HomeMy WebLinkAbout02-065 Buick/Pont/GMC 01-14-2003AGENDA STATEMENT
PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING DATE: January 14, 2003
SUBJECT:
ATTACHMENTS:
RECOMMENDATION:
PROJECT DESCRIPTION:
PUBLIC HEARING - PA 02-065, Buick/Pontiac/GMC, Revised
Master Sign Program and Site Development Review for a new 55
foot pylon sign at 4400 John Monego Court, APN 986-0016-004
(Report prepared by: Jonelyn Whales, Associate Planner)
1. Project Plans
2. Resolution approving a Revision to the Master Sign Program
and Site Development Review for construction of a 55 foot
pylon sign for Dublin Buick/Pontiac/GMC auto sales
establishment at 4400 John Monego Court.
3. Planning Commission staff report for PA 00-027 Tri Valley
Buick/Pontiac/GMC Revised Master Sign Program-Site
Development Review dated December 12, 2000
1. Open public hearing.
2. Take testimony from the Applicant and the public.
3. Question Staff, Applicant and the public.
4. Close public hearing and deliberate.
5. Adopt Resolution (Attachment 2) Approving the revised
Master Sign Program and Site Development Review for a
freestanding 55 foot pylon sign at 4400 John Monego Court.
General Motors/Argonaut Holdings is requesting an amendment to their Master Sign Program (MSP) to
permit the addition of a freestanding 55 foot tall sign at the south end of John Monego Court. The site
consists of three parcels, Parcel A, B and C with the following Assessor Parcel Numbers 986-0016-002,
986-0016-003 and 986-0016-004, respectively. The Dublin Buick/Pontiac/GMC automobile dealership is
located on Parcel A while the remaining two parcels, B and C are vacant. The proposed sign would be
located 22 feet from the east end and 75 feet from the south end of the property line of Parcel C. The sign
would consist of internally illuminated pan channel letters mounted on 4 foot alucobond panels. An
aluminum base painted to match the existing Dublin Buick/Pontiac/GMC building would support these
panels as shown on the project plans (Attachment 1). A revised MSP for Dublin Buick/Pontiac/GMC
will be required.
BACKGROUND:
On October 28, 1998, the Planning Commission approved a Planned Development Rezone/Development
Plan, Tentative Parcel Map, and Conditional Use Permit/Site Development Review (SDR) application for
COPIES TO: Applicant/Properry Owner
Project File
Project Planner
G:\PA#\2002\02-065\PC Staff Report.doc
ITEM NO.
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the establishment of Dublin Buick/Pontiac/GMC auto dealership. Subsequent planning approvals
consisted of (1) a Planned Development Rezone (to increase the size of the auto dealership's parcel from
3.5 acres to 4.43 acres) and (2) a Master Sign Program/Site Development Review application to establish
a MSP for the site. The approved MSP permitted four freestanding signs and five wall signs for the auto
dealership located at 4400 Monego Court. This application would amend the existing Master Sign
Program to include an additional freestanding sign.
SITE DESCRIPTION:
The project site consists of a level and graded vacant lot east of Tassajara Creek, west of John Monego
Court, south of Dublin Boulevard and north of I-580. The project is within a PD (Planned Development)
C-2 (General Commercial) District (98-007). These zoning categories are consistent with the purpose,
intent, and requirements of the City's Zoning Ordinance.
Master Sign Program/Site Development Review
Pursuant to Section 8.104, Site Development Review, of the City of Dublin Zoning Ordinance, the Zoning
Administrator may consider modifications to an adopted Master Sign Program. Nevertheless, Staff has
decided to forward the review to the Planning Commission. Previously, the Planning Commission denied
the application due to the fact it resembled signage at Hacienda Crossing Shopping Center and the height
was unacceptable for the location (see Attachment 3). Staff presented alternatives to the applicant to address
these concerns. One alternative proposed a change in the design of the freestanding sign. The applicant
resubmitted drawings depicting a coordinated design that blends well with existing signage. It is more
favorable to Staff and no longer resembles signage at Hacienda Crossings shopping center. Specifically, the
design is characteristic of buildings at Dublin Buick/Pontiac/GMC dealership. The applicant addressed the
second concern, that the height was too great, by reducing the overall height from 75 to 55 feet.
The location is adjacent to I-580 and at a height of 55 feet; the architectural elements present a high quality
image identifying the auto dealership. Though, the Shamrock Ford and Hacienda Crossing pylon signs
located west of the project site are 75 feet in height, the proposed 55 foot freestanding sign nevertheless is
appropriate for the location. Maximum allowable height for a freestanding sign may exceed thirty-five (35)
feet upon approval of a Master Sign Program/Site Development Review application.
