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686, Construction of a new building, CorrespondenceYolanta Schwartz Planning Director City of Rolling Hills No. 2 Portuguese Road Rolling Hills, California 900274 May 5, 2005 ay MAY 1 6 2005 CITY OFF ROL:a,tiu HILLS SUBJECT: ZONING CASE NO. 686, Request for a Site Plan Review and Conditional Use Permit to construct a new building on school district property to be utilized by Costume Closet, 38 Crest Road West, (Lot 74-MS), Rolling Hills, CA. Dear Ms. Schwartz, The Costume Closet would like to apply for a two year extension on the above stated matter. Enclosed is a check for $200.00. The reason for the extension is that the building that we wish to build has been going through extensive alterations from the State of California Architectural Review Committee and the cost has spiraled. Our funds are limited and so at this time we are exploring other solutions with the Palos Verdes Peninsula School District. We do not wish to give up this site as further fund raising is possible. Please schedule us for the June 21st Planning Commission meeting. I will be out of the country until June 6th. Please direct any questions you may have during this time to Sylvia Bronaugh, 310-377-4664. Thank you for your attention in this matter. Yours truly, Arline A. Grotz Chairperson of Save the Costume Closet Campaign Yolanta Schwartz Planning Director City of Rolling Hills No. 2 Portuguese Road Rolling Hills, California 900274 y April 12, 2007 SUBJECT: ZONING CASE NO. 686, Request for a Site Plan Review and Conditional Use Permit to construct a new building on school district property to be utilized by Costume Closet, 38 Crest Road West, (Lot 74-MS), Rolling Hills, CA. Dear Ms. Schwartz, The Costume Closet has moved to its present location at 300 B Paseo del Mar. This accommodation was provided by the Palos Verdes Peninsula Unified School District. We would like to thank the City of Rolling Hills and all of its officials and administrators for their courtesy and patience in helping us to resolve the problem of a permanent location. We will not be pursuing a location in your city any further. If there are any fees associated with our request that can be refunded to us should be addressed to the "Save the Costume Closet Campaign" and sent to our treasurer, Judy Lacer, 5621 Sunmist, Rancho Palos Verdes, California 90275. Thank you for your attention in this matter. Very truly yours, Jo:A, Arline Grotz Chairperson of the Save the Costume Closet Committee • Ci4 ofiePe.n9 June 15, 2005 Mrs. Arline Grotz Chairperson, Save the Costume Closet Campaign 3720 Hightide Drive Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275 INCORPORATED JANUARY 24, 1957 NO. 2 PORTUGUESE BEND ROAD ROLLING HILLS, CALIF. 90274 (310) 377-1521 FAX: (310) 377-7288 E-mail: cityofrh@aol.com SUBJECT: TIME EXTENSION APPROVAL IN ZONING CASE NO. 686 Dear Mrs. Grotz: This letter shall serve as a notification that a two-year time extension was APPROVED by the Planning Commission at their regular meeting on June 14, 2005, for the subject case. have enclosed a copy of RESOLUTION NO. 2005-16, specifying the conditions of approval set forth by the Planning Commission. Please note that this approval will expire on JUNE 18, 2007, unless construction commences on or arior to that date. Pursuant to the Rolling Hills Municipal Code no further extensions are permitted. Feel free to call me at (310) 377-1521 if you have any questions. Sincerely, Yolanta Schwartz, Planning Director cc: Dr. Ira Toibin, PVPUSD Superintendent ®Pr nt cI on N.. yclr:d RESOLUTION NO. 2005-16 A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF ROLLING HILLS APPROVING A MODIFICATION TO PLANNING COMMISSION RESOLUTION NO. 2004-15 AND APPROVING A TWO YEAR TIME . EXTENSION FOR A PREVIOUSLY APPROVED SITE PLAN REVIEW APPROVAL AND CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT FOR GRADING AND CONSTRUCTION OF A NEW BUILDING ON THE SCHOOL DISTRICT PROPERTY, TO BE UTILIZED BY THE COSTUME CLOSET, IN ZONING CASE NO. 686 AT 38 CREST ROAD WEST, (LOT 74-MS), (PVPUSD). THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF ROLLING HILLS DOES HEREBY FIND, RESOLVE AND ORDER AS FOLLOWS: Section 1. An application was duly filed by Costume Closet, on behalf of the property owners, with respect to real property located at 38 Crest Road West, (Lot 74- MS), Rolling Hills, CA requesting a two-year time extension for a previously approved zoning case. Section 2. The Commission considered this item at a meeting on June 14, 2005 at which time information was presented indicating that additional time is needed to process the development application. Section 3. Based upon information and evidence submitted, the Planning Commission does hereby amend Paragraph A, Section 11 of Resolution No. 2004-15, dated May 18, 2004, to read as follows: "A. The Site Plan Review and Conditional Use Permit approvals shall expire in three years from the effective date of approval of this application if construction pursuant to these approvals has not commenced within that time period, as required by Sections 17.42.070(A) and 17.46.080(A) of the Rolling Hills Municipal Code". Section 4. Except as herein amended, the provisions and conditions of Resolution No. 2004-15 shall continue to be in full force and effect. PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED THIS 14th DAY OF JUNE 2005. ROGE SOMMER, CHAIRMAN ATTEST: MARILYN KERN, DEPUTY CITY CLERK STATE OF CALIFORNIA COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES ) §§ CITY OF ROLLING HILLS I certify that the foregoing Resolution No. 2005-16 entitled: A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF ROLLING HILLS APPROVING A MODIFICATION TO PLANNING COMMISSION RESOLUTION NO. 2004-15 AND APPROVING A TWO YEAR TIME EXTENSION FOR A PREVIOUSLY APPROVED SITE PLAN REVIEW APPROVAL AND CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT FOR GRADING AND CONSTRUCTION OF A NEW BUILDING ON THE SCHOOL DISTRICT PROPERTY, TO BE UTILIZED BY THE COSTUME CLOSET, IN ZONING CASE NO. 686 AT 38 CREST ROAD WEST, (LOT 74-MS), (PVPUSD). was approved and adopted at an adjourned regular meeting of the Planning Commission on June 14, 2005 by the following roll call vote: AYES: Commissioner DeRoy, Hankins, Witte and Chairman Sommer. NOES: None. ABSENT: None. ABSTAIN: None. and in compliance with the laws of California was posted at the following: Administrative Offices . DEPUTY CITY LERK I City ofi2 fPn9 Jhff. COURTESY REMINDER • INCORPORATED JANUARY 24, 1957 NO. 2 PORTUGUESE BEND ROAD ROLLING HILLS, CALIF. 90274 (310) 377-1521 FAX: (310) 377-7288 E-mail: cityofrh@aol.com May 3, 2005 Dr. Ira Toibin, Superintendent of Schools Palos Verdes Peninsula Unified School District 3801 Via La Selva Palos Verdes Estates, CA 90274 SUBJECT: ZONING CASE NO. 686, Request for a Site Plan Review and Conditional Use Permit to construct a new building on school district property to be utilized by Costume Closet, 38 Crest Road West, (Lot 74-MS), Rolling Hills, CA. Dear Dr. Toibin: This letter is to inform you that it has been almost one year since the Planning Commission granted approval in Zoning Case No. 686. The approval will expire on TUNE 16, 2005, unless grading and/or construction commences on or prior to that date. You can request an extension of the approval for two years if you apply to the Planning Commission in writing to request an extension prior to the expiration date. In your request indicate the reason for seeking the extension. The filing fee for the time extension is $200 payable to the City of Rolling Hills. The Planning Commission meets on the third Tuesday of each month. In order for your request to be placed on the Planning Commission's agenda, it must be submitted to the Planning Department a minimum of two weeks prior to the Commission's meeting. The next two meetings of the Planning Commission are scheduled for May 17, 2005 and June 21, 2005. Should you have any questions, please call me at 310 377-1521. Sincerely, e !I1'planta Schwartz 31anning Director cc: Douglas McHattie, Bolton Engineering Arline Grotz, Costume Closet ®f'rintc'rl can Hr,�yr,Inri I',iva SAVE THE COSTUME CLOSET CAMPAIGN, CALIFORNIA STATE PTA PALOS VERDES PENINSULA COUNCIL FEIN 23-7050633 PMB# 231 30019 Hawthorne Boulevard Rancho Palos Verdes, California 90275 (310) 378-5005 (310) 377-7746 COSTUME CLOSET Sylvia Bronaugh, Co -Director Judy Lacer, Co -Director BOARD MEMBERS Sally Brown Dina Dini Arline Grotz Annette Gunderson Marla McCraley Mary Ross Cindy Tobis PVP COUNCIL of PTAs Amy Ball Karen Bird Barbara Chan Jackie Clarke Dora de la Rosa Jennifer Denis Angela Guerrero Annette Gunderson Kathy Hopkins Erin LaMonte Alice Lee Lorrie Marino Joyce Miyamoto Mindy Pharris Barbara Moore Marcie Rees Mary Ross Patricia Samaha Darlene Takahashi Kay Vijaiyan Michele Virgo Lisa Tanner Sue Tozaki Janet Young June 6, 2004 Craig Nealis, City Manager Yolanta Schwartz, Planning Director City of Rolling Hills No. 2 Portuguese Bend Road Rolling Hills, California 90274 Dear Mr. Nealis and Ms. Schwartz By CITY OF ROLLING HILLS On behalf of the Costume Closet Board, the Save The Costume Closet Campaign Committee, Palos Verdes Peninsula Council of Parent Teacher Associations and all PTAs I would like to thank you for your help and professionalism in our exciting journey to obtain the Conditional Use Permit for a permanent location for the Costume Closet. Your advice and guidance has been generous and we would like to add you to our list of friends of the Costume Closet. We live in a wonderful community and events like this show just how wonderful it is. Again thank you, Arline A. Grotz, Chairperson of the Save The Costume Closet Campaign • e off !? llinS .JJ.PP May 25, 2004 Dr. Ira Toibin, Superintendent of Schools Palos Verdes Peninsula Unified School District 3801 Via La Selva Palos Verdes Estates, CA 90274 • INCORPORATED JANUARY 24, 1957 NO. 2 PORTUGUESE BEND ROAD ROLLING HILLS, CALIF. 90274 (310) 377-1521 FAX: (310) 377-7288 E-mail: cityofrh@aol.com SUBJECT: ZONING CASE NO. 686, Request for a Site Plan Review and Conditional Use Permit to construct a new building on school district property to be utilized by Costume Closet, 38 Crest Road West, (Lot 74-MS), Rolling Hills, CA. Dear Dr. Toibin: This letter shall serve to notify you that the City Council at their regular meeting on May 24, 2004, received and filed the Planning Commission's resolution granting your request in Zoning Case No. 686. The decision shall become effective thirty days after the adoption of the resolution by the Planning Commission, unless an appeal has been filed to the City Council within that thirty (30) day anneal period. [Section 17.54.010(B) of the Rolling Hills Municipal Code]. Should there be an appeal - (by 6/18/04), the Commission's decision will be stayed until the Council completes its proceedings in accordance with the provisions of the Municipal Code. After the appeal period and before this case takes effect you are required to cause to be recorded an Affidavit of Acceptance Form together with the subject resolution in the Office of the County Recorder. I have enclosed a copy of RESOLUTION NO. 2004-15, specifying the conditions of approval set forth by the Planning Commission and the approved Development Plan to keep for your files. Please complete the enclosed AFFIDAVIT OF ACCEPTANCE FORM, have the signature(s) notarized, and forward, (or hand deliver), the completed form and a copy of the Resolution to: Los Angeles County Registrar -Recorder Real Estate Records Section 12400 East Imperial Highway Norwalk, CA 90650 ®Pnntecf on Roc:yciod Papci. • • Include a check in the amount of $9.00 for the first page and $3.00 for each additional page. The City will notify the Los Angeles County Building & Safety Division to issue grading permits only after the Affidavit of Acceptance and the Resolution are recorded and received by us and any conditions of the Resolution required prior to issuance of building permits are met. Please feel free to call me at (310) 377-1521 if you have any questions. Since/ely, fultip lanta Schwartz lanning Director cc: Arline Grotz, Costume Closet Enclosures: AFFIDAVIT OF ACCEPTANCE FORM RESOLUTION NO. 2004-15 DEVELOPMENT PLAN 4, RECORDING REQUESTED BY AND MAIL' CITY OF ROLLING HILLS 2 PORTUGUESE BEND ROAD ROLLING HILLS, CA 90274 (310) 377-1521 (310) 377-7288 FAX The Registrar -Recorder's Office requires that the form be notarized before recordation. Use Only AFFIDAVIT OF ACCEPTANCE FORM STATE OF CALIFORNIA COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES ) §§ CITY OF ROLLING HILLS ) ZONING CASE NO. 686 SITE PLAN REVIEW XX CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT XX VARIANCES I (We) the undersigned state: PALOS VERDES PENINSULA UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT I am (We are) the owner(s) of the real property described as follows: 38 CREST ROAD ROLLING HILLS, CA, (LOT 74-MS) 90274 This property is the subject of the above numbered case and conditions of approval. I am (We are) aware of, and accept, all the stated conditions in said ZONING CASE NO. 686 SITE PLAN REVIEW VARIANCES CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT XX XX I (We) certify (or declare) under the penalty of perjury that the foregoing is true and correct. 