to eliminate the
northwestern corner from projecting over the slope. Ms. Ales explained there is a septic system with
a seepage pit that requires a certain distance from structures making it difficult to relocate the
proposed garage. Chairman Chelf indicated that northwestern corner of the proposed garage should
be softened because it is visible from the neighbors. Ms. Ales explained there is only certain types
of landscaping that could be planted on the slope in the drainage area. There was discussion about
removing the gable on the northern part of the garage because it makes the building appear taller.
-2-
07-17-18 Minutes
Planning Commission Adjourned Regular Meeting
All in attendance walked to the property at 34 Portuguese Bend Road and observed the proposed
project from the rear deck. Chairman Chelf indicated he was not in favor of the out of grade
condition of the northwestern corner of the proposed garage and asked that the engineer restudy this
feature.
There being no further discussion, the Planning Commission public hearing was continued to the
evening meeting on July 17, 2018 beginning at 6:30 pm.
Respectfully Submitted,
Julia ewart Date
Acting Planning Director
Date
07-17-18 Minutes
Planning Commission Adjourned Regular Meeting
REGULAR
MEETING
gest al ire lea/if geee4 INCORPORATED JANUARY 24, 1957
NO. 2 PORTUGUESE BEND ROAD
ROLLING HILLS, CA 90274
(310) 377-1521
FAX (310) 377-7288
ACTION MEMORANDUM
PLANNING COMMISSION CITY OF ROLLING HILLS
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 23, 2018 6:30 P.M.
1. CALL MEETING TO ORDER
A regular meeting of the Planning Commission of the City of Rolling Hills was called to order by
Chairman Chelf at 6:32 p.m. on Tuesday, October, 23, 2018 in the City Council Chamber, at City Hall,
2 Portuguese Bend Road, Rolling Hills, California.
2. ROLL CALL
Commissioners Present: Cardenas, Seaburn, and Chairman Chelf.
Commissioners Absent: Cooley, and Kirkpatrick (excused).
Others Present: Yolanta Schwartz, Planning Director.
Jane Abzug, Assistant City Attorney.
Julia Stewart, Senior Planner.
Yvette Hall, City Clerk.
Karla Rangel, Administrative Clerk
3. APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA
ACTION: Approved as presented.
4. PUBLIC COMMENTS ON MINUTES AND ANY ITEM NOT ON THE AGENDA
None.
5. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
A. September 25, 2018 Adjourned Regular Meeting of the Planning Commission
ACTION: Commissioner Cardenas moved that the Planning Commission approve the minutes
of the adjourned regular meeting of the Planning Commission held on September 25, 2018.
Commissioner Seaburn seconded the motion, which carried without objection (Cooley, and
Kirkpatrick absent).
Action Memo
Planning Commission Meeting
10-23-18
Page 1 of 4
6. RESOLUTIONS
A. RESOLUTION NO. 2018-14. A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING
COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF ROLLING HILLS GRANTING APPROVAL
FOR A SITE PLAN REVIEW AND VARIANCES TO ALLOW A RESIDENTIAL
ADDITION, A NEW PORTE COCHERE AND NEW ABOVE GRADE DECK
TO ENCROACH INTO SETBACKS, AND WAIVE THE REQUIREMENT FOR
STABLE AND CORRAL SET ASIDE AREA IN ZONING CASE NO. 946 AT 2
EL CONCHO LANE, LOT 7-GF, (RICK BOOS/ CLINT PA FI ERSON).
ACTION: Following public comment, Commissioner Seaburn moved to approve the
Resolution as presented in Zoning Case No. 946 at 2 El Concho Lane. Commissioner Cardenas
seconded the motion, which carried without objection (Cooley, and Kirkpatrick absent).
B. RESOLUTION NO. 2018-15. A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING
COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF ROLLING HILLS GRANTING APPROVAL
FOR A SITE PLAN REVIEW, CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT, AND
VARIANCES TO ALLOW GRADING, WALLS, AND A 5,000 SQUARE FOOT
RIDING RING IN THE FRONT SETBACK AND FRONT YARD AND TO
IMPORT DIRT IN ZONING CASE NO. 947 AT 34 SADDLEBACK ROAD,
LOT 13-RH, (EDDY DELGADO).
ACTION: Commissioner Cardenas moved to approve the Resolution as presented in Zoning
Case No. 947 at 34 Saddleback Road. Commissioner Seaburn seconded the motion, which carried
without objection (Cooley, and Kirkpatrick absent).
7. PUBLIC HEARINGS ON ITEMS CONTINUED FROM A PREVIOUS MEETING
A. ZONING CASE NO. 951. Request for Site Plan Review for a new residential
addition of 1,087 square feet, new 410 square foot covered porch, addition to a raised
deck and 300 cubic yards of grading; and Variances to encroach with portions of the
proposed residential addition and raised deck into the, front and side yard setbacks
and to allow the stable and corral set aside area to be located in the front yard setback
and in the front of the leading edge of the residence. The subject property is located at
26 Middleridge Lane South (Lot 248-A-2-UR) Rolling Hills, CA, (Manquen).
ACTION: Following public comment, and discussion, Commissioner Cardenas moved that the
Planning Commission direct staff to prepare a Resolution granting approval of the applicant's
request in Zoning Case No. 951 at 26 Middleridge Lane South, which shall include standard
language for landscaping that will apply to the planter box below the deck. Commissioner
Seaburn seconded the motion, which carried without objection (Cooley, and Kirkpatrick absent).
Action Memo
Planning Commission Meeting
10-23-18
2 of 2
8. NEW PUBLIC HEARINGS
A. ZONING CASE NO. 949. Request for a Certificate of Compliance for Lot Line
Adjustment between four parcels of land located along Storm Hill Lane, Rolling
Hills, CA, and having Assessors Parcel Numbers (APN) 7570-024-014, 7570-024-015,
7570- 024-016 and 7570-024-017 created by Parcel Map No. 26356. One parcel is
developed, (4 Storm Hill Lane) and 3 parcels are vacant. (Storm Properties)
B. ZONING CASE NO. 950. Request for a Site Plan Review for grading and to
construct a road to access 3 vacant parcels off of Storm Hill Lane, described in Zoning
Case No. 949. The construction of the road was a condition of approval of a
subdivision. Other than the private road, no new development is proposed with this
application. (Storm Properties).
An environmental review pursuant to CEQA was conducted during the subdivision
process in 2000 and a Mitigated Negative Declaration (MND) was adopted by the
City Council. The findings and conclusions of the MND are still relevant, applicable
and in full force and effect for this project.
ACTION: Following staff's presentation, and public comment by Jay Ahluwalia, of
Strom Hill Properties, the members of the Planning Commission determined that a site
visit should be scheduled to provide the members the Planning Commission with further
understanding of the applicant's request in Zoning Case No. 949 and 950 both located
along Storm Hill Lane (Cooley, and Kirkpatrick absent).
C. ZONING CASE NO. 952. Request for a Conditional Use Permit to construct a new
660 square foot detached garage and a Variance to encroach up to 12'2" into the
required rear yard setback with a new 308 square foot addition and up to 3' with the
detached garage. The subject property is located at 2 Chuckwagon Road (Lot 38-
A/39-B-EF) Rolling Hills, CA, (Galvin/Kirmse).
ACTION: Following staff's presentation, and public comment, the members of the
Planning Commission determined that a site visit should be scheduled to provide the
members the Planning Commission with further understanding of the applicant's request
in Zoning Case No. 952 at 2 Chuckwagon Road (Cooley, and Kirkpatrick absent).
D. ZONING CASE NO. 948. Request for Variances to construct a new 200 square
foot parking pad which would encroach into the allowable frontage; a 209 square foot
garage addition, which would encroach into the front yard setback and a service yard
that would encroach into the side yard setback. The subject property is located at 15
Georgeff Road (Lot 29-GF) Rolling Hills, CA, (Hatch).
ACTION: Following staff's presentation, and public comment, the members of the
Planning Commission determined that a site visit should be scheduled to provide the
members the Planning Commission with further understanding of the applicant's request
in Zoning Case No. 948 at 15 Georgeff Road (Cooley, and Kirkpatrick absent).
Action Memo
Planning Commission Meeting
10-23-18
3 of 3
9. OLD BUSINESS
None
10. NEW BUSINESS
None
11. SCHEDULE OF FIELD TRIPS (December 18, 2018)
Storm Hill Lane
2 Chuckwagon
15 Georgeff
ACTION: The Planning Commission scheduled field trips to the following properties to be
conducted on Wednesday, December 12, 2018 beginning at 7:30 a.m.
Storm Hill Lane
2 Chuckwagon
15 Georgeff
12. ITEMS FROM STAFF
A. CONFIRMATION OF PC AVAILABILITY ON DEC 18TH.
ACTION: Following discussion the Planning Commission scheduled field trips to be conducted
on Wednesday, December 12, 2018 beginning at 7:30 a.m., and the regular Planning Commission
meeting on the same day at 6:30 p.m.
13. 1'1'hMS FROM THE PLANNING COMMISSION
14. ADJOURNMENT
Hearing no further business before the Commission, Chairman Chelf adjourned the meeting at
8:00 p.m. to an adjourned regular meeting of the Planning Commission scheduled to be held on
Wednesday, December 12, 2018 beginning at 7:30 a.m. for the purpose of conducting field trips to
Storm Hill Lane, 2 Chuckwagon, and 15 Georgeff. The next regular meeting of the Planning
Commission is scheduled to be held on Wednesday, December 12, 2018 beginning at 6:30 p.m. in
the City Council Chamber, Rolling Hills City Hall, 2 Portuguese Bend Road, Rolling Hills,
California.
Action Memo
Planning Commission Meeting
10-23-18
4 of 4
•
REGULAR
MEETING
&t a/Re&if qice4
INCORPORATED JANUARY 24, 1957
NO. 2 PORTUGUESE BEND ROAD
ROLLING HILLS, CA 90274
(310) 377-1521
FAX (310) 377-7288
ACTION MEMORANDUM
PLANNING COMMISSION CITY OF ROLLING HILLS
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 25, 2018 6:30 P.M.
1. CALL MEETING TO ORDER
A regular meeting of the Planning Commission of the City of Rolling Hills was called to order by
Chairman Chelf at 6:31 p.m. on Tuesday, September, 25, 2018 in the City Council Chamber, at City
Hall, 2 Portuguese Bend Road, Rolling Hills, California.
2. ROLL CALL
Commissioners Present: Cardenas, Cooley, Kirkpatrick, Seaburn, and Chairman Chelf.
Commissioners Absent:
Others Present:
None.
Yolanta Schwartz, Planning Director.
Elaine Jeng, P.E., City Manager.
Jane Abzug, Assistant City Attorney.
Julia Stewart, Senior Planner.
Yvette Hall, City Clerk.
Karla Rangel, Administrative Clerk
3. APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA
ACTION: Approved as presented.
4.
None.
5.
PUBLIC COMMENTS ON MINUTES AND ANY I1FM NOT ON THE AGENDA
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
A.
August 21, 2018 Adjourned Regular Meeting of the Planning Commission
ACTION: Commissioner Cardenas moved that the Planning Commission approve the minutes
of the adjourned regular meeting of the Planning Commission held on August 21, 2018.
Commissioner Seaburn seconded the motion, which carried without objection.
Action Memo
Planning Commission Meeting
9-25-18
Page 1 of 1
1,
1
B. August 21, 2018 Regular Meeting of the Planning Commission
ACTION: Commissioner Seaburn moved that the Planning Commission approve the minutes
of the regular meeting of the Planning Commission held on August 21, 2018. Commissioner
Cardenas seconded the motion, which carried without objection.
6. RESOLUTIONS
A. RESOLUTION NO. 2018-12. A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING
COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF ROLLING HILLS GRANTING APPROVAL FOR
A CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT TO CONVERT AN EXISTING 1,560 SQUARE
FOOT STABLE TO A MIXED -USE STRUCTURE (RECREATION ROOM AND.
STORAGE); AND VARIANCES FOR MULTIPLE ENCROACHMENTS OF
STRUCTURES INTO THE FRONT YARD SETBACK AREA IN ZONING CASE
NO. 939 AT 9 JOHNS CANYON ROAD, LOT 170 -A -1 -MS, (DAVID STONE).
ACTION: Commissioner Cardenas moved to approve the Resolution as presented in Zoning
Case No. 939 at 9 Johns Canyon Road, excluding Condition Q of the Resolution. Commissioner
Cooley seconded the motion which carried without objection. (Kirkpatrick abstained)
7. PUBLIC HEARINGS ON ITEMS CONTINUED FROM A PREVIOUS MEETING
A. ZONING CASE NO. 946, REQUEST FOR A SITE PLAN REVIEW AND
VARIANCES TO ALLOW A RESIDENTIAL ADDITION AND REMODEL, A NEW
PORTE COCHERE, A NEW ELEVATED DECK, AND WAIVING THE,
REQUIREMENT FOR A STABLE AND CORRAL SET ASIDE AREA. NO
GRADING IS PROPOSED FOR THE PROJECT. THE SUBJECT PROPERTY IS
LOCATED AT 2 EL CONCHO LANE (LOT 7-GF) ROLLING HILLS, CA,
(BOOS/PATTERSON).
ACTION: Commissioner Seaburn moved that the Planning Commission direct staff to prepare
a Resolution granting approval of the applicant's request in Zoning Case No. 946 at 2 El Concho
Lane. Commissioner Cooley seconded the motion, which carried without objection.
B. ZONING CASE NO. 947, REQUEST FOR A SITE PLAN REVIEW,
CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT, AND VARIANCES TO ALLOW GRADING AND
WALLS GREATER THAN 36" IN HEIGHT, A 5,000 SQUARE FOOT RIDING
RING, ENCROACHMENTS INTO THE FRONT AND SIDE YARD SETBACK
AREAS, AND AN IMPORT OF DIRT AT 34 SADDLEBACK ROAD (LOT 102-RH)
ROLLING HILLS, CA, (DELGADO).
ACTION: Commissioner Cardenas moved that the Planning Commission direct staff to
prepare a Resolution granting approval of the applicant's request in Zoning Case No. 947 at 34
Saddleback Road. Commissioner Cooley seconded the motion, which carried without objection.
Action Memo
Planning Commission Meeting
09-25-18
2 of 4
1
8. NEW PUBLIC HEARINGS
None.
9. OLD BUSINESS
None.
10. NEW BUSINESS
A. Request for time extension to commence construction -10 Bowie Road
ACTION: Commissioner Seaburn moved that the Planning Commission grant approval of the
applicant's request for a time extension for 10 Bowie Road. Commissioner Cardenas seconded the
motion, which carried without objection.
11. SCHEDULE OF FIELD TRIPS
ACTION: The Planning Commission scheduled a field trip to the following property to be
conducted on Tuesday, October 23, 2018 beginning at 7:30 a.m.
26 Middleridge Lane South
12. ITEMS FROM STAFF
A. Discussion: office trailers and storage trailers/containers during construction
By consensus, the Planning Commission directed staff to draft standards of conditions and
policy guidelines for office trailers and storage trailers/containers during construction as
follows: 1) Office Trailers — Allow one office trailer for six months and have the contractor
resubmit a request to keep it every six months; Location to be determined by staff; 2)
Storage/Cargo containers for construction materials and equipment — No more than one 8'
wide x 40' long storage container during active building permit time for six months and have
the contractor resubmit a request to keep it every six months; 3) PODS and similar temporary
storage units — Allowed to be located in driveways for no more than a week; 4) Add
Construction Fence policy; 5) Add Exception Criteria to be approved at City staffs
discretion; 6) No construction trailers and/or storage/cargo containers allowed in setbacks;
and 7) Bring this matter back to a future meeting for further discussion.
B. Schedule December Planning Commission meeting
Senior Planner Stewart presented the report. By consensus, the Planning Commission directed staff to
bring this matter back to the next meeting for further discussion.
13. ITEMS FROM THE PLANNING COMMISSION
None.
Action Memo
Planning Commission Meeting
09-25-18
3 of 4
• I
14. ADJOURNMENT
Hearing no further business before the Commission, Chairman Chelf adjourned the meeting at
7:42 p.m. to an adjourned regular meeting of the Planning Commission scheduled to be held on
Tuesday, October 23, 2018 beginning at 7:30 a.m. for the purpose of conducting a field trip to 26
Middleridge Lane South. The next regular meeting of the Planning Commission is scheduled to be
held on Tuesday, October 23, 2018 beginning at 6:30 p.m. in the City Council Chamber, Rolling
Hills City Hall, 2 Portuguese Bend Road, Rolling Hills, California.
Action Memo
Planning Commission Meeting
09-25-18
4 of 4
MINUTES OF AN
ADJOURNED REGULAR MEETING
OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION
August 21, 2018
A. FIELD TRIP MEETING:
PRESENT:
Chairman Chelf, Commissioners Seaburn, Cardenas and Cooley
Yolanta Schwartz, Interim City Manager
Julia Stewart, Acting Planning Director
John F. Signo, Contract Planner
Leah Mirsch, Tesident
Tony Inferrera, Architect
Dave Palacios, Contractor
Chairman Chelf called the public hearing to order at 7:30 a.m. at 9 Johns Canyon
Road.
A. ZONING CASE NO. 939, Request for a Conditional Use Permit to convert
the existing 1,560 square foot stable to a recreation room and storage, (mixed -use
structure); and Variances for a 24 foot encroachment into the front yard setback
with approximately 330 square feet of the addition and with the mixed use
structure and to exceed the maximum permitted disturbance of the lot. Also
proposed is a 385 square foot residential addition, legalize an approximately 220
square foot area of the main residence and other oudoor improvements.
The subject property is located at 9 Johns Canyon Road (Lot 170 -A -1 -MS),
Rolling Hills, CA, (David Stone).
Acting Planning Director Stewart explained the project to construct a new bathroom
addition, demolish the swimming pool, legalize an area of the main residence, and
convert an existing stable to a mixed -use structure. She gave a brief overview of the
Conditional Use requirements and reasons for the variance request. She stated that the
existing stable encroached into the front yard setback and was built too close to the
main residence. Interim City Manager Schwartz elaborated on the existing stable
encroachment. A stable and coral set -aside would be located in the rear of the
property.
All present then walked inside the existing stable and observed the partition location
that would divide the recreation room from the storage area. Participants then walked
upstairs to observe the loft area. Interim City Manager Schwartz explained that the
Municipal Code does allow storage or attic above a story provided that the plate height
does not exceed six feet, and attics may have a ceiling that follows the shape and the
1
f,
• •
angle of the roofline, which could be more than six feet high at the peak. She explained
that the staircase would be demolished and a pull -down ladder could be installed.
All present then walked to the northern portion of the property to observe the story
poles and stakes outlining the proposed bathroom addition. The group then walked to
the backyard to observe the existing swimming pool that would be demolished and the
proposed stable and coral set -aside that was staked. The Commission was pleased with
the location of the set -aside area because of the flatness of the land and its accessibility.
Chairman Chelf asked if there had been any calls or concerns raised by neighbors.
Acting Planning Director Stewart explained there had been none.
There being no further discussion, the public hearing in Zoning Case No. 939 was then
continued to the evening meeting on August 21, 2018 beginning at 6:30 pm.
Respectfully Submitted,
to Sch artz
anning Director
Approved:
rad Chelf, Chairman Date
2
REGULAR MEETING
OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION
CITY OF ROLLING HILLS
6:30 PM
TUESDAY, AUGUST 21, 2018
ROLLING HILLS CITY HALL
2 PORTUGUESE BEND ROAD, ROLLING HILLS, CA 90274
CALL MEETING TO ORDER
A regular meeting of the Planning Commission of the City of Rolling Hills was called to order by
Chairman Chelf at 6:31 p.m. on Tuesday, August 21, 2018 in the City Council Chamber, at City Hall,
2 Portuguese Bend Road, Rolling Hills, California.
ROLL CALL
Commissioners Present:
Commissioners Absent:
Others Present:
Cardenas, Cooley, Seaburn and Chairman Chelf.
Kirkpatrick (excused).
Yolanta Schwartz, Interim City Manager.
Jane Abzug, Assistant City Attorney.
Julia Stewart, Acting Planning Director.
Yvette Hall, City Clerk.
Tavisha Ales, Civil Engineer, Bolton Engineering Corporation.
Raymond Medak, Architect.
APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA
Approved as presented.
PUBLIC COMMENTS ON MINUTES AND ANY ITEM NOT ON THE AGENDA
None.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
July 17, 2018 Adjourned Regular Meeting of the Planning Commission
Acting Planning Director Stewart stated that there were nonsubstantive revisions made to the July 17,
2018 Adjourned Regular Meeting Minutes, which include a revised project description and
grammatical edits.
Commissioner Cardenas moved that the Planning Commission approve the revised minutes of the
Adjourned Regular Meeting of the Planning Commission held on July 17, 2018 as presented.
Commissioner Seaburn seconded the motion, which carried without objection (Kirkpatrick absent).
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Minutes 08-21-18
Planning Commission Meeting
RESOLUTIONS
RESOLUTION NO. 2018-08. A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF
THE CITY OF ROLLING HILLS APPROVING A REQUEST FOR A SITE PLAN
REVIEW, CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT, AND VARIANCE CONSTRUCT A NEW 1,325
SQUARE FOOT DETACHED GARAGE, TO BE LOCATED IN THE FRONT YARD,
WITH 490 CUBIC YARDS OF GRADING, AND TO EXCEED THE MAXIMUM
DISTURBANCE ALLOWED, 105 SQUARE FEET OF RESIDENTIAL ADDITIONS, AND
A LARGER 196 SQUARE FOOT COVERED FRONT PORCH AREA IN ZONING CASE
NO. 940 AT 38 PORTUGUESE BEND ROAD, LOT 18-RH, (WHEELER).
Chairman Chelf introduced the item and asked for staff's comments. Acting Planning Director Stewart
stated that the project in Zoning Case No. 940 at 38 Portuguese Bend Road includes a Site Plan
Review, Conditional Use Permits and Variances. She reviewed the plot plan of the property. She
stated that the Site Plan Review consisted of a garage conversion, a building addition of 30 square feet
in front of the garage, a building addition of 75 square feet, which is enclosing an existing breezeway,
and a new covered porch of 196 square feet. Acting Planning Director Stewart indicated that the
Conditional Use Permit is for a detached garage and reviewed the plans. She stated that the project
also requires a Variance because the garage is located in front of a leading edge of the residence and
the applicant is over their maximum allowed disturbance; however, the overage of the disturbance is to
incorporate calculations for their set aside stable and corral area. She indicated there are some special
conditions included in the Resolution, including code enforcement items from two previous cases that
must be completed prior to any permit sign offs for the garage and additions. She stated that the
screening of the detached garage is also included as a condition in the Resolution. Acting Planning
Director Stewart indicated that the City received three resident inquiries regarding the project;
however, the only written communication received was from a neighbor who invited the Planning
Commission (PC) during their field visit to view the project from their property. Acting Planning
Director Stewart stated that the project is categorically exempt from California Environmental Quality
Act (CEQA) and that the findings for the Resolution are identified in the staff report.
Chairman Chelf called for public comment. Hearing none, he closed the public comment segment.
Following public comment, Commissioner Seaburn moved that the Planning Commission adopt the
revised Resolution No. 2018-08 granting approval of the applicant's request in Zoning Case No. 940 at
38 Portuguese Bend Road as presented. Commissioner Cardenas seconded the motion, which carried
without objection (Kirkpatrick absent).
RESOLUTION NO. 2018-09. A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF
THE CITY OF ROLLING HILLS AUTHORIZING A LOT LINE ADJUSTMENT OF TWO
LOTS AT 0 BUGGY WHIP DRIVE (LOT 175 -A -2 -MS) AND 25 CREST ROAD WEST
(LOT 175 -A -1 -MS) TO ALTER THE LOTS BY 5 SQUARE FEET IN ZONING CASE NO.