In keeping with the intent of the original MSP, Staff believes that the proposed signage is architecturally
compatible with existing directional, wall and building signage on the site. The applicant designed the sign
panels to allow room for additional signage required of future GMC dealerships on the project site. Two
cabinets of equal size and width are available above the base of the sign to accommodate additional lettering
identifying these GM dealers.
Staff is recommending approval of a revised Master Sign Program/Site Development Review to allow
construction of a 55 foot freestanding sign for the auto dealership. Affirmative findings of fact must be made
prior to approving a Master Sign Program/Site Development Review. These findings are specified in the
attached resolution (see Attachment 2). .
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW:
This project has been found to be Categorically Exempt from CEQA under Section 15311, Class 11 (a)
(on- premise signs) of the California Environmental Quality Act Guidelines. The property was also
designated in the Eastern Dublin Specific Plan for General Commercial/Campus Office land uses. The
Page 2
project also consists of new construction of a sign that is consistent with all General Plan and Zoning
regulations.
CONCLUSION:
Staff recommends that the Planning Commission adopt a Resolution (Attachment 2) approving the revised
Master Sign Program/Site Development Review for construction of a 55-foot freestanding pylon sign at
4400 John Monego Court.
Page 3
GENERAL INFORMATION:
Property Owner:
Moya Kelley
Argonaut Holdings, Inc.
515 Marin Street
Thousand Oaks, CA 91360
Applicant: Kenneth H. Okenquist
Dublin Buick/Pontiac/GMC
4400 John Monego Court
Dublin, CA 94568
Jack Abele
Arrow Sign Company
1051 46`h Avenue
Oakland, CA 94601-4436
Location: 4400 Monego Court
APN 986-0016-004
Existing Zoning: P-D (Planned Development) with a C-2 underlying (General
Commercial) District
General Plan Designation: General Commercial/Campus Office
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Item Description
Main Section .125 aluminum construction painted Matthews metallic dark blue
Outer Panels Alucobond panels, bright clear anodized, caulk joints
Copy Internally illuminated pan channel letters
Item Description
Accent Neon Exposed Bromo Blue Neon
Base Aluminum with texcoat finish to match building
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1051 46th Avenue
Oakland, CA 94601
Phone 510.533.7693
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lab Name: Dublin Auto Mall Customer Approval:
Address: 4400 John Manega [ourt Revision Dote Description
Ciry: Dublin, [A b B-1402 Changeoverelldesign
Date: 7-8-01 8 10-24 D2 Delefe Phone number
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Sales: Jack Abele
Design: Charlie Stroud _____ _ ___. ____ _ _ _ __
Design: 20799 - -----------
Filename: 2002/D/Dublin Aula Mall This is on origiml unpublished drawing prepared for you by Mar Sign Co. ino sign
program designed far your business. II is not to ba shorn to anyone outside of yaw
Sheet 1 orgnnirotion nor to be reprodwed, copied or eKhihded in any fashion.
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Oakland, (A 94601
Phone 510.533.1693
Fax. 510.533.0815
Lic. #314794
Job Name: Dublin Auto Mall
Address: 4400 Jahn Monega Court
City: Dublin, CA
Date: 7.8.02
Sales: Jack Abele
Design: Charlie Stroud
Design: 20199
Filename: 2002/D/Dublin Auta Mall
Sheet: 4
Customer Approval:
Revision Date Description
This n on originol unpublished drowirg prepared for you 6y Arrow Sign Co. in a spn
program designed foryour business. II is not to he shown to onyane ousside of your
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Job Name: Dublin Auto Moll Customer Approval:
1051 46th Avenue
Address:
44001ahn Monego [ourt
Revision Date Description
Oakland, CA 94601 City: Dublin, (A
Phone 510-533.7693 Date: 7-8-02
Fax. S 10.5 3 3.0 815 Sales: Jack Abele
l i c.# 314 7 9 4 Design: Charlie Stroud
Design: 20199
Filename: 2002/D/Dublin Auto Mall this is on original unpublished drawing prepored for you by Arrow Sign (o. in a sign
progrem designed for your business. Is is net l0 6a shown ro am/one aunide ei your
Sheet: 5 organization nor to be raprodund, copied or exhibited in ony ioshien.