4 Recorders Signature Signature Name typed or printed Name typed or printed Address Address City/State City/State Signatures must be acknowledged by a notary oublic. State of California ' ) County of Los Angeles ) On before me, Personally appeared personally known to me (or proved to me on the basis of satisfactory evidence) to be the person(s) whose name(s) is/are subscribed to the within instrument and acknowledged to me that he/she/they executed the same in his/her/their authorized capacity(ies) and that by his/her/their signature(s) on the instrument the person(s), or the entity upon behalf of which the person(s) acted, executed the instrument. Witness by hand and official seal. Signature of Notary SEE EXHIBIT "A" ATTACHED HERETO AND MADE A PART HEREOF • i May 18, 2004 VIA FACSIMILE AND HAND DELIVERY City of Rolling Hills No. 2 Portuguese Bend Road Rolling Hills, California 90274 Dear Council: nxi 1 8 2004 CITY OF ROLLING HILLS By Re: Zoning Case No. 686 Resolution No. 2004-15 (Costume Closed On May 14, my husband, Roger, was a guest at the Twenty Third Annual Salute to the Los Angeles Dodgers to honor the work being done on behalf of the Hollenbeck Youth Center and to honor the two-time recipient of the Man of the Year Award, Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger. There were comments concerning California fiscal concerns and the urgent need for government to act in a fiscally responsible manner, as well as the applaud the efforts of those in the private sector who championed the sponsorship of the Inner -City Games, thus providing a meaningful contribution to disadvantaged and at -risk youth, thus benefiting our Golden State. Roger spoke with an Economic Representative of the L.A. Housing and Business Team, learning that California -- as a state -- has more vacant buildings and warehouses than all the buildings and warehouses in some of our states. He learned, from the Director of the State's Department of the Youth Authority, just how much dedication is directed toward helping our state's most precious -- and perhaps most endangered resource -- our youth. We juxtapose what serious and fiscally responsible members of state and local government are doing to advance serious solutions to serious problems with this City's proposal to construct yet another warehouse -- this one made of tin and 7,200 square feet in size -- to house the operations of the Costume Closet. Considering the aggregate cost of the parking lot, the sewage hook up and the building itself, the realistic cost of this project will undoubtedly exceed $600,000, all to generate what we are told is about $30,000 in annual revenues "for charity". None of this seems to take into account that there will be maintenance and increased insurance costs involved, nor the cost to either borrow the money for this project (or siphon it from our school system's economically strapped educational system) to "earn" an approximate two (2) percent return on "our investment". • • City of Rolling Hills May 18, 2004 Page 2 My family applauds Commissioner Margeta's reported opposition to this project. No businessperson would give two seconds thought, let alone favorable consideration, to committing this kind of money for a two (2) percent return. And if the answer to that comment is that the project will "only" cost only $100,000 to build, we would ask those that are sponsoring the project to personally pay for the cost overruns. Having been involved in a number of construction projects over the years, I would be willing to wager that this project will cost "someone" several hundred thousand dollars which, if "sensibly" invested, would return far more than $30,000 per year to "benefit" the youth of our community. If one wonders why Rolling Hills is perceived as an "elitist" community pandering to the "privileged few," one need look no further than this project. This is not a criticism of the well meaning few who sponsor this project. It is, however, something of a criticism of a local government who "go along" with such an ill conceived, fiscally irresponsible project. All this, of course, sets aside the fact that, literally, no where in this City could any resident construct a metal building of any size, let alone a 7,200 warehouse. And it further sets aside that those that approve such a project impose -- on a limited number of residents who live in close proximity to this commercial enterprise -- a disruption in the peace and quiet of their home(s). This retail outlet to accommodate this commercial enterprise is a VERY bad idea. In fact, the project is so fiscally absurd that the comment from the City's Planning Director is prescient: " .. that if the Costume Closet ceases the use or the building or changes its nature of operation, a modification to this CUP would be required." The Costume Closet is simply the Trojan horse for what will be the eventual use of this warehouse, and that use -- whatever it is -- is a use that would probably not be well received by the City. It seems perversely appropriate that, to cuckold this City into going along with a project that makes no financial sense involves an organization that rents masks to children. As one family in this City -- who will be directly and adversely effected by this installation -- we are convinced that Halloween has come a little early this year, with the commercial enterprise "trick," not the "treat" coming later. Those Council Members who approve Resolution No. 2004-15 will be solely responsible for breaking a tradition that no prior Council has transgressed since the Citv's incorporation. Those Council Members who approve this Resolution will bear the responsibility for saddling this City with the subsequent commercial enterprises for which this warehouse will be used, whatever those uses may be. • • City of Rolling Hills May 18, 2004 Page 3 We view the approval of this Resolution as a breach of the covenant the Council has with the residents of this community to preserve and protect the tranquility and rural atmosphere of this unique City. For a host of reasons, my family STRONGLY URGES that the Council reject Resolution No. 2004-15 and DISAPPROVE this commercial development at 38 Crest Road West. The Costume Closet has alternatives. We feel that these alternatives need to be fully explored. Rejecting Resolution No. 2004-15 does not represent the "death knell" for the Costume Closet. This group of well intentioned individuals have been "in business" for many years without the benefit of a 7,200 tin warehouse in Rolling Hills. The Hawkins Family 37 Crest Road West Rolling Hills, California 90274 cc: Council Members Craig Nealis, City Manager i Ci1 ofieo Qfiny April 22, 2004 Dr. Ira Toibin, Superintendent of Schools Palos Verdes Peninsula Unified School District 3801 Via La Selva Palos Verdes Estates, CA 90274 SUBJECT: Dear Dr. Toibin: • INCORPORATED JANUARY 24, 1957 NO. 2 PORTUGUESE BEND ROAD ROLLING HILLS, CALIF. 90274 (310) 377-1521 FAX: (310) 377-7288 E-mail: cityofrh@aol.com ZONING CASE NO. 686 Request for a Site Plan Review and Conditional Use Permit to construct a new building on school district property, 38 Crest Road West, (Lot 74-MS), Rolling Hills, CA. This letter shall serve to notify you that the Planning Commission voted at their regular meeting on April 20, 2004 to direct staff to prepare a resolution to approve your request in Zoning Case No. 686. The Planning Commission will review and consider the draft resolution, together with conditions of approval, at an upcoming meeting on May 18, 2004 and make its final decision on your application at that meeting. The findings and conditions of approval of the draft resolution will be forwarded to you few days before the Planning Commission meeting. The decision shall become effective thirty days after the adoption of the Planning Commission's resolution unless an appeal has been filed or the City Council takes jurisdiction of the case within that thirty (30) day appeal period. (Section 17.54.010(B) of the Rolling Hills Municipal Code). Should there be an appeal to the City Council by an interested party or if the City Council takes this case under their jurisdiction, the Commission's decision will be stayed until the Council completes its proceedings in accordance with the provisions of the Municipal Code. As stated above, the Planning Commission's action taken by resolution approving the development application is scheduled for Tuesday, May 18, 2004. That action, accompanied by the record of the proceedings before the Commission, is tentatively scheduled to be placed as a report item on the City Council's agenda at the Council's regular meeting on Monday, May 24, 2004.9- Feel free to call me at (310) 377-1521 if you have any questions regarding this matter. Sincerely, olanta Schwartz Planning Director cc: Arline Grotz, Costume Closet @Printer! On Her:yelnd f':q'wi April 3, 2004 To: City of Rolling Hills Attention: Yolanta Schwartz, Planning Director Re: Response to letters received by Rolling Hills regarding Costume Closet — Site Plan Review/Conditional Use Permi Letters sent to: Arline Grotz — Costume Closet Representative Ira Toibin — PVPUSD Superintendent APR 0 7 2004 CITY OF ROLLING HILLS Dear Yolanta; The following is the Costume Closet's response to the reference letters concerning the Site Plan Review/Conditional Use Permit. Rather than respond to each letter individually, we have categorized the matters discussed in the letters and responded to the general categories. If additional information is required, please do not hesitate to contact us. 1. Issue: Commercialization of Rolling Hills Raised by: Robert and Julie Nagelhout Kathleen Krauthamer Cathy Nichols The Hawkins Family Response: The decision to classify this Non -Profit as a "business" was made by the City of Rolling Hills on the advice of legal counsel. As has been pointed out by the City Attorney at the first meeting, if any business were required to operate with the same hours as the Costume Closet, (i.e., limited hours during the school year, four hours a week during the summer, and closed for all school holidays and vacation times), would not be economically viable. 