944 (CZYZYK).
Chairman Chelf introduced the item and asked for staff's comments. Acting Planning Director Stewart
stated that the request was for a lot line adjustment at 0 Buggy Whip Drive and 25 Crest Road West.
She stated that the lot line adjustment is for a flag lot and reviewed the increase to the size of the lot.
She reviewed the plan of the property and indicated that the approvals needed are for a lot line
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Planning Commission Meeting
•
adjustment, Site Plan Review and Variances. She stated that there are many variances required
because of the number of existing nonconforming conditions on the lot. Acting Planning Director
Stewart stated there is also a new setback encroachment on 25 Crest Road West because with the
adjustment of the lines the project is now encroaching into the side setback area. She reviewed the
adjustment plans for the two properties and the square footage of each property that will result from
the Lot Line Adjustment. Acting Planning Director Stewart stated that the project is categorically
exempt from CEQA and that the findings for the Resolution are identified in the staff report.
Chairman Chelf called for public comment. Hearing none, he closed the public comment segment.
Following public comment, Commissioner Cardenas moved that the Planning Commission adopt the
revised Resolution No. 2018-09 granting approval of the applicant's request in Zoning Case No. 944 at
0 Buggy Whip Drive and 25 Crest Road West as presented. Commissioner Cooley seconded the
motion, which carried without objection (Kirkpatrick absent).
RESOLUTION NO. 2018-10. A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF
THE CITY OF ROLLING HILLS APPROVING A REQUEST FOR A SITE PLAN
REVIEW AND CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT FOR CONSTRUCTION OF A MIXED -
USE STRUCTURE IN ZONING CASE NO. 934 AT 8 CREST ROAD EAST, LOT 192 -A-
2 -MS, (JOHN TU).
Chairman Chelf introduced the item and asked for staff's comments. Acting Planning Director Stewart
stated that the request was for a Resolution of approval for a project at 8 Crest Road East. She stated
that the project is a mixed -use structure with grading that is incorporated into the site. She stated that
the mixed -use structure is 2,124 square feet (1,578 square feet of garage area, 546 square feet of
storage) and that the grading is to allow the mixed -use structure to be partially recessed into the
hillside. She reviewed the structure of the layout and the elevations to illustrate the change in design
from a previous stable design to a design that more closely matches the residence. Acting Planning
Director Stewart stated that the project is categorically exempt from CEQA and that the findings for
the Resolution are identified in the staff report.
In response to Commissioner Cardenas' question, Acting Planning Director Stewart stated that she
spoke to the Rolling Hills Community Association (RHCA) and they expressed concern with allowing
mixed -use structures that resemble stables.
Chairman Chelf called for public comment. Hearing none, he closed the public comment segment.
Commissioner Seaburn commented that he is not in support of the proposed roof.
Following public comment and discussion, Commissioner Cardenas moved that the Planning
Commission adopt the revised Resolution No. 2018-10 granting approval of the applicant's request in
Zoning Case No. 934 at 8 Crest Road East as presented. Commissioner Seaburn seconded the motion,
which carried without objection (Kirkpatrick absent).
A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF ROLLING
HILLS AUTHORIZING A LOT LINE ADJUSTMENT. BETWEEN TWO LOTS AT 3
MIDDLERIDGE LANE NORTH (PORTIONS OF LOT 11 -MR) AND 6
MIDDLERIDGE LANE NORTH (PORTIONS OF LOTS 12, 13, 14, AND 15 -MR) TO
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Minutes 08-21-18
Planning Commission Meeting
• •
ALTER THE LOTS BY 51,624 SQUARE FEET AND GRANTING A SITE PLAN AND
VARIANCE IN ZONING CASE NO. 945. (TILLES/ WILSON FAMILY TRUST).
Chairman Chelf introduced the item and asked for staff's comments. Acting Planning Director Stewart
stated that the request is for a Resolution of approval for a lot line adjustment at 3 Middleridge Lane
North and 6 Middleridge Lane North. She reviewed the project plot plans. She stated that the
applicant is requesting a Lot Line Adjustment, Site Plan Review and Variances resulting from the lot
line adjustment. Acting Planning Director Stewart reviewed the locations of the proposed adjustment
on each parcel. Acting Planning Director Stewart stated that the project is categorically exempt from
CEQA and that the findings for the Resolution are identified in the staff report.
In response to Commissioner Cooley's question, Acting Planning Director Stewart clarified that only 6
Middleridge Lane North is built out. Acting Planning Director Stewart indicated that there is potential,
theoretically, for the portion that is being connected to 3 Middleridge Lane North to be developed in
some manner, although the site does have fairly steep topography and may be difficult to develop very
much.
Chairman Chelf called for public comment.
Tavisha Ales, Civil Engineer, Bolton Engineering Corporation, addressed the Planning Commission.
Ms. Ales questioned whether the request, as presented by staff, includes a zone change.
In response to Ms. Ales' inquiry, Acting Planning Director Stewart stated that the request, as presented,
does not include a zone change because a map amendment is required and entails a different process.
Acting Planning Director Stewart indicated that the process would have to be completed prior to any
development on the site and would be presented to the PC as a public hearing.
Following public comment and discussion, Commissioner Cardenas moved that the Planning
Commission adopt the revised Resolution granting approval of the applicant's request in Zoning Case
No. 945 at 3 Middleridge Lane North and 6 Middleridge Lane North as presented. Commissioner
Seaburn seconded the motion, which carried without objection (Kirkpatrick absent).
PUBLIC HEARINGS ON ITEMS CONTINUED FROM A PREVIOUS MEETING
ZONING CASE NO. 939. Request for a Site Plan Review to construct a new 385 square
foot residential addition; demolish an existing swimming pool, pool deck, pool equipment,
and covered porch; legalize a 220 square foot area of the main residence; and convert the
existing 1,560 square foot stable to a recreation room and storage; and Variances for multiple
encroachments into the front yard setback and an increase in disturbance beyond the 40%
maximum allowed. The subject property is located at 9 Johns Canyon Road (Lot 170 -A -1 -
MS) Rolling Hills, CA, (David Stone).
Chairman Chelf introduced the item and asked for staff's comments. Acting Planning Director Stewart
stated that the PC visited the site in the morning. She stated that the applicant is requesting a Site Plan
Review, a Conditional Use Permit and Variances. She stated that the Site Plan Review is for a 385
square foot addition, as well as a 220 square foot as -built addition that the applicant would like to
legalize, which was formerly an enclosed covered porch. She indicated that the Conditional Use
Permit is for a mixed -use structure that was formerly a stable, and is being changed because the stable
does not meet the minimum public health requirement of 35 feet distance from a habitable space. She
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Planning Commission Meeting
• •
stated the barn is 1,560 square feet, 800 square feet of the barn will be a recreational room, and 760
square feet will be for storage. She stated that the project has a loft, which can be used as storage if it
is accessed through a ladder or other similar means of access. Acting Planning Director indicated that
there are Variances for the property because it is being modified to a mixed -use structure. She stated
that there is a 350 square foot portion that is located in the front setback and that the new residential
addition has a 330 square foot encroachment into the front setback. She stated that the property owner
is proposing to remove the existing pool and that the calculations for the project do include grading for
a possible stable and corral that was viewed by the PC this morning. Acting Planning Director stated
that the project will be reviewed by the RHCA with respect to the mixed -used structure. Acting
Planning Director Stewart stated that the project is categorically exempt from CEQA and that the
findings for the Resolution are identified in the staff report.
In response to the Commissioner Cardenas' question, Acting Planning Director Stewart stated that the
RHCA will review the project because it is being converted to a mixed -use and that the barn can be left
as is. She further stated that the legal portion of the house was constructed in a manner that was not
accurate by one foot and that the addition triggered a review of the barn.
Chairman Chelf opened the Public Hearing.
Tavisha Ales, Bolton Engineering Corporation, addressed the Planning Commission. Ms. Ales stated
that the staking was done to provide the PC with a better idea of why the applicant is proposing the
addition in the setback.
Commissioner Cardenas asked about the RHCA review process.
Acting Planning Director Stewart indicated that the RHCA typically reviews whether the PC has
approved a project, and if a project is not approved by the PC, RHCA does not review it.
Commissioner Cardenas stated that he is generally in favor of the project.
Chairman Chelf commented that it would be favorable if the applicant could replicate the current
exterior finish onto the barn exterior.
Commissioners Cooley and Seaburn expressed support for the project.
Following public comment and discussion, Commissioner Cardenas moved that the Planning
Commission direct staff to draft a Resolution granting approval of the applicant's request in Zoning
Case No. 939 at 9 Johns' Canyon Road as presented. Commissioner Seaburn seconded the motion,
which carried without objection (Kirkpatrick absent).
NEW PUBLIC HEARINGS
ZONING CASE NO. 946. Request for a Site Plan Review to construct a 685 residential
addition and remodel the 2,708 square foot existing residence, and add a new porte cochere at
a changed entry point to the residence; and Variances allowing the extension of a raised deck
to the rear of the residence thereby increasing the out of grade condition of the deck, and
waiving the requirement for a stable and corral set aside area. No grading is proposed for the
project. The subject property is located at 2 El Concho Lane (Lot 7-GF) Rolling Hills, CA,
(Boos/Patterson).
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• 1
Chairman Chelf introduced the item and asked for staff's comments. Acting Planning Director Stewart
stated that the request was for a new project at 2 El Concho Lane and that the applicant is requesting a
Site Plan Review and Variances. She stated that the project site is located almost exactly in the middle
of the City. Acting Planning Director Stewart stated that the applicant is proposing a residential
addition, a remodel, new porte cochere, an entry lane, an extension of an outdoor deck and several
Variances. Acting Planning Director Stewart reviewed the project plans. She stated that most of the
residence is located in the front portion of the lot because that is the flattest part and a large portion of
the lot is in the setback. She indicated that there is an existing circular driveway and that the owners
are not proposing any changes other than paving because they would have to eliminiate the driveway if
they make changes because it is an existing nonconforming driveway. Acting Planning Director
Stewart reviewed the Site Plan Review. She stated that the owners are requesting a waiver to allow
them to not have a set aside area for a stable and corral. She noted that the proposed area is close to
the street and is close to the neighbor; however, it does meet the public health requirements. She stated
that due to this fact, the owner could conceivably install a stable and corral; however, it may not be
ideal. She further stated that in order to relocate the project farther down the hill, the owners would
have to grade a majority of the property. Acting Planning Director Stewart stated that there are a
number of interior remodeling proposals, which are reviewed by the RHCA. Acting Planning Director
Stewart reviewed the proposed deck areas and the front setback line. She stated that much of the
existing house is already in the front setback line, which means a majority of the construction is in the
front setback. She reviewed the side setback and the set aside area that the owners would be amenable
to if they do not receive approval for the waiver; however, the owners prefer a waiver. She stated that
the coverages are all within the limits of the City's municipal code. She indicated that the disturbance
is over the maximum 40%; however, the disturbance is existing, legal and nonconforming, which the
owners propose to work within to avoid additional disturbance under the proposed project. She
indicated that no comments were received from the surrounding residents. Acting Planning Director
Stewart stated that the project is categorically exempt from CEQA and that the findings for the
Resolution are identified in the staff report.
In response to Chairman Chelf's question, Acting Planning Director Stewart discussed the topography
map.
Chairman Chelf suggested that staff provide a topography map at the next meeting.
In response to Commissioner Cardenas' question, Interim City Manager Schwartz indicated that the
waiver request is considered a Variance that would not require a barn to be built on the property.
In response to Chairman Chelf's question, Interim City Manager Schwartz stated that if the property
owner desires to reconstruct the project, the owners would be allowed to within the exisitng footrpint
because it is less than a 1.25 acre lot.
Commissioner Cooley suggested that the parameters for the approval of past waivers be provided to
the PC.
In response to Commissioner Cooley's question, Interim City Manager Schwartz stated that the
findings to grant a waiver are the same findings as a Variance.
Chairman Chelf called for public comment.
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• •
Raymond Medak, Architect for the owner, addressed the PC and indicated that there is a topographic
map included in the staff report. Mr. Medak stated that the installation of switchbacks was not a
possiblity. Mr. Medak indicated that there is only one rational and acceptable location where the stable
and corral could be located. Mr. Medak reviewed the location on the plan. Mr. Medak stated that he
believed that the PC and neighbors would not want to see a barn constructed near the street area. He
stated that there are some properties in the City that are not suitable for equestrian use. He discussed
the deck wrap around and access. Mr. Medak explained that the whole intent of the project was to stay
within the existing confines of the existing roofline everywhere. He stated the other dilemma he has to
work with is the old 30 square foot front yard setback and this is why they are requesting multiple
variances. Mr. Mekak indicated that they are not installing caissons.
By consensus, the Planning Commission scheduled a field trip on September 25, 2018 to visit the site
at 2 El Concho Lane.
OLD BUSINESS
None.
NEW BUSINESS
None.
SCHEDULE OF FIELD TRIPS (September 25, 2018)
The Planning Commission scheduled a field trip to the following property to be held on September 25,
2018 beginning at 7:30 a.m.:
2 El Concho Lane
ITEMS FROM STAFF
Schedule of Planning Commission meetings for the remainder of the year (oral)
Acting Planning Director Stewart presented and discussed the schedule of upcoming PC meetings.
She indicated that some of the PC meeting dates are not scheduled on the third Tuesday of the month.
Commissioner Seaburn indicated that he may have a conflict with the upcoming dates.
Discussion ensued regarding the PC meetings for the remainder of the year.
Acting Planning Director Stewart informed the PC that one City Councilmember requested that staff
reports include a justification for projects when an application is received, and that the applicant would
provide the justification. Acting Planning Director stated that this request could result in longer staff
reports. She stated that feedback from the entire City Council will be gathered and if they would like
to continue this practice in the future. Acting Planning Director Stewart indicated that an update will
be provided at a future meeting.
Interim City Manager Schwartz announced that the City Council appointed Elaine Jeng, P.E., as the
new City Manager.
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Planning Commission Meeting
ITEMS FROM THE PLANNING COMMISSION
None.
ADJOURNMENT
Hearing no further business before the Planning Commission, Chairman Chelf adjourned the meeting
at 7:22 p.m. to an adjourned regular meeting of the Planning Commission scheduled to be held on
Tuesday, September 25, 2018 beginning at 7:30 a.m. for the purpose of conducting a site visit to 2 El
Concho Lane. The next regular meeting of the Planning Commission is scheduled to be held on
Tuesday, September 25, 2018 beginning at 6:30 p.m. in the City Council Chamber, Rolling Hills City
Hall, 2 Portuguese Bend Road, Rolling Hills, California.
Respectfully submitted,
Y ette Hall
City Clerk
Approved,
B Cheif
Chairman
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Planning Commission Meeting
REGULAR
MEETING
tee't atcRallewf qez
INCORPORATED JANUARY 24, 1957
ACTION MEMORANDUM
PLANNING COMMISSION
TUESDAY, JULY 17, 2018
NO. 2 PORTUGUESE BEND ROAD
ROLLING HILLS, CA 90274
(310) 377-1521
FAX (310) 377-7288
CITY OF ROLLING HILLS
6:30 P.M.
1. CALL MEETING TO ORDER
A regular meeting of the Planning Commission of the City of Rolling Hills was called to order by
Chairman Chelf at 6:32 p.m. on Tuesday, July 17, 2018 in the City Council Chamber, at City Hall, 2
Portuguese Bend Road, Rolling Hills, California.
2. ROLL CALL
Commissioners Present:
Commissioners Absent:
Others Present:
Cardenas, Cooley, Kirkpatrick, Seaburn and Chairman Chelf.
None.
Yolanta Schwartz, Interim City Manager.
Jane Abzug, Assistant City Attorney.
Julia Stewart, Acting Planning Director.
Yvette Hall, City Clerk.
Clint Patterson, 22 Georgeff Road.
Dan Rentsch, Belzberg Architects.
Tavisha Ales, P.E., Bolton Engineering Corp.
3. APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA
ACTION: Approved as presented.
4.
None..
5.
PUBLIC COMMENTS ON MINUTES AND ANY ITEM NOT ON THE AGENDA
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
A.
June 19, 2018 Regular Meeting of the Planning Commission
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Action Memo
Planning Commission Meeting
07-17-18
• •
ACTION: Commissioner Cardenas moved that the Planning Commission approve the
minutes of the Regular Meeting of the Planning Commission held on June 19, 2018 as presented.
Commissioner Seaburn seconded the motion, which carried without objection.
6. RESOLUTIONS
A. RESOLUTION NO. 2018-05. A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING
COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF ROLLING HILLS GRANTING A MAJOR
MODIFICATION IN ZONING CASE NO. 916-R AND AMENDING
RESOLUTION NO. 2017-08 TO ALLOW MODIFICATION TO THE
PREVIOUSLY APPROVED BASEMENT AND GRADING QUANTITIES AT 5 EL
CONCHO LANE IN ZONING CASE NO. 916, (LOT 10-GF) ROLLING HILLS,
CA (DE MIRANDA).
ACTION: Following public comment and discussion, Commissioner Cardenas moved that
the Planning Commission adopt Resolution No. 2018-05 granting approval of the applicant's
request in Zoning Case No. 916-R at 5 El Concho Lane as presented. Commissioner Cooley
seconded the motion, which carried without objection.
7. PUBLIC HEARINGS ON ITEMS CONTINUED FROM A PREVIOUS MEETING
A. ZONING CASE NO. 940. Request for Site Plan Review, Conditional Use Permit,
and Variance to construct a new approximately 1,325 square foot detached garage, to
be located in the front yard, with some grading, to exceed the maximum disturbance
allowed at 38 Portuguese Bend Road (Lot 118-RH) Rolling Hills, CA, (Steve and
Lori Wheeler). The project has been determined to be categorically exempt (Class 1,
3, and 4) pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines,
Sections 15301, 15303, and 15304.
ACTION: Following public comment and discussion, Vice Chair Kirkpatrick moved that the
Planning Commission direct staff to prepare a Resolution granting approval of the applicant's
request in Zoning Case 940 at 38 Portuguese Bend with the standard findings of fact and
conditions of approval, as presented, and to include a preliminary landscape plan, "no further
development" designation, and no issuance of a permit until all requested items are completed.
Commissioner Seaburn seconded the motion, which carried without objection.
B. ZONING CASE NO. 944. Request for a Lot Line Adjustment between two parcels of
land for properties at 0 Buggy Whip Drive (APN 7569-024-022) (Dr. and Ms. Joseph
Czyzyk) and 25 Crest Road West (APN 7569-024-023)(Mr. and Ms. Rama
Chandran), Rolling Hills, CA, resulting in an increase in lot size at 25 Crest Road
West and a decrease in lot size at 0 Buggy Whip of 5 square feet; Request for
Variances for 1) altering lots already less than the minimum lot size required by the
Municipal Code, 2) an increase in a non -conforming structural coverage on one of the
properties 3) an increase in a non -conforming net lot area on one of the properties and
4) creating a new structural encroachment into a side yard setback. The Project has
been determined to be exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act,
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Planning Commission Meeting
07-17-18
• •
(CEQA) pursuant to Class 5, Section 15305, Minor Alterations in Land Use
Limitations, of the CEQA Guidelines.
ACTION: Following public comment and discussion, Commissioner Cardenas moved that
the Planning Commission direct staff to prepare a Resolution granting approval of the
applicant's request in Zoning Case 944 at 0 Buggy Whip Drive and 25 Crest Road West with the
standard findings of fact and conditions of approval, and to include all five variances for
consideration and approval at the next Planning Commission Meeting. Commissioner Seaburn
seconded the motion, which carried without objection.
C. ZONING CASE NO. 934. Request for a Site Plan Review and Conditional Use
Permit to construct a detached 2,124 square foot mixed use structure, which would
include a garage, and grading of 779 cubic yards of dirt for the structure at 8 Crest
Road East, (Lot 192 -A -2 -MS), Rolling Hills, CA, (John Tu). This is a modified
version of a previously viewed mixed -use structure. Currently the property is being
developed with a single-family residence and accessory outdoor amenities. The project
has been determined to be categorically exempt (Class 3) pursuant to Section 15303 of
the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines.
ACTION: Following public comment and discussion, Commissioner Cardenas moved that
the Planning Commission direct staff to prepare a Resolution granting approval of the
applicant's request in Zoning Case 934 at 8 Crest Road East with the standard findings of fact
and conditions of approval. Vice Chair Kirkpatrick seconded the motion, which carried with
Chair Chelf opposed.
8. NEW PUBLIC HEARINGS
A. ZONING CASE NO. 945. Request for a Lot Line Adjustment between two parcels to
transfer a portion of land to 3 Middleridge Lane North (APN 7569-019-003)(Tilles) from 6
Middleridge Lane North (APN 7569-019-004)(Wilson Family Trust), Rolling Hills, CA,
resulting in an increase in the gross lot size of 3 Middleridge Lane North and a decrease in the
gross lot size of 6 Middleridge Lane North of 51,624 square feet. .The applicant also requests
a Variance to increase the total disturbed area from 37.98% to 46.28% for 6 Middleridge Lane
North, which exceeds the maximum total disturbed area of 40%. Additionally, the applicant
requests an amendment to Ordinance No. 326 to make the portion of land being transferred
subject to Overlay Zoning District — 1 (OZD-1), which is consistent with the zoning for 3
Middleridge Lane North. No new development is proposed with this project. The Project has
been determined to be exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA)
pursuant to Class 5, Section 15305, Minor Alterations in Land Use Limitations, of the CEQA
Guidelines.
ACTION: Following public comment and discussion, Commissioner Cardenas moved that
the Planning Commission direct staff to prepare a Resolution granting approval of the
applicant's request in Zoning Case 945 at 3 Middleridge Lane North with the standard findings
of fact and conditions of approval and to begin the application process for a map book change
simultaneously. Commissioner Seaburn seconded the motion, which carried without objection.
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Action Memo
Planning Commission Meeting
07-17-18
B. ZONING CASE NO. 939. Request for a Site Plan Review to construct a new
approximately 385 square foot residential addition; demolish an existing swimming pool, pool
deck, pool equipment, and covered porch; legalize an approximately 220 square foot area of
the main residence; and convert the existing 1,560 square foot stable to a recreation room and
storage; and Variances for multiple encroachments into the front yard setback and an increase
in disturbance beyond the maximum allowed. The subject property is located at 9 Johns
Canyon Road (Lot 170 -A -1 -MS) Rolling Hills, CA, (David Stone).
ACTION: Consideration of this matter was continued to a field trip to be held on Tuesday,
August 21, 2018 beginning at 7:30 a.m. at 9 John's Canyon. The public hearing was continued.
9. OLD BUSINESS
None.
10. NEW BUSINESS
A. Planning Commission Reorganization.
ACTION: Commissioner Seaburn moved that the Planning Commission Chair and Vice
Chair positions remain the same, thereby selecting Chair Chelf and Vice Chair Kirkpatrick to
continue to serve in their respective positions. Commissioner Cardenas seconded the motion,
which carried without objection.
11. SCHEDULE OF FIELD TRIPS (August 21, 2018)
ACTION: The Planning Commission scheduled a field trip to 9 John's Canyon Road to be held
on August 21, 2018 beginning at 7:30 a.m. and no field trip to 3 & 6 Middleridge Lane North.
3 & 6 Middleridge Lane North — Lot Line Adjustment
9 John's Canyon Road
12. ITEMS FROM STAFF
Report on use of construction and storage trailers during construction.
Interim City Manager Schwartz presented the staff report. The Planning Commission directed staff to
draft a policy to allow one storage container with restrictions per property and bring the matter back
for consideration at a future meeting.
13. ITEMS FROM THE PLANNING COMMISSION
None.