RESOLUTION NO. 02 -
A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION
OF THE CITY OF DUBLIN
APPROVING PA 02-65, AMENDMENT TO DUBLIN BUICK/PONTIAC/GMC
MASTER SIGN PROGRAM
PREVIOUS PA 99-061
WHEREAS, Kenneth Okenquist requested approval of an Amendment to the existing Dublin
Buick/Pontiac/GMC Master Sign Program; and
WHEREAS, the proposed Amendment to the Master Sign program would include a 55 foot
identification sign located on the southerly terminus of the property line on Parcel C, APN 984-0016-004;
and
WHEREAS, the proposed sign would include channel letters internally illuminated and mounted
on aluminum panels with a blue neon strip on the side mounted to an aluminum base; and
WHEREAS, a complete application for the above noted entitlement request is available and on
file in the Department of Community Development; and
WHEREAS, The Dublin Buick/Pontiac/GMC Master Sign Program project has been found to be
Categorically Exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), according to the CEQA
Guidelines, Section 15311, Class 11(a); and
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission did hold a public hearing on said application on January
14, 2003, for this project; and
WHEREAS, proper notice of said public hearing was given in all respects as required by law; and
WHEREAS, a Staff Report was submitted recommending that the Planning Commission approve
the Site Development Review; and
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission did hear and use their independent judgment and
considered all said reports, recommendations, and testimony hereinabove set forth, and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED THAT THE Planning Commission of the City of
Dublin does hereby make the following findings and determinations regarding said proposed Amendment
to the Dublin Buick/Pontiac/GMC Master Sign Program.
A. The amendment to the Master Sign Program contributes to an effective and attractive identification
of the auto dealership and its users by providing clear, legible and succinct signage that will
identify and direct automobile and pedestrian traffic to the site.
B. The design quality of the site, improved with this amendment and the surrounding area will be
superior to the quality that would result under the regulations and standards of Section 8.84.40
Page 1 ATTAC N ~ ~~ T o~
"Sign Development Regulations"; 8.84.050, Signs Subject To Permits, 8.84.110, "Regulations for
Wall Signs and Projecting Signs"; and 8.84.120, Freestanding Sign General Regulations". The
MSP allows the use of more than one freestanding sign for the site. All existing and proposed
signage will conform to the overall design and layout of the complex.
C. All of the proposed signs have been designed to be compatible with the style and character of the
improvements on the site and they are well related to each other.
D. All proposed signage is visible, legible, does not cause glare or disrupt the flow to pedestrian or
vehicular traffic and conforms with the Design Criteria in Section 8.84.060, of the Zoning
Ordinance. The proposed freestanding signs are of a scale that relates well to the existing layout of
the auto dealership
E. The approval of the Amendment to the Dublin Buick/Pontiac/GMC Master Sign Program is
consistent with the intent of Section 8.104 "Site Development Review (SDR). The amendment, as
conditioned, compliments and improves the site's development design by providing a
comprehensive sign program that incorporates the architectural style and design of the proposed
building. Additionally, all signage will promote safe traffic circulation within the site.
F. The approval of the Amendment to the Dublin Buick/Pontiac/GMC Master Sign Program, as
conditioned, complies with the General Plan and the general requirements established in the
Zoning Ordinance because it establishes a comprehensive, well-designed auto dealership signage
program for the development.
G. The approval of the Amendment to the Dublin Buick/Pontiac/GMC Master Sign Program, as
conditioned, will not adversely affect the health or safety of persons residing or working in the
vicinity, or be detrimental to the public health, safety and general welfare because it promotes a
sign program that will provide effective and attractive identification for the site.
H. The proposed amendment to the Dublin Buick/Pontiac/GMC Master Sign Program considered site
layout, vehicular access, circulation, parking, setbacks, height, walls, public safety and similar
elements to ensure that the MSP design assists in the provision of a desirable environment for the
auto dealership.
I. Architectural considerations, including the character, scale and quality of the design, the
architectural relationship with the site and other buildings, building materials and colors, screening
of exterior appurtenances, exterior lighting, and similar elements have been incorporated into the
Amendment where appropriate, in order to insure the compatibility of the freestanding signs with
the site design concept and the character of adjacent buildings and uses.