2. Issue: Additional Security Raised by: Robert and Julie Nagelhout Cathy Nichols The Hawkins Family Response: The Costume Closet will have its own entrance off the access road at 38 Crest Road West. The area will be fenced and gated so that entrance to the Costume Closet area will only be through the gate. Conversely, access to the rest of the facilities, which are located at 38 Crest Road West cannot be through the Costume Closet area. The claim is made that "those Costume Closet's (sic) customers who live, for example, off Palos Verdes Drive East are hardly going to be content in driving around the City to get to the facility." Each of the previous locations for the Costume Closet have been further from Palos Verdes Drive East than the planned new location and it has not resulted in requests for passes through the city. The inference that 10% of the customers of the Costume Closet have criminal interests in the homes and property of the residents of Rolling Hills is an insult to the parents, teachers, students, and customers of the Costume Closet. Steps have been taken to prevent unauthorized access to the Costume Closet, and unauthorized access to other areas through the Costume Closet parking lot. Any other "security" issues, which relate to residents' property and access thereto, can only be addressed by the City Council. Page 1 of 4 3. Sianae Raised by: Kathleen Krauthamer Response: A sign for the Costume Closet will be placed on the display board that exists at the entrance to 38 Crest Road West. Additionally, a directional sign will be placed at the gate to the Costume Closet area. 4. Traffic Raised by: Kathleen Krautkamer City of Rancho Palos Verdes The Hawkins Family Response: During the school year the maximum traffic estimated will be 30 trips per day, four days per week and 45 trips per day, one day per week. During the summer, the maximum traffic is estimated at 12 cars per day, one day per week. At Halloween, the maximum traffic is estimated at 128 cars per day, five days per week, and 92 cars per day, one day per week. The Halloween period is three weeks. As was stated by representatives of Rancho Palos Verdes, this is expected to be a less than significant impact. It should be noted that Rancho Palos Verdes used a figure of 200 cars per day during the Halloween period, a 56% higher figure than that estimated by Costume Closet records. As opposed to traffic to/from St. John Fisher Church and School or Rancho del Mar High School, traffic to the Costume Closet is random rather than concentrated at particular times of the day and week. 5. Glare and Liahtine and Aesthetics Raised by: City of Rancho Palos Verdes The Hawkins Family Response: There are no plans for exterior lighting around the building other than possible motion sensor lights for safety issues. Regarding the matter of glare from the roof on the upslope residences, because the building is located on the north side of the property and the residences are located on the south side of the property, there is very little chance that the sun will reflect off the roof of the building and up the hill to the residences. However, the roof will be made as non -reflective as is economically possible. At the present time there is a major stand of trees at the south end of the property which will screen the building from the residences. There is no need or intention to remove any of these trees for the building. In fact, the north side of the property was chosen because it does not require the removal of screening trees. 6. Noise and Air Quality Raised by: City of Rancho Palos Verdes Response: The construction of the Costume Closet building will be done in conformance with the requirements of the city of Rolling Hills regarding Noise and Air Quality. Page 2 of 4 7. Misinformation Raised by: The Hawkins Family A. If the building is not approved, the Costume Closet will continue to operate somewhere on the Peninsula. Response: For over a year the Costume Closet has looked at alternative locations; none are available on school property, except for the Maintenance Yard. Commercial locations are out of the question, because the cost of rent would not allow any money to be returned to the PTAs. Since the Costume Closet is a fund-raising arm of the PTA it will not exist if funds are not returned to the PTA. B. The Costume Closet has 65,000 costumes. Response: Although attributed to "one of its operators", the real number is 6,500-7,000. C. The Costume Closet has garments for sale or rent. Response: The Costume Closet does not sell costumes. D. The persons who operate the Costume Closet will request permission to drive through Rolling Hills to get to the Costume Closet. Response: The Co -Directors of the Costume Closet live on the west side of the Peninsula; therefore they would not need to pass through the city of Rolling Hills. E. The building will easily cost "$900,000 to $1.350 million" Response: The actual cost of the building is approximately $150,000. Not included are the costs associated with obtaining permits, grading, and passing the State Architectural requirements; these costs are estimated to be approximately $100,000. F. The agreement with the PVPUSD contains "small print" that the building, if vacated by the Costume Closet, will be used for "other purposes" such as "another `commercial use."' Response: The Resolution authorizing the PTA to build the building is a matter of public record of the Board of Education of the Palos Verdes Peninsula Unified School District. G. Why not have the Costume Closet operate from "the many warehouses that already exist on the location." Response: None of the warehouses have the excess room required to house the 6,500 costumes. H. The residents "have not been fully apprised of the size of the operation." Response: None of the information provided in this response is new. All of it has been discussed at numerous meetings held by the Planning Committee and the City Council. I. The decision needs to be made from the perspective of whether to allow the Costume Closet to build is in the best interests of this community. Response: The Costume Closet was founded in 1977 for the purpose of forming a repository for the storage of teaching aids in order to enhance the educational experience for PVPUSD students, in the form of costumes and research books for the various periods of historical importance. The costumes are used for plays, book reports, and classroom projects such as the Page 3 of 4 study of the Colonial period or the Civil War. In addition, students from the entire Peninsula use our facility. Since its founding, the Costume Closet has also become the fund raising committee of the PTA. Funds are disbursed to the PVP Council of PTAs, all PTA units, and the PVPUSD schools. Additionally, over one million dollars has been distributed by way of free costume rental, free orchestra tuxedoes, and reduced rate rentals. Over four hundred and fifty thousand dollars ($450,000) has been distributed to the Palos Verdes Peninsula PTAs and the School District during the Costume Closet's existence. The Peninsula community is very supportive of the Costume Closet, as it is of many other charitable organizations. Our goal is to continue to nurture the positive relationships that have evolved over the years with the people we serve. Arline Grotz - Costume Closet Representative Ira Toibin, PVPUSD Superintendent Page 4 of 4 Mr) MAR 2 6 2004 CITY OF ROLLING HILLS March 25, 2004 Planning Commission By Planning Department 2 Portuguese Bend Road Rolling Hills, CA 90274 Dear Commissioners, This is regarding the Notice of Negative Declaration for Zoning Case No. 686 regarding the request by the Palos Verdes Peninsula Unified School District (PSPUSD) on behalf of the Costume Closet, a fund raising committee of the PVPUSD PTA for a site plan review and conditional use permit for the construction of a new building on the property at 38 Crest Road West in the City of Rolling Hills. We have two concerns regar-ding the construction of this building and the precedent of allowing a business to operate within Rolling Hills: 1) First, we will have "additional" security issues regarding the permanent opening of a business operating within Rolling Hills that does not have to pass through the current security at the gate (or the soon to be enhanced security). We say additional because the issue currently exists and has not been addressed. An example is the Adult Education program at the school. For most or all of the day, and at times that are unregulated by the Rolling Hills security, individuals currently have unsecured access to our property either through the trails coming up from Rancho Palos Verdes, or from the Rancho Del Mar School. We are immediately adjacent to the school and the trails and are vulnerable to access to our property by "unscreened" individuals. We have experienced vandalism as a result of this accessibility. 2) Second, the operation of a business seems to conflict with our zoning. This is not something that we should allow as an exception. It is very tempting for many individuals, at a time when digital communication from within Rolling Hills to the outside world is readily available, to establish businesses in order to minimize their overhead, avoid traffic, and optimize their lifestyle. We would set a very bad precedent that could open the door for many people to follow suit. This would inevitably open the door for greater required access to Rolling Hills by business stakeholders (i.e. suppliers, customers, etc.). We are very supportive of charitable causes, but we do not understand why locating a business within Rolling Hills, a private, gated community is necessary or appropriate. The benefit simply does not outweigh the cost or risk. We thank you for considering our concerns. Sincerely, obert & Julie Nagelhout 16 Crest Rd W Planning Commission Planning Department 2 Portuguese Bend Road Rolling Hills, CA 90274 Dear Commissioners, March 24, 2004 MAR 2 5 2004 CITY OF ROLLING HILLS I have been out of town for a few weeks and returned to find the notice of a proposed costume rental business to be located at 38 Crest Road in Rolling Hills- Zoning Case No. 686. Though it sounds like this particular business represents a good cause, I am concerned about locating it in this area for a variety of reasons. First and foremost is the issue of further undermining the safety and privacy of neighbors living near this area. The school property is very near my home. About a year ago we had a murder committed there. My neighbors have suffered years of serious vandalism because of their proximity and the high visibility of their home to the school property. The Community Association has recently asked us all to fund much higher gate costs to increase the security of this community. However this business will teach an even higher number of non-residents a way to enter Rolling Hills through the back door. We already have a number of non-residents using the school property in large numbers and walking onto our property. This will just increase the number of people who, in the process of renting or delivering costumes, see the considerable parking, facilities and access to Rolling Hills which this area offers. For those of us who live near here, this is very worrisome. Ninety percent or more of these people will cause no problem. It is however to protect the community from the few criminals that we are being asked to pay higher gate security costs to keep Rolling Hills residents safe. Opening the school property to even more outsiders will increase criminals' potential knowledge of; and access to, our homes and property. Secondly I am concerned about the precedent of opening this area for commercial businesses. Rolling Hills is not zoned commercial and I certainly do not want to see the property in question become open to commercial enterprises. This would considerably reduce the quality of life and value of my property. It does not seem fair to subject those of us who live near this area to something that the rest of the community is asking us to pay to avoid where they live. Thus despite what may seem to some a harmless business opportunity for a good cause, I would urge you to turn down this application. Thank you for your consideration. Since 1 ichols 14 Crest Road