14. ADJOURNMENT
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Action Memo
Planning Commission Meeting
07-17-18
Hearing no further business before the Planning Commission, Chair Chelf adjourned the meeting at
7:52 p.m. to an adjourned regular meeting of the Planning Commission scheduled to be held on
Tuesday, August 21, 2018 beginning at 7:30 a.m. for the purpose of conducting a site visit to 9 John's
Canyon Road. The next regular meeting of the Planning Commission is scheduled to be held on
Tuesday, August 21, 2018 beginning at 6:30 p.m. in the City Council Chamber, Rolling Hills City
Hall, 2 Portuguese Bend Road, Rolling Hills, California.
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Action Memo
Planning Commission Meeting
07-17-18
REGULAR MEETING
OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION
CITY OF ROLLING HILLS
6:30 PM
TUESDAY, JUNE 19, 2018
ROLLING HILLS CITY HALL
2 PORTUGUESE BEND ROAD, ROLLING HILLS, CA 90274
CALL MEETING TO ORDER
A regular meeting of the Planning Commission of the City of Rolling Hills was called to order by
Chairman Chelf at 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, June 19, 2018 in the City Council Chamber, at City Hall, 2
Portuguese Bend Road, Rolling Hills, California.
ROLL CALL
Commissioners Present:
Commissioners Absent:
Others Present:
Cardenas, Kirkpatrick, Seaburn and Chairman Chelf.
Cooley (excused).
Yolanta Schwartz, Interim City Manager.
Jane Abzug, Assistant City Attorney.
Julia Stewart, Acting Planning Director.
Yvette Hall, City Clerk.
Perfecto Arca, Engineer/Agent, 1 Ranchero Road/51 Portuguese Bend
Road.
Joseph and Erna Johnson, owners, 1 Ranchero Road/51 Portuguese Bend
Road.
Clint Patterson, 2 El Concho Lane.
Tony Inferrera, Architect, 3 Poppy Trail.
Joe Spierer, Architect, 5 El Concho Lane.
APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA
Approved as presented.
PUBLIC COMMENTS ON MINUTES AND ANY ITEM NOT ON THE AGENDA
None.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
May 15, 2018 Adjourned Regular Meeting of the Planning Commission
Commissioner Seaburn moved that the Planning Commission approve the minutes of the adjourned
regular meeting of the Planning Commission held on May 15, 2018 as presented. Commissioner
Cardenas seconded the motion, which carried without objection (Cooley absent).
May 15, 2018 Regular Meeting of the Planning Commission
Vice Chair Kirkpatrick moved that the Planning Commission approve the minutes of the regular
meeting of the Planning Commission held on May 15, 2018 as presented. Commissioner Seaburn
seconded the motion, which carried without objection (Cooley absent).
RESOLUTIONS
RESOLUTION NO. 2018-06. A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF
THE CITY OF ROLLING HILLS AUTHORIZING A LOT LINE ADJUSTMENT OF TWO
LOTS AT 1 RANCHERO ROAD (LOT 6 -FT) AND 51 PORTUGUESE BEND ROAD
(LOT 7 -FT) TO CREATE ONE LOT IN ZONING CASE NO. 941 (JOHNSON).
Minutes 06-19-18
Planning Commission Meeting
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Chairman Chelf introdutilthe item and asked for staffs comments. Acting ning Director Stewart
indicated that the Planning Commission was provided with a modified Resolution and that there were
no substantive changes made to the Resolution, except for additional clarifications and findings.
Acting Planning Director Stewart reviewed the applicant's request in Zoning Case No. 941 at 1
Ranchero Road and 51 Portuguese Bend Road. She stated that the request was for a lot merger. She
reviewed the two separate parcels and the combined parcel. She indicated that the Planning
Commission conducted a site visit to view the property lines. She stated that because of the lot
adjustment findings, any extra conditions are prohibited from being placed on the lot. Acting Planning
Director Stewart stated that the owner has received a copy of the waiver that staff intends to provide to
anyone who plans to do development in the Flying Triangle area.
In response to Vice Chair Kirkpatrick's question, Acting Planning Director Stewart stated that the
relocation of utilities on the property is considered a private matter; however, staff is assisting the
owner in providing contact information for the appropriate utility representatives.
Chairman Chelf called for public comment.
Perfecto Arca, Engineer/Agent, P.A. Arca Engineering Inc., addressed the Planning Commission. Mr.
Arca indicated that he is the Engineer for the project and is available to answer any questions.
Following public comment and discussion, Commissioner Seaburn moved that the Planning
Commission adopt Resolution No. 2018-06 granting approval of the applicant's request in Zoning
Case No. 941 at 1 Ranchero Road and 51 Portuguese Bend Road as presented. Vice Chair Kirkpatrick
seconded the motion, which carried without objection (Cooley absent).
RESOLUTION NO. 2018-07. A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF
THE CITY OF ROLLING HILLS GRANTING APPROVAL OF A SITE PLAN REVIEW
FOR TWO AS -BUILT WALLS THAT EXCEED 3 FEET IN HEIGHT, AND VARIANCE
REQUESTS TO EXCEED THE MAXIMUM PERMITTED 5 FEET HIGH WALLS, A
PORTION OF WHICH IS LOCATED WITHIN A PROPERTY SETBACK, AND EXCEED
AN AVERAGE WALL HEIGHT OF 2'h FEET, IN ZONING CASE NO. 942 AT 3 POPPY
TRAIL, (LOT 8 -PT), ROLLING HILLS, CA (JONAS).
Chairman Chelf introduced the item and asked for staff's comments. Acting Planning Director
Stewart indicated that the Planning Commission was provided with a modified Resolution as directed
by the City Attorney and that the modifications do not include any substantive changes. She stated
that the changes were mainly for clarification and legal purposes for additional findings. Acting
Planning Director Stewart reviewed the applicant's request in Zoning Case No. 942 at 3 Poppy Trail
for a Site Plan Review and Variances. She indicated that the project is to legalize two as -built walls.
Acting Planning Director Stewart reviewed the various wall heights.
In response to Vice Chair Kirkpatrick's question, Acting Planning Director Stewart stated that the
two special conditions that were included in the modified Resolution require that the area behind the
upper wall behind the recreation room must be planted with landscaping that will hang over the top
and screen the wall from view over time, and that the entire hillside behind the wall along the
pathway to the recreation room be planted with appropriate vegetation to hide the hillside.
In response to Chairman Chelf s inquiry, Acting Planning Director Stewart stated that drought
resistant landscaping was also included as a special condition in the Resolution.
Chairman Chelf called for public comment.
Tony Inferrera, Architect, 3 Poppy Trail, commented that his client will plant landscaping in the areas
requested by the Planning Commission and that a landscape plan will be submitted to staff.
Following public comment and discussion, Commissioner Cardenas moved that the Planning
Commission adopt Resolution No. 2018-07 granting approval of the applicant's request in Zoning
Case No. 942 at 3 Poppy Trail as presented. Commissioner Seabum seconded the motion, which
carried without objection (Cooley absent).
PUBLIC HEARINGS ON ITEMS CONTINUED FROM A PREVIOUS MEETING
ZONING CASE NO. 940. Request for Site Plan Review, Conditional Use Permit, and
Variance to construct a new approximately 1,325 square foot detached garage, to be located in
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Minutes 06-19-18
Planning Commission Meeting
•
the front yard, with some grading, to exceed the maximum disturbance allowed at 38
Portuguese Bend Road (Lot 118-RH) Rolling Hills, CA, (Steve and Lori Wheeler). The
project has been determined to be categorically exempt (Class 1, 3, and 4) pursuant to the
California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines, Sections 15301, 15303, and 15304.
- ITEM CONTINUED TO JULY 17, 2018.
At the request of the applicant, consideration of this matter was continued to the July 17, 2018
Planning Commission Field Trip beginning at 7:30 a.m. and Regular Meeting beginning at 6:30 p.m.
The public hearing was continued.
ZONING CASE 943. Request for a Site Plan Review and a Conditional Use Permit for
grading and construction of a lunging ring at 1 Middleridge Lane South, (Lot 167-UR),
Rolling Hills, CA, (Popovich). The project is exempt from the California Environmental
Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Section 15303 of the CEQA Guidelines.
Acting Planning Director Stewart stated that the application for the project at 1 Middleridge Lane
South was withdrawn at the request of the applicant.
Chairman Chelf called for public comment. Hearing none, he closed the public hearing.
No action was taken.
NEW PUBLIC HEARINGS
ZONING CASE NO. 916-R. Request for a Major Modification to a previously approved Site
Plan Review and Variance for grading, remediation of slopes, construction of walls,
encroachment into the front yard setback with a basement, and other improvements. The
modification entails a revision to the previously approved Variance for the basement on the
subject property located at 5 El Concho, (Lot 10-GF), Rolling Hills, CA, (de Miranda). The
project has been determined to be categorically exempt (Class 3) pursuant to the California
Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines, Section 15303.
Chairman Chelf introduced the item and asked for staff's comments. Acting Planning Director Stewart
reviewed the applicant's request in Zoning Case No. 916-R at 5 El Concho Lane. Acting Planning
Director Stewart stated that the applicant is requesting a Major Modification to a previously approved
Site Plan Review and Variance for grading for construction of walls, enroachment into the front yard
setback, in order to construct a basement on the subject property. She indicated that the Planning
Commission did review this case previously and that the site was still under a code enforcement
violation. She stated that the property had some flooding and the applicant illegally installed a wall in
the setback area and graded pathways, and also experienced a hillside failure. Acting Planning
Director Stewart also indicated that the applicant installed an illegal barbeque. She stated that there
were a number of conditions that the Planning Commission expressed concern about and ultimately the
development was approved in a phased manner. She stated that this information was to demonstrate
that the applicant has made improvements, including pipe repairs. She stated that all of the
requirments must be finished before the basement can be completed. Acting Planning Director Stewart
stated that the previous condition that the basement be completed and finaled still stands even though
this is a modification to that project. She noted that the project remains a code enforcement matter and
that all conditions still apply from the previous approval. Acting Planning Director Stewart stated that
there were no comments from the surrounding neighbors.
In response to Vice Chair Kirkpatrick's question, Acting Planning Director Stewart stated that the pipe
was restored on the property.
Chairman Chelf called for public comment.
Joe Spierer, Architect for the owner, commented that the goal of the owner was to bring all the work
that had been previously done into conformance. Mr. Spierer stated that, according to the owner, the
pipe has been completely repaired. Mr. Spierer clarified that the previously approved plan had the
stairs down at the basement and another set of stairs. He indicated that the stairs were previously
approved; therefore, the outside of the property should be identical in how it looks from the previous
approval to the current proposal. Mr. Spierer clarified that the elevator would be completely inside the
footprint under this proposal.
Chairman Chelf expressed.appreciation to the owner of the project for repairing the pipe.
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Minutes 06-19-18
Planning Commission Meeting
Clint Patterson, 2 El Co o Lane, expressed support for the project.
Following discussion, the Planning Commission determined that a Field Visit was not necessary as the
proposed project provided sufficient information to move forward with the preparation of a Resolution
of Approval. There was consensus by the Planning Commission to bypass the Field Visit.
Following public comment and discussion, Commissioner Cardenas moved that staff draft a
Resolution of Approval for a modified plan as presented. Vice Chair Kirkpatrick seconded the motion,
which carried without objection (Cooley absent).
OLD BUSINESS
None.
NEW BUSINESS
None.
SCHEDULE OF FIELD TRIPS (July 17, 2018)
The Planning Commission scheduled a field trip to the following properties to be held on July 17, 2018
beginning at 7:30 a.m.:
8 Crest Road East
0 Buggy Whip/25 Crest Road West
38 Portuguese Bend Road (continued)
ITEMS FROM STAFF
None.
ITEMS FROM THE PLANNING COMMISSION
None.
ADJOURNMENT
Hearing no further business before the Planning Commission, Chairman Chelf adjourned the meeting
at 6:53 p.m. to an adjourned regular meeting of the Planning Commission scheduled to be held on
Tuesday, July 17, 2018 beginning at 7:30 a.m. for the purpose of conducting a site visit to 8 Crest
Road East, 0 Buggy Whip/25 Crest Road West, and 38 Portuguese Bend Road (continued). The next
regular meeting of the Planning Commission is scheduled to be held on Tuesday, July 17, 2018
beginning at 6:30 p.m. in the City Council Chamber, Rolling Hills City Hall, 2 Portuguese Bend Road,
Rolling Hills, California.
Respectfully submitted,
Approved,
Bra. he
Ch. irman
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YNette Hall
City Clerk
Minutes 06-19-18
Planning Commission Meeting
REGULAR
MEETING
Ratiew-, get4
INCORPORATED JANUARY 24, 1957
ACTION MEMORANDUM
PLANNING COMMISSION
TUESDAY, JUNE 19, 2018
NO. 2 PORTUGUESE BEND ROAD
ROLLING HILLS, CA 90274
(310) 377-1521
FAX (310) 377-7288
CITY OF ROLLING HILLS
6:30 P.M.
1. CALL MEETING TO ORDER
A regular meeting of the Planning Commission of the City of Rolling Hills was called to order by
Chairman Chelf at 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, June 19, 2018 in the City Council Chamber, at City Hall, 2
Portuguese Bend Road, Rolling Hills, California.
2. ROLL CALL
Commissioners Present: Cardenas, Kirkpatrick, Seaburn and Chairman Chelf.
Commissioners Absent: Cooley (excused).
Others Present: Yolanta Schwartz, Interim City Manager.
Jane Abzug, Assistant City Attorney.
Julia Stewart, Acting Planning Director.
Yvette Hall, City Clerk.
Perfecto A. Arca, PE/Agent, 1 Ranchero Road.
Clint Patterson, 2 El Concho Road.
Tony Inferrera/Architect, 3 Poppy Trail.
3. APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA
ACTION: Approved as presented.
4. PUBLIC COMMENTS ON MINUTES AND ANY ITEM NOT ON THE AGENDA
None.
5. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
A. May 15, 2018 Adjourned Regular Meeting of the Planning Commission
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Action Memo
Planning Commission Meeting
04-17-18
• •
ACTION: Commissioner Seaburn moved that the Planning Commission approve the minutes
of the adjourned regular meeting of the Planning Commission held on May 15, 2018 as
presented. Commissioner Cardenas seconded the motion, which carried without objection
(Cooley absent).
B. May 15, 2018 Regular Meeting of the Planning Commission
ACTION: Vice Chair Kirkpatrick moved that the Planning Commission approve the minutes
of the regular meeting of the Planning Commission held on May 15, 2018 as presented.
Commissioner Seaburn seconded the motion, which carried without objection (Cooley absent).
6. RESOLUTIONS
A. RESOLUTION NO. 2018-06. A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING
COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF ROLLING HILLS AUTHORIZING A LOT LINE
ADJUSTMENT OF TWO LOTS AT 1 RANCHERO ROAD (LOT 6 -FT) AND 51
PORTUGUESE BEND ROAD (LOT 7 -FT) TO CREATE ONE LOT IN ZONING
CASE NO. 941 (JOHNSON).
ACTION: Following public comment and discussion, Commissioner Seaburn moved that the
Planning Commission adopt Resolution No. 2018-06 granting approval of the applicant's request
in Zoning Case No. 941 at 1 Ranchero Road and 51 Portuguese Bend Road as presented. Vice
Chair Kirkpatrick seconded the motion, which carried without objection (Cooley absent).
B. RESOLUTION NO. 2018-07. A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING
COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF ROLLING HILLS GRANTING APPROVAL OF
A SITE PLAN REVIEW FOR TWO AS -BUILT WALLS THAT EXCEED 3 FEET IN
HEIGHT, AND VARIANCE REQUESTS TO EXCEED THE MAXIMUM
PERMITTED 5 FEET HIGH WALLS, APORTION OF WHICH IS LOCATED
WITHIN A PROPERTY SETBACK, AND EXCEED AN AVERAGE WALL
HEIGHT OF 2% FEET, IN ZONING CASE NO. 942 AT 3 POPPY TRAIL, (LOT 8 -
PT), ROLLING HILLS, CA (JONAS).
ACTION: Following public comment and discussion, Commissioner Cardenas moved that
the Planning Commission adopt Resolution No. 2018-07 granting approval of the applicant's
request in Zoning Case No. 942 at 3 Poppy Trail as presented. Commissioner Seaburn seconded
the motion, which carried without objection (Cooley absent).
7. PUBLIC HEARINGS ON ITEMS CONTINUED FROM A PREVIOUS MEETING
A. ZONING CASE NO. 940. Request for Site Plan Review, Conditional Use Permit, and
Variance to construct a new approximately 1,325 square foot detached garage, to be
located in the front yard, with some grading, to exceed the maximum disturbance
allowed at 38 Portuguese Bend Road (Lot 118-RH) Rolling Hills, CA, (Steve and Lori
Wheeler). The project has been determined to be categorically exempt (Class 1, 3, and
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Action Memo
Planning Commission Meeting
06-19-18
• •
4) pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines, Sections
15301, 15303, and 15304.- ITEM CONTINUED TO JULY 17, 2018.
ACTION: This item was continued to the July 17, 2018 Planning Commission Field Trip and
Regular Meeting.
B. ZONING CASE 943. Request for a Site Plan Review and a Conditional Use Permit for
grading and construction of a lunging ring at 1 Middleridge Lane South, (Lot 167-
UR), Rolling Hills, CA, (Popovich). The project is exempt from the California
Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Section 15303 of the CEQA
Guidelines.
ACTION: The application was withdrawn at the request of the applicant. No action was
taken.
8. NEW PUBLIC HEARINGS
A. ZONING CASE NO. 916-R. Request for a Major Modification to a previously
approved Site Plan Review and Variance for grading, remediation of slopes,
construction of walls, encroachment into the front yard setback with a basement, and
other improvements. The modification entails a revision to the previously approved
Variance for the basement on the subject property located at 5 El Concho, (Lot 10-GF),
Rolling Hills, CA, (de Miranda). The project has been determined to be categorically
exempt (Class 3) pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA)
Guidelines, Section 15303.
ACTION: Following public comment and discussion, Commissioner Cardenas moved that
staff draft a Resolution of Approval for a modified plan as presented. Vice Chair Kirkpatrick
seconded the motion, which carried without objection (Cooley absent).
9. OLD BUSINESS
None.
10. NEW BUSINESS
None.
11. SCHEDULE OF FIELD TRIPS (July 17, 2018)
ACTION: The Planning Commission scheduled a field trip to the following properties to be held
on July 17, 2018 beginning at 7:30 a.m.
8 Crest Road East
0 Buggy Whip/25 Crest Road West
38 Portuguese Bend Road (continued)
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Action Memo
Planning Commission Meeting
06-19-18
• •
12. ITEMS FROM STAFF
None.
13. ITEMS FROM THE PLANNING COMMISSION
None.
14. ADJOURNMENT
Hearing no further business before the Planning Commission, Chairman Chelf adjourned the meeting
at 6:53 p.m. to an adjourned regular meeting of the Planning Commission scheduled to be held on
Tuesday, July 17, 2018 beginning at 7:30 a.m. for the purpose of conducting a site visit to 8 Crest
Road East, 0 Buggy Whip/25 Crest Road West, 38 Portuguese Bend Road (continued). The next
regular meeting of the Planning Commission is scheduled to be held on Tuesday, July 17, 2018
beginning at 6:30 p.m. in the City Council Chamber, Rolling Hills City Hall, 2 Portuguese Bend Road,
Rolling Hills, California.
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Action Memo
Planning Commission Meeting
06-19-18
MINUTES OF AN
ADJOURNED REGULAR MEETING
OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION
MAY 15, 2018
FIELD TRIP MEETING:
PRESENT:
Chairman Chelf, Vice Chair Kirkpatrick, Commissioners Seaburn, Cardenas and Cooley
Yolanta Schwartz, Interim City Manager
Julia Stewart, Acting Planning Director
John F. Signo, Contract Planner
Perfecto Arca, P.A. Arca Engineering Inc.
Mr. & Mrs. Robert Jonas, Owners/Applicant
Tony Inferrera, Architect
James Aichele, resident
Chairman Chelf called the public hearing to order at 7:30 a.m. at 1 Ranchero Road.
A. ZONING CASE NO. 941. Request for a Lot Line adjustment to merge two properties,
making a combined 2.48 gross acre single lot, at 51 Portuguese Bend Road (Lot 7 -FT) and 1
Ranchero Road (Lot 6 -FT) Rolling Hills, CA, (Joseph and Erna Johnson). The project has been
determined to be categorically exempt (Class 5) pursuant to the California Environmental
Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines, Section 15305.
Acting Planning Director Stewart explained the project for a lot merger and pointed out property
lines, easements, and access. She gave a brief history of the properties and surrounding area and
the reason why the property owner is proposing the lot merger. She stated that the combining the
lots would result in less than the required net lot area of 2 acres per property. However, because
the lot merger would result in a larger sized lot than each property on its own, the lot merger
would be more in compliance than if it were not approved.
All present then observed the staking showing the location of the property lines and easements,
and walked around the property. Chairman Chelf indicated he would support a reduction in the
number of lots in the City and would support the proposed lot merger. Commissioner Cardenas
made a motion that staff prepare a resolution of approval for the Planning Commission to
consider. It was seconded by Commissioner Seaburn.
There being no further discussion, the public hearing in Zoning Case No. 941 was then
continued to the evening meeting on May 15, 2018 beginning at 6:30 pm:
B. ZONING CASE NO. 940. Request for Site Plan Review, Conditional Use Permit, and
Variance to construct a new approximately 1,325 square foot detached garage, to be located in
the front yard, with some grading, to exceed the maximum disturbance allowed at 38 Portuguese
Bend Road (Lot 118-RH) Rolling Hills, CA, (Steve and Lori Wheeler). The project has been
determined to be categorically exempt (Class 1, 3, and 4) pursuant to the California
Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines, Sections 15301, 15303, and 15304.
05-15-18
Minutes
Planning Commission Adjourned Regular Meeting
1
Chairman Chelf called the public hearing to order and continued the item to the Planning
Commission's meeting of June 19, 2018.
C. ZONING CASE NO. 942 Request for Site Plan Review, and Variances to permit two
as -built walls with heights to exceed five feet (maximum 6 feet) and partially located within
setback areas at 3 Poppy Trail (Lot 8 -PT) Rolling Hills, CA, (Robert Jonas). The project has
been determined to be categorically exempt (Class 3) pursuant to the California Environmental
Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines, Section 15303.
Acting Planning Director Stewart gave the presentation and explained the need for the Site Plan
Review and Variance requests. All present were able to walk up and down the pathway and
observe the as -built walls along the pathway and behind the recreation room. Chairman Chelf
indicated he would like to see landscaping either between the walls or hanging over. The
property owner, Mr. Jonas indicated that vines growing between the openings of the wall may
damage the structural integrity of the walls but was open to introducing bougainvillea, a plant
already growing over a portion of the three -rail fencing on the property. Acting Planning
Director Stewart indicated the walls help with drainage. Architect Inferrera explained the
engineering behind the wall and stated the slopes are stable.
There being no further discussion, the Planning Commission public hearing was continued to the
evening meeting on May 15, 2018 beginning at 6:30 pm.
Respectfully Submitted,
C\
Julia`, Stewart
Acting Planning Director
Approved:
Brad:therf, Chairman
05-15-18
Minutes
Planning Commission Adjourned Regular Meeting
2
Date
Date
REGULAR MEETING
OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION
CITY OF ROLLING HILLS
6:30 PM
TUESDAY, MAY 15, 2018
ROLLING HILLS CITY HALL
2 PORTUGUESE BEND ROAD, ROLLING HILLS, CA 90274
CALL MEETING TO ORDER
A regular meeting of the Planning Commission of the City of Rolling Hills was called to order by Vice
Chairman Kirkpatrick at 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, May 15, 2018 in the City Council Chamber, at City
Hall, 2 Portuguese Bend Road, Rolling Hills, California.