J. Landscape considerations including the requirement for planters for the freestanding signs that are
sufficient width, length and height to protect the base of the sign from damage due to vehicular
traffic have been required to insure visual relief and an attractive environment for the public.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT THE Planning Commission of the City of Dublin does hereby
approve the Amendment to the Dublin Buick/Pontiac/GMC Master Sign Program for PA 02-065. This
approval shall be generally depicted on the plans prepared by Arrow Design herein, labeled Attachment 1,
stamped approved and on file with the Dublin Planning Department.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED THAT Attachment 1, Master Sign Program with the modifications
hereinabove set forth revises and supercedes the existing Master Sign Program.
Page 2
CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL
Unless stated otherwise, all Conditions of Approval shall be complied with prior to the
issuance of building permits or establishment of use, and shall be subject to Department of
Community Development review and approval. The following codes represent those
departments/agencies responsible for monitoring compliance of the conditions of approval.
[PL] Planning, [B] Building, [PO] Police, [PW] Public Works, [F] Alameda County Fire
Department, [DSR] Dublin San Ramon Services District, [CO] Alameda County Department
of Environmental Health.
GENERAL SIGN REQUIREMENTS:
This approval shall be as generally depicted and indicated by plans prepared and submitted by
Dublin Buick/Pontiac/GMC, and Arrow Sign Company, consisting of 2 sheets (as amended),
labeled as Exhibit A, dated received November 13, 2002, stamped approved and on file with the
City of Dublin Department of Community Development. Signs approved under this Master Sign
Program shall generally conform to the following conditions, dimensions, restrictions and
notations made and indicated on the plans labeled Exhibit A and the Dublin Zoning Regulations.
This Master Sign Program Amendment approval incorporates existing conditions of approval for
PA 99-061 with the following modification for the additional freestanding sign as shown on
Exhibit A as amended and shown in the following text:
Proposed Freestanding Sign:
DUBLIN, BUICK, PONTIAC, GMC
Height. 55 feet
Sign size.
Dublin (on top of the cabinet)
Height. 1 foot ten inches
Width. 14 feet
Cabinet. 11 feet by 12 feet
Buick, Pontiac, and GMC (on alucobond panels)
Height. 18 feet'/4 inches by 14 feet
Cabinet. 11 feet by 12 feet
Existing Signage:
BUICK, PONTIAC, GMC, Dublin, GM Medallion
Height. 36 feet
Sign size: Main Sign - 11 feet, 2 inches by 12 feet
Medallion - 3 feet by 3 feet
GM Certified USED VEHICLES, DUBLIN
Height. 28 feet
Sign Size: Main Sign. 8 feet 8 '/4 inches by 8 feet 8 '/4 inches
Medallion. 2 %2 feet by 2 %2 feet
Thank You Come Again/Directional Sign
Height. 5 feet
Sign Size. 2 feet 11 inches by 4 feet 4 inches
Page 3
Goodwrench Service Plus
Height. 8 feet
Sign Size. 2 feet, 3 and 9/16 inches by 8 feet, 4 and 9/16 inches
CUSTOMER PARKING
Height. 4 feet
Sign Size. 2 feet 11 inches by 4 feet 4 inches
Wall Signs:
DUBLIN (over main entrance)
Height. 24 inches
Width. 16 feet 10 inches
BUICK (on east elevation)
Height. 36 inches
Width. 21 feet 6 inches
PONTIAC (on east elevation)
Height. 36 inches
Width. 12 feet 2 inches
GMC (on north elevation)
Height. 36 inches
Width. 12 feet 2 inches
SERVICE & QUICK LUBE (on east elevation)
Height. 16 inches
Width. 25 feet 10 inches
2. All signage shall comply with the provisions established in this Master Sign Program or to the
specific conditions stated. The Zoning Administrator upon application may consider
modifications for a Sign Site Development Review pursuant to Section 8.104 Site Development
Review. [PL]
3. Building Permits for installation of all freestanding signs for Dublin Buick/Pontiac/GMC shall be
secured and all calculations must be signed/stamped by a California State Registered Engineer.