West DailWIE) MAR 2 2 2004 CITY OF ROLLING HILLS CITY OF \ RANCHO PALOS VERDES By PLANNING, BUILDING, & CODE ENFORCEMENT 18 March 2004 VIA FACSIMILE AND U.S. MAIL FAX: (310) 377-7288 Yolanta Schwartz, Planning Director City of Rolling Hills 2 Portuguese Bend Rd. Rolling Hills, CA 90274 SUBJECT: Comments in Response to the Notice of a Negative Declaration and Public Hearing for a Proposed Site Plan Review and Conditional Use Permit for the Costume Closet at 38 Crest Road West (Zoning Case No. 686) Dear Ms. Schwartz: The City of Rancho Palos Verdes appreciates the opportunity to comment upon the Negative Declaration for the above -mentioned project. We respectfully offer the following comments for your consideration: 1) In the discussion of Aesthetic impacts, the Initial Study notes that no impacts are expected with respect to impacts upon scenic vistas or light and glare resulting from the project (Items I -a and I-d). The project description states that a prefabricated metal structure will house the Costume Closet. Depending upon the finish and/or color of the roof of this building, there might be glare impacts upon upslope residences in the Del Cerro neighborhood of Rancho Palos Verdes. We recommend that the City of Rolling Hills condition this project to avoid the use of highly -reflective or very light-colored finishes on the roof. In addition, since the Costume Closet will be open during evening hours in late October and early November (i.e., the Halloween peak period), it seems likely that exterior lighting on and/or surrounding the building will be required. As such, we recommend that the City of Rolling Hills require any outdoor lighting for this project to utilize downcast fixtures, designed and installed so as to avoid glare and "overspill" of light onto surrounding residences in Rancho Palos Verdes. Finally, we appreciate that, given the significant difference in elevation between the project site and the residences above it in the Del Cerro neighborhood, it may be difficult to provide visual screening of the new structure. However, we would encourage the City of Rolling Hills to require the preservation of as much of the existing mature landscaping as possible to provide some degree of visual screening for properties with existing northward views of the Los Angeles Basin. 2) In the discussion of Air Quality impacts, the Initial Study concludes that no impacts are expected with respect to cumulative increases in criteria pollutants for which the region is in non -attainment (Item III-c). Currently, the Los Angeles Basin is in non -attainment for ozone (03), fine particulate matter (PM10), and carbon monoxide (CO). Although we agree that the proposed project is unlikely to contribute significant additional pollutants in these categories on a regional basis, we suggest that the City of Rolling Hills condition 30940 HAWTHORNE BLVD. / RANCHO PALOS VERDES, CA 90275-5391 PLANNING/CODE ENFORCEMENT (310) 544-5228 / BUILDING (310) 541-7702 / DEPT. FAX (310) 544-5293 / E-MAIL: PLANNING@RPV.COM Yolanta Schwartz 18 March 2004 Page 2 this project to minimize local air quality impacts through appropriate dust control during grading, and by ensuring that construction equipment is properly -tuned and equipped with functional pollution -control devices. 3) In the discussion of Noise impacts, the Initial Study states that no impacts are expected with respect to permanent and temporary noise level increases resulting from the project (Items XI-c and Xl-d). Residences in the Del Cerro (Coveview Drive and Crestwind Drive) and The Countryside (Valley View Road) neighborhoods in Rancho Palos Verdes will be closest to the site of the proposed building. There may be short-term, temporary noise impacts on these residents associated with the preparation of the site (i.e., grading) and the erection of the prefabricated building. As such, we recommend that the City of Rolling Hills condition this project to adhere to reasonable days and hours of construction and grading activity so as to minimize these impacts. With respect to the permanent noise impacts resulting from additional traffic associated with this proposal, please see our comments regarding Transportation/Traffic impacts below. 4) In the discussion of Transportation/Traffic impacts, the Initial Study observes that the impact of additional traffic resulting from the project is expected to be Tess than significant (Item XV-a). The most significant traffic increases (estimated to be more that 200 trips per day by the project proponent) are expected to occur each year during the period from two weeks before Halloween to one week after Halloween. In addition to increasing trips on Crest Road in Rancho Palos Verdes, there may also be increased noise impacts to surrounding Rancho Palos Verdes residents due to the increased number of vehicles on the site during the Halloween peak -demand period. As such, we suggest that the City of Rolling Hills condition this project to include measures to manage traffic flow to, from and on the site so as to minimize any peak -period congestion or noise impacts to surrounding residents. Again, thank you for the opportunity to comment on this project. We respectfully request to receive copies of future public hearing notices and Staff reports for this project. If you have any questions or need additional information, please feel free to contact me at (310) 544-5228 or via e-mail at kitf@rpv.com. Sincerely, it Fox,'AICP Senior Planner cc: Mayor and City Council Les Evans, City Manager Joel Rojas, Director of Planning, Building and Code Enforcement M:\Border Issues\PVPUSD-Costume Closet\20040318_NDComments.doc • • C ITY OF RANCHO PALOS VERDES PLANNING, BUILDING, & CODE ENFORCEMENT 17 March 2004 Bharathi G. Singh 7 Coveview Dr. Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275 By HAR 1 8 2004 CITY OF ROLLING HILLS SUBJECT: Proposed Costume Closet on School District Property at 38 Crest Road West (Rolling Hills Zoning Case No. 686) Dear Mrs. Singh: It was a pleasure to meet you last night at the Rolling Hills Planning Commission meeting. I will be presenting a summary of last night's meeting to our City Council at its meeting on Tuesday, 6 April 2004, and planto submit formal written comments to the City of Rolling Hills in the next few days. I will make sure that you receive copies of the City Council report and my letter. According to Rolling Hills Planning Director Yolanta Schwartz, the Planning Commission will discuss this project again on the evening of 20 April 2004, after conducting a site visit that afternoon. You should contact Ms. Schwartz at (310) 377-1521 for information about the Planning Commission meeting and site visit. If the Planning Commission approves the project that night, the resolution memorializing this action will be presented for the Planning Commission's adoption at a subsequent meeting (possibly on 18 May 2004). If you have any questions or need additional information, please feel free to contact me at (310) 544-5228 or via e-mail at kitf@rpv.com. Sincerely, Kit Fox AICP Senior Planner cc: Yolanta Schwartz,,City of Rolling Hills, 2 Portuguese Bend Rd., RH, 'CA 90274 Border Issues file (PVPUSD-Costume Closet) M:\Border Issues\PVPUSD-Costume Closet\20040317_Singh_FollowUp.doc 30940 HAWTHORNE BLVD. / RANCHO PALOS VERDES, CA 90275-5391 I'LANNINC;/CODE ENFORCEMENT (310) 544-5228 / BUILDING (310) 541-7702 / DEPT. FAX (310) 544-5293 / E-MAIL: PLANNING@RPV.COM • Cuy opeo ePnS March 10, 2004 Los Angeles County Clerk Environmental Filings Department 12400 East Imperial Highway Norwalk, CA 90650 Attn: Gina Morla: • INCORPORATED JANUARY 24, 1957 NO. 2 PORTUGUESE BEND ROAD ROLLING HILLS, CALIF. 90274 (310) 377-1521 FAX: (310) 377-7288 E-mail: cityofrh@aol.com SUBJECT: NOTICE OF NEGATIVE DECLARATION AND NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING FOR CONSIDERATION OF A REQUEST BY THE PALOS VERDES PENINSULA UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT (PVPUSD) ON BEHALF OF THE COSTUME CLOSET, A FUND RAISING COMMITTEE OF THE PALOS VERDES PENINSULA PTA, FOR A SITE PLAN REVIEW AND CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF A NEW BUILDING ON THE PALOS VERDES PENINSULA UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT PROPERTY AT 38 CREST ROAD WEST IN THE CITY OF ROLLING HILLS. Enclosed find a check for $25.00 for a notice fee, for Negative Declaration and Notice of Public Hearing, regarding a request for a Site Plan Review and Conditional Use Permit to construct a new structure at the school district property, to be implemented by the Palos Verdes Peninsula Unified School District. Please post for 30 days and after that time please stamp and return to the City in the enclosed self-addressed envelope. Sin q rely, Y/(f lanta Schwartz (fi anning Director @Printrrl on F;"C.yr:lr;,d Paper CITY OF ROLLIN 2 PORTUGUESE BEND ROAD ROLLING HILLS, CA 90274 LS ********************** PAY TO THE ORDER OF UNION BANK OF CAL NIA 507 Silver Spur Roa Rolling Hills, California 90274 16-496-6/1220 0732002175 Twenty -Five and 00/100 DATE County of Los Angeles Registrar -Recorder 12400 E. Imperial Highwa Norwalk, CA 90650 NUMBER 16580 *********************** AMOUNT 25.00 AUTHORIZE15 SIGNATURE A '''''' _ • __ , .; • 0016580e 1:L220004961: 0732002L7Se CITY OF ROLLING HILLS NUMBER 16580 County of Los Angeles c37 Mar 8 04 INVOICE NO GROSS AMT DISCOUNT NET ZC #686 PVUS 25.00 0.00 25.00 Audited and approved for payment : CITY OF ROLLING HILLS 25.00 NUMBER 16580 County of Los Angeles c37 Mar 8 04 INVOICE NO GROSS AMT DISCOUNT NET ZC #686 PVUS 25.00 0.00 25.00 Audited and approved, for payment : e 25.00 .c2;-DATImr; M02SF024745 City o/ NO. 2 PORTUGUESE BEND RD. ROLLING HILLS, CALIF. 90274 11.11111 I 111..1111111..1.1 Mrs. Yolanta Schwartz Planning Director City of Rolling Hills 2 Portuguese Bend Road Rolling Hills, CA 90274 Vn �.� FfiCiPO on Recycled P3per To The City of Rolling Hills, March 6, 2004 After receiving your notification on Zoning Case No. 686 and reviewing the information I have several areas of concern. 1.The most important concern is allowing a business into an area that is now zoned for residential use only. This sets a precedent for allowing any charitable business into our city, if it benefits our community or the community at large. 2. Signage for the business. They now have LARGE BANNERS. Will they be displayed near the gate entrance to our city or down at the actual building site. 3. Increased traffic. I know there was a study done and it stated that the increased traffic would be minimum, but what is minimum to someone that does not live in this area? There is already a lot of traffic from the present PVPUSD school , St. John Fisher Church /School and the traffic at the gate. As a resident of Rolling Hills for the last 20 years I have patronized the Costume Closet myself. The service they have provided for the Peninsula residents and schools is quite remarkable. However, I moved to Rolling Hills for the quiet and rural atmosphere it provides. I live at 41 Ces't Road West and hope that you will take my concerns under consideration. Thank You, e E.._ 6 Kathleen Krauthamer MAR 0 9 2004 CITY OF ROLLING HILL By • • C14 opeo efin9 �r�P March 5, 2004 Mr. Joel Rojas, Director Environmental Services City of Rancho Palos Verdes 30940 Hawthorne Boulevard Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275 INCORPORATED JANIJARY 24, 1957 NO. 2 PORTUGUESE BEND ROAD ROLLING HILLS, CALIF. 