HomeMy WebLinkAboutCC Minutes 2000-11-06SRCC Minutes (Regular) 11/6/2000 Page 1
IN THE COUNCIL CHAMBER OF THE CITY OF SAN RAFAEL, MONDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 2000 AT 8:00 P.M.
Regular Meeting:
San Rafael City Council
Also Present: Rod Gould, City Manager
Gary T. Ragghianti, City Attorney
Jeanne M. Leoncini, City Clerk
CLOSED SESSION - CONFERENCE ROOM 201 - 7:00 PM:
Present: Albert J. Boro, Mayor
Barbara Heller, Vice -Mayor
Cyr N. Miller, Councilmember
Gary 0. Phillips, Councilmember
Absent: Paul M. Cohen, Councilmember
Conference with Legal Counsel — Anticipated Litigation
Significant exposure to litigation pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(b)
One (1) case.
City Attorney Gary Ragghianti announced that no reportable action was taken.
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS OF AN URGENCY NATURE: 8:25 PM
RE: BROCHURE OF — "TREES OF SAN RAFAEL — A WALKING TOUR" - File 109
Sandra Sellinger of Marin ReLeaf, thanked Mayor Boro and the Councilmembers quoting "a city without
trees is not fit for a dog. Leaves are the verbs that conjugate the seasons". She stated that Marin ReLeaf
would like to present the city with an early Christmas gift, adding that last fall Marin ReLeaf received a grant
from the California Department of Forestry and California Releaf for a brochure entitled "Trees of San
Rafael — A Walking Tour", (referred to as Leafwood by Ms. Sellinger) with printing financed by the San
Rafael Chamber of Commerce and PG&E, through their safe tree program. The consultant was San Rafael
Parks Superintendent Tom Rothenberger. She stated that the "Leafwood" showcases 17 trees, which line
our streets and are in our parks. She confirmed the brochure is produced from tree free paper, not
necessarily recycled.
Ms. Sellinger pointed out that at Boyd Park there is a large Camphor tree, which has been singled out for
the public to view its massy root formation. She noted that is the traditional tree of Japan and is a
predominant tree in the flowering cherry display at Washington, DC. This row of trees is a harbinger of
spring.
Ms. Sellinger stated that in celebration of the oak being the national tree, 3 oak species at Albert Park have
been included. These trees are from the eastern United States and will one day be large, stately examples
of our nation's heritage. She stated that in San Rafael's mild climate the leaves on these oaks stay on the
branches throughout the winter to be dislodged in the spring by the development of new leaves.
She stated the Cedar of Lebanon, also at Boyd Park, has been included because its species is seldom
planted and rarely seen as such a large specimen. The Bunya-Bunya tree at Falkirk is a tree with an
elephant -like trunk. Gerstle Park has most of the trees mentioned in the tour; the grounds were once
private and had expansive gardens. It represents the owner's interest in world travel and experiences
beyond the Bay Area and California.
Ms. Sellinger stated "lastly let the blight that threatens our native oak population be a warning, the worst
case scenario is only 10% of our oaks, both wild and in our towns, will be alive in 20 years." She
commented that to avoid the large gaps this death will cause we must maintain the different species of trees
in San Rafael's urban forest, adding that Tom Rothenberger was doing a fine job.
Mayor Boro stated he appreciated all the work Ms. Sellinger has done on behalf of the City of San Rafael,
not only educating us on the issues associated with trees, but helping youth and others plant trees in our
city. He reported that on a recent trip to Europe he visited the Ukraine, which is going through a
tremendous amount of effort to recover, and noticed the trees that have been there for hundreds of years
reflect the heart and soul of that community. He stated that the trees in San Rafael are wonderful and told
Ms. Sellinger her work is much appreciated and will be for many generations to come.
Ms. Sellinger stated she had received information from College of Marin that the class (on trees) which was
offered to the public last year is now probably going to be taught next fall at the College, with two
instructors.
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RE; DUTRA OWNED SAN RAFAEL ROCK QUARRY — File 100 x 166
Stuart Lum, Co -Chair, Point San Pedro Coalition, stated he and his supporters were here to thank the
Mayor, City Council, City Manager and Community Development Director for all the support received in their
efforts to resolve this issue. He stated that about a year and a half ago Mayor Boro and Supervisor Kress
engaged them in the neighborhoods in an effort to resolve some fairly long-running disputes and serious
issues with the quarry. Mr. Lum reported that in the last eighteen months the Coalition had made
substantial efforts to deal with these issues, come up with real solutions and develop a plan that all could
live with, and this was still their goal.
He stated that essentially, what is resolved with the quarry would determine the environment, character and
property values at Point San Pedro peninsula over the next 30 years. He noted the quarry was to have
been converted to commercial and residential use by the mid 90s and these expectations were
memorialized in zoning hearings in 1982, the Reclamation Plan and the Peacock Gap Neighborhood Plan.
However, he reported, the current owner of the quarry has no intention of converting to the second use for
at least another 25 — 30 years, with dramatic effects, which would include the removal of much of south hill.
He stated that much of the mining to be seen presently would, in fact, be above ground as opposed to
below ground, and blasting, which has been a major issue, will continue several times per week. for that
period of time. Mr. Lum stated the current owner believes that none of this is subject to public review.