ROLL CALL
Commissioners Present: Cardenas, Cooley, Seaburn and Vice Chairman Kirkpatrick.
Commissioners Absent: Chelf (excused).
Others Present:
Yolanta Schwartz, Interim City Manager.
Jane Abzug, Assistant City Attorney.
Julia Stewart, Acting Planning Director.
Yvette Hall, City Clerk.
John Signo, Contract Planner.
Austin Su, 40 Portuguese Bend Road.
Anthony Inferrera, 3 Poppy Trail.
APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA
Approved as presented.
PUBLIC COMMENTS ON MINUTES AND ANY ITEM NOT ON THE AGENDA
None.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
None.
OLD BUSINESS
None.
PUBLIC HEARINGS ON ITEMS CONTINUED FROM A PREVIOUS MEETING
ZONING CASE NO. 940. Request for Site Plan Review, Conditional Use Permit, and
Variance to construct a new approximately 1,325 square foot detached garage, to be
located in the front yard, with some grading, to exceed the maximum disturbance
allowed at 38 Portuguese Bend Road (Lot 118-RH) Rolling Hills, CA, (Steve and Lori
Wheeler). The project has been determined to be categorically exempt (Class 1, 3, and 4)
pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines, Sections
15301, 15303, and 15304. - ITEM CONTINUED TO JUNE 19, 2018.
Vice Chairman Kirkpatrick introduced the item and asked for staff's comments. Acting Planning
Director Stewart stated that this project is to be continued to the June 19, 2018 Planning Commission
meeting. She indicated that the project was continued at the Field Trip held this morning.
Vice Chairman Kirkpatrick called for public comment.
Austin Su, 40 Portuguese Bend Road, commented that Mr. Wheeler, owner of 38 Portuguese Bend
Road, planted a tree on his property without permission.
Minutes Planning Commission Meeting
05-15-18
-1-
Acting Planning Direct wart advised Mr. Su to contact the Rolling Hi11s1
if the tree was located in t e easement as they have jurisdiction over this area.
eowners Association
Hearing no further public comments, Vice Chairman Kirkpatrick closed the public hearing.
Following public comment and discussion, Commissioner Cardenas moved that consideration of this
matter be continued to the next regular meeting of the Planning Commission scheduled for June 19,
2018. Commissioner Seaburn seconded the motion, which carried without objection (Chelf absent).
ZONING CASE NO. 941. Request for a Lot Line adjustment to merge two properties,
making a combined 2.49 gross acre single lot, at 51 Portuguese Bend Road (Lot 7 -FT)
and 1 Ranchero Road (Lot 6 -FT) Rolling Hills, CA, (Joseph and Erna Johnson). The
project has been determined to be categorically exempt (Class 5) pursuant to the
California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines, Section 15305.
Vice Chairman Kirkpatrick introduced the item and asked for staff's comments. Acting Planning
Director Stewart stated that the request was for a lot line adjustment and merger of. two lots at 51
Portuguese Bend Road and 1 Ranchero Road that combined to make a single lot of 2.48 gross acres.
Acting Planning Director Stewart indicated that a Field Trip was conducted this morning. She
indicated that the merged lot is located in the Flying Triangle and that the lot line adjustment process
does not allow for conditions of approval; however, any proposed development in the future will be
subject to indemnification agreements. She stated that two comments were received from surrounding
neighbors who inquired about the future development of the new merged lot. Acting Planning Director
Stewart indicated that staff was directed to prepare a Resolution of Approval at the Field Trip held this
morning.
Vice Chairman Kirkpatrick called for public comment. Hearing none, he closed the public comment.
Following discussion, Commissioner Cardenas moved that the Planning Commission direct staff to
prepare a Resolution granting approval of the applicant's request in Zoning Case 941 at 51 Portuguese
Bend Road and 1 Ranchero Road with the standard findings of fact and conditions of approval.
Commissioner Cooley seconded the motion, which carried without objection (Chelf absent).
Joseph Johnson, 51 Portuguese Bend Road and 1 Ranchero Road, inquired who was responsible for
notifying the utility companies to remove pipelines that no longer exist in easements.
Acting Planning Director Stewart responded that the owner is responsible for notifying the utility
companies to request the removal of utilities.
ZONING CASE NO. 942. Request for Site Plan Review, and Variances to permit two
as -built walls with heights to exceed five feet (maximum 6 feet) and partially located
within setback areas at 3 Poppy Trail (Lot 8 -PT) Rolling Hills, CA, (Robert Jonas). The
project has been determined to be categorically exempt (Class 3) pursuant to the
California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines, Section 15303.
Vice Chair Kirkpatrick introduced the item and asked for staff's comments. Acting Planning Director
Stewart introduced John Signo, Contract Planner, to the Planning Commission. She indicated Contract
Planner Signo would present the staff report. Contract Planner Signo stated that the request is for a
Site Plan Review and Variances to permit two as -built walls with heights to exceed five feet •and
partially located within setback areas at 3 Poppy Trail.
In response to Commissioner Seaburn's inquiry, Acting Planning Director Stewart stated that the wall
could be modified to create a softer exterior. She recommended that the Planning Commission
consider making a motion to direct staff to include this condition in the Resolution of Approval.
In response to Vice Chairman Kirkpatrick's question, Acting Planning Director Stewart indicated that
the wall is engineered with footings in it. She further clarified that upon approval of the wall by the
Planning Commission, the County Building Department, as part of their permitting process, would
inspect and evaluate the footings that were used to secure the wall.
Interim City Manager Schwartz stated that the applicant would have to prove that the wall meets the
Building Code. She provided the project's background as it relates to the three-foot wall that was
previously approved and stated that the height and length of the current as -built was not approved.
Vice Chairman Kirkpatrick called for public comment.
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Minutes Planning Commission Meeting
05-15-18
Anthony Inferrera, ASct, commented that the original plan for the took a long time to get
approved for this method and was engineered on a concrete base. He noted the 'original County
Building Inspector who originally plan checked and field inspected the project is still there and well
aware of this system. Mr. Inferrera indicated that the County Building Department would reinspect the
wall upon the project's approval. Mr. Inferrera affirmed that the wall is designed as a retaining wall.
Discussion ensued concerning the wall's height, structure, previously submitted plans for the wall,
drainage, a slough wall and installation of a free board.
Hearing no further comments, Vice Chairman Kirkpatrick closed the public hearing.
Following public comment and discussion, Commissioner Cardenas moved that the Planning
Commission direct staff to prepare a Resolution granting approval of the applicant's request in Zoning
Case 942 at 3 Poppy Trail with the standard findings of fact and conditions of approval with an
amendment to add the following conditions to the Resolution: 1) That the upper portion of the wall be
planted with landscaping that will screen the wall from view over time; and 2) That the entire hillside
behind the wall be planted with appropriate vegetation to hide the hillside and secure the dirt.
Commissioner Seaburn seconded the motion, which carried without objection (Chelf absent).
NEW PUBLIC HEARINGS
None.
NEW BUSINESS
None.
SCHEDULE OF FIELD TRIPS (June 19, 2018)
The Planning Commission scheduled a tentative fieldtrip to the following properties to be held on
Tuesday, June 19, 2018 beginning at 7:30 a.m.
0 Buggy Whip / 25 Crest Road West
38 Portuguese Bend Road
Vice Chairman Kirkpatrick called for public comment. Hearing none, he closed the public comment.
ITEMS FROM STAFF
None.
ITEMS FROM THE PLANNING COMMISSION
None.
ADJOURNMENT
Hearing no further business before the Planning Commission, Vice Chairman Kirkpatrick adjourned
the meeting at 7:05 p.m. to an adjourned regular meeting of the Planning Commission scheduled to be
held on Tuesday, June 19, 2018 beginning at 7:30 a.m. for the purpose of conducting a site visit to 0
Buggy Whip / 25 Crest Road West and 38 Portuguese Bend Road. The next regular meeting of the
Planning Commission is scheduled to be held on Tuesday, June 19, 2018 beginning at 6:30 p.m. in the
City Council Chamber, Rolling Hills City Hall, 2 Portuguese Bend Road, Rolling Hills, California.
Respectfully submitted,
Approved, .;
Brad Chelf
Chairman
Yvette Hall
City Clerk
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Minutes Planning Commission Meeting
05-15-18
REGULAR
MEETING
al Rollie, gee4
INCORPORATED JANUARY 24, 1957
ACTION MEMORANDUM
PLANNING COMMISSION
TUESDAY, MAY 15, 2018
NO. 2 PORTUGUESE BEND ROAD
ROLLING HILLS, CA 90274
(310) 377-1521
FAX (310) 377-7288
CITY OF ROLLING HILLS
6:30 P.M.
1.
CALL MEETING TO ORDER
A regular meeting of the Planning Commission of the City of Rolling Hills was called to order by Vice
Chairman Kirkpatrick at 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, May 15, 2018 in the City Council Chamber, at City
Hall, 2 Portuguese Bend Road, Rolling Hills, California.
2. ROLL CALL
Commissioners Present:
Commissioners Absent:
Others Present:
Cardenas, Cooley, Seaburn and Vice Chair Kirkpatrick.
Chelf (excused).
Yolanta Schwartz, Interim City Manager.
Jane Abzug, Assistant City Attorney.
Julia Stewart, Acting Planning Director.
Yvette Hall, City Clerk.
Austin Su, 3 Poppy Trail.
Tony Inferrera, Architect/Agent. •
Joseph Johnson, 1 Ranchero Road/51 Portuguese Bend Road.
3. APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA
ACTION: Approved as presented.
4. PUBLIC COMMENTS ON MINUTES AND ANY ITEM NOT ON THE AGENDA
None.
5. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
None.
6. OLD BUSINESS
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Action Memo
Planning Commission Meeting
05-15-18
•
None.
7. RESOLUTIONS
None.
8. PUBLIC HEARINGS ON ITEMS CONTINUED FROM A PREVIOUS MEETING
A. ZONING CASE NO. 940. Request for Site Plan Review, Conditional Use Permit,
and Variance to construct a new approximately 1,325 square foot detached
garage, to be located in the front yard, with some grading, to exceed the maximum
disturbance allowed at 38 Portuguese Bend Road (Lot 118-RH) Rolling Hills, CA,
(Steve and Lori Wheeler). The project has been determined to be categorically exempt
(Class . 1, 3., and 4) pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA)
Guidelines, Sections 15301, 15303, and 15304.- ITEM CONTINUED TO JUNE 19,
2018.
ACTION: Following public comment and discussion, Commissioner Cardenas moved that
consideration of this matter be continued to the next regular meeting of the Planning
Commission scheduled for Tuesday, June 19, 2018. Commissioner Seaburn seconded the
motion, which carried without objection (Chelf absent).
B. ZONING CASE NO. 941. Request for a Lot Line adjustment to nierge two
properties, making a combined 2.48 gross acre single lot, at 51 Portuguese Bend Road
(Lot 7 -FT) and 1 Ranchero Road (Lot 6 -FT) Rolling Hills, CA, (Joseph and Erna
Johnson). The project has been determined to be categorically exempt (Class 5)
pursuant to the _ California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines, Section
15305.
ACTION: Following public comment and discussion, Commissioner Seaburn moved that the
Planning Commission . direct staff to prepare a Resolution granting approval of the applicant's
request in Zoning Case 941 at 51 Portuguese Bend Road and 1 Ranchero Road with the standard
findings of fact and conditions of approval. Commissioner Cooley seconded the motion, which
carried without objection (Chelf absent).
C. ZONING CASE NO. 942 Request for Site Plan Review, and Variances to permit
two as -built walls with heights to exceed five feet (maximum 6 feet) and partially located •
within setback areas at 3 Poppy Trail (Lot 8 -PT) Rolling Hills, CA, (Robert Jonas). The
project has been determined to be categorically exempt (Class 3) pursuant to the
California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines, Section 15303.
ACTION: Following public comment and discussion, Commissioner Cardenas moved that
the Planning Commission direct staff to prepare a Resolution granting approval of the
applicant's request in Zoning Case 942 at 3 Poppy Trail with the standard findings of fact and
conditions of approval with an amendment to add the following conditions to the Resolution: 1)
That the upper portion of the wall be planted with landscaping that will screen the wall from
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Action Memo
Planning Commission Meeting
05-15-18
•
view over time; and 2) That the entire hillside behind the wall be planted with appropriate
vegetation to hide the hillside and secure the dirt. Commissioner Seaburn seconded the motion,
which carried without objection (Chelf absent).
9. NEW PUBLIC HEARINGS
None.
10. NEW BUSINESS
None.
11. SCHEDULE OF FIELD TRIPS (June 19, 2018)
ACTION: The Planning Commission scheduled a field trip to the following properties to be held
on June 19, 2018 beginning at 7:30 a.m.
0 Buggy Whip / 25 Crest Road West
38 Portuguese Bend Road
12. ITEMS FROM STAFF
None.
13. ITEMS FROM THE PLANNING COMMISSION
None.
14. ADJOURNMENT
Hearing no further business before the Planning Commission, Vice Chairman Kirkpatrick adjourned
the meeting at 7:05 p.m. to an adjourned regular meeting of the Planning Commission scheduled to be
held on Tuesday, June 19, 2018 beginning at 7:30 a.m. for the purpose of conducting a site visit to 0
Buggy Whip/25 Crest Road West and 38 Portuguese Bend Road. The next regular meeting of the
Planning Commission is scheduled to be held on Tuesday, June 19, 2018 beginning at 6:30 p.m. in the
City Council Chamber, Rolling Hills City Hall, 2 Portuguese Bend Road, Rolling Hills, California.
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Action Memo
Planning Commission Meeting
05-15-18
REGULAR
MEETING
Rallewf qey4
INCORPORATED JANUARY 24, 1957
ACTION MEMORANDUM
PLANNING COMMISSION
TUESDAY, APRIL 17, 2018
NO. 2 PORTUGUESE BEND ROAD
ROLLING HILLS, CA 90274
(310) 377-1521
FAX (310) 377-7288
CITY OF ROLLING HILLS
6:30 P.M.
1. CALL MEETING TO ORDER
A regular meeting of the Planning Commission of the City of Rolling Hills was called to order by
Chairman Chelf at 6:37 p.m. on Tuesday, April 17, 2018 in the City Council Chamber, at City Hall, 2
Portuguese Bend Road, Rolling Hills, California.
2. ROLL CALL
Commissioners Present: Cooley, Seaburn and Chairman Chelf.
Commissioners Absent: Kirkpatrick (excused).
Cardenas.
Others Present:
Yolanta Schwartz, Interim City Manager.
Jane Abzug, Assistant City Attorney.
Julia Stewart, Acting Planning Director.
Yvette Hall, City Clerk.
Tavisa Ales, Bolten Engineering.
Lideia Itchon, 36 Portuguese Bend Road.
Joseph Johnson, 1 Ranchero Road.
John Mackenbach, 56 Portuguese Bend Road.
3. APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA
ACTION: Approved as presented.
4. PUBLIC COMMENTS ON MINUTES AND ANY ITEM NOT ON THE AGENDA
None.
5. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
A. March 21, 2018 Adjourned Regular Meeting of the Planning Commission
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Action Memo
Planning Commission Meeting
04-17-18
ACTION: Commissioner Seaburn moved that the Planning Commission approve the minutes
of the adjourned regular meeting of the Planning Commission held on March 21, 2018 as
presented. Commissioner Cooley seconded the motion, which carried without objection
(Kirkpatrick and Cardenas absent).
6. OLD BUSINESS
None.
7. RESOLUTIONS
None.
8. PUBLIC HEARINGS ON ITEMS CONTINUED FROM A PREVIOUS MEETING
None.
9. NEW PUBLIC HEARINGS
A. ZONING CASE NO. 940. Request for Site Plan Review, Conditional Use Permit, and
Variance to construct a new approximately 1,325 square foot detached garage, to be
located in the front yard; with some grading, to exceed the maximum disturbance
allowed at 38 Portuguese Bend Road (Lot 118-RH) Rolling Hills, CA, (Steve and Lori
Wheeler).
ACTION: Following public comment and discussion, the Planning Commission, by
consensus, continued Zoning Case No. 940 at 38 Portuguese Bend Road to a field trip meeting
(Kirkpatrick and Cardenas absent).
B. ZONING CASE NO. 941. Request for a Lot Line adjustment to merge two properties,
making a combined 2.49 gross acre single lot, at 51 Portuguese Bend Road (Lot 7 -FT)
and 1 Ranchero Road (Lot 6 -FT) Rolling Hills, CA, (Joseph and. Erna Johnson).
ACTION: Following public comment and discussion, the Planning Commission, by
consensus, continued Zoning Case No. 941 at 51 Portuguese Bend Road and 1 Ranchero Road to
a field trip meeting (Kirkpatrick and Cardenas absent).
10. NEW BUSINESS
None.
11. SCHEDULE OF FIELD TRIPS (May 15, 2018)
ACTION: The Planning Commission scheduled a field trip to the following properties to be held
on May 15, 2018 beginning at 7:30 a.m.
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Action Memo
Planning Commission Meeting
04-17-18
1 Ranchero Road
38 Portuguese Bend Road
3 Poppy Trail
12. ITEMS FROM STAFF
A. Report and response to inquiry on status of certain property under development (Oral)
Interim City Manager Schwartz presented an oral report for the Planning Commission's consideration
of including condition(s) in resolutions of approval regarding the location and use of storage containers
and office trailers on construction sites.
ACTION: Following discussion, the Planning Commission, by consensus, directed staff to bring
back the topic for discussion at a future meeting with the full Planning Commission (Kirkpatrick
and Cardenas absent). No action was taken.
13. ITEMS FROM THE PLANNING COMMISSION
None.
14. ADJOURNMENT
Hearing no further business before the Planning Commission, Chairman Chelf adjourned the meeting
at 7:07 p.m. to an adjourned regular meeting of the Planning Commission scheduled to be held on
Tuesday, May 15, 2018 beginning at 7:30 a.m. for the purpose of conducting a site visit to 1 Ranchero
Road, 38 Portuguese Bend Road and 3 Poppy Trail. The next regular meeting of the Planning
Commission is scheduled to be held on Tuesday, May 15, 2018 beginning at 6:30 p.m. in the City
Council Chamber, Rolling Hills City Hall, 2 Portuguese Bend Road, Rolling Hills, California.
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Action Memo
Planning Commission Meeting
04-17-18
MINUTES OF AN
ADJOURNED REGULAR MEETING
OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION
MARCH 21, 2018
A. FIELD TRIP MEETING:
PRESENT:
Chairman Chelf, Commissioners Kirkpatrick, Seaburn, Cardenas and
Cooley
Yolanta Schwartz, Interim City Manager
Julia Stewart, Acting Planning Director
John Signo, Contract Planner
Andy Weller, neighbor
Leah Mirsch, resident
Luis Amezquita, Quality Concrete Construction
Chairman Chelf called the public hearing to . order at 7:30 a.m. at 2910 Palos
Verdes Drive North.
ZONING CASE NO. 938. Request for a Variance and Site Plan Review to re-
construct a 5 -foot high retaining wall that does not average out to 2 1/2 feet in
height located within a side yard setback area, in Zoning Case No. 938, at 2910
Palos Verdes Drive North, (Lot 993-3-RH), Wong. The project has been
determined to be categorically exempt (Class 3) pursuant to the California
Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines, Section 15303.
The Planning Commission met at the subject property to conduct a public
hearing and view the project. Interim City Manager stated that the project entails
a request to reconstruct a failing wall in the same location. A Site Plan Review is
required due to the wall being more than 3' in height and a Variance is requested
to keep the wall in the side setback. She stated that the wall was poorly
constructed and there are no records of building permits for the wall. The
reconstructed retaining wall would be constructed with the proper reports
already submitted to the Building and Safety Department, such as soils and
geology and the. County engineer has also reviewed the structural plans for the
retaining wall. The Building Department is ready to issue a building permit,
pending City's approval of the project. The contractor explained that the footings
were properly constructed; however the . wall itself is not reinforced. Ms.
Schwartz stated that since the applicants are ready to start construction and have
submitted all of the necessary documents to the Building Department, in order to
expedite the City's approval,. staff prepared a Resolution of approval of the
project for Planning Commissions consideration at their evening meeting. She
• •
stated that if the Planning Commission concurs, it would be appropriate to direct
staff to bring the Resolution of approval to the evening meeting.
Commissioner Cardenas made a motion to approve the project and consider a
Resolution of approval at their evening meeting' Commissioner Seaburn
seconded the motion.
There being no further discussion, the Planning Commission public hearing
was continued to the evening meeting on March 21, 2018 beginning at 6:30 pm.
Respectfully Submitted,
Y nta Schwartz
I erim City Manager
Approv
helf, Chairma
REGULAR
MEETING
• •
e4 Rolle:09 qr. e4
INCORPORATED JANUARY 24, 1957
ACTION MEMORANDUM
PLANNING COMMISSION
TUESDAY, MARCH 20, 2018
NO. 2 PORTUGUESE BEND ROAD
ROLLING HILLS, CA 90274
(310) 377-1521
FAX (310) 377-7288
CITY OF ROLLING HILLS
6:30 P.M.
1. CALL MEETING TO ORDER
A regular meeting of the Planning Commission of the City of Rolling Hills was called to order by
Chairman Chelf at 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, March 20, 2018 in the City Council Chamber, at City Hall, 2
Portuguese Bend Road, Rolling Hills, California.
2. ROLL CALL
Commissioners Present: Cardenas, Cooley, Seaburn and Chairman Chelf.
Commissioners Absent: Kirkpatrick (excused).
Others Present: Yolanta Schwartz, Interim City Manager.
Jane Abzug, Assistant City Attorney.
Julia Stewart, Acting Planning Director.
Yvette Hall, City Clerk.
Bob Gaudenti, 5 Hillside Lane.
3. APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA
ACTION: Approved as presented.
4. PUBLIC COMMENTS ON MINUTES AND ANY ITEM NOT ON THE AGENDA
None.
5. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
A. October 17, 2017 Regular Meeting of the Planning Commission
ACTION: Commissioner Seaburn moved that the Planning Commission approve the minutes
of the regular meeting of the Planning Commission held on October 17, 2017 as presented.
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Action Memo
Planning Commission Meeting
03-20-18
Commissioner Cardenas seconded the motion, which carried without objection (Kirkpatrick
absent).
B. February 20, 2018 Adjourned Regular Meeting of the Planning Commission
ACTION: Commissioner Cooley moved that the Planning Commission approve the minutes
of the adjourned regular meeting of the Planning Commission held on February 20, 2018 as
presented. Commissioner Cardenas seconded the motion, which carried without objection
(Kirkpatrick absent).
6. OLD BUSINESS
A. ZONING CASE NO. 934. REQUEST FOR CONTINUANCE.
Request for a Site Plan Review and Conditional Use Permit to construct a detached 2,210 square foot
mixed use structure including a garage and grading of 779 cubic yards of dirt for the structure at 8
Crest Road East, (Lot 192 -A -2 -MS), Rolling Hills, CA, (John Tu). Currently the property is being
developed with a new single-family residence and accessory amenities. The project has been
determined to be categorically exempt pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA).
ACTION: At the request of the applicant, consideration of this matter was continued to the next
regular meeting of the Planning Commission scheduled for Tuesday, April 17, 2018. No action
was taken.