90274 (310) 377-1521 FAX: (310) 377-7288 E-mail: cityofrh@aol.com SUBJECT: NOTICE OF NEGATIVE DECLARATION AND NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING FOR CONSIDERATION OF A REQUEST BY THE PALOS VERDES PENINSULA UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT (PVPUSD) ON BEHALF OF THE COSTUME CLOSET, A FUND RAISING COMMITTEE OF THE PALOS VERDES PENINSULA PTA, FOR A SITE PLAN REVIEW AND CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF A NEW BUILDING ON THE PALOS VERDES PENINSULA UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT PROPERTY AT 38 CREST ROAD WEST IN THE CITY OF ROLLING HILLS. Dear Mr. Rojas: Enclosed find an Initial Environmental Study, Notice of Negative Declaration and Notice of Public Hearing regarding the School District's application for a proposal to construct a new structure at the PVPUSD property to house the Costume Closet and to allow costume storage, rental and services in support of school district operations. After reviewing the Initial Study for the subject project, staff has determined that the proposed project will not have a significant effect on the environment. Accordingly, a Negative Declaration will be prepared. Please review and direct all written comments to the City of Rolling Hills by March 26, 2004. If you have any question, please feel free to contact me at (310) 377-1521. Sincerely, Yolifta Schwartz Placing Director PrIntecl or, N,3c:vr:l, P;i{nn • Ci1 ofieeen$ Jh/'/? March 5, 2004 Dr. Ira Toibin, Superintendent of Schools Palos Verdes Peninsula Unified School District 3801 Via La Selva Palos Verdes Estates, CA 90274 • ( INCORPORATED JANUARY 24, 1957 NO. 2 PORTUGUESE BEND ROAD ROLLING HILLS, CALIF. 90274 (310) 377.1521 FAX: (310) 377-7288 E-mail: cityofrh@aol.com SUBJECT: NOTICE OF NEGATIVE DECLARATION AND NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING FOR CONSIDERATION OF A REQUEST BY THE PALOS VERDES PENINSULA UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT (PVPUSD) ON BEHALF OF THE COSTUME CLOSET, A FUND RAISING COMMITTEE OF THE PALOS VERDES PENINSULA PTA, FOR A SITE PLAN REVIEW AND CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF A NEW BUILDING ON THE PALOS VERDES PENINSULA UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT PROPERTY AT 38 CREST ROAD WEST IN THE CITY OF ROLLING HILLS. Dear Dr. Toibin: Enclosed find an Initial Environmental Study, Notice of Negative Declaration and Notice of Public Hearing regarding the School District's application for a proposal to construct a new structure at the PVPUSD property to house the Costume Closet and to allow costume storage, rental and services in support of school district operations. After reviewing the Initial Study for the subject project, staff has determined that the proposed project will not have a significant effect on the environment. Accordingly, a Negative Declaration will be prepared. Please review and direct all written comments to the City of Rolling Hills by March 26, 2004. If you have any question, please feel free to contact me at (310) 377-1521. Sinjcer 1y, 6/1 Yolanta Schwartz Planning Director cc: Arline and Dick Grotz Printurl ran F1 cv:Irxl • Ci1y oi leo ffin9 March 5, 2004 Mr. Kerwin Chich, Section Head Impact Analysis Section Los Angeles County Department of Regional Planning 320 W. Temple Street Los Angeles, CA 90012 s INCORPORATED JANUARY 24, 1957 NO. 2 PORTUGUESE BEND ROAD ROLLING HILLS, CALIF. 90274 , (310) 377.1521 FAX: (310) 377-7288 E-mail: cityofrh@aol.com SUBJECT: NOTICE OF NEGATIVE DECLARATION AND NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING FOR CONSIDERATION OF A REQUEST BY THE PALOS VERDES PENINSULA UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT (PVPUSD) ON BEHALF OF THE COSTUME CLOSET, A FUND RAISING COMMITTEE OF THE PALOS VERDES PENINSULA PTA, FOR A SITE PLAN REVIEW AND CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF A NEW BUILDING ON THE PALOS VERDES PENINSULA UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT PROPERTY AT 38 CREST ROAD WEST IN THE CITY OF ROLLING HILLS. Dear Mr. Chich: Enclosed find an Initial Environmental Study, Notice of Negative Declaration and Notice of Public Hearing regarding the School District's application for a proposal to construct a new structure at the PVPUSD property to house the Costume Closet and to allow costume storage, rental and services in support of school district operations. After reviewing the Initial Study for the subject project, staff has determined that the proposed project will not have a significant effect on the environment. Accordingly, a Negative Declaration will be prepared. Please review and direct all written comments to the City of Rolling Hills by March 26, 2004. If you have any question, please feel free to contact me at (310) 377-1521. Sin rely, 1�t.0 ,lanta Schwartz lanning Director Pflnttil r)ri F1,.3c • C14, o/ leo PP,.,g Jh/L March 5, 2004 Allan Rigg, Public Works/Planning Director City of Palos Verdes Estates 340 Palos Verdes Drive West Palos Verdes Estates, CA 90274 • INCORPORATED JANUARY 24, 1957 NO. 2 PORTUGUESE BEND ROAD ROLLING HILLS, CALIF. 90274 (310) 377-1521 FAX: (310) 377-7288 E-mail: cityofrh@aol.com SUBJECT: NOTICE OF NEGATIVE DECLARATION AND NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING FOR CONSIDERATION OF A REQUEST BY THE PALOS VERDES PENINSULA UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT (PVPUSD) ON BEHALF OF THE COSTUME CLOSET, A FUND RAISING COMMITTEE OF THE PALOS VERDES PENINSULA PTA, FOR A SITE PLAN REVIEW AND CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF A NEW BUILDING ON THE PALOS VERDES PENINSULA UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT PROPERTY AT 38 CREST ROAD WEST IN THE CITY OF ROLLING HILLS. Dear Allan: Enclosed find an Initial Environmental Study, Notice of Negative Declaration and Notice of Public Hearing regarding the School District's application for a proposal to construct a new structure at the PVPUSD property to house the Costume Closet and to allow costume storage, rental and services in support of school district operations. After reviewing the Initial Study for the subject project, staff has determined that the proposed project will not have a significant effect on the environment. Accordingly, a Negative Declaration will be prepared. Please review and direct all written comments to the City of Rolling Hills by March 26, 2004. If you have any question, please feel free to contact me at (310) 377-1521. Sincerely, 7;1 Yolanta Schwartz Planning Director Prir itet'1 on I1,:r.Vrlr::r1 • • Affiii9. INCORPORATED JANUARY 24, 1957 NO. 2 PORTUGUESE BEND ROAD ROLLING HILLS, CALIF. 90274 (310) 377-1521 FAX: (310) 377-7288 E-mail: cityofrh@aol.com March 5, 2004 Mr. David Wahba, Planning Director City of Rolling Hills Estates 4045 Palos Verdes Drive North Rolling Hills Estates, CA 90274 SUBJECT: NOTICE OF NEGATIVE DECLARATION AND NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING FOR CONSIDERATION OF A REQUEST BY THE PALOS VERDES PENINSULA UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT (PVPUSD) ON BEHALF OF THE COSTUME CLOSET, A FUND RAISING COMMITTEE OF THE PALOS VERDES PENINSULA PTA, FOR A SITE PLAN REVIEW AND CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF A NEW BUILDING ON THE PALOS VERDES PENINSULA UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT PROPERTY AT 38 CREST ROAD WEST IN THE CITY OF ROLLING HILLS. Dear Mr. Wahba: Enclosed find an Initial Environmental Study, Notice of Negative Declaration and Notice of Public Hearing regarding the School District's application for a proposal to construct a new structure at the PVPUSD property to house the Costume Closet and to allow costume storage, rental and services in support of school district operations. After reviewing the Initial Study for the subject project, staff has determined that the proposed project will not have a significant effect on the environment. Accordingly, a Negative Declaration, will be prepared. Please review and direct all written comments to the City of Rolling Hills by March 26, 2004. If you have any question, please feel free to contact me at (310) 377-1521. Sincerely, L/ ' L i I 70, Yglanta Schwartz Planning Director @Pry Ite,I ort H. cycled ('%R r^i • , • pOv -' moo . City 0/ At/G•nv hilo INCORPORATED JANUARY 24, 1957 i. e� NO. 2 PORTUGUESE BEND ROAD ROLLING HILLS, CALIF. 90274 (310) 377-1521 FAX: (310) 377-7288 E-mail: cityotrh@aol.com March 5, 2004 Palos Verdes Peninsula Center Library 650 Deep Valley Drive Rolling Hills Estates, CA 90274 SUBJECT: NOTICE OF NEGATIVE DECLARATION AND NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING FOR CONSIDERATION OF A REQUEST BY THE PALOS VERDES PENINSULA UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT (PVPUSD) ON BEHALF OF THE COSTUME CLOSET, A FUND RAISING COMMITTEE OF THE PALOS VERDES PENINSULA PTA, FOR A SITE PLAN REVIEW AND CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF A NEW BUILDING ON THE PALOS VERDES PENINSULA UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT PROPERTY AT 38 CREST ROAD WEST IN THE CITY OF ROLLING HILLS. Enclosed find an Initial Environmental Study, Notice of Negative Declaration and Notice of Public Hearing regarding the School District's application for a proposal to construct a new structure at the PVPUSD property to house the Costume Closet and to allow costume storage, rental and services in support of school district operations. After reviewing the Initial Study for the subject project, staff has determined that the proposed project will not have a significant effect on the environment. Accordingly, a Negative Declaration will be prepared. Please review and direct all written comments to the City of Rolling Hills by March 26, 2004. If you have any question, please feel free to contact me at (310) 377-1521. Sincerely, r.I 1 ` 'u4 Cgqy.anta Schwartz N'anning Director ® Pro Out un t?.x.vrar,�d I'rr, r.a • • C14 op RO//L Jhft? March 5, 2004 State of California Department of, Fish and Game 330 Golden Shore, Suite 50 Long Beach, CA 90802 INCORPORATED JANUARY 24, 1957 NO. 2 PORTUGUESE BEND ROAD ROLLING HILLS, CALIF. 90274 (310) 377-1521 FAX: (310) 377-7288 E-mail: cityofrh@aol.com SUBJECT: NOTICE OF NEGATIVE DECLARATION AND NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING FOR CONSIDERATION OF A REQUEST BY THE PALOS VERDES PENINSULA UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT (PVPUSD) ON BEHALF OF THE COSTUME CLOSET, A FUND RAISING COMMITTEE OF THE PALOS VERDES PENINSULA PTA, FOR A SITE PLAN REVIEW AND CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT FOR THE CONSTRUCTION OF A NEW BUILDING ON THE PALOS VERDES PENINSULA UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT PROPERTY AT 38 CREST ROAD WEST IN THE CITY OF ROLLING HILLS. Enclosed find an Initial Environmental Study, Notice of Negative Declaration and Notice of Public Hearing regarding the School District's application for a proposal to construct a new structure at the PVPUSD property to house the Costume Closet and to allow costume storage, rental and services in support of school district operations. After reviewing the Initial Study for the subject project, staff has determined that the proposed project will not have a significant effect on the environment. Accordingly, a Negative Declaration will be prepared. Please review and direct all written comments to the City of Rolling Hills by March 26, 2004. If you have any question, please feel free to contact me at (310) 377-1521. (t:// Y ianta Schwartz Parming Director @PH'itr:il on H.x;yglr:d Paper WW1 By FEB 2, 3 2004 CITY OF ROLLING HILLS February 23, 2004 VIA FACSMILE AND U.S. MAIL City of Rolling Hills No. 2 Portuguese Bend Road Rolling Hills, California 90274 Re: Zoning Laws (Costume Closet Pronosal) Dear Council: My family would like to express our opposition to thc Council's apparent amendment of the City's zoning laws to permit, what thc City Attorney has reportedly described, conducting a retail outlet (Costume Closet) within City limits. At the outset, we commend the laudatory objectives of those persons who operate Costume Closet. Having personally spoken with one of its representatives, we are satisfied that the operators arc well intentioned. Even so, the Costume Closet has apparently conducted its business for 25-years in multiple locations, none of which were within our City limits.. We fully expect that the