Construction must be commenced within 6 months of the effective date of approval of this
Amended Master Sign Program or said approval shall be void. [B, PL]
4. New and future signage for the proposed freestanding sign at the automobile dealership site must
have raised channel lettering that measure 18 feet '/4 inches in height and 14 feet in width to match
the proposed internal illuminated letters as specified on the submitted sign elevation. [PL]
5. All freestanding and wall-mounted signs shall be well maintained in an attractive manner and in
accordance with the approved plans. Any indirect light fixtures used to illuminate any signage
shall be glare-shielded. [PL]
6. New or proposed wall signs or additional freestanding signs for the automobile dealership site,
shall first be subject to review by the Department of Community Development and shall conform
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to this Master Sign Program. The use of said additional wall and/or freestanding signage not
shown or indicated by this Master Sign Program approval will require a separate Sign Site
Development Review approval by the Zoning Administrator prior to installation or use. Said
signage shall comply with the sign regulation provisions of Section 8.84.060, 8.84.110 and
8.84.120, of the Zoning Ordinance. [PL]
7. Wall-mounted signs shall be placed flat against the building wall of the occupied frontage as
applicable. No sign shall appear above the roofline. If signs change, all mounting holes from
previous signs shall be repaired and walls repainted prior to mounting the new signs. [PL]
8. The use of any Temporary Promotional Signs (i.e., banners, pennants, flags, balloons, searchlights
and similar advertising devises) for special advertising and/or promotional use shall first require a
separate Zoning Clearance approval and shall comply with the provisions established in the Sign
Regulations of the Zoning Ordinance. [PL]
9. The use of any A-Frame, portable or sandwich board signs on the site is prohibited. Said signs
shall also not be allowed to be placed within the public right-of-way. [PL, PW]
10. Any vehicles with signage shall conform to the requirements of the Sign Regulations. [PL, PW,
PO]
11. Prior to an application for a Building Permit, landscaping plans must be submitted for review by
the Planning Department for the proposed planting bed located around the new freestanding sign
at the south end of John Monego Ct. [PL]
12. All landscape areas on the site shall be enhanced and properly maintained at all times. Any
proposed or modified landscaping to the site, including the removal or replacement of trees, shall
require prior review and written approval from the Community Development Director. [PL]
13. This Master Sign Program/Sign Site Development Review approval shall be revocable for cause in
accordance with Section 8.96.020.I of the Dublin Zoning Ordinance. [PL]
PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED this 14th day of January 2003.
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ATTEST:
Planning Commission Chairperson
Planning Manager
G:pa02-065 PCRESMSPREV.doc
Page 5
AGENDA STATEMENT
PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING DATE: December 12, 2000
PROJECT: PUBLIC HEARING: PA 00-027 Tri-Valley
Buick/Pontiac/GMS Revised Master Sign Program-Site
Development Review
(Report prepared by: Dennis H. Carrington, Senior Planner
ATTACHMENTS: 1. Resolution denying Revised Master Site Plan.
2. Resolution approving Revised Master Site Plan.
3. Project plans.
BACKGROUND
ATTACHMENTS: 1. Appealable Action Letter dated March 13, 2000, approving
PA 99-061, Tri-Valley Buick/Pontiac/GMC Master Sign
Program.
2. Project Plans for PA 99-061, Tri-Valley
Buick/Pontiac/GMC Master Sign Program.
RECOMMENDATION: 1. Open public hearing and hear Staff presentation.
2. Take testimony from the Applicant and the public.
3. Question Staff, Applicant and the public.
4. Close public hearing and deliberate.
5. Adopt resolution denying Revised Master Site Plan.
DESCRIPTION:
General Motors/Argonaut Holdings is proposing to construct a 75-foot tall freestanding sign at
the southerly terminus of John Monego Court for Tri-Valley Buick/Pontiac/GMC and for a future
auto dealership. The sign would be 52 feet 7 inches from the CALTRANS right of way as shown
on the project plans (Attachment 3). A revised Master Sign Program (MSP) for Tri-Valley
Buick/Pontiac/GMC will be required
SITE DESCRIPTION:
The site consists of a level and graded lot east of Tassajara Creek, west of John Monego
Court, south of Dublin Boulevard and north of I-580.
ITEM NO.
COPIES TO: Applicant
Owner
Address File
ATTgC,~~E~T
fi"
BACKGROUND:
History/description.
The General Motors Automall was established by a Planned Development Rezone/Development
Plan, Tentative Parcel Map, Conditional Use Permit and Site Development Review on October
20, 1998 (PA98-007). The project was revised by a subsequent Planned Development Rezone on
June 6, 2000, to increase the size of the Tri-Valley Buick/Pontiac/GMC parcel from 3.5 acres to
4.43 acres and decrease the size of the middle parcel from 3.0 to 2.07 acres. The third (southern)
parcel adjacent to I-580 was not changed. It is anticipated that a future Planned Development
Rezone will be filed to eliminate the middle parcel.
Staff approved a Master Sign Program for Tri-Valley Buick/Pontiac/GMC on March 13, 2000.
That MSP permitted four freestanding signs and five wall signs for the auto dealership. The
dealership was subsequently constructed and occupied.