He stated that for their part, the Coalition feels much more confident in dealing with these issues now than
they were eighteen months ago, being more knowledgeable. They have a large body of public support and
are willing to use public hearings and administrative processes to resolve these issues. However, if this is
not possible they will work with the County and City to find alternative measures of resolution.
He thanked the City Council for their past and continuing support throughout the process.
CONSENT CALENDAR:
Councilmember Phillips moved and Councilmember Miller seconded, to approve the Consent Calendar, as
follows:
ITEM RECOMMENDED ACTION
2. Approval of Minutes of Special Joint Workshop Minutes approved as submitted.
Meeting with Marin County Board of Supervisors of
May 3, 2000 and Regular Meeting of Monday,
October 16, 2000 (CC)
Request for Amicus Participation: (CA)
Cornette v. Department of Transportation
(California Supreme Court Case
No. S089010) -File 9-3-16
4. Monthly Investment Report for Month Ending
September, 2000 (MS) — File 8-18 x 8-9
5. Resolution Approving Use of State COPS Program
Supplemental Services Funds in the Amount of
$121,185,53 for Community Oriented Policing (PD) —
File 9-3-30
Approved amicus participation.
Accepted Monthly Investment Report for
month ending September, 2000, as
presented.
RESOLUTION NO. 10736 —
RESOLUTION APPROVING USE OF
STATE COPS PROGRAM
SUPPLEMENTAL SERVICES FUNDS IN
THE AMOUNT OF $121,185.53 FOR
COMMUNITY ORIENTED POLICING (for
Police Overtime)
SRCC Minutes (Regular) 11/6/2000 Page 2
6. Resolution Approving the Purchase of Right of Way
and Accepting Grant Deed for Right of Way from
George and Virginia Kerbs, Trustee (or Successor
Trustees) of the George A. Kerbs and Virginia
S. Kerbs 1998 Trust, Dated March 30, 1998
(58 Woodland Avenue, San Rafael, APN:13-094-16)
(PW) - File 2-4-26
7. Report on Bid Opening and Resolution Awarding
Contract to Ghilotti Brothers, Inc., for Andersen Drive
Rehabilitation, Project No. 110-4421-656-8000 (Bid
Opening Held on Tuesday, October 24, 2000) (PW)
— File 4-1-526
8. Resolution Authorizing the City of San Rafael to
Become a Charter Member of the MarinMap Project
(Geographic Information System) to be Administered
by the Marin Telecommunications Agency, and
Authorizing the City Manager to Execute the
Contract Services Agreement (PW)
— File 4-13-101 x 9-7-4
9. Annual Parking Meter Holiday from Wednesday,
November 22, 2000 through Monday, December 25,
2000 (RA)—File 11-18
10. Resolution Authorizing Street Closures for the 21s'
Annual Parade of Lights and 11th Annual Winter
Wonderland and Snow (RA) —File 11-19
SRCC Minutes (Regular) 11/6/2000 Page 3
RESOLUTION NO. 10737 —
RESOLUTION APPROVING THE
PURCHASE OF RIGHT OF WAY AND
ACCEPTING GRANT DEED FOR RIGHT
OF WAY FROM GEORGE A. KERBS AND
VIRGINIA S. KERBS, TRUSTEE (OR THE
SUCCESSOR TRUSTEES) OF THE
GEORGE A. KERBS AND VIRGINIA S.
KERBS 1998 TRUST, DATED MARCH 30,
1998 (58 WOODLAND AVENUE, SAN
RAFAEL, APN:13-094-16)
RESOLUTION NO. 10738 —
RESOLUTION AWARDING CONTRACT
FOR ANDERSEN DRIVE
REHABILITATION, PROJECT NO. 110-
4421-656-8000 TO GHILOTTI BROTHERS,
INC., IN THE AMOUNT OF $457,754.00
(lowest responsible bidder)
ITEM CONTINUED TO MEETING OF
11/20/2000, AT THE REQUEST OF STAFF.
Approved staff recommendation:
Declared a two-hour parking meter
holiday for all two-hour downtown
meters and the first two hours of
parking at the Third & A Parking
Structure for the period of November
22, 2000 through December 25, 2000
RESOLUTION NO. 10739 — RESOLUTION
AUTHORIZING THE TEMPORARY
CLOSURE OF CITY STREETS FOR THE
21ST ANNUAL PARADE OF LIGHTS AND
WINTER WONDERLAND ON NOVEMBER
24TH AND NOVEMBER 25TH, 2000
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS: Heller, Miller, Phillips and Mayor Boro
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: Councilmember Cohen
SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS:
Mayor Boro announced two special presentations, stating that although the City Council was not making
these presentations he was inviting the Councilmembers to the podium to surround the recipients.
11. PRESENTATION OF THE "RONNY JACK COLEMAN FIRE CHIEF OF THE YEAR" AWARD FOR
YEAR 2000 TO SAN RAFAEL'S FIRE CHIEF ROBERT E. MARCUCCI (FD) — File 102 x 9-3-31
Verbal
Joe Perry, Napa Fire Chief, Northern California Director