7. RESOLUTIONS
A. RESOLUTION NO. 2018-03. RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION
OF THE CITY OF ROLLING HILLS GRANTING APPROVAL OF A VARIANCE
TO CONSTRUCT A NEW RETAINING WALL WITH A MAXIMUM HEIGHT OF
UP TO 4 1/2 FEET LOCATED WITHIN A SETBACK AREA, AND ALLOW AN
AS -BUILT PORTION OF A RIDING ARENA LOCATED IN THE FRONT YARD
SETBACK IN ZONING CASE NO 937. THE REQUEST IS RELATED TO TWO
PREVIOUS ZONING CASES ON THE SITE AND WILL ALLOW FOR
COMPLETION OF THOSE APPROVED PROJECTS. THE SUBJECT PROPERTY
IS 11 SADDLEBACK ROAD (LOT 48-1-RH 48-2-RH) ROLLING HILLS, CA,
(WARREN). THE PROJECT HAS BEEN DETERMINED TO BE
CATEGORICALLY EXEMPT (CLASS 3) PURSUANT TO THE CALIFORNIA
ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA) GUIDELINES, SECTION 15303.
ACTION: Commissioner Cardenas moved that the Planning Commission adopt Resolution
No. 2018-03 in Zoning Case No. 937 at 11 Saddleback Road granting approval of the applicant's
request with an amendment to include the planting of 24 -inch box trees and 15 gallon trees on
the top row of trees on the southern portion of the arena. Commissioner Cooley seconded the
motion, which carried without objection (Kirkpatrick absent).
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Action Memo
Planning Commission Meeting
03-20-18
• •
8. PUBLIC HEARINGS ON ITEMS CONTINUED FROM A PREVIOUS MEETING
A. ZONING CASE NO. 938. Request for a Variance and Site Plan Review to re -construct
a 5 -foot high retaining wall that does not average out to 2 1/2 feet in height located
within a side yard setback area, in Zoning Case No. 938, at 2910 Palos Verdes Drive
North, (Lot 993-3-RH), Wong. The project has been determined to be categorically
exempt (Class 3) pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA)
Guidelines, Section 15303.
AND CONSIDERATION OF A RESOLUTION: RESOLUTION NO. 2018-04.
RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF ROLLING
HILLS GRANTING APPROVAL OF A VARIANCE AND A SITE PLAN REVIEW
TO RE -CONSTRUCT A 5 -FOOT HIGH RETAINING WALL THAT DOES NOT
AVERAGE OUT TO 2 1/2 FEET IN HEIGHT LOCATED WITHIN A SIDE YARD
SETBACK, IN ZONING CASE NO. 938, AT 2910 PALOS VERDES DRIVE
NORTH, (LOT 993-3-RH), WONG. THE PROJECT HAS BEEN DETERMINED TO
BE CATEGORICALLY EXEMPT (CLASS 3) PURSUANT TO THE CALIFORNIA
ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT.
ACTION: Following public comment and discussion, Commissioner Seaburn moved that the
Planning Commission adopt Resolution No. 2018-04 granting approval of the applicant's request
in Zoning Case No. 938 at 2910 Palos Verdes Drive North as presented. Commissioner Cardenas
seconded the motion, which carried without objection (Kirkpatrick absent).
9. NEW PUBLIC HEARINGS
None.
10. NEW BUSINESS
None.
11. SCHEDULE OF FIELD TRIPS (April 17, 2018)
ACTION: The Planning Commission scheduled a tentative field trip to the following property to
be held on Tuesday, April 17, 2018 beginning at 7:30 a.m.
9 Johns Canyon (Tentative)
12. ITEMS FROM STAFF
A. Report and response to inquiry on status of certain property under development (Oral)
Interim City Manager Schwartz provided the history and a status update of the project at 40 Eastfield
Drive.
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Action Memo
Planning Commission Meeting
03-20-18
•
Interim City Manager Schwartz informed the Planning Commission that the City Council
reorganization would be held on Monday, March 26, 2018 and invited them to attend.
13. ITEMS FROM THE PLANNING COMMISSION
None.
14. ADJOURNMENT
Hearing no further business before the Planning Commission, Chairman Chelf adjourned the meeting
at 6:47 p.m. The next regular meeting of the Planning Commission is scheduled to be held on
Tuesday, April 17, 2018 beginning at 6:30 p.m. in the City Council Chamber, Rolling Hills City Hall,
2 Portuguese Bend Road, Rolling Hills, California.
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Action Memo
Planning Commission Meeting
03-20-18
MINUTES OF A
REGULAR MEETING
OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION
OF THE
CITY OF ROLLING HILLS
OCTOBER 17, 2017
CALL MEETING TO ORDER
A regular meeting of the Planning Commission of the City of Rolling Hills was called to order by
Chairman Chelf at 6:31 p.m. on Tuesday, October 17, 2017 in the City Council Chamber, at City
Hall, 2 Portuguese Bend Road, Rolling Hills, California.
ROLL CALL
Commissioners Present:
Commissioners Absent:
Others Present:
Cardenas, Cooley, Seaburn and Chairman Chelf.
Vice Chairman Kirkpatrick (excused).
Raymond Cruz, City Manager.
Yolanta Schwartz, Planning Director.
Natalie Karpeles, Assistant City Attorney.
Julia Stewart, Assistant Planner.
Yvette Hall, Interim City Clerk.
Gary Fields, Representative of the Nakamuras.
Charles Belak-Berger, Architect.
Vince DiBiasi, Architect.
Larry Hall, Attorney.
Clint Patterson, 22 Georgeff Road.
Richard Boos, 22 Georgeff Road.
Leah Mirsch, 4 Cinchring Road.
Dan Martinez, Contractor.
George Sweeney, Architect.
APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA
Approved as presented.
PUBLIC COMMENTS ON MINUTES AND ANY ITEM NOT ON THE AGENDA
None.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
September 19, 2017 Adjourned Regular Meeting of the Planning Commission
Commissioner Cooley moved that the Planning Commission approve the minutes of the adjourned
regular meeting . of the Planning Commission held on September 19, 2017 as presented.
Commissioner Seaburn seconded the motion, which carried without objection.
RESOLUTIONS
RESOLUTION NO. 2017-18. A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING
COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF ROLLING HILLS IN ZONING CASE NO. 923,
APPROVING A REQUEST FOR A SITE PLAN REVIEW TO MODIFY A
PREVIOUSLY APPROVED PROJECT, (IN ZC NO. 843), FOR GRADING AND
VARIANCE TO RETAIN A PORTION OF UNPERMITTED IMPORTED DIRT
FOR THE GRADING AND TO EXPORT THE REMAINING PORTION AND TO
CONSTRUCT GREATER THAN 2:1 SLOPE AT 38 PORTUGUESE BEND
ROAD (LOT 118-RH), (WHEELER). THE PROJECT IS CATEGORICALLY
EXEMPT (CLASS 3) PURSUANT TO THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL
QUALITY ACT (CEQA) GUIDELINES.
Minutes
Planning Commission Meeting
09-19-17
-1-
Chairman Chelf introduced the item and asked for staffs comments. Planning Director Schwartz
reviewed the applicant's request in Zoning Case No. 923 at 38 Portuguese Bend Road. She stated
that this project was a code enforcement case. Planning Director. Schwartz stated that the applicant
is requesting to modify a previously approved project to rotate the orientation of an 860 square foot
detached covered patio structure, to retain the size of the previously approved building pad, which
has beenpartially graded -out, Variances to retain 1,300 cubic yards of dirt that was illegally
imported to the site in order to repair slopes and the building pad, which will aid in eliminating
previously approved two terraced retaining walls, to export 2,370 cubic yards of the illegally
imported dirt, and to construct steeper than a 2:1 slope in one area where the slope was disturbed by
the dirt; and the slope south west of the covered patio.
Commissioner Cardenas inquired if any comments were received from the neighbors regarding the
project.
Planning Director Schwartz responded that no comments were received from the neighbors.
Chairman Chelf called for public comment. Hearing none, he closed the public hearing.
Commissioner Cardenas moved that the Planning Commission adopt Resolution No. 2017-18
granting approval of the applicant's request in Zoning Case No. 923 at 38 Portuguese Bend Road as
presented. Commissioner Seaburn seconded the motion, which carried without objection
(Kirkpatrick absent).
RESOLUTION NO. 2017-19 A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING
COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF ROLLING HILLS APPROVING A REQUEST
FOR A SITE PLAN REVIEW FOR CONSTRUCTION OF RESIDENTIAL AND
GARAGE ADDITION, COVERED PORCHES AND TRELLIS IN ZONING CASE
NO. 930 AT 52 PORTUGUESE BEND ROAD (LOT 4 -FT), (WACHS). CEQA
CATEGORICAL EXEMPTION UNDER CLASS 1, SECTION 15301.
Chairman Chelf introduced the item and asked for staff's comments. Assistant Planner Stewart
reviewed the applicant's request in Zoning Case No. 930 at 52 Portuguese Bend Road. She stated
that the applicant is requesting approval of the Resolution for a Site Plan Review for construction of
a residential and garage addition of 1,464 square feet and 518 square feet respectively, 855 square
foot porches and a new 200 square foot trellis.
Chairman Chelf called for public comment. Hearing none, he closed the public hearing.
Commissioner Seaburn moved that the Planning Commission adopt Resolution No. 2017-19
granting approval of the applicant's request in Zoning Case No. 930 at 52 Portuguese Bend Road as
presented. Commissioner Cooley seconded the motion, which carried without objection
(Kirkpatrick absent).
RESOLUTION NO. 2017-20 A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING
COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF ROLLING HILLS APPROVING A
REQUEST FOR A STIE PLAN REVIEW, CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT,
AND VARIANCES FOR CONSTRUC'T'ION OF NEW GARAGE,
RESIDENTIAL CONVERSION/ADDITION, ADDITION TO POOL HOUSE,
SPA, NEW RETAINING WALLS AND TO EXCEED THE MAXIMUM
PERMITTED WALL HEIGHT AVERAGE AND DISTURBANCE OF THE
LOT IN ZONING CASE NO. 925 AT 16 PINE TREE LANE (LOT 81-1-RH),
(SUNITHA BHARADIA). CEQA CATEGORICAL EXEMPTION UNDER
CLASS 1, SECTION 15301.
Chairman Chelf introduced the item and asked for staff's comments. Assistant Planner Stewart
reviewed the applicant's request in Zoning Case No. 925 at 16 Pine Tree Lane. She stated that the
Planning Commission requested clarification of the project because the applicant had brought forth
some potential new items. She reviewed the new items that are the elements of the proposal.
Assistant Planner Stewart explained that there was a five-foot retaining wall that was proposed for
the interior of the project site and that has been reduced to three feet. She stated a new 30 -inch
retaining wall along the driveway would typically be a ministerial approval and that there is no need
for a Variance. She indicated the average wall height of the new walls is 2.7 and the maximum is
2.5. She stated that public notices were sent to residents within a 1,000 foot radius of the site. She
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Planning Commission Meeting
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• •
reviewed the revised Site Plan and grading plan. Assistant Planner Stewart indicated that a new
driveway apron was included in the proposal, reviewed by the Traffic Commission and
recommended for approval by the Traffic Engineer and the Traffic Commission. Assistant Planner
Stewart indicated that no comments were received from the neighbors.
Chairman Chelf called for public comment. Hearing none, he closed the public hearing.
The Planning Commission indicated support of the project as presented.
Commissioner Seaburn moved that the Planning Commission adopt Resolution No. 2017-20
granting approval of the applicant's request in Zoning Case No. 925 at 16 Pine Tree Lane as
presented. Commissioner Cooley seconded the motion, which carried without objection
(Kirkpatrick absent).
PUBLIC HEARINGS ON ITEMS CONTINUED FROM A PREVIOUS MEETING
ZONING CASE NO. 918, 20 Upper Blackwater Canyon Road, (Iannitti).
REQUEST FOR CONTINUANCE TO NOVEMBER 21, 2017 MEETING.
At the request of the applicant, consideration of this matter was continued to the November 21,
2017 Planning Commission Meeting beginning at 6:30 p.m. No action was taken and the public
hearing was continued.
ZONING CASE NO. 928. 1 Middleridge Lane North (Cipolla), REQUEST FOR
CONTINUANCE TO December 19, 2017 FIELD TRIP MEETING.
At the request of the applicant, consideration of this matter was continued to the Field Trip meeting
of the Planning Commission scheduled for December 19, 2017. No action was taken and the public
hearing was continued.
ZONING CASE NO. 932. Request for a Site Plan Review to construct. higher than
previously approved ridgeline for a project consisting of an addition and major
renovation. The "as built" condition does not comply with the approved plans, at 24
Cinchring Road (Lot 18 -3 -CH), (Nakamura). CEQA Categorical Exemption under
Class 3, Section 15303.
Chairman Chelf introduced the item and asked for staff's comments. Planning Director Schwartz
stated that this project is a continued public hearing from the Field Trip that the Planning
Commission and residents attended this morning at 24 Cinchring Road. She stated that the
applicants are requesting a modification to a previously approved addition to the residence. She
stated that an 850 square foot addition to the residence was administratively approved in 2007 and
there existed a 675 square foot garage within the residence that was to be converted to living space.
Planning Director Schwartz indicated that the footprint of the residence was approved at 5,271
square feet and a storage area under the floor also existed. Planning Director Schwartz explained
that the modification entailed taller than the approved structure and a more massive roofline. She
stated that although the City does not regulate heights or roof design, the project came to the City's
attention as a Code Enforcement item, because the project was not built to the plans submitted for
construction to the City, or to the Building Department. She stated that staff deemed the
modification to the height and massing of the structure was too excessive to approve
administratively. She stated that, in addition, during discretionary reviews for a garage/recreation
room for the residence a "No further development, or any modification, without Planning
Commission review and approval" condition was placed onthe project and the property. Planning
Director Schwartz further stated that during the Code Enforcement process, staff provided the
applicants an opportunity to either bring the structure to compliance with the approved plans or
request a hearing before the Planning Commission. She stated that the applicants proposed to keep
most of the "as built" shape of the roof, but lower the structure by one foot. Planning Director
Schwartz indicated that since the September 19, 2017 Planning Commission meeting, the applicants
are proposing to reduce the size of the Gable at both ends of the roof.
Chairman Chelf called for public comment.
Gary Fields, Representative of the Nakamuras, commented that his clients were requesting approval
for the plan as proposed. He indicated that the requests that were made by the Planning Commission
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Planning Commission Meeting
10-17-17
• •
from the previous meeting were simple and that the Nakamuras and their consultants complied with
the requests. Mr. Fields stated that his clients presented their home at the field visit with the
proposed changes to allow the Planning Commission to see what will be constructed. Mr. Fields
stated that he believed that this project was not blocking any view if there is a slight increase in the
height of the home because 26 Cinchring Road is significantly upslope from 24 Cinchring Road.
Mr. Fields would like the project to move forward. He indicated that the Nakamuras are aware that
they did have the property red tagged and apologize for that. Mr. Fields stated that his clients want
to move forward with the construction and build a home they can live in that complies with the
codes as approved by the Planning Commission and, ultimately, all governmental agencies.
Charles Belak-Berger, Architect for the Nakamuras, commented that the Nakamuras have been
residents for a number of years and experienced a fire that burned down their home. He stated that
his clients are now requesting approval for an improved project that he feels does not obstruct the
view of any neighbor. Mr. Belak-Berger indicated that the project is scaled down and that his
clients have done as much as they possibly can to open up further view potential on the edges of the
building by bringing more hip roof. He stated that the project is two feet above what was originally
approved and will have this figure certified.
In response to Commissioner Seaburn's question, Mr. Belak-Berger stated that the additional height
is for a mezzanine.
Chairman Chelf expressed concern with the applicant building the project three feet taller than what
was approved by the Planning Commission.
Mr. Fields stated that the proposal is within the standards that do exist and that he took photographs
that showed the driveway of the home upslope obstructs the view more than any house below it. He
provided photographs for the Planning Commission.
Larry Hall, Attorney for Dr. Elliott Brunner, commented that the package submitted by Mr. Field's
office referenced one violation as insignificant. He stated that he provided five binders that outline
the history of the project. Mr. Hall stated that the project started when the approved plans were
approved by the County Building Department, the Rolling Hills Community Association (RHCA)
and the City on April 11, 2013, and then a permit was issued on June 23, 2014. He indicated there
was a preconstruction meeting, pursuant to the City's guidelines, and that the Nakamuras and their
daughter were in attendance according to the sign -in sheet. Mr. Hall stated that the Nakamura's
contractor during this time was not listed as a licensed contractor under the Contractors State
License Board. Mr. Hall introduced contractor Dan Martinez. Mr. Hall indicated that the
Nakamuras hired Mr. Martinez after the previous contractor. Mr. Hall stated that a large amount of
construction had already begun and it is not known who did all of the construction work. Mr. Hall
stated that a massive basement was built that did not exist on the plans. Mr. Hall indicated that he
took the deposition of Bizhan Khaleeli, the first Architect. Mr. Hall stated that Mr. Martinez is a
licensed contractor and that Mr. Martinez asked the Nakamuras for the plans that had been
approved.
Dan Martinez, 6 Strawberry Lane, Rolling Hills Estates, commented that the plans were not given
to him by the Nakamuras. He stated that he is a licensed contractor.
Mr. Hall further stated that Mr. Martinez was working on the project until the stop work order was
issued by the County Building Department on October 26, 2015. Mr. Hall asked Mr. Martinez if he
had ever seen approved plans.
Mr. Martinez stated that he viewed approved plans at the very end of the project; however, the plans
were not for the work he did. Mr. Martinez stated that after the stop work order was issued the
Nakamuras wanted him to continue with the roof; however, he declined to continue working on the
roof. Mr. Martinez stated that he asked the Nakamuras for payment; however, he did not receive
payment. Mr. Martinez indicated that he is currently in litigation with the Nakamuras.
Mr. Hall stated that the RHCA issued a stop work order indicating that the only item that was
permitted to be done was the winterization with a tarp. Mr. Hall continued with a discussion of the
history of the project.
Vince DiBiasi, Architect, stated that he believed the Nakamuras raised the floor levels and plate
levels beyond the approved plan.
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•
Mr. Fields stated that Mr. DiBiasi was hired by Mr. Hall to provide testimony. He indicated that
Mr. Martinez did substandard work for the Nakamuras and this was the reason why Mr. Martinez
was terminated by the Nakamuras. Mr. Fields stated that the Nakamuras want to move forward
with the project. Mr. Fields stated that new plans have been submitted that are well within the
current standards of the City. Mr. Fields stated that once the home is constructed it will be an
attractive home.
Planning Director Schwartz provided clarification that the newly submitted plans were approved in
concept by the RHCA, not by the City.
Clint Patterson, 22 Georgeff Road, commented that he takes offense to the public comments made
previously that no one is being impacted by this project. Mr. Patterson stated that everyone in the
City is impacted and that there are limited resources in the City that are being wasted by the
repeated applications and disregard of the regulations. He stated that the project is an eyesore and
would like a time limit placed on the project.
Mr. Martinez commented that he has been working in the City since 1983 and has built many
homes in the City. He stated that all his clients were satisfied with his work. Mr. Martinez stated
that many assumptions have been made about him without facts.
Hearing no further public comments, Chairman Chelf closed the public hearing.
Commissioner Seaburn commented that the Nakamuras should have built what was approved and
this is what they need to comply with.
Commissioner Cardenas concurred with Commissioner Seaburn's comment. He opined that the
project does impact the view as it is a large structure and that there is not a reasonable justification
for the raised roof. Commissioner Cardenas stated that he is not inclined to support the applicant's
request.
Commissioner Cooley concurred with Commissioner Cardenas' comments and believes that the
intention was to build the project larger than what was approved. Commissioner Cooley stated that
the project should be brought back to the original approved plan.
Chairman Chelf agreed with the aforementioned comments and indicated that the massing is not
appropriate. Chairman Chelf did not support the applicant's request.
Commissioner Cardenas moved that the Planning Commission deny the applicant's request as
presented in Zoning Case No. 932 at 24 Cinchring Road, direct staff to prepare a Resolution of
denial and direct staff to draft language in the Resolution that includes a one year extension for
construction from the original denial date of the proposed project. Commissioner Seaburn seconded
the motion, which carried without objection (Kirkpatrick absent).
ZONING CASE NO. 922 -Modification. Request for a Modification to a Site Plan
Review to construct additional 90 square feet to a previously approved 4,859 square
foot residence (fot a total of 4,949 sq.ft. residence) and 1,232 square foot garage.
Other previously approved improvements include, a 560 square foot swimming pool
and spa, with outdoor amenities, 688 square foot guest house, an up to 6' high
privacy wall and exceedance of disturbance of the lot, at 0 Poppy Trail (Lot 90-B1-
RH), (Serpa). The project is categorically exempt (Class 3- Section 15303) pursuant
to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines.
Chairman Chelf introduced the item and asked for staff's comments. Planning Director Schwartz
reviewed the applicant's request in Zoning Case No. 922 - Modification at 0 Poppy Trail. She
stated that the applicant is proposing to revise the previously approved Site Plan Review project by
adding an additional 90 square feet to the residence, for a total residence of 4,949 square feet and
raise the roof by no more than 10 inches.
Chairman Chelf called for public comment.
George Sweeney, Architect for the applicant, stated that his applicant's request is for an additional
90 square feet to enlarge the bedrooms for their children. He stated that the ridge height increase is
not related to the additional 90 square feet and is a matter that falls under the RHCA's purview. Mr.
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Sweeny commented that the field trip conducted this morning was productive and requested
consideration for approval of his applicant's request.
Commissioner Seaburn moved that the Planning Commission approve the Request for a
Modification to a Site Plan Review to construct an additional 90 square feet to a previously
approved 4,859 square foot residence (fot a total of 4,949 sq.ft. residence) and 1,232 square foot
garage in Zoning Case No. 922 - Modification at 0 Poppy Trail. Commissioner Cooley seconded
the motion, which carried without objection (Kirkpatrick absent).
NEW PUBLIC HEARINGS
None.
NEW BUSINESS
A. Presentation and Discussion on State regulations for Accessory Dwelling Units.
Chairman Chelf introduced the item and asked for staff's comments. Assistant Planner Stewart
presented a summary of the State regulations for Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs). She stated
that the City has discretion in deciding whether or not to adopt the State law to govern ADUs or
adopt an ordinance that modifies it more to the City's conditions. Assistant Planner Stewart
discussed the following items: 1) The City can set standards in areas such as unit size, parking and
fees as long as they are not deemed arbitrary, excessive and burdensome, which means the City
cannot prohibit the construction of the ADUs; 2) The standards that the City typically reviews such
as replacement parking, height, setback, and lot coverage, can still be in place as long as the
standards are not burdensome that they prohibit new ADUs; 3) The City can determine the rental
terms, currently the City has in place no less than 30 day rentals; however, under the State law this
is not in place. If the City decided to adopt an ordinance, that is an item that the City might
consider including; 4) The City does not have discretion over outright prohibition of ADUs and
cannot change the administrative approval process or deny an ADU based on items such as septic
systems, coverage limits or parking requirements; 5) The City cannot stipulate who lives in an
ADU; however, the City can designate who can live in a Junior ADUs; 6) The City can require that
an owner occupy one of the two units; 7) The City cannot require separate passage ways; 8) There
is no prohibition for converting an existing garage and there is no setback requirement; 9) The City
cannot make an ADU larger than what is allowed by State law; and 10) There is no parking required
for ADUs within a half mile of public transportation. Assistant Planner Stewart noted that there are
bus stops within a half -mile perimeter of the City.
Assistant Planner Stewart reviewed the approval process and discussed a proposed ordinance for
consideration by the City. Assistant Planner Stewart stated that the intent of the presentation was to
inform the Planning Commission because the City is restricted in what can be adopted and to
receive direction on drafting an ordinance if desired by the Planning Commission.
Discussion ensued concerning guesthouse requirements.
Assistant City Attorney Karpeles stated that she could prepare a draft ordinance that highlights the
areas where the Planning Commission has the ability to designate discretionary boundaries.
Chairman Chelf requested that Assistant City Attorney Karpeles draft an ordinance as close to the
City's regulations as possible.
Discussion ensued concerning unit sizes, square feet ranges, and the process to recommend a
proposed ordinance to the City Council.