A hearing on this project was advertised for November 14, 2000. There was not a quorum
and the hearing did not take place. The hearing was re-advertised for December 12, 2000.
Design.
The proposed 75 foot tall freestanding sign for the Tri-Valley Auto Dealership is composed of a
dark blue main pylon with white alucobond panels. A curved cap element is provided with the
text "Auto Mall" in letters 3 feet 6 inches tall. A blue vertical indirect lighted element will run
up each side of the sign and across the top of the topmost tenant panel. The tenant panels will be
11 feet 6 inches tall by 12 feet wide. The Tri-Valley Buick, Pontiac, GMC tenant panel will have
three 3 foot 7 inches square medallions and "TRI -VALLEY" text along the top as shown on the
project plans (Attachment 3). The sign will be located in a 9 foot 6 inch by 35 foot raised planter
box. The planter box will be made of white painted concrete masonry units. A second tenant
panel will be provided for a future auto dealership on Parcel 3.
The sign is has an attractive design that is unique to the Auto Mall. The size of the sign is
appropriate and consistent with other signage on commercial frontages for this part of I-580. It
will contribute to an effective and attractive identification of the car dealership and its users by
providing clear, legible and succinct signage.
The proposed freestanding sign is consistent with the regulations and standards of Section
8.84.40 "Sign Development Regulations"; 8.84.050, Signs Subject To Permits, 8.84.110,
"Regulations for Wall Signs and Projecting Signs"; and 8.84.120, "Freestanding Sign General
Regulations". All existing and proposed signage will conform to the overall design and layout of
the dealership.
2
Timing.
It is not clear whether one or two more automobile dealerships will be located on the lots
between the Tri-Valley Buick/Pontiac/GMC dealership and I-580. It is also not clear when
those lots will be developed. Staff is concerned that any future auto dealerships on those
parcels may want a different overall design for the freestanding sign but will be constrained
by an already existing design. Staff is also concerned that a second sign on the pylon would
remain blank for a considerable period of time until the remaining lots are developed. The
sign should be constructed at the appropriate time when the uses of all of the parcels are
known. The existing signage for the dealership is sufficient until that time.
Location.
The 52 foot 7 inch distance of the sign from the CALTRANS right of way is known. The
actual location of the sign will not be known until the second auto dealership plans are
prepared. Staff is concerned that the sign location maybe placed in a location that would
conflict with the desires of the owner of the new auto dealership.
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW: The project is Categorically Exempt under Section 15311,
Class 11 (a) (on premise signs) of the State CEQA Guidelines.
CONCLUSION:
The signage should not be established until the remaining auto dealership(s) develop on the
site. The timing of the development of the second auto dealership and its design are
unknown. The second tenant panel would remain blank for a considerable time until the
second auto dealership is built. The desires of the owner of the new auto dealership as far as
design and location of the sign are unknown. Although the distance from the Caltrans right
of way is known the exact and proper location of the sign is not known.
The sign should be constructed at the appropriate time when the uses of all of the parcels are
known. The existing signage for the dealership is sufficient until that time.
The only way to be sure the sign is property located is to wait until plans for the 2"d Auto Mall
Dealership are received by the City.
RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends that the Planning Commission take testimony from the Applicant and the
public; question Staff, Applicant and the public; close the public hearing and deliberate; and
Adopt the resolution approving the proposed Revised Master Sign Program.
.. .. .T-.
GENERAL PROJECT INFORMATION:
OWNER/APPLICANT:
LOCATION:
ASSESSOR PARCELS:
GENERAL PLAN/
SPECIFIC PLAN
DESIGNATION:
EXISTING ZONING
AND LAND USE:
Moya Kelly
Argonaut Holdings, Inc.
515 Marin Street, Suite 211
Thousand Oaks, CA 91360
4400 John Monego Court
986-0016-4
Campus Office
PD (GM Automall)
SURROUNDING
GENERAL/SPECIFIC General Plan/Specific Plan
PLAN, ZONING, AND West. General Commercial (Hacienda Crossings).
LAND USE: East. Campus Office (Koll Business Center).
North. Medium Density Residential (Toll Brothers)
Zonin
West. PD (Hacienda Crossings).
East. PD (Koll)
North. PD (Toll Brothers).
G:1pa00-0271pc staff reports
4
A regular meeting of the City of Dublin Planning Commission was held on Tuesday,
December 12, 2000, in the Dublin Civic Center City Council Chambers. Cm. Johnson
called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.