Costume Closet will continue to operate somewhere on the Peninsula, even if not within the City of Rolling Hills. Our family objects to thc amendment of our zoning laws to permit this operation for many reasons. First, we are opposed, in principle, to allowing any commercial business to be conducted within City limits as inappropriate for this community. Irrespective of its charitable purpose, allowing any retail outlet (or other business) to be operated in this community establishes a dangerous precedent that we .feel, should not be indulged. Given the Costume Closet's track record of being systematically ousted from prior locations, there is no guarantee that the Costume Closet will not be similarly be "evicted" from this proposed location, i.e., once the proposed building has been constructed. Second, notwithstanding reported representations of "minimal vehicular traffic and customers" what is characterized as a relatively "small" business, we are told that the project involves the construction of a 6,000 to 7,200 square foot warehouse that will, according to one of its operators, serve to house 65,000 costumes. Much is being .made of the proposed facility having good access to its "central" location and ample parking. City of Rolling Hills February 23, 2004 Page 2 We seriously doubt that many major retail clothing stores contain 65,000 garments for sale or rent. We think it reasonable to predict that any such operation, i.e., to be reasonably "successful," will attract a large volume of vehicular traffic to and from the facility. Due to its "centralized" location, we surmise that the Costume Closet's customer base is necessarily situated in directions 360 degrees around the proposed facility. For these customers to easily drive to and from the facility will predictably draw requests for access to the City through each of the City's three guarded gates, thus dramatically increasing vehicular traffic within this community. While this community has a policy against so-called drive through traffic, the Costume Closet could -- single-handedly -- erode that policy. Notwithstanding any assurances to the contrary, those Costume Closet's customers who live, for example, off Palos Verdes Drive East are hardly going to be long content in driving around the City to get to the facility near its access location next to thc Crenshaw Gate, i.e., not when it is so much more convenient to access the facility by driving through the City via the Eastfield Gate. And will the Council then say that it would be "un-neighborly" to prohibit such drive through traffic? And how is the City going to "police" those individuals who claim to be heading for thc Costume Closet (through, the City), when they simply drive out the Crenshaw Gate to parts unknown???? Parenthetically, we are advised that there is already a request to the Council (or Association) to issue six (6) permits for school personnel, who live on the San Pedro "side" of the hill, to drive through the City to get to the site where the Costume Closet proposes it be allowed to operate. Why should we assume that there will not be similar requests from those persons who operate thc Costume Closet? And in the likely event that the Costume Close is some day replaced with a different commercial enterprise, then isn't it safe to assume there will be still further, similar requests. In that latter regard, to what other commercial use will the planned 6,000-7,200 square foot warehouse be put when, and if, the Costume Closet either voluntarily vacates or is involuntarily vacated from the warehouse? At a construction cost of even a modest $150 per square foot, the warehouse will easily cost $900,000 to $1.350 million. Such a structure will not be dismantled in the event of the Costume Closet's departure; rather, it will be then utilized for another "commercial use," with the nature or that use impossible to predict or, because of an ill-advised 2004 zoning change, impossible to deter. Were we a betting family, we would bet that the proposal already contains a "small print" providing for the building's use for "other purposes" in the event the Costume Closet leaves. If the Council has no way of knowing whether the Costume Closet will vacate the premises after this huge building has been constructed, any more than it can predict to what use the building will then be put, then how can it prudently approve the Costume Closet's request? City of Rolling Hills February 23, 2004 Page 3 Put somewhat differently, if a business or individual purchased a parcel of property within the City and then asked to construct -- not a residence but a commercial structure for a commercial purpose-- on that property, that would provide ease of access from the surrounding communities and a place where ample parking could be provided, the odds of such a permit being authorized is -- and should be -- zero. Yet, under the guise of a transient business (with only a modest track record in terms of "profitability") asking for the same concession, with no guarantees of how long it will even be allowed to remain, the Council seems "eager" to amend long standing zoning laws and grant the commercial enterprise and construction permit. Parenthetically, if thc Council is bent on allowing the Costume Closet an opportunity to conduct its purported no -problem, non-invasive, not -for -profit commercial enterprise from the present location, then why not INSIST that they do so from the many warehouses that already exist on the location. This would be a way of minimizing the risk of some of the problems that we regard as highly predictable. And, it eliminates the problem of saddling this community with a commercial warehouse to be used for some "other purpose" if the Costume Closet ceases to operate or ceases to operate from the proposed location. Third, we do not feel that the Council has made a sufficient effort to insure that all of the residents have been fully advised of the environmental impact this project -- if approved - - could entail, particularly since it is absolutely unknown to what "other purpose" the warehouse could be put if (and we think when) the Costume Closet is asked to vacate the premises. If the Council cannot say, with certainty, what the environmental impact of this warehouse will be on the community when and if some "other commercial enterprise" is allowed to use the proposed warehouse, then the environmental impact is UNKNOWN. We suspect that the residents have not been fully apprised of the size of this operation but, rather, that the Costume Closet -- no pun intended -- is masquerading as a "tiny operation" that will go essentially unnoticed in our community. As such, it will have minimal environmental impact. A peck at thc number of costumes being houscd and, presumably; rented by this turnstile business, not to mention the significant cost of the structure that its business requires, speaks volumes about the likely traffic volume. As residents -- who want less motor vehicle traffic, not more motor vehicle traffic in the City -- we regard the proposal as contrary to that objective. And we suspect that if the Council were to ask the residents of this community if they were "for" or "against" more vehicle traffic in the City, the "against" answer would be deafening. City of Rolling Hills February 23, 2004 Page 4 In the Palos Verdes Peninsula News, Mayor Frank Hill is quoted as saying that the City wants " ... to be very cautious not to alienate or cause any residents to have mixed emotions or bad feelings about it. We are taking our time to try to get it right the first time around." (Emphasis added.) "Getting it right the first time around" means, in our mind, making certain that the residents 'FULLY APPRECIATE what compelling reason would justify an amendment to zoning laws that have otherwise been, essentially unchanged since the City's inception. We feel that it is the Council's obligation to insure such notice is provided and, in this instance, do not feel that adequate notice was given. Fourth, my family lives directly across the street from the proposed warehouse. Of all residents in this community, we shall be the family most directly affected by the proposed installation. While it is no one's business but our own, we routinely make charitable donations, including VERY SUBSTANTIAL charitable contributions this year, to a variety of organizations of our choice. And while we voluntarily make such contributions, we do resent being told that we have to subordinate the `peace and quiet" of our home compromised by persons who will not have the peace and quiet of their homes compromised. We are told that there have been a handful of residents who have slated off on a form letter supporting the Costume Closet: however, none of the residents who support the Costume Closet are directly affected by its operation nor. do we suspect, are fully aware of the size and scope of the business. Godfrey Pernell "got it" right when he reportedly observed that "a zoning change could create a wedge in the community." Absent some very compelling reason to do so, we do not believe the Council should be making decisions that could drive wedges in our community. There arc far enough cxisting wedges to deal with, without provoking more controversy. There is nothing to prevent those residents that "support" the Costume Closet from evidencing their support in other ways. The residents could make direct financial contribution to the organization. The residents could host fund raising events to provide rent subsidies to the Costume Closet relative at locations outside the City. In conclusion, to say that my family has "bad feelings" towards a decision that opens the door to this (or any other) commercial enterprise in the City would be the understatement of 2004. Most respectfully, being a "good neighbor" begins with the residents -- including the Council -- jealously preserving the peace, quiet, safety and tranquility of our City. After all, these are the qualities of our community that make it unique. A decision to allow a commercial enterprise -- of any type -- within the community erodes that uniqueness and should be categorically disallowed. City of Rolling Hills February 23, 2004 Page 5 Our opposition is not driven by strictly parochial concerns over the ability to enjoy our own peace and quiet, though we would hope that the Council would care. Rather, our objection is more broadly triggered by an objection to taking any action that would permit commercial enterprises to be operated within City limits. Respectfully, "lofty purposed" businesses come -and -go; but expensive, empty 6,000- 7,200 square foot buildings remain. One issue is, what will be the next use for which this structure will be utilized? Common sense tells us that it will not be used for a charitable purpose, but for some, unknown business enterprise. And without being able to predict what the enterprise will be, there is no way to predict the degree to which, the next enterprise will impact our community. Prudence dictates that any decision on the Costume Closet's request is not about "looking good" or "feeling good" today. The decision needs to be made from the perspective of whether it is, in short, intermediate and long term, in the best interests of this community. When those interests are not being served, the Council should have the foresight to say "no". When those interests may not be served and could be adversely affected, e.g., when the Council cannot predict how those interests might be impacted through, for instance, a change in use of the building, the Council should have the foresight to say "no"_ The Costume Closet's request is such an instance. And if, as we suspect, that "other purposes" -- albeit unknown purposes -- are already a Hart of the plan. the Council should be esvecially watchful and mindful of this community's interests. Sincer The H.awkin-fiamily 37 Crest Road West Rolling