Chairman Chelf called for public comment.
Richard Boos, 22 Georgeff Road, inquired about septic tank requirements.
Assistant Planner Stewart responded that the Public Health Department requirements would be
included as part of a plan.
Leah Mirsch, 4 Cinchring Road, commented on the conversion of barns in the setback and
suggested that staff review this matter.
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Planning Commission Meeting
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By consensus, the Planning Commission directed staff to prepare a draft ordinance for consideration
by the Planning Commission.
SCHEDULE OF FIELD TRIPS (November 21, 2017)
The Planning Commission scheduled a field trip to the following property to be held on Tuesday,
November 21, 2017 beginning at 7:30 a.m.
8 Crest Road East
r— OLD BUSINESS
None.
ITEMS FROM STAFF
Planning Director Schwartz provided updates on the following items: 1) Proposed Marijuana
Ordinance — City Council removed the allowance for outdoor cultivation and will consider the
second reading at their next City Council meeting on October 23, 2017; and 2) Proposed View
Ordinance — City Council rejected that the City take on only an advisory role and adopted to have a
quasi-judicial role; however, upon additional consideration the City Council approved the advisory
role as originally recommended by the Planning Commission. A second reading will be conducted
at the City Council meeting of October 23, 2017.
ITEMS FROM THE PLANNING COMMISSION
None.
ADJOURNMENT
Hearing no further business before the Planning Commission, Chairman Chelf adjourned the
meeting at 7:57 p.m. to an adjourned regular meeting of the Planning Commission scheduled to be
held on Tuesday, November 21, 2017 beginning at 7:30 a.m. for the purpose of conducting a site
visit to 8 Crest Road East. The next regular meeting of the Planning Commission is scheduled to be
held on Tuesday, November 21, 2017 beginning at 6:30 p.m. in the City Council Chamber, Rolling
Hills City Hall, 2 Portuguese Bend Road, Rolling Hills, California.
Respectfully submitted,
Yvtte Hall
City Clerk
Approved,
r
B : d Chelf
hairman
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Planning Commission Meeting
10-17-17
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MINUTES OF AN
ADJOURNED REGULAR MEETING
OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION
FEBRUARY 20, 2018
A. FIELD TRIP MEETING:
PRESENT:
Chairman Chelf, Commissioners Kirkpatrick, Seaburn, Cardenas and
Cooley
Yolanta Schwartz, Planning Director
Julia Stewart, Assistant Planner
Dan Ranch, Belzberg Architects
Sungmi Hyun, Belzberg Architects
Gary Wynn, Wynn Engineering
Robert Gaudenti, Gaudenti and Sons Corp., contractor
Chairman Chelf called the public hearing to order at 7:30 a.m. at 8 Crest Road E.
ZONING CASE NO. 934 -REVISED LOCATION. Request for a Site Plan
Review and Conditional Use Permit to construct a detached 2,210 square foot
mixed use structure including a garage and grading of 779 cubic yards of dirt for
the structure at 8 Crest Road East, (Lot 192 -A -2 -MS), Rolling Hills, CA, (John
Tu). Currently the property is being developed with a new single-family
residence and accessory amenities. The project has been determined to be
categorically exempt pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act
(CEQA).
The Planning Commission met at the subject property and the public hearing
was continued from the January 16, 2018 meeting. Planning Director Schwartz
explained the changes made to the proposed project based on previous feedback
from the community and the Planning Commission. Since the previous site visit,
the proposed structure had been moved inward toward the center of the
property by approximately 30 feet. This caused the ridgeline to be lower on the
horizon but the height of the building was not reduced. Thus, the structure
remains visible to properties across the canyon adjacent to Portuguese Bend
Road. Parties present at the field visit also walked down Georgeff to determine
the visibility of the structure from and near the intersection of Georgeff and Crest
Road. Discussion then ensued regarding possible enhanced landscaping to
screen the structure from visible vantage points. The public hearing was
continued to the evening meeting.
•
ZONING CASE NO. 937. Request for a Variance to construct a new retaining
wall with a maximum height of up to 4 1/2 feet located within a setback area,
and allow an as -built portion of a riding arena located in the front yard setback.
The request is related to two previous zoning cases on the site and will allow for
completion of those approved projects. The subject property is 11 Saddleback
Road (Lot 48-1-RH 48-2-RH) Rolling Hills, CA, (Warren). The project has been
determined to be categorically exempt (Class 3) pursuant to the California
Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines, Section 15303.
The Planning Commission met at the subject property to review the as -built
condition of the dressage arena and to view the proposed site of the retaining
wall, both of which encroach into the front yard setback. Senior Planner Stewart
explained the reasons for the proposed variances which included concerns about
the grade of the slope, possible fire department requirements, and distances from
the residence for animal keeping purposes. Parties present at the field visit
walked around the as -built dressage arena to view the area adjacent to the bridal
trail where a previously approved wall would have been located had the
dressage arena not been built in its current location. Discussion ensued regarding
additional trees being planted adjacent to the southwestern portion of the arena
in an attempt to further screen it from neighboring properties. On a related note,
the landscaping plan for the previously approved project was discussed and it
was requested that it be brought to the evening meeting, if possible. Several
members of the Planning Commission requested that mature (possibly pepper)
trees be added to the landscaping plan for the site. The public hearing was
continued to the evening meeting.
There being no further discussion, the Planning Commission public hearing
was continued to the evening meeting on February 20, 2018 beginning at 6:30 pm.
Respectfully Submitted,
Yo - to Schwartz
I t rim City Manager
Approved:
3
Date
ad Chelf, Chairman Date
REGULAR
MEETING
1
ge.0 a/Rd/4,9 get4
INCORPORATED JANUARY 24, 1957
NO. 2 PORTUGUESE BEND ROAD
ROLLING HILLS, CA 90274
(310) 377-1521
FAX (310) 377-7288
ACTION MEMORANDUM
PLANNING COMMISSION CITY OF ROLLING HILLS
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2018 6:30 P.M.
1. CALL MEETING TO ORDER
A regular meeting of the Planning Commission of the City of Rolling Hills was called to order by
Chairman Chelf at 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, February 20, 2018 in the City Council Chamber, at City
Hall, 2 Portuguese Bend Road, Rolling Hills, California.
2. ROLL CALL
Commissioners Present:.
Commissioners Absent:
Others Present:
Cardenas, Cooley, Seaburn and Chairman Chelf.
Kirkpatrick (excused).
Yolanta Schwartz, Interim City Manager.
Jane Abzug, Assistant City Attorney.
Julia Stewart, Acting Planning Director.
Yvette Hall, City Clerk.
Leah Mirsch, 4 Cinchring Road.
John Resich, 8 Outrider Road.
Daniel Rentsch,.Belzberg Architects.
Gary Wynn, Wynn Engineering, Inc.
Jill Smith, Stable Ad Hoc Committee.
Jack Smith, Stable Ad Hoc Committee.
3. APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA
ACTION: Approved as presented.
4. PUBLIC COMMENTS ON MINUTES AND ANY ITEM NOT ON THE AGENDA
John Resich, 8 Outrider Road, expressed concern with the length of time it has taken to complete a
residence on Eastfield Drive that backs up to Outrider Road. Mr. Resich commented on various
concerns related to construction at the subject property including debris, dirt, traffic, infringement and
encroachment on trails and easements, and disturbance.
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Action Memo
Planning Commission Meeting
02-20-18
1 •
ACTION: Commissioner Cardenas moved that the Planning Commission direct staff to add
the property of 40 Eastfield Drive to the March 20, 2018 Planning Commission Meeting Agenda
for a project update. Commissioner Seaburn seconded the motion, which carried without
objection (Kirkpatrick absent).
5. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
A. January 16, 2018 Regular Meeting of the Planning Commission
ACTION: Commissioner Seaburn moved that the Planning Commission approve the minutes
of the regular meeting of the Planning Commission held on January 16, 2018 as presented.
Commissioner Cardenas seconded the motion, which carried without objection (Kirkpatrick
absent).
B. January 16, 2018 Adjourned Regular Meeting of the Planning Commission
ACTION: Commissioner Cooley moved that the Planning Commission approve the minutes
of the adjourned regular meeting of the Planning Commission held on January 16, 2018 as
presented. Commissioner Seaburn seconded the motion, which carried without objection
(Kirkpatrick absent).
6. RESOLUTIONS
A. RESOLUTION NO. 2018-02. RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION
OF THE CITY OF ROLLING HILLS GRANTING APPROVAL OF A SITE PLAN
REVIEW AND VARIANCE TO LEGALIZE AND RETAIN PREVIOUSLY
GRADED PATH AT THE REAR OF THE PROPERTY AND TO EXCEED THE
MAXIMUM PERMITTED DISTURBANCE OF THE LOT IN ZONING CASE NO.
935,1 MIDDLERIDGE LANE NORTH (LOT 15, 16, 17 -MR), ROLLING
HILLS, CA. (CIPOLLA). THE PROJECT IS CATEGORICALLY EXEMPT
PURSUANT TO THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA)
GUIDELINES, SECTION 15303.
ACTION: Following public comment and discussion, Commissioner Seaburn moved that the
Planning Commission adopt Resolution 2018-02 granting approval of the applicant's request in
Zoning Case 935 at 1 Middleridge Lane North and to include an amendment to add a condition
to the Resolution that all debris and construction material be removed within two weeks of the
adoption of the Resolution. Commissioner Cooley seconded the motion, which carried without
objection (Cardenas recused, Kirkpatrick absent).
7. PUBLIC HEARINGS ON ITEMS CONTINUED FROM A PREVIOUS MEETING
A. ZONING CASE NO. 934 -REVISED LOCATION. Request for a Site Plan Review
and Conditional Use Permit to construct a detached 2,210 square foot mixed use
structure including a garage and grading of 779 cubic yards of dirt for the structure at 8
Crest Road East, (Lot 192 -A -2 -MS), Rolling Hills, CA, (John Tu). Currently the
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Action Memo
Planning Commission Meeting
02-20-18
•
property is being developed• with a new single-family residence and accessory
amenities. The project has been determined to be categorically exempt pursuant to the
California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA).
ACTION: Following public comment and discussion, Commissioner Seaburn moved that the
Planning Commission direct staff to prepare a Resolution granting approval of the applicant's
request in Zoning Case 934 at 8 Crest Road East with the standard findings of fact and
conditions of approval with an amendment to add a condition to the Resolution to include an
updated landscape plan. Commissioner Cardenas seconded the motion, which carried without
objection (Kirkpatrick. absent).
B. ZONING CASE NO. 937. Request for a Variance to construct a new retaining
wall with a maximum height of up to 4 1/2 feet located within a setback area, and allow
an as -built portion of a riding arena located in the front yard setback. The request is
related to two previous zoning cases on the site and will allow for completion of those
approved projects. The subject property is 11 Saddleback Road (Lot 48-1-RH 48-2-
RH) Rolling Hills, CA, (Warren). The project has been determined to be categorically
exempt (Class 3) pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA)
Guidelines, Section 15303.
ACTION: Following public comment and discussion, Commissioner Cardenas moved that
the Planning Commission direct staff to prepare a Resolution granting approval of the
applicant's request in Zoning Case 937 at 11 Saddleback Road with the standard findings of fact
and conditions of approval with an amendment to add a condition to the Resolution to include an
updated landscaping plan for the installation of mature trees on the west end of the arena.
Commissioner Cooley seconded the motion, which carried without objection (Kirkpatrick
absent).
8. NEW PUBLIC HEARINGS
None.
9. NEW BUSINESS
A. PRESENTATION AND DISCUSSION OF DRAFT EQUESTRIAN FACILITY
GUIDELINES FOR STABLE AND CORRAL CONSTRUCTION.
ACTION: Following public comment and discussion, Commissioner Seaburn moved that the
Planning Commission forward the matter to the City Council for consideration at a future City
Council Meeting. Chairman Chelf seconded the motion, which carried without objection
(Kirkpatrick absent).
10. SCHEDULE OF FIELD TRIPS (March 20, 2018)
ACTION: The Planning Commission scheduled a field trip to the following property to be
held on Tuesday, March 20, 2018 beginning at 7:30 a.m.
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Action Memo
Planning Commission Meeting
02-20-18
2910 Palos Verdes Drive N.
11. OLD BUSINESS:
None.
12. ITEMS FROM STAFF
None.
13. ITEMS FROM THE PLANNING COMMISSION
None.
14. ADJOURNMENT
Hearing no further business before the Planning Commission, Chairman Chelf adjourned the meeting
at 7:43 p.m. to an adjourned regular meeting of the Planning Commission scheduled to be held on
Tuesday, March 20, 2018 beginning at 7:30 a.m. for the purpose of conducting a site visit to 2910
Palos Verdes Drive North. The next regular meeting of the Planning Commission is scheduled to be
held on Tuesday, March 20, 2018 beginning at 6:30 p.m. in the City Council Chamber, Rolling Hills
City Hall, 2 Portuguese Bend Road, Rolling Hills, California.
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Action Memo
Planning Commission Meeting
02-20-18
REGULAR MEETING
OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION
CITY OF ROLLING HILLS
6:30 PM
TUESDAY, JANUARY 16, 2018
ROLLING HILLS CITY HALL
2 PORTUGUESE BEND ROAD, ROLLING HILLS, CA 90274
CALL MEETING TO ORDER
A regular meeting of the Planning Commission of the City of Rolling Hills was called to order by
Chairman Chelf at 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, January 16, 2018 in the City Council Chamber, at City Hall,
2 Portuguese Bend Road, Rolling Hills, California.
ROLL CALL
Commissioners Present:
Commissioners Absent:
Others Present:
Cardenas, Cooley, Kirkpatrick, Seaburn and Chairman Chelf.
None.
Yolanta Schwartz, Planning Director.
Jane Abzug, Assistant City Attorney.
Michael Jenkins, City Attorney
Julia Stewart, Assistant Planner.
Yvette Hall, Interim City Clerk.
Tavisha Ales, Bolton Engineering.
Chaz Cipolla, 1 Middleridge Lane North.
Daniel Rentsch, Belzberg Architects
APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA
Approved as presented.
PUBLIC COMMENTS ON MINUTES AND ANY ITEM NOT ON THE AGENDA
None.
City Attorney Jenkins introduced Jane Abzug, Assistant City Attorney, to the Planning Commission
and the public.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
September 19, 2017 Regular Meeting of the Planning Commission
Commissioner Seaburn moved that the Planning Commission approve the minutes of the regular
meeting of the Planning Commission held on September 19, 2017 as presented. Vice Chairman
Kirkpatrick seconded the motion, which carried without objection.
RESOLUTIONS
RESOLUTION 2018-01. RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION
OF THE CITY OF ROLLING HILLS GRANTING APPROVAL FOR SHE PLAN
REVIEW, A CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT, AND VARIANCES FOR
GRADING AND CONSTRUCTION OF A NEW RESIDENCE, NEW FOUR -
CAR GARAGE, STABLE, CORRAL, RIDING RING, ALTERED DRIVEWAY,
ACCESS PATHWAY TO THE CORRAL, AND VARIOUS OUTDOOR
AMENITIES INCLUDING A NEW POOL IN ZONING CASE NO. 918 AT 20
UPPER BLACKWATER CANYON ROAD, (IANNITTI). CATEGORICALLY
EXEMPT PURSUANT TO SECTION 15303, CLASS 3 OF THE CALIFORNIA
ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA).
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Chairman Chelf introduced the item and asked for staff's comments. Assistant Planner Stewart
reviewed the applicant's request for a proposed demolition of an existing residence and construction of
a new residence, new four -car garage, stable, corral, riding ring, altered access pathway to the corral,
new pathway to the stable, and various outdoor amenities including a new pool at 20 Upper
Blackwater Canyon Road. She stated this new construction would also require the demolition of the
existing two pools, two small accessory structures, and the existing stable on the subject property.
Assistant Planner Stewart reviewed the Site Plan Review for construction of a 9,975 square foot
residence with a 7,750 square foot basement, a 1,675 square foot attached garage, 1,360 square feet of
covered porches, 100 square foot outdoor kitchen, 1,055 square foot pool/spa, new retaining walls of
varying heights all 3 feet or under and averaging less than 2'h feet in height, and for grading of 33,730
total cubic yards of dirt. Assistant Planner Stewart indicated that the Planning Commission and the
public had numerous changes to the project. She provided a summary of the changes that were made
to the Planning Commission and indicated that the changes have been incorporated into the Resolution
of Approval. She stated that there is also a special condition in the Resolution of Approval because the
applicants made a change to the pathway that accesses the stable off of Pine Tree Lane, which was
previously off of Portuguese Bend Road. She stated that the project will be reviewed again by the
Traffic Commission (TC) on January 25, 2018. Assistant Planner Stewart further stated that TC
approval is a condition in the Resolution of Approval inorder to move forward with the project.
In response to Chairman Chelfs inquiry, Assistant Planner Stewart clarified that if the pathway access
off of Pine Tree Lane is approved by the Planning Commission this evening and subsequently the TC
does not approve it at the January 25, 2018 meeting, the pathway approval would default back to
Portuguese Bend Road.
Chairman Chelf called for public comment. Hearing none, he closed the public comment.
Commissioner Cardenas moved that the Planning Commission adopt Resolution No. 2018-01 granting
approval of the applicant's request in Zoning Case No. 918 at 20 Upper Blackwater Canyon Road as
presented. Vice Chairman Kirkpatrick seconded the motion, which carried without objection.
Chairman Chelf requested that Item 7-B be taken out of order and discussed at this juncture. Hearing
no objection, Chairman Chelf so ordered.
PUBLIC HEARINGS ON IThMS CONTINUED FROM A PREVIOUS MEETING
ZONING CASE NO. 935. Request for a Site Plan Review and Variance to legalize and
retain previously graded path at the rear of the property and to exceed the maximum
permitted disturbance of the lot in Zoning Case No. 935, 1 Middleridge Lane North
(Lot 15, 16, 17 -MR), Rolling Hills, CA. (Cipolla). The project has been determined to
be categorically exempt (Class 3) pursuant to the Califomia Environmental Quality Act
(CEQA) Guidelines, Section 15303.
Commissioner Cardenas recused himself from consideration of this case due to the proximity of his
property to the subject property and left the dais. Chairman Chelf introduced the item and asked for
staff's comments. Planning Director Schwartz indicated that the Planning Commission visited the
project site at 1 Middleridge Lane North on the morning of January 16, 2018 during a field visit. She
stated that the applicants are requesting a Site Plan Review and Variance to legalize and retain a
previously graded path at the rear of the property and to exceed the maximum permitted disturbance
of the lot. She stated that this project was brought to the City's attention several years ago as a code
enforcement case because the property was graded without building permits. Shestated that since
that time the applicant submitted several applications for a stable and requested that the path be
considered at the same time. Planning Director Schwartz stated that the applicant then withdrew his
stable application following several public hearings and the Planning Commission and residents'
concerns regarding the project. She stated that the applicant was permitted to add to the residence
and following approval of the residence, the applicant submitted another plan for a stable; however,
since then he retracted the stable application. Planning Director Schwartz noted that the path is still
an unresolved code enforcement item and has to be approved or not approved by the Planning
Commission. She indicated the request is to maintain the graded path and approve the Site Plan
Review for grading, as well as a Variance with a disturbance of 49.7% of the lot. She stated that the
Planning Commission had some concerns with the area around the path related to landscaping during
their first site visit. She indicated that the landscaping plan that was submitted did not represent the
correct limits of the grading. Planning Director Schwartz explained that this was the reason why she
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did not provide the plans at the field trip; however, staff would work with the applicant to submit the
appropriate plans. She advised the Planning Commission that conditions to address the landscaping
could be added to the.resolution if they decided to approve the project. Planning Director Schwartz
discussed the erosion control plan. She indicated that the City's Grading Engineer at the County
Building Department reviewed the erosion control plan and was satisfied with the plan. She stated
that the applicant originally requested to exclude the erosion control plan and would instead plant
trees; however, the trees would not address the erosion control unless the trees were established.
Planning Director Schwartz stated that the applicant would be required to implement the erosion
control methods as indicated on the plan.
In response to Chairman Chelf's questions, Planning Director Schwartz stated that the disturbed area
was brought to 49.7% when it was graded. She further indicated that the applicant now understands
that he must implement the erosion control plan in addition to the landscaping plan.
Discussion followed concerning the erosion control plan, landscaping, silk screening and time -span of
the project.
Chairman Chelf called for public comment.
Tavisha Ales, Bolton Engineering, commented on behalf of the applicant. She indicated thatthe
erosion control plan had been reviewed by the County Building Department with minor corrections
specified. Ms. Ales stated the corrections have been made and that final approval from the City was
pending.
In response to the Planning Commission's inquiry, Chaz Cipolla, applicant, affirmed that he would be
able to provide a revised landscaping plan within 30 days of the Planning Commission's approval.
Hearing no further comments, Chairman Chelf closed the public hearing.
Commissioner Seaburn moved that thePlanning Commission direct staff to prepare a Resolution
granting approval of the applicant's request in Zoning Case 935 at 1 Middleridge Lane North with the
standard findings of fact and the following conditions of approval: 1) Erosion control measures must
be implemented immediately and commenced prior to the next Planning Commission Meeting; 2)
Submission of a revised landscaping plan requiring all sloped areas below the path and up to the three
rail fence that the Rolling Hills Community Association approved be planted and completed within six
months of approval; 3) Submission of a landscaping bond to the City; and 4) Maintain animals in the
corralled areas for one year. Vice Chairman Kirkpatrick seconded the motion which carried without
objection (Cardenas recused).
Chairman Chelf requested that Item 7-A be discussed at this juncture. Hearing no objection, Chairman
Chelf so ordered.
ZONING CASE NO. 934. Request for a Site Plan Review and Conditional Use Permit
to construct a detached 2,210 square foot mixed use structure, which would include a
garage, and grading of 779- cubic yards of dirt for the structure at 8 Crest Road East,
(Lot 192 -A -2 -MS), Rolling Hills, CA, (John Tu). Currently the property is being
developed with a single-family residence and accessory outdoor amenities. It has been
determined that the project is categorically exempt pursuant to the California
Environmental Quality Act (CEQA).
Chairman Chelf introduced the item and- asked for staffs comments. Planning Director Schwartz
stated the proposed project is a request for a mixed used structure consisting of a 2,210 square foot
structure with a garage and storage room at 8 Crest Road East. Planning Director Schwartz indicated
that the Planning Commission visited the project site on the morning of January 16, 2018 during a field
visit. She stated that the Planning Commission had some concerns at the site visit regarding the height
and massing of the property. She indicated the grading is planned to be 779 cubic yards and the
roofline is proposed to be between 8.5 to 19.5 feet. She indicated that the architect brought a revised
plan that will be discussed with the Planning Commission. Planning Director Schwartz stated the
structure is 30 feet from the side setback. She stated the development standards were being met and
that the project is categorically exempt from CEQA. Planning Director Schwartz noted that one
resident reviewed the plans after the field trip; however, the resident had general concerns with
construction in the City. She stated this was a request for a Site Plan Review for grading and a
Conditional Use Permit for the use itself. As requested by the Planning Commission, Planning
Director Schwartz reviewed property information for the newly approved stable at 20 Upper
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Blackwater Canyon Roan, which was approved at 20 feet high, and 1 Pine Tree Lane, which was
approved at 19 feet high, as requested by the Planning Commission.
Discussion followed regarding the roof height and grading for the project.
Chairman Chelf called for public comment.
Daniel Rentsch, Belzberg Architects, spoke on behalf of the applicant. In response to the Planning
Commissioner's questions, Mr. Belzberg stated that the ridge is flat and that the varying height is due
to a cross slope. He stated the measured roof height could be 18.5 feet in the best -case scenario, and
19.5 feet in the worst -case scenario. He commented that the intent of the design was to match the
architecture of the barn.