ROLL CALL
Present: Commissioners Johnson, Jennings, and Musser; Eddie Peabody Jr.,
Community Development Director; Dennis Carrington, Senior Planner; Andy Byde,
Associate Planner; and Maria Carrasco, Recording Secretary.
Absent: Cm. Hughes
Cm. Oravetz was appointed to the City Council
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE TO THE FLAG
Cm. Johnson led the Commission, Staff, and those present in the pledge of allegiance
to the flag.
ADDITIONS OR REVISIONS TO THE AGENDA
There were no additions or revisions to the agenda.
MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETINGS
The minutes from the October 24, 2000 meeting were approved as submitted.
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
Cm. Johnson explained that at this time, members of the audience are permitted to
address the Planning Commission on any item(s) of interest to the public; however, no
action or discussion shall take place on any item which is not on the Planning
Commission Agenda. The Commission may respond briefly to statements made or
questions posed, or may request Staff to report back at a future meeting concerning
the matter. Furthermore, a member of the Planning Commission may direct Staff to
place a matter of business on a future agenda. Any person may arrange with the
Community Development Director no later than 11:00 a.m., on the Tuesday preceding
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a regular meeting to have an item of concern placed on the agenda for the next regular
meeting.
WRITTEN COMMUNICATIONS
PUBLIC HEARINGS
8.1 PA 00-027 Tri-Valley Buick/Pontiac/GMC Revised Master Sign Program. A
request for a Revised Master Sign Program to add a 75 foot tall freestanding sign
at the southerly terminus of John Monego Court for Tri-Valley
Buick/Pontiac/GMC and a future automobile dealership.
Cm. Johnson asked for the staff report.
Dennis Carrington presented the staff report. General Motors/Argonaut Holdings is
proposing to construct a 75-foot tall freestanding sign at the southerly terminus of
John Monego Court for Tri-Valley Buick/Pontiac/GMC and for a future auto
dealership. The sign would be 52 feet 7 inches from the CALTRANS right of way as
shown on the project plans. The proposed 75 foot tall freestanding sign for the Tri-
Valley Auto Dealership is unique to an Auto Mall. It will contribute to an effective and
attractive identification of the car dealership and its users by providing clear, legible
and succinct signage. Staff has concerns as to the timing and location of the proposed
sign. It is unclear at this time whether there will be more automobile dealerships that
will be located on the lots between the Tri-Valley Buick/Pontiac/GMC dealership and
I-580. Additionally, it is also unclear when those lots will be developed. Staff is
concerned that any future auto dealerships on those parcels may want a different
overall design for the freestanding sign but will be constrained by an already existing
design. Staff is also concerned that a second sign on the pylon would remain blank for
a number of years until the remaining lots are developed. The sign should be
constructed at an appropriate time when the uses of all of the parcels are known. The
existing signage for the dealership is sufficient until that time. A revised Master Sign
Program (MSP) for Tri-Valley Buick/Pontiac/GMC will be required. Staff recommends
that the Planning Commission take testimony from the Applicant and the public;
question Staff, Applicant and the public; close the public hearing and deliberate; and
Adopt the resolution denying the proposed Revised Master Sign Program.
Cm. Johnson asked the Commissioners if they had any questions from Staff; hearing
none he opened the public hearing.
Planning Commission
Regular Meeting
141 December 12, 2000
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Moya Kelly, General Motors Worldwide Real Estate, spoke to defend negative
comments in the report. She addressed some of the questions that were raised in the
report. General Motors is anticipating putting another franchise on the parcel possibly
the Chevrolet Dealership, but had no agreement yet. The second issue that she
addressed was regarding the constraint due to the pre-existing sign. It is a generic sign
and designed according to city requirements and Staff has approved the design of the
sign. It is consistent with the other auto malls around bay area. She also addressed
the issue of location for the sign. The proposed sign would be placed in the corner of
the parcel, which would represent the two-dealership entities. Lastly, she emphasized
the importance of advertising and visibility for automotive dealership. She asked the
Planning Commission to approve the sign.
Cm. Johnson asked the Commissioners if they had any questions for Ms. Kelly.
Cm. Jennings asked the timing of the second dealership.
Ms. Kelly answered she could not predict that at this time.
Cm. Jennings asked if her company would have access and design review for another
dealership.
Ms. Kelly responded that it would be based on City guidelines.
Cm. Jennings asked if the purpose and urgency tonight on General Motors' part is
that they were not being represented on the I-580.