Hills, California 90274 cc: Council Members Craig Nealis, City Manager (via Facsimile) Rolling Hills Community Association (via Facsimile) Peggy Minor, Association Manager, (via Facsimile) Maria A. Gran 18 Outrider Road Rolling Hills, CA. 90274 310.514.0090 10 January 2004 PLANNING COMMISSIONER WITTE City Planning Commission Board 2 Portuguese Bend Road Rolling Hills, CA. 90274 Dear Commissioner Witte and Board Members: ppm JAN 1 '3 2004 By CITV F R-C44=i1NdHILL As a 9 year resident of Rolling Hills and an active member of the community, I would like to express my support of the COSTUME CLOSET and the text amendment to allow them to apply for a permit to erect a building on the Palos Verdes Unified School District property at 38 Crest Road West. They have provided a unique service to our community for over 20 years. Our students and our residents consider them a special and vital dimension for school projects, community theatre and social events. I hope that you will give this important project of the PTA your support in their endeavor. Thank you for your consideration in approving this amendment at the hearing of 20 January 10, 2004. MALCOLM S. SHARP ROLLING HILLS, CALIFORNIA Rolling Hills Planning Commission 2 Portuguese Bend Road Rolling Hills, CA 90274 By JAN 1 2 2004 CITY OF ROLLING HILLS January 8, 2004 To Whom It May Concern: I am writing in support of the Palos Verdes Peninsula Unified School District's application for the proposed ordinance amendment to allow the Palos Verdes Council of PTAs' Costume Closet to apply for a permit to erect a building on the school district's property at 38 Crest Road West. The Costume Closet provides a valuable service to the children of the Peninsula, their parents, the PTAs, the PVPUSD and the greater community. This service would be lost if it were to close. Thank you for considering this amendment and I hope you will approve it at the hearing on January 20, 2004. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions. Yours truly, Malcolm S. Sharp 74 Eastfield Drive Rolling Hills 310•544•8005 P V S H A R P eQ COX . N E T Jan 08 04 07:14a p.1 JUUANNE & FRAMROZE VIRJEE 2 CINCHRING ROAD ROLLING HILLS, CAUFORNIA 90274 310-377-0709 January 7, 2004 Planning Commissioner Witte City Planning Commission Board Members 2 Portuguese Bend Road Rolling Hills, CA 90274 Dear Commissioner Witte and Planning Board Members: I am a 10 year resident of Rolling Hills and an involved community member. I have had the honor of serving as PTA President at Rancho Vista Elementary for two years and then, in the past two years, serving as the PTA President at Dapplegray Elementary. i have been on the PTSA Boards of Miraleste Intermediate for 9 years as well as on the Board at Peninsula High School. I have also served on the Executive Board of the PVPPTSA Council for 12 years. I am writing to advise you of my complete support for the text amendment to allow the Costume Closet to apply for a permit to erect a building on the Palos Verdes Unified School District property at 38 Crest Road West. The Costume Closet provides a valuable service to the children of the Peninsula, their parents, the PTAs, the PVPUSD and the entire South Bay community. It has proven to be an invaluable resource —one that could never be duplicated and would be lost if the Costume Closet were ever to close. We offer a unique service to this community and the surrounding communities —whether it is for actual individual literature, science or history projects in costume, plays in the classroom, school wide productions or even the various community productions. In this time of budget cutbacks the arts have been tragically overlooked and this is one area, in particular, that can remain a shining star on the Peninsula. So many people consider the Costume Closet an integral part of their children's education —I hope you consider it a priceless part of our community! Thank you for considering this text amendment and I sincerely hope that you will approve it at the hearing on January 20, 2004. Yours truly, .14 La; „IA) cc: Honorable Mayorrank Hill City Council Members January 5, 2004 City Council of Rolling Hills 2 Portuguese Bend Road Rolling Hills, CA Dear Honorable City Council Members: By FEB 2 0 20011 CITY OF ROLLING HILLS I am a resident of Rolling Hills and I am writing to advise you of my support for the Palos Verdes Peninsula Unified School District's application for the proposed ordinance amendment to allow the Palos Verdes Council of PTAs' Costume Closet to apply for a permit to erect a building on the School District's property at 38 Crest Road West. The Costume Closet provides a valuable service to the children of the Peninsula, their parents, the PTAs, the PVPUSD and the community, which would be lost if it were to close. Thank you for considering this amendment and I hope that you will approve it at the hearing on January 20, 2004. Yours truly, ../i./.;-)d-ce4._..) Rolling Hills, CA FROM : H. L. T. C. / SCHMOLLER FAX NO. : 562 989 1443 Jan. 20 2004 01:04PM P1 January 5, 2004 City Council of Rolling Hills 2 Portuguese Bend Road Rolling Hills, CA Dear Honorable City Council Members: 1;113°14$ JAN 2 0 2004 CITY OF ROLLS' _LS i am a resident of Rolling Hills and I am writing to advise you of my support for the Palos Verdes Peninsula Unified School District's application for the proposed ordinance amendment to allow the Palos Verdes Council of PTAs' Costume Closet to apply for a permit to erect a building on the School District's property at 38 Crest Road West. The Costume Closet provides a valuable service to the children of the Peninsula, their parents, the PTAs, the PVPUSD and the community, which would be lost if it were to close. Thank you for considering this amendment and I hope that you will approve it at the hearing on January 20, 2004. Yours I Rol ing Hills, CA January 5, 2004 By City Council of Rolling Hills 2 Portuguese Bend Road Rolling Hills, CA 'J N 2 0 2004 CITY OF'ROLLWNG HILLS. Dear Honorable City Council Members: I am a resident of Rolling Hills and I am writing to advise you of my support for the Palos Verdes Peninsula Unified School District's application for the proposed ordinance amendment to allow the Palos Verdes Council of PTAs' Costume Closet to apply for a permit to erect a building on the School District's property at 38 Crest Road West. The Costume Closet provides a valuable service to the children of the Peninsula, their parents, the PTAs, the PVPUSD and the community, which would be lost if it were to close. Thank you for considering this amendment and I hope that you will approve it at the hearing on January 20, 2004. Yours truly, 1 Rolling Hills, CA January 5, 2004 City Council of Rolling Hills 2 Portuguese Bend Road Rolling Hills, CA Dear Honorable City Council Members: JAN 5 200h CITY OF ROLLING HILLS By I am a resident of Rolling Hills and I am writing to advise you of my support for the Palos Verdes Peninsula Unified School District's application for the proposed ordinance amendment to allow the Palos Verdes Council of PTAs' Costume Closet to apply for a permit to erect a building on the School District's property at 38 Crest Road West. The Costume Closet provides a valuable service to the children of the Peninsula, their parents, the PTAs, the PVPUSD and the community, which would be lost if it were to close. Thank you for considering this amendment and I hope that you will approve it at the hearing on January 20, 2004. Yours truly, Rolling Hills, CA January 5, 2004 City Council of Rolling Hills 2 Portuguese Bend Road Rolling Hills, CA Dear Honorable City Council Members: I am a resident of Rolling Hills and I am writing to advise you of my support for the Palos Verdes Peninsula Unified School District's application for the proposed ordinance amendment to allow the Palos Verdes Council of PTAs' Costume Closet to apply for a permit to erect a building on the School District's property at 38 Crest Road West. The Costume Closet provides a valuable service to the children of the Peninsula, their parents, the PTAs, the PVPUSD and the community, which would be lost if it were to close. Thank you for considering this amendment and I hope that you will approve it at the hearing on January 20, 2004. Yours truly, ‘71179'4A's 11.0 d4180.41/ E44(ft-/ Rolling Hills, CA ommilk6 JAN 1 5 2004 CITY OF ROLLING HILLS By January 5, 2004 City Council of Rolling Hills 2 Portuguese Bend Road Rolling Hills, CA By JAN 1 5 2004 CC i 'i OF SOLUNG r'iYLLS Dear Honorable City Council Members: I am a resident of Rolling Hills and I am writing to advise you of my support for the Palos Verdes Peninsula Unified School District's application for the proposed ordinance amendment to allow the Palos Verdes Council of PTAs' Costume Closet to apply for a permit to erect a building on the School District's property at 38 Crest Road West. The Costume Closet provides a valuable service to the children of the Peninsula, their parents, the PTAs, the PVPUSD and the community, which would be lost if it were to close. Thank you for considering this amendment and I hope that you will approve it at the hearing on January 20, 2004. Yours truly, Rolling Hill , CA January 5, 2004 City Council of Rolling Hills 2 Portuguese Bend Road Rolling Hills, CA By Dear Honorable City Council Members: JAN 1 5 2004 CITY OF ROLLING HILLS 1 am a resident of Rolling Hills and l am writing to advise you of my support for the Palos Verdes Peninsula Unified School District's application for the proposed ordinance amendment to allow the Palos Verdes Council of PTAs' Costume Closet to apply for a permit to erect a building on the School District's property at 38 Crest Road West. The Costume Closet provides a valuable service to the children of the Peninsula, their parents, the PTAS, the PVPUSD and the. community, which would be lost if it were to close. Thank you for considering this amendment and I hope that you will approve it at the hearing on January 20, 2004. Yours truly, Rolliny. Hi1N.5. CA Ad/J(64 January 5, 2004 JAN 1 3 2004 City Council of Rolling Hills CITY OF ROWNG HILLS 2 Portuguese Bend Road B Rolling Hills, CA Y Dear Honorable City Council Members: I am a resident of Rolling Hills and I am writing to advise you of my support for the Palos Verdes Peninsula Unified School District's application for the proposed ordinance, amendment to allow the Palos Verdes Council of PTAs' Costume Closet to apply for a permit to erect a building on the School District's property at 38 Crest Road West. The Costume Closet provides a valuable service to the children of the Peninsula, their parents, the PTAs, the PVPUSD and the community, which would be lost if it were to close. Thank you for considering this amendment and I hope that you will approve it at the hearing on January 20, 2004. Yours truly, ,I'• ',Artie /i/ 6( oeiS6() S C`c/v ad14-0 , . Rolling Hills, CA January 5, 2004 City Council of Rolling Hills 2 Portuguese Bend Road Rolling Hills, CA By 3-03[57 JAN 12 2004 cry OF ROILING HILLS Dear Honorable City Council Members: I am a resident of Rolling Hills and I am writing to advise you of my support for the Palos Verdes Peninsula Unified School District's application for the proposed ordinance amendment to allow the Palos Verdes Council of PTAs' Costume Closet to apply for a permit to erect a building on the School District's property at 38 Crest Road West. The Costume Closet provides a valuable service to the children of the Peninsula, their parents, the PTAs, the PVPUSD and the community, which would be lost if it were to close. Thank you for considering this amendment and I hope that you will approve it at the hearing on January 20, 2004. Yours truly, Rolling Hills, CA January 5, 2004 City Council of Rolling Hills 2 Portuguese Bend Road Rolling Hills, CA By JAN 12 2004 CITY OF BOLUNG HILLS Dear Honorable City Council Members: I am a resident of Rolling Hills and I am writing to advise you of my support for the Palos Verdes Peninsula Unified School District's application for the proposed ordinance amendment to allow the Palos Verdes Council of PTAs' Costume Closet to apply for a permit to erect a building on the School District's property at 38 Crest Road West. The Costume Closet provides a valuable service to the children of the Peninsula, their parents, the PTAs, the PVPUSD and the community, which would be lost if it were to close. Thank you for considering this amendment and I hope that you will approve it at the hearing on January 20, 2004. Yours truly, Rolling Hills, CA January 5, 2004 By City Council of Rolling Hills 2 Portuguese Bend Road Rolling Hills, CA JAN 1 2 2004 CITY OF ROLLING HILLS Dear Honorable City Council Members: I am a resident of Rolling Hills and I am writing to advise you of my support for the Palos Verdes Peninsula Unified School District's application for the proposed ordinance amendment to allow the Palos Verdes Council of PTAs' Costume Closet to apply for a permit to erect a building on the School District's property at 38 Crest Road West. The Costume Closet provides a valuable service to the children of the Peninsula, their parents, the PTAs, the PVPUSD and the community, which would be lost if it were to close. Thank you for considering this amendment and I hope that you will approve it at the hearing on January 20, 2004. Yours truly, r\M .-� 5 e u Rolling Hills, CA 9 0 2 ' ' January 5, 2004 City Council of Rolling Hills 2 Portuguese Bend Road Rolling Hills, CA Dear Honorable City Council Members: PP3 By JAN 3. 2 2004 CITY OF ROLLING HILLS I am a resident of Rolling Hills and I am writing to advise you of my support for the Palos Verdes Peninsula Unified School District's application for the proposed ordinance amendment to allow the Palos Verdes Council of PTAs' Costume Closet to apply for a permit to erect a building on the School District's property at 38 Crest Road West. The Costume Closet provides a valuable service to the children of the Peninsula, their parents, the PTAs, the PVPUSD and the community, which would be lost if it were to close. Thank you for considering this amendment and I hope that you will approve it at the hearing on January 20, 2004. Yours truly, Rolling Hills, CA January 5, 2004 City Council of Rolling Hills 2 Portuguese Bend Road Rolling Hills, CA By JAN 12 2004 CITY OF ROLLING HILLS Dear Honorable City Council Members: I am a resident of Rolling Hills and I am writing to advise you of my support for the Palos Verdes Peninsula Unified School District's application for the proposed ordinance amendment to allow the Palos Verdes Council of PTAs' Costume Closet to apply for a permit to erect a building on the School District's property at 38 Crest Road West. The Costume Closet provides a valuable service to the children of the Peninsula, their parents, the PTAs, the PVPUSD and the community, which would be lost if it were to close. Thank you for considering this amendment and I hope that you will approve it at the hearing on January 20, 2004. Yours truly, n t 1+ Rolling Hills,, CA M 0.0t January 5, 2004 City Council of Rolling Hills 2 Portuguese Bend Road Rolling Hills, CA Dear Honorable City Council Members: I am a resident of Rolling Hills and I am writing to advise you of my support for the Palos Verdes Peninsula Unified School District's application for the proposed ordinance amendment to allow the Palos Verdes Council of PTAs' Costume Closet to apply for a permit to erect a building on the School District's property at 38 Crest Road West. The Costume Closet provides a valuable service to the children of the Peninsula, their parents, the PTAs, the PVPUSD and the community, which would be lost if it were to close. Thank you for considering this amendment and I hope that you will approve it at the hearing on January 20, 2004. Yours truly, a7:1_ -z �f Rolling Hills, CA JAN 8 2004 CITY OF ROLLING HILLS January 5, 2004 JAN 1,2 2004 tree OF'fROWNG HILLS City Council of Rolling Hills 2 Portuguese Bend Road Rolling Hills, CA Dear Honorable City Council Members: I am a resident of Rolling Hills and I am writing to advise you of my support for the Palos Verdes Peninsula Unified School District's application for the proposed ordinance amendment to allow the Palos Verdes Council of PTAs' Costume Closet to apply for a permit to erect a building on the School District's property at 38 Crest Road West. The Costume Closet provides a valuable service to the children of the Peninsula, their parents, the PTAs, the PVPUSD and the community, which would be lost if it were to close. Thank you for considering this amendment and I hope that you will approve it at the hearing on January 20, 2004. Yours truly",/ (4 , d� 'ter . o Rolling Hills, CA VALfv1ONTE ADMINISTRATION CENTER 3801 Via La Selva Palos Verdes Estales California 90274-1119 (310) 378-9956 www.pvpusd.k12.ca.us Ira J. Toibin, Ph.D. Superintendent of Schools Board of Education Jim Goodhart President Barbara Lucky Vice President Ian Hunter Clerk Gabriella Holt Member Ellen Perkins Member Der.armen;FA.. Numbers Superintendent (31U) 378 C732 Business Services (310) 791-1306 Educational Services (310) 791-2919 Human Resources (310) 791-2948 Pupil Services (310) 378-1971 • • Palos Verdes Peninsula Unified School district November 26, 2003 BY Mr. Craig Nealis City Manager City of Rolling Hills 2 Portuguese Bend Road Rolling Hills, CA 90274 Dear Mr. Nealis: ;..: "• � r. pa: 0 1 2003 CITY OF ROLLING HILLS This letter is in response to our meeting of November 24, 2003. The Palos Verdes Peninsula Unified School District (PVPUSD) is requesting a zoning code text amendment to allow the Palos Verdes Peninsula Council of PTAs to build an approximately 6,000 square foot steel building for the Costume Closet on our property at 38 Crest Road West, Rolling Hills. The PVPUSD has agreed that the Costume Closet, which is the fund-raising committee of the PVP Council of PTAs, may lease the property for the purpose of enhancing the educational experience of PVPUSD students at the schools located on the Palos Verdes Peninsula by providing costumes for District school activities and funds for the PVP Council of PTAs. To date the Costume Closet has provided over One Million Dollars which has been donated to the PVPUSD in the form of free and reduced rentals for plays, classroom projects, special event days and tuxedoes for the high school orchestra members. Over Four Hundred Fifty Thousand dollarshas been donated to the PVP Council of PTAs, the PVPPTAs and the PVPUSD schools. The property at 38 Crest Road West, Rolling Hills, is ideal for this building. Attached is an information sheet which provides rational for the site and building selection. Also attached is a fact sheet which gives a brief history of the Costume Closet, and provides data on the size of the staff, the number of hours that the Costume Closet is open and the anticipated traffic that the Costume Closet generates over a year. To summarize these data, the Costume Closet does not operate in a comparable fashion to a typical commercial costume rental facility. • • The Costume Closet Tacks stability due to its lack of a permanent location. The proposed location at 38 Crest Road West would not only provide stability but also an opportunity to be of even greater benefit to the children of PVPUSD because of its central location on the Peninsula. The Costume Closet has the use -of its current location at Palos Verdes High School until the end of this school year. The Board of the Costume Closet has explored, with the PVPUSD, all possible other school locations as well as other locations on the Peninsula. This is the only viable permanent solution that a volunteer organization can afford. Thank you for your attention to this matter. We ask that you proceed with this request as soon as possible. If you need additional information, please do not hesitate to contact me. Sincerely,, Ira J. Toibin, Ph.D. Superintendent of Schools IJT:jb Enclosures • Palos Verdes Council of PTAs Costume Closet INFORMATION SHEET ON PROPOSED SITE AND BUILDING SITE The proposed site of 38 Crest Road West, Rolling Hills is the ideal location for the following reasons: 1. It is a central location for the schools and other customers which use the Costume Closet. 2. It has an access road already in place. 3. There is more than adequate land available. 4. The land is level and provides an easy site for construction. 5. All utilities are readily available. 6. Parking is more than adequate for the limited traffic that the Costume Closet generates. (See Background, Activities and Traffic attachment) 7. The building is comparable to other buildings on the site. 8. The site is currently used by the Palos Verdes Peninsula Transit Authority and the Palos Verdes Schools Credit Union as well as Rancho Del Mar School and the PVPUSD maintenance buildings. 9. It provides a permanent location as this land is not designated for school construction. BUILDING The steel building was selected for the following reasons: 1. Most cost effective and least expensive method of construction. 2. Provides a facility that can be modified internally to provide the maximum usage for the intended purpose or any future purpose. 3. Projected construction timeline is two months. 4. The building is functional and compatible with other buildings on the site. 5. The building will easily house the current inventory, a washer and dryer, bathroom and office space and will be heated but not air conditioned. 6. The building has a projected life span of 30 years without maintenance. 7. The inventory can be more easily maintained and controlled in one space as opposed to many spaces that has been necessary in the past. 8. Having a single facility allows control of ingress and egress to the costumes which minimizes security problems. Palos Verdes Council of PTAs Costume Closet History, Activities, and Traffic HISTORY The Costume Closet was founded 25 years ago in 1977 by parents from the three PVPUSD high schools. The initial purpose of the Costume Closet was to have a central location to store and maintain costumes for plays at the PVPUSD schools. PVPUSD provided free space for the Costume Closet in 1977 at the Rancho Palos Verdes City Hall site. In 1984 the Costume Closet was moved into four connected classrooms at Margate School. In December 2001 the Costume Closet was moved to three separate portable classrooms at PVIS. Since July 2002 the Costume Closet has been located in five separate portable classrooms on PVHS campus. ACTIVITIES OF THE STAFF AND VOLUNTEERS The staff and volunteers of the Costume Closet assist customers in selecting costumes for rental, writing invoices, and restocking the costumes upon return. Costumes are for rental only and not available for sale. During the school year, the staff and volunteers generally number 4 to 5 persons per day. During the Halloween period, the number may increase to a total of 8 to 10 persons per day. During the summer, 2 to 4 persons may be working on Saturdays. HOURS School Year: During the school year, the Costume Closet is closed on school holidays and during the winter and spring recesses. The regular hours are: Monday, Thursday, and Friday 1 p.m. — 5 p.m. Wednesday 10 a.m. — 5 p.m. Saturday 10 a.m. — 2 p.m. Halloween: During the two weeks before Halloween and the week after Halloween, the Costume Closet is open: Every weekday 10 a.m. — 7 p.m. Saturday 10 a.m. — 5 p.m. Summer: From mid -June until mid -September, the Costume Closet is only open on Saturday from 10a.m.-2p.m. TRAFFIC School Year: Throughout the school year, the Costume Closet has approximately 5 cars per hour, ingress and egress. Halloween: The three weeks during Halloween, the Costume Closet has approximately 12 cars per hour, ingress and egress. Summer: From mid -June until mid -September on Saturday, the Costume Closet has approximately 2 cars per hour, ingress and egress.