Discussion ensued among the Planning Commissioners and Mr. Rentsch regarding the changes made
to the project including the finished floor height and grading. Mr. Rentsch presented new plans to the
Planning Commission and discussed the following items: 1) The location did not change yet because it
is complicated to shrink the overall height; 2) The roof design was changed completely to a straight hip
roof and now the floor plan is the same; 3) Mr. Rentsch indicated that he may want to revisit the roof
design because the current roof design does not make sense and it is a way to bring the roof height
down; and 4) Mr. Rentsch stated that he could lower the roof height down to 17 feet.
Chairman Chelf commented that he was concerned with the massing of the project and the location
because the street runs right by it. He further commented that the project was not harmonious with the
neighborhood.
Discussion followed concerning the location of the structure.and options to relocate it.
Commissioner Cardenas commented that he would like to see the style returned to the original plan
with the monitor roof element.
Commissioner Cooley concurred with Commissioner Cardenas' comment.
Mr. Rentsch indicated that his client would be willing to plant trees to buffer the view from Georgeff
Road to the garage.
Hearing no further comments, Chairman Chelf closed the public hearing.
Mr. Rentsch noted that due to a typo the dirt is 70 cubic yards and not 779 cubic yards.
Following public comment and discussion, the Planning Commission, by consensus, continued Zoning
Case No. 934 at 8 Crest Road East to the next meeting.
NEW PUBLIC HEARINGS
None.
SCHEDULE OF FIELD TRIPS (February 20, 2018)
The Planning Commission scheduled a field trip to the following property to be held on Tuesday,
February 20, 2018 beginning at 7:30 a.m.
11 Saddleback Road
OLD BUSINESS
None.
ITEMS FROM STAFF
Planning Director Schwartz informed the Planning Commission that the City Council took 24
Cinchring Road under jurisdiction at the January 8, 2018 City Council meeting. She also stated that
the first reading of the Accessory Dwelling Unit ordinance would be considered at the January 22,
2018 City Council meeting.
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ITEMS FROM THE PLANNING COMMISSION
None.
ADJOURNMENT
Hearing no further business before the Planning Commission, Chairman Chelf adjourned the meeting
at 7:19 p.m. to an adjourned regular meeting of the Planning Commission scheduled to be held on
Tuesday, February 20, 2018 beginning at 7:30 a.m. for the purpose of conducting a site visit to 11
Saddleback Road. The next regular meeting of the Planning Commission is scheduled to be held on
Tuesday, February 20, 2018 beginning at 6:30 p.m. in the City Council Chamber, Rolling Hills City
Hall, 2 Portuguese Bend Road, Rolling Hills, California.
Respectfully submitted,
Qa
Yvette Hall
City Clerk
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MINUTES OF AN
ADJOURNED REGULAR MEETING
OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION
JANUARY 16, 2018
A. FIELD TRIP MEETING:
PRESENT:
Chairman Chelf, Commissioners Kirkpatrick, Seaburn, Cardenas and
Cooley
Yolanta Schwartz, Planning Director
Julia Stewart, Assistant Planner
Cliff Paterson, resident
Dan Ranch, Belzberg Architects
Sungmi Hyun, Belzberg Architects
David Schwanke, Construction Manager
Chaz Cipolla, owner 1 Middleridge Lane N.
Chairman Chelf called the public hearing to order at 7:30 a.m. at 8 Crest Road E.
A. ZONING CASE NO. 934. Request for a Site Plan Review and Conditional Use
Permit to construct a detached 2,210 square foot mixed use structure, which would
include a garage, and grading of 779 cubic yards of dirt for the structure at 8 Crest
Road East, (Lot 192 -A -2 -MS), Rolling Hills, CA, (John Tu). Currently the property is
being developed with a single-family residence and accessory outdoor amenities. It has
been determined that the project is categorically exempt pursuant to the California
Environmental Quality Act (CEQA).
Planning Director Schwartz explained the project and the elements of the construction,
including the access and the monitor roof. She stated that the project meets the
development standards, except that the total disturbed area exceeds the maximum
permitted, however, it was approved with the original project because this area was
previously graded.
All present then walked around the silhouette for the proposed structure and
commuted that the structure appears to be very large, obtrusive and too visible from
Georgerff Road. Chairman Chelf suggested that the structure be lowered and relocated
closer to the location of the future stable and corral. The remaining Commissioners
concurred and other suggenstions were made, such as pull it closer to the slope, lower
it and provide additional screening. The Commissioners also viewed the project from
Georgeff Road and commented on how much the structure is visible from the road.
The Commissioners asked staff to provide information on other similar stables that
were recently approved. The applicants agents stated tht they will try to bring a
revised plan to the evening meeting and show more screening.
1
There being no further discussion, the public hearing in Zoning Case No. 934 was then
continued to the evening meeting on January 16, 2018 beginning at 6:30 pm.
B. ZONING CASE NO. 935. Request for a Site Plan Review and Variance to
legalize and retain previously graded path at the rear of the property and to exceed the
maximum permitted disturbance of the lot in Zoning Case No. 935, 1 Middleridge
Lane North (Lot 15, 16, 17 -MR), Rolling Hills, CA. (Cipolla). It has been determined
that the project is categorically exempt pursuant to the California Environmental
Quality Act (CEQA).
Commissioner Cardenas was absent from the meeting, as he was recused due to the
proximity of his property to subject site.
Planning Director Schwartz explained the project and the request to retain a previously
graded path, grading of which caused the exceedance of the maximum permitted
disturbance on the lot. The Commissioners viewed the path from above and walked
along the three rail fence along the property on Middleridge Lane N.
Discussion ensued about the winterization of the loose dirt above and below the path
and landscaping. Staff stated that a landscaping plan was submitted but it is not
sufficient as it only shows a very small portion of the path and that it be further
discussed at the evening meeting of the Planning Commission.
There being no further discussion, the public hearing in Zoning Case No. 935 was then
continued to the evening meeting on January 16, 2018 beginning at 6:30 pm.
Respectfully Submitted,
lanta Schwartz
fanning Director
Approved:
Date
2
ti
REGULAR
MEETING
•
6/4 a/ Raaes-, ger4
INCORPORATED JANUARY 24, 1957
NO. 2 PORTUGUESE BEND ROAD
ROLLING HILLS, CA 90274
(310) 377-1521
FAX (310) 377-7288
ACTION MEMORANDUM
PLANNING COMMISSION CITY OF ROLLING HILLS
TUESDAY, JANUARY 16, 2018 6:30 P.M.
1. CALL MEETING TO ORDER
A regular meeting of the Planning Commission of the City of Rolling Hills was called to order by
Chairman Chelf at 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, January 16, 2018 in the City Council Chamber, at City Hall,
2 Portuguese Bend Road, Rolling Hills, California.
2. ROLL CALL
Commissioners Present:
Commissioners Absent:
Others Present:
Cardenas, Cooley, Kirkpatrick, Seaburn and Chairman Chelf.
None.
Yolanta Schwartz, Planning Director.
Jane Abzug, Assistant City Attorney.
Michael Jenkins, City Attorney
Julia Stewart, Assistant Planner.
Yvette Hall, Interim City Clerk.
Tavisha Ales, Bolton Engineering.
Chaz Cipolla, 1 Middleridge Lane North.
Daniel Rentsch, Belzberg Architects
3. APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA
ACTION: Approved as presented.
4.
None.
5.
PUBLIC COMMENTS ON MINUTES AND ANY I1EM NOT ON THE AGENDA
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
A.
September 19, 2017 Regular Meeting of the Planning Commission
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ACTION: Commissioner Seaburn moved that the Planning Commission approve the minutes
of the regular meeting of the Planning Commission held on September 19, 2017 as presented.
Vice Chairman Kirkpatrick seconded the motion, which carried without objection.
6. RESOLUTIONS
A. RESOLUTION 2018-01. RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION
OF THE CITY OF ROLLING HILLS GRANTING APPROVAL FOR SI1'E PLAN
REVIEW, A CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT, AND VARIANCES FOR
GRADING AND CONSTRUCTION OF A NEW RESIDENCE, NEW FOUR -
CAR GARAGE, STABLE, CORRAL, RIDING RING, ALTERED DRIVEWAY,
ACCESS PATHWAY TO THE CORRAL, AND VARIOUS OUTDOOR
AMENITIES INCLUDING A NEW POOL IN ZONING CASE NO. 918 AT 20
UPPER BLACKWATER CANYON ROAD, (IANNI I" 1'l). CATEGORICALLY
EXEMPT PURSUANT TO SECTION 15303, CLASS 3 OF THE CALIFORNIA
ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA).
ACTION: Following public comment and discussion, Commissioner Cardenas moved that
the Planning Commission adopt Resolution No. 2018-01 granting approval of the applicant's
request in Zoning Case No. 918 at 20 Upper Blackwater Canyon Road as presented. Vice
Chairman Kirkpatrick seconded the motion, which carried without objection.
Chairman Chelf requested that Item 7-B be taken out of order and discussed at this juncture. Hearing
no objection, Chairman Chelf so ordered.
7. PUBLIC HEARINGS ON ITEMS CONTINUED FROM A PREVIOUS MEETING
B. ZONING CASE NO. 935. Request for a Site Plan Review and Variance to legalize and
retain previously graded path at the rear of the property and to exceed the maximum
permitted disturbance of the lot in Zoning Case.No. 935, 1 Middleridge Lane North
(Lot 15, 16, 17 -MR), Rolling Hills, CA. (Cipolla). The project has been determined to
be categorically exempt (Class 3) pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act
(CEQA) Guidelines, Section 15303.
ACTION: Commissioner Seaburn moved that the Planning Commission direct staff to
prepare a Resolution granting approval of the applicant's request in Zoning Case 935 at 1
Middleridge Lane North with the standard findings of fact and the following conditions of
approval: 1) Erosion control measures must be implemented immediately and commenced prior
to the next Planning Commission meeting; 2) Submission of a revised landscaping plan requiring
all sloped areas below the path and up to the three rail fence that the Rolling Hills Community
Association approved be planted and completed within six months of approval; 3) Submission of
a landscaping bond to the City; and 4) Maintain animals in the corralled areas for one year.
Vice Chairman Kirkpatrick seconded the motion which carried without objection (Cardenas
recused).
Chairman Chelf requested that Item 7-A be discussed at this juncture. Hearing no objection, Chairman
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Planning Commission Meeting
01-16-18
Chelf so ordered.
A. ZONING CASE NO. 934. Request for a Site Plan Review and Conditional Use Permit
to construct a detached 2,210 square foot mixed use structure, which would include a
garage, and grading of 779 cubic yards of dirt for the structure at 8 Crest Road East,
(Lot 192 -A -2 -MS), Rolling Hills, CA, (John Tu). Currently the property is being
developed with a single-family residence and accessory outdoor amenities. It has been
determined that the project is categorically exempt pursuant to the California
Environmental Quality Act (CEQA).
ACTION: Following public comment and discussion, the Planning Commission, by
consensus, continued Zoning Case No. 934 at 8 Crest Road East to a field trip meeting.
8. NEW PUBLIC HEARINGS
None.
9. NEW BUSINESS
None.
10. SCHEDULE OF FIELD TRIPS (March 20, 2018)
ACTION: The Planning Commission scheduled a field trip to the following property to be held
on Tuesday, February 20, 2018 beginning at 7:30 a.m.
11 Saddleback Road
11. OLD BUSINESS:
None.
12. ITEMS FROM STAFF
Planning Director Schwartz informed the Planning Commission that the City Council took 24
Cinchring Road under jurisdiction at the January 8, 2018 City Council Meeting. She also stated that
the first reading of the Accessory Dwelling Unit ordinance would be considered at the January 22,
2018 City Council meeting.
13. ITEMS FROM THE PLANNING COMMISSION
None.
14. ADJOURNMENT
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Hearing no further business before the Planning Commission, Chairman Chelf adjourned the meeting
at 7:19 p.m. to an adjourned regular meeting of the Planning Commission scheduled to be held on
Tuesday, February 20, 2018 beginning at 7:30 a.m. for the purpose of conducting a site visit to 11
Saddleback Road. The next regular meeting of the Planning Commission is scheduled to be held on
Tuesday, February 20, 2018 beginning at 6:30 p.m. in the City Council Chamber, Rolling Hills City
Hall, 2 Portuguese Bend Road, Rolling Hills, California.
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Planning Commission Meeting
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REGULAR MEETING
OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION
CITY OF ROLLING HILLS
6:30 PM
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 19, 2017
ROLLING HILLS CITY HALL
2 PORTUGUESE BEND ROAD, ROLLING HILLS, CA 90274
CALL MEETING TO ORDER
A regular meeting of the Planning Commission of the City of Rolling Hills was called to order by
Chairman Chelf at 6:34 p.m. on Tuesday, September 19, 2017 in the City Council Chamber, at City
Hall, 2 Portuguese Bend Road, Rolling Hills, California.
ROLL CALL
Commissioners Present:
Commissioners Absent:
Others Present:
Cooley, Kirkpatrick, Seaburn and Chairman Chelf.
Commissioner Cardenas (excused).
Raymond Cruz, City Manager.
Yolanta Schwartz, Planning Director.
Natalie Karpeles, Assistant City Attorney.
Julia Stewart, Assistant Planner.
Yvette Hall, Interim City Clerk.
Larry Hall, Attorney.
Vince DiBiasi, Architect.
John Resich, 8 Outrider Road.
Bizhan Khaleeli, Architect.
Tavisha Ales, Bolton Engineering.
Emily Cipolla, 1 Middleridge Lane North.
Leah Mirsch, 4 Cinchring. Road.
Dan Bolton, Bolton Engineering.
Charles Belak-Berger, Architect.
Elliott Brunner, 26 Cinchring Road.
Mitzi Nakamura, 24 Cinchring Road.
Toshiko Nakamura 24 Cinchring Road.
Takashi Nakamura 24 Cinchring Road.
APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA
Approved as presented.
PUBLIC COMMENTS ON MINUTES AND ANY ITEM NOT ON THE AGENDA
None.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
August 8, 2017 Special Meeting of the Planning Commission
Commissioner Cooley moved that the Planning Commission approve the minutes of the special
meeting of the Planning Commission held on August 8, 2017 as presented. Commissioner Seaburn
seconded the motion, which carried without objection.
August 15, 2017 Regular Meeting of the Planning Commission
Commissioner Cooley moved that the Planning Commission approve the minutes of the regular
meeting of the Planning Commission held on August 15, 2017 as presented. Commissioner Seaburn
seconded the motion, which carried without objection.
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09-19-17
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August 15, 2017 Adjourned Regular Meeting of the Planning Commission
Commissioner Cooley moved that the Planning Commission approve the minutes of the adjourned
regular meeting of the Planning Commission held on August 15, 2017 as presented. Commissioner
Seaburn seconded the motion, which carried without objection.
RESOLUTIONS
ZONING CASE NO. 931. RESOLUTION NO. 2017-16. RESOLUTION OF THE
PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF ROLLING HILLS APPROVING A
REQUEST FOR A SITE PLAN REVIEW AND CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT FOR
CONSTRUCTION OF RESIDENTIAL GARAGE ADDITION AND NEW STABLE
AND CORRAL IN ZONING CASE NO. 931 AT 7 MIDDLERIDGE LANE SOUTH,
LOT 249-A-UR, (MCCARTHY/CHENG). CATEGORICAL EXEMPTION
PURSUANT TO CLASS 3, SECTION 15303 OF CEQA GUIDELINES.
Chairman Chelf introduced the item and asked for staff's comments. Assistant Planner Stewart
reviewed the applicant's request in Zoning Case No. 931 at 7 Middleridge Lane South. She stated that
two Commissioners were absent from the field visit on August 15, 2017; however, both
Commissioners attended a special field visit with Assistant Planner Stewart this morning at the site and
are eligible to vote. She stated that she conducted a previous review of this project and compared
previous staff reports with the current staff report and found some of the project's numbers had been
altered. She stated that she reviewed all of the project's numbers with the architect to confirm them
and that the confirmed numbers were reflected in Resolution No. 2017-16. She reviewed the proposed
project, which include a stable, corral and garage addition. She indicated that the stable and corral
require a Conditional Use Permit. She stated that the proposed stable is 1,608 square feet and includes
a loft on the second story; and does not include 520 square feet of covered porches. She stated the
corral is proposed to be 2,875 square feet. She stated that a garage addition is proposed under a Site
Plan Review of 475 square feet to an existing 472 square foot garage. Assistant Planner Stewart
indicated that this project typically could be signed off over the counter; however, there were two
previous residential additions on this site that exceeded the amount of square footage that can be
approved over the counter. She further stated that the project is categorically exempt from CEQA and
the criteria for reviewing the Resolution of Approval were provided in the staff report.
Chairman Chelf called for public comment. Hearing none, he closed the public hearing.
Commissioner Seaburn moved that the Planning Commission adopt Resolution No. 2017-16 granting
approval of the applicant's request in Zoning Case No. 931 at 7 Middleridge Lane South as presented.
Vice Chairman Kirkpatrick seconded the motion, which carried without objection.
PUBLIC HEARINGS ON ITEMS CONTINUED FROM A PREVIOUS MEETING
ZONING CASE NO. 923. Request to modify a previously approved project and
request for a Site Plan Review for grading to reshape the previously approved
swimming pool building pad and Variances to allow the use of non -permitted imported
dirt, to reconstruct a slope to steeper than 2:1 gradient and to export dirt, in Zoning Case
No. 923 at 38 Portuguese Bend Road, (Lot 118-RH), Rolling Hills, CA. (Wheeler).
The project has been determined to be categorically exempt (Class 3) pursuant to the.
California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines.
Chairman Chelf introduced the item and asked for staff's comments. Planning Director Schwartz
indicated this project is a continued public hearing. She reviewed the applicant's request in Zoning
Case No. 923 at 38 Portuguese Bend Road. She stated that the request is to modify a previously
approved project for a covered porch and grading area. She indicated there were two building pads,
the house building pad and the pool building pad. She stated the pool building pad contained an 848
square foot pool and a 653 square foot guest house. She stated the proposed project is an 860 square
foot covered patio on the pool pad. Planning Director Schwartz reviewed the code enforcement case
related to dirt and small rocks that were placed on the property and on the side of the canyon. She
stated that after the City completed the code enforcement process, the applicants removed much of the
dirt from the sides of the canyon, piled it up in another area, and submitted an application for Planning
Commission consideration. Planning Director Schwartz stated that correspondence was received from
Mr. Steve Wheeler and telephone inquiries from one resident who expressed concern over the project
being an eyesore.
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Chairman Chelf called for public comment.
Dan Bolton, Bolton Engineering, commented on behalf of the applicant. He stated that he felt the
application that was submitted was responsive and goes back to the previous pad size and pad
geometry. He stated that the covered patio was moved back and does not go back any further north
than the previously approved limits.
In response to Commissioner Seaburn's question, Mr. Bolton stated that the Wheeler's went back to
the original alignment under the new proposal. He provided clarification on the Wheeler's desire to
have the alignments of the various improvements line up with each other. He indicated that the
building pad as approved, was increased in the northwest corner to allow the cabana to slide north
approximately two-thirds of the length of the covered patio. Mr. Bolton discussed the old pad
alignment, setback and septic tank location.
Hearing no further comments, Chairman Chelf closed the public hearing.
Commissioner Seaburn commented that the Planning Commission wanted the project to go back to the
original slope in fairness to all the neighbors. He stated the applicants were requested to change back
to what was previously approved and indicated their proposal appears reasonable.
Vice Chairman Kirkpatrick concurred, in general, with Commissioner Seaburn's comments as long as
the applicant followed the requirements.
Commissioner Cooley agreed that the applicant complied with the Planning Commission's request to
change the project back to the previous approval. She noted that the applicant modified the pool patio
configuration slightly and expressed support of the proposed project.
Following public comment and discussion, Vice Chairman Kirkpatrick moved that the Planning
Commission direct staff to prepare a Resolution granting approval of the, applicant's request in Zoning
Case 923 at 38 Portuguese Bend Road with the standard findings of fact and conditions of approval.
Commissioner Cooley seconded the motion which carried without objection.
ZONING CASE NO. 930, Request for a Site Plan Review to construct a new
approximately 1,500 square foot residential addition and 520 square foot garage
addition, conversion of a 422 square foot garage to a new residential space, 855 square
feet of new covered porches, and a new 200 square foot trellis. The subject property is
located at 52 Portuguese Bend Road (Lot 4 -FT) Rolling Hills, CA, (Frey Survivor
Trust/Francesca Wachs). CEQA Categorical Exemption under Class 1, Section 15301.
Chairman Chelf introduced the item and asked for staff's comments. Assistant Planner Stewart stated
the proposed project is a residential addition of 1,464 square feet, a garage addition of 518 square feet,
and covered porches. She indicated that the applicants are also proposing an attached trellis. She
stated that the lot coverage is well within the acceptable limits of the code and that the disturbance
does exceed 40%; however, the disturbance is existing and no other additions are proposed outside of
the previously disturbed areas. Assistant Planner Stewart indicated there is no grading proposed for
the project unless the Fire Department requires a widened driveway, which will not generate any
additional disturbance. She further stated that the project is categorically exempt from CEQA and the
criteria for reviewing the Resolution of Approval were provided in the staff report.
Chairman Chelf called for public comment.
John Resich, 8 Outrider Road, spoke on behalf of the applicant. He commented that he felt the plans
were self explanatory. He discussed the proposed additions as follows: 1) Add a covered patio to the
front of the house which overlooks the canyon; 2) Remove the garage and replace the garage with a
new garage and a master bedroom, laundry room and closets in the bathroom; 3) Add a small amount
of square footage to the interior of the courtyard for a hallway that runs from the family room area,
which will be the kitchen; and 4) Extend the width of the family room out into the patio.
Commissioner Seaburn stated that he supports the proposed project. Commissioner Cooley, Vice
Chairman Kirkpatrick and Chairman Chelf concurred with Commissioner Seaburn's comment.
Following public comment and discussion, Vice Chairman Kirkpatrick moved that the Planning
Commission direct staff to prepare a Resolution granting approval of the applicant's request in Zoning
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Case 930 at 52 Portuguese Bend Road with the standard findings of fact and conditions of approval.
Commissioner Cooley seconded the motion, which carried without objection.
ZONING CASE NO. 925, Request for a Site Plan Review to construct a new
approximately 938 square foot residential addition and 982 square foot basement,
conversion of a 484 square foot garage to a new residential entry, new spa and 5 foot
retaining wall; and Conditional Use Permit for an approximately 352 square foot
addition to an existing 430 square foot pool house; and Variance to exceed the
maximum permitted disturbance of the lot to up to 45.7%. The subject property is
located at 16 Pine Tree Lane (Lot 81-1-RH) Rolling Hills, CA, (Bharadia). CEQA
Categorical Exemption under Class 1, Section 15301.
Chairman Chelf introduced the item and asked for staff's comments. Assistant Planner Stewart stated
the proposed project requires a Site Plan Review, a Conditional Use Permit and a Variance. She stated
that the applicant is proposing a 938 square foot residential addition, which is a conversion of the
existing garage, a new 484 square foot garage with a basement located below, a 5 foot retaining wall
and a spa addition. She stated that for the Conditional Use Permit they are proposing a 325 square foot
addition and the Variance is for disturbance on the lot. Assistant Planner indicated that supplemental
information was provided to the Planning Commission in their agenda packets regarding a new wall
and a relocated servicearea; however, because these items were not publicly noticed this portion of the
project cannot be discussed this evening. She further stated that the project proposes a different
driveway location that was reviewed by the Traffic Commission and recommended for approval.
In response to Councilmember Cooley's and Vice Chair Kirkpatrick's questions, Assistant Planner
Stewart clarified the Variance for the retaining wall and new wall.
Chairman Chelf called for public comment.
Bizhan Khaleeli, Architect, commented on the existing improvements of the project and discussed the
motor court wall. Mr. Khaleeli stated that he would like to bring to the Planning Commission's
attention a similar project that was approved by the City in 2011.
Discussion followed concerning the retaining walls, the four -car garage, height of the garage,
driveway, side of the garage, and the height of the walls.
Following Planning Commission deliberation, the Planning Commission directed staff to bring a
Resolution of Approval with the following guidelines: 1) No more than a 3 foot retaining wall
exposed; and 2) No more than a 2:1 slope.
Following public comment and discussion, Commissioner Seaburn moved that the Planning
Commission direct staff to prepare a Resolution granting approval of the applicant's request in Zoning
Case No. 925 at 16 Pine Tree Lane with the standard findings of fact and conditions of approval
including the two conditions to the Resolution per the Planning Commission's direction. Vice
Chairman Kirkpatrick seconded the motion, which carried without objection.
Assistant City Attorney Karpeles noted that the new walls will be publicly noticed for the Planning
Commission's further review.
ZONING CASE NO. 918, Request for a Site Plan Review, a Conditional Use Permit,
and a Variance to construct a new 9,165 square foot residence, 2,250 square foot
basement, new 900 square foot four -car garage, new 3,575 square foot stable, 9,200
square foot corral, 11,360 square foot riding ring, widened access road leading to the
corral, and various outdoor amenities. A variance is requested to exceed the maximum
permitted disturbance of the lot to up to 81.3%. This new construction will require the
demolition of the existing residence, two small accessory structures, and the existing
stable on the subject property located at 20 Upper Blackwater Canyon Road (Lot
101-RH) Rolling Hills, CA, (Dominic Iannitti). CEQA Categorical Exemption under
Class 3, Section 15303.
Chairman Chelf introduced the item and asked for staff's comments. Assistant Planner Stewart stated
that the proposed project includes both demolition and new construction. She indicated that the
improvements require a Site Plan Review, Conditional Use Permit, and a Variance. She stated that the
applicant is proposing to widen the driveway apron. Assistant Planner Stewart noted that the Traffic
Commission has not made a recommendation on the driveway apron yet; however, the Traffic
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Engineer has recommended approval of the driveway apron. She stated that two residents submitted
concerns regarding the proposed project. She further stated that the project is categorically exempt
from CEQA and the criteria for reviewing the Resolution of Approval were provided in the staff
report.
Chairman Chelf called for public comment.
Tavisha Ales, Bolton Engineering. spoke on behalf of the applicant and discussed the changes that she
said she heard the Planning Commission to require, which include: 1) Massing of the structures on the
lot; 2) Location, height and imposing nature of the stable; 3) Minimizing the disturbance; 4) Lowering
the stable; and 5) Adjust how everything sits on the lot. She indicated the applicant is requesting to
continue this matter to a future meeting.
At the request of the applicant, consideration of this matter was continued to a future date. No action
was taken and the public hearing was continued.
NEW PUBLIC HEARINGS
ZONING CASE NO. 928. Request for a Site Plan Review, Conditional Use Permit and
a Variance to construct a 2,200 sq. ft. stable footprint with 950 sq. ft. loft, (3,150 sq.ft.
total), a 3,100 sq. ft. corral and an 800 sq.ft. guest house; grading of 1,890 cubic yards
of dirt for the improvements and to legalize previously graded path; to construct several
over 3' high retaining walls (5' max.) and a pool and to exceed the maximum permitted
disturbance of the lot to up to 52.5%, at a property located at 1 Middleridge Lane
North, (Lot 15, 16, 17 -MR), Rolling Hills, CA. (Cipolla). CEQA Categorical
Exemption under Class 3, Section 15303.
Chairman Chelf introduced the item and asked for staff's comments. Planning Director Schwartz
stated that the proposed project is to construct a stable with a loft, corral and access to the stable,
retaining wall, a guest house, swimming pool and related grading for these improvements. She stated
that the applicants were requesting a Site Plan Review, Conditional Use Permit and a Variance.
Planning Director Schwartz stated that two inquiries were received concerning ponding and mosquitos
on the property. She stated that she contacted the Department of Fish and Wildlife and the Army Corp
of Engineers to determine if any of the upgrading would affect any matters under their purview. She
stated that a letter was received from the aforementioned agencies indicating that the proposed
upgrades would not affect the flow line and that no permit was required for the project.
Chairman Chelf called for public comment.
Tavisha Ales, Bolton Engineering, commented that she believed the new application met the concerns
of the neighbors while meeting the applicant's requests. She stated that changes were made to the
project and no responses were received from the neighbors.
Emily Cipolla, 1 Middleridge Lane North, commented that she contacted her neighbors and did not
receive any responses. She indicated that she would like to take their concerns into consideration.
Consideration of this matter was continued to a field trip to be held on Tuesday, October 17, 2017
beginning at 7:30 a.m. at 1 Middleridge Lane North. The public hearing was continued.
ZONING CASE NO. 932. Request for a Site Plan Review to construct higher than
previously approved ridge line for a project consisting of an addition and major
renovation. The "as built" condition has been built not per the approved plans, at 24
Cinchring Road (Lot 18 -3 -CH), Rolling Hills, CA, (Nakamura). CEQA Categorical
Exemption under Class 3, Section 15303.
Chairman Chelf introduced the item and asked for staff's comments. Planning Director Schwartz
stated that this is a new public hearing before the Planning Commission. She stated that the project is
to modify a project that was previously approved by the Planning Commission as a whole, however;
staff administratively approved 850 square foot addition to the residence. She stated that the Planning
Commission approved a garage for this project and placed a "no further development without Planning
Commission review and approval" condition on the project. She stated that the property is located at
the end of Cinchring Road and is zoned RAS-1. Planning Director Schwartz reviewed the history of
the project from 2007. She indicated that the applicants came several times to the Planning
Commission with several versions of how they would like to accommodate a two -car garage and a
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1,400 square foot mixed use structure was approved to the rear of the residence. She stated that in
2013 the City issued a demolition permit for the interior work and a building permit for the residence
modification addition was pulled in June 2014. She stated that a pre -construction meeting was held
with the applicants, their engineers, architects, County building department and City staff, to review
the rules, regulations and conditions prior to the start of the project. She stated that a complaint was
received in June of 2015 from the neighbors regarding a possible tall structure, possibly taller than
what was approved so staff initiated a code enforcement case and worked with the applicant and
eventually issued a stop work order in October 2015. Planning Director Schwartz indicated that the
applicants were informed that they needed to conform or come to the Planning Commission for
consideration of approval of the modifications. She indicated that the applicants sent a letter stating
that they would like to keep what is there and come and modify their project before the Planning
Commission. She stated that because the modification involved the plate height and a different roof,
staff encouraged the applicants to work with the Rolling Hills Community Association (RHCA) to
determine whether they would review the project in concept because of the plate height being so high.
Planning Director Schwartz indicated they went to the RHCA several times and proposed several
different projects. She stated that the applicants eventually requested to come before the Planning
Commission seeking approval of what has been built but they are willing to remove one foot of what
has been built. She indicted that a field trip would be necessary to understand the project. She stated
the applicant built a structure, put a temporary roof on it because it was for winterization and the
structure was built to be approximately three feet higher than what was approved. She indicated that
there is also a discrepancy on the plans versus what was approved. She indicated the applicant
believes that the ridge height that was approved was 917.25 feet. She discussed the Site Plan that was
originally approved and that this was from the approved plans that went to the County Building
Department and were approved by the County Building Department after the RHCA and City
approved them. Planning Director Schwartz reviewed the additions and the massing and the bulk of
the project. She discussed the roof plan that was being proposed, the Dutch gable roof, the floor plan,
the basement and mezzanine. She indicated that the City does not regulate floor plans as long as it is a
one story single family residence. She reviewed the new proposed plans. She reviewed the
discrepancy of the ridge height and stated the applicants would like to bring it down to 919 feet even if
917.25 feet was the approved ridge line.
In response to Chairman Chelf's question, Planning Director Schwartz stated that the plans submitted
to the County Building Department include an elevation plan showing the ridgeline at about 916 feet;
whereas the roof plan shows the ridge height as 917.25 feet. She further stated that the front looks like
it is 20 feet and the rear taller because of the elevation drop; however, this would be screened by tiered
walls required by the Architectural Committee.
Planning Director Schwartz summarized that before the Planning Commission's consideration was the
mass and the bulk and the fact that the project has not been built to approved plans and whether the
Planning Commission feels that it is compatible with the General Plan, the Site Plan Review criteria
and if it adds bulk and massing to the structure. She indicated that no other elements have changed in
respect to the development of the proposal for coverages and footprints, and that all other elements that
were previously approved will stay the same.
In response to Chairman Chelfs inquiry, Planning Director Schwartz indicated that the ridge height
that was approved by the RHCA is the same as was submitted to the Building Department and
approved by them. She stated that a 3:12 roof slope was approved and the applicants are asking for
4:12 roof slope. Planning Director Schwartz indicated that staff received additional information,
which is attached to the staff report, from the complaining party that explained the project, the
complaint, as well as an excerpt from a deposition of the previous architect for the project.
Chairman Chelf called for public comment.
Charles Belak-Berger, Architect for 24 Cinchring Road, commented that the structure almost exists
and that his clients are requesting an increase in the height of the project, which would make it possible
for them to use a mezzanine. He stated his clients are working hard to get the plate line issue resolved
and that he believed it was under control. Mr. Belak-Berger stated that the plans speak for themselves.
He indicated that his clients are requesting something that is relatively benign although he believed
that some of the neighbors do not agree with the project. He discussed the impact of raising the roof
by two or three feet and that his clients believe it is two feet because they did use the approved set of
plans which specifically and clearly established the maximum heights of the last proposal to be 917.25
feet. He stated that his clients thought they were going up two feet above what had been previously
proposed, at worst it could be three feet, depending on which numbers are looked at. He stated this
might be a discrepancy that would have to be addressed. Mr. Belak-Berger stated that he felt the
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proposal was good and had more mass because of the roof and the elimination of a small amount of
the hips which does take off the ends of the building. He stated that he did not believe that the location
of the building, distance from the adjacent properties, and the fact that the pad elevations were
substantially lower than the neighbors, was impacting any neighbors in terms of the roof height and
additional bulk. He stated that his clients have alleviated some of the new potential issues by putting
in the Dutch gable and might be open to increasing the Dutch gables by moving the vertical line at the
far end of the building.
Chairman Chelf commented that it was clearly shown on the architectural plans that the maximum roof
height was 917 feet and that the contractor did not follow this.
In response to Vice Chairman Kirkpatrick's inquiry, Planning Director Schwartz indicated the main
reason for the ridgeline is for the mezzanine inside the house. Mr. Belak-Berger responded
affirmatively and further clarified the proposed gable roof.
Commissioner Seaburn inquired why the applicants did not come back for approval a few years ago.
In response, Mr. Belak-Berger stated that the owners would have to respond to Commissioner
Seaburn's question directly.
Commissioner Cooley inquired if the building of the higher roof came about because of the
winterization of the building and that the roof was built two or three feet higher than the final proposed
height. In response, Mr. Belak-Berger responded affirmatively.
Planning Director Schwartz further clarified that the winterization added a small amount to the roof
height; therefore, by the time the stop work order was issued the height was already higher than 917
feet.
In response to Chair Chelfs inquiry, Mr. Belak-Berger stated that the highest point of the proposed
mezzanine is approximately eight feet and the floor plate height is approximately ten feet and varies.
Vice Chairman Kirkpatrick indicated that he would like to see the current floor of the house, where the
proposed height of the ceiling would be for the first floor, floor plate and the mezzanine.
Larry Hall, Attorney representing Drs. Brunner and Korzennik, stated that he submitted a detailed
package on September 14, 2017, which included color photographs. Mr. Hall stated his architect made
measurements and went out for a site inspection on February 2, 2017. Mr. Hall stated that he took the
deposition of the original architect and spoke to the contractor who was hired to work on this project.
Mr. Hall stated the contractor was never provided the approved plans and kept requesting them;
however, the plans were never provided. He indicated his clients made an initial report in June 2015.
Mr. Hall indicated that numerous communications went forth from the City, RHCA and the County
and the applicants continued construction after they were advised to stop. He referred to Tab 9 of his
package that included an October 2015 photograph after the stop work order was issued by the County.
Mr. Hall stated that three workers were told to winterize the property and that it was only temporary;
however, the workers built out the full roof. Mr. Hall stated that a photograph of the roof, located in
Tab 2, looks nothing like anything in the City. Mr. Hall stated this is the reason his clients are here.
He stated that the Nakamuras used a structural engineer to build the roof and never had their architect
or a general contractor review the approved plans. Mr. Hall indicated that the Nakamuras did what
they wanted to do and when they were caught they kept pushing the City, RHCA and the County to
approve what they built. Mr. Hall stated this is what his clients are objecting to and if the Nakamuras
do what they say they are going to do, it will not address the problem
In response to Commissioner Seaburn's inquiry, Mr. Hall stated that he felt the house as built was in
the view of the Brunners.
Vince DiBiasi, Architect representing Drs. Brunner and Korzennik, commented on the submitted plans
by the applicants and explained why they do not add up mathematically. Mr. DiBiasi indicated that a
high structure was put in place, and through the winterization process, a much higher roof ranging
from 9 feet to 16 feet on one side now exists. He stated this was a significant project and that the
Nakamuras did not follow the approved plans. Mr. DiBiasi discussed the structures that are not shown
in any plans and indicated that he felt the construction was deliberate. Mr. DiBiasi provided additional
documents to the Planning Commission.
Dr. Elliot Brunner, 26 Cinchring Road, commented that he purchased his home in April 2013 and
began remodeling his home. Dr. Brunner indicated that the Nakamuras started their construction when
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he was in the middle of his construction. Dr. Brunner stated that he became concerned in the Fall of
2015 as the Nakamuras were building a massive structure which stood considerably higher than the
original structure. He indicated that he never saw silhouette flags outlining their construction and
never received any notice regarding the Nakamuras project. Dr. Brunner indicated that steel posts
were erected with saddles on top. He inquired with Mrs. Nakamura regarding the steel posts and Mrs.
Nakamura said they would be trimmed down, which did not happen. Dr. Brunner indicated that Lucas
Brothers Construction was the original contractor on the project and that Dan Martinez was the builder.
He stated that Mr. Martinez was not allowed to view the approved plans and Mr. Martinez objected to
another contractor installing the steel beams. Dr. Brunner indicated that the steel beams were detailed
on plans that were never shown to Mr. Martinez or approved by the City. Dr. Brunner stated that he
notified the City of his concerns approximately on September 29, 2015 and a stop work order was
issued the by the County Inspector. He stated the County Inspector placed a red tag on the project and
a letter from the RHCA was sent to the Nakamuras, which was not complied with. Dr. Brunner
indicated that the Nakamuras finished the entire roof in violation of the stop work order and that this
structure impacts his surroundings to a substantial degree. Dr. Brunner stated he would not have
purchased his property had he known this would happen. He stated the building is massive, unsightly
and does not fit in harmoniously with the surroundings. Dr. Brunner felt that the regulations were
meant to protect the homeowners from massive dwellings as well as to establish a uniform
architectural aesthetic for the City. Dr. Brunner stated that if this project is allowed to be built then the
regulations will mean little and a precedent will be set. Dr. Brunner further stated that the Nakamuras
have shown a disregard for the regulations of the City and he would like them to build what was
approved.
Mitzi Nakamura, 24 Cinchring Road, commented that she was unaware of the documents that were
sent as attachments to her parents and provided documents to the Planning Commission. She provided
the background on the issues with the owners of 26 Cinchring Road. She stated that her parents
purchased the home in 2000 and indicated there was a fire in 2009. Ms. Nakamura stated that they had
approved plans from Bizhan Khaleeli, Architect, and that Dr. Brunner was not aware of the approved
plans. She indicated that Dr. Brunner's wife, Dr. Korzennik, has been harassing her family. Ms.
Nakamura discussed photographs of 24 Cinchring Road. She stated that she felt the Brunner's view
was not obstructed. Ms. Nakamura discussed the winterization of the roof and the barn look accused
by Dr. Brunner.
In response to Chair Chelf's inquiry, Ms. Nakamura stated that she could not respond with a reason
why her parents did not follow the plans.
Takashi Nakamura, 24 Cinchring Road, commented that he stopped construction after he received a
stop work order from the County. Mr. Nakamura indicated that the roof is temporary and not final. He
stated that the temporary roof would be taken out when construction begins and that it was installed to
protect the building from rain.
Toshiko Nakamura, 24 Cinchring Road, stated that Dr. Brunner's worker broke her waterline and she
received payment from Dr. Brunner for the broken waterline. She stated that the project is only two
feet higher.
Consideration of this matter was continued to a field trip to be held on Tuesday, October 17, 2017
beginning at 7:30 a.m. at 24 Cinchring Road. The public hearing was continued.
MARIJUANA REGULATIONS RESOLUTION NO. 2017-17
CONSIDERATION OF A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION
OF THE CITY OF ROLLING HILLS RECOMMENDING THAT THE CITY
COUNCIL AMEND SECTIONS 17.08.050 AND 17.16.020 AND ADD A NEW
CHAYThR 17.29 TO TITLE 17 OF THE ROLLING HILLS MUNICIPAL CODE
IN ORDER TO PROHIBIT COMMERCIAL (MEDICAL AND NON -MEDICAL)
MARIJUANA ACTIVITIES, ALLOW FOR THE DELIVERY OF MEDICAL
MARIJUANA, AND TO REGULATE THE CULTIVATION OF MARIJUANA
FOR PERSONAL USE WITHIN THE CITY, IN ZONING CASE NO. 933 AND
ZONING CODE AMENDMENT NO. 2017-02.
CEQA CATEGORICAL EXEMPTION SECTIONS 15031(B)(3), 15060(C)(3), AND
15061(B)(3).
Chairman Chelf introduced the item and asked for staff's comments: Assistant City Attorney Karpeles
presented the staff report and provided the background and history of the Medical Marijuana
Regulation and Safety Act (MMRSA). She stated that in 2016 the City Council discussed this issue,
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and the City Attorney's Office prepared a draft Resolution which was approved by the Planning
Commission, and then was presented to the City Council. She stated that at that time the City Council
was deliberating on the MMRSA ordinance when Proposition 64 was being introduced for the
November election. She stated the City Council determined it would postpone any discussion
regarding a marijuana ordinance until the outcome of the November election. She indicated that
Proposition 64 passed. Assistant City Attorney Karpeles indicated that staff has now drafted language
for consideration by the Planning Commission in light of Proposition 64 and prior discussions
regarding medical marijuana.
Planning Director Schwartz reviewed the amendments to the proposed ordinance as presented in the
staff report. She highlighted the following items in the proposed ordinance: 1) Delivery of medical
marijuana is allowed; however, delivery is not allowed by a mobile marijuana dispensary; 2) Addition
of a new title to the Zoning Code to specifically address the marijuana ordinance; 3) Intent and
Purpose Section — This section states that the intent is to prohibit certain marijuana uses; however, the
City must keep in alignment with the State law; therefore, the City must allow anything that has been
minimally approved by the State; 4) Added definitions taken from the MMRSA; 5) Prohibited Uses
and Activities Section — There are specific uses that would be prohibited such as commercial activity
whether for profit or nonprofit, a property owner may not lease or conduct commercial business within
the property; 6) No delivery for commercial marijuana use is allowed; however, transporting from
within the City to outside City limits is permitted; 7) Exceptions section describes activities that are
permitted; 8) State law allows persons 21 years of age or older to be able to possess, process, cultivate,
hold, and smoke up to 28.5 grams of non -concentrated marijuana and up to 8 grams of concentrated
marijuana; 9) No more than 6 marijuana plants are permitted inside and outside of a structure.
Planning Director Schwartz indicated that in the previous discussions the Planning Commission
recommended the allowance of indoor cultivation to the City Council; however, 4 of the 5 City
Councilmembers also favored the allowance of outdoor cultivation. She stated that the proposed
Resolution includes the allowance of outdoor cultivation; and 10) Registration Section — This section
will require that residents register with the City.
In response to questions from the Planning Commission, Assistant City Attorney Karpeles clarified
that residents have to register per the State law only if they are going to provide a commercial
marijuana service or engage in one of the activities that would require registration and permitting. She
stated that registration under the State law only applies to commercial activity. City Attorney Karpeles
further clarified that because the City is not allowing commercial activity and requiring its own
registration process, residents would not have to register with the State.
Discussion ensued among the Planning Commissioners and Assistant City Attorney Karpeles
concerning registration requirements, the State law's recommendation of providing the three State
agencies responsible with overseeing the Medicinal and Adult -Use Regulation and Safety Act with a
copy of the City's adopted ordinance so they are aware of what activities are allowed and not allowed
by the City.
Planning Director Schwartz continued discussion of the following items of the proposed ordinance: 1)
Marijuana cultivation is only allowed on a developed parcel with a residential unit; 2) Registrant must
reside on property; and 3) Cultivation can take place inside a residence, garage, fully enclosed
detached accessory structure, or a fully fenced and lockable outdoor area and may not be visible from
any street, public easement, designated trail or neighboring property.
Discussion ensued concerning enforcement and simplifying the proposed ordinance; the registration
process; the number of marijuana plants allowed; personal marijuana cultivation conditions as they
relate to health and safety; commercial use; and making future amendments to the ordinance if
necessary.
Chairman Chelf called for public comment.
Leah Mirsch, 4 Cinchring Road, commented that the City Council found it challenging to review the
ordinance since it was required by State law. She further stated that sometimes there are subject
matters that need to be addressed even though the City Council and Planning Commission may not
have an interest in them.
Assistant City Attorney Karpeles indicated that on January 1, 2018 it is anticipated that the State will
begin to issue licenses; therefore, it would be in the best interest of the City to have an ordinance in
place prior to that date.
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Following discussion, the Planning Commission concurred to add the following amendment to the
proposed Resolution No. 2017-17: 1) Section 17.29.050 Personal Marijuana Cultivation — Remove the
entire section.
Following public comment and discussion, Commissioner Seaburn moved that Resolution No. 2017-
17 be adopted as amended per the Planning Commission's direction and forward the matter to the City
Council for consideration at a future City Council Meeting. Vice Chairman Kirkpatrick seconded the
motion, which carried without objection.
SCHEDULE OF FIELD TRIPS (October 17, 2017)
The Planning Commission scheduled a field trip to the following properties to be held on Tuesday,
October 17, 2017 beginning at 7:30 a.m.
24 Cinchring
1 Middleridge Lane North
OLD BUSINESS
None.
ITEMS FROM STAFF
Planning Director Schwartz informed the Planning Commission that the proposed View Ordinance will
be considered by the City Council at their meeting of September 25; 2017.
ITEMS FROM THE PLANNING COMMISSION
Chairman Chelf requested a future discussion on the following items: 1) Driveways subject to Fire
Department requirements; and 2) Adding equestrian information to staff reports in relation to
additional grading and disturbance.
ADJOURNMENT
Hearing no further business before the Planning Commission, Chairman Chelf adjourned the meeting
at 9:37 p.m. to an adjourned regular meeting of the Planning Commission scheduled to be held on
Tuesday, October 17, 2017 beginning at 7:30 a.m. for the purpose of conducting a site visit to 24
Cinchring Road and 1 Middleridge Lane North. The next regular meeting of the Planning Commission
is scheduled to be held on Tuesday, October 17, 2017 beginning at 6:30 p.m. in the City Council
Chamber, Rolling Hills City Hall, 2 Portuguese Bend Road, Rolling Hills, California.
Respectfully submitted,
Yve'fte Hall
Interim City Clerk
Approved,
V.-t� `t
Brad Chelf,
Chairman
-10-
Minutes
Planning Commission Meeting
09-19-17