Ms. Kelly stated yes and emphasized that the dealership needed that exposure.
Cm. Jennings asked if they had informed Staff about the visibility issue at the time the
staff report was written.
Ms. Kelly stated they did.
Cm. Musser asked Staff how the proposed sign relates in size and height to the others.
Mr. Carrington stated that they are all equal in height, i.e., they are all 75-feet high.
Cm. Jennings asked Mr. Carrington about Staff's concerns on not receiving freeway
exposure.
Mr. Carrington stated that the structure was visible from the freeway. They have a 40-
foot sign oriented towards Dublin Blvd, in addition to two freestanding signs and wall
signs.
Planning Commission
Regular Meeting
142 December 12, 2000
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Cm. Musser asked Ms. Kelly if she would be opposed to referencing Dublin on the
sign.
Ms. Kelly stated that they would not be opposed to it and would do whatever the City
wants them to do.
Cm. Johnson asked if the Chevrolet dealership did not move to the adjacent lot, would
they move another Chevrolet dealership.
Ms. Kelly responded no since they would be too close in proximity.
Cm. Johnson asked if there was a possibility for the parcel to be sold to other retail
type, would they be opposed to that idea.
Ms. Kelly responded that they would prefer automotive use in that parcel and would
petition if any other uses were permitted. They would rather have competitors on that
parcel.
Walter McIntyre, from the Sign company, stated that he has worked on signs for
Hacienda Crossings and since then has retired. He has come out of retirement to work
on this sign. He presented the various details about the design and architecture for
the proposed sign.
Michael Davis, General Motors Executive, spoke about the marketing aspects of the
sign.
Cm. Johnson asked if there were any other questions or comments, hearing none he
closed the public hearing
Cm. Musser stated he likes the sign and doesn't have problem with timing. He is
concerned about the potential for dividing the other site
Cm. Johnson stated if the site went to another business, it will no longer be an
Automall. He said that the best option would be to wait till the use of the other site
was determined.
Cm. Jennings stated that since the applicant has been unsuccessful at bringing
another dealership out to the location and since the urgency for the sign is only for
visibility purposes, she would recommend denying the request.
Cm. Musser stated before the item is denied he would like to ask the applicant if they
are willing to make a stronger commitment to guarantee that the site would go to an
auto dealership and if they could give an idea for timeframe.
Planning Commission 143 December 12, 2000
Regular Meeting
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Ms. Kelly stated that although it is in their plans to have another auto dealership at
that location they couldn't guarantee it. But, whoever they are able to place there
would be with the approval of the city.
Cm. Johnson asked if anybody had any other comments or questions.
On motion by Cm. Jennings, seconded by Cm. Musser with a vote of 3-0-2, with Cm.
Oravetz no longer sitting on the Commission, the Planning Commission unanimously
adopted
RESOLUTION NO. 00-66
A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION
DENYING A REVISED MASTER SIGN PROGRAM
FOR TRI-VALLEY BUICK/PONTIAC/GMC, PA 00-027
8.2 PA 00-020 Shamrock Village Market Place Site Development Review. The
proposed project consists of remodeling and adding 25,846 square feet of
building area to the existing Shamrock Village shopping center.
Cm. Johnson asked for the staff report.
Andy Byde presented the staff report. The proposed project consists of remodeling and
adding 25,846 square feet of building area to the existing Shamrock Village shopping
center located at the corner of Amador Valley Boulevard and San Ramon Road. The
addition would result in the shopping center being anchored by a new 45,000 square
foot grocery store. The existing building square footage of the center is 49,534 and the
new square footage would be 75,380 square feet. The anticipated tenant for the 45,000
square foot grocery store is Ralph's which plans to relocate from their current location
at 7193 Regional Street. The existing Ralph's store is 25,000 square feet in size and is
located adjacent to Longs Drugs store. A Mitigated Negative Declaration has been
prepared for the project, which focuses on land use compatibility, noise hazards,
aesthetics, and traffic in addition to all potential environmental factors normally
considered in an Initial Study. A number of mitigation measures have been included
within the document to ensure that identified environmental impacts can be reduced
to levels of insignificance. The Mitigated Negative Declaration has been circulated for
public review. Mr. Byde presented pictures of the shopping center. He also stated that
the loading area and the noise from the trucks are sensitive components of this project
due its proximity to the residential units. Due to this reason Staff has added as a
condition for approval to limit the loading hours operation between 7 a.m. - 8 p.m.
Planning Commission 144 December 12, 2000
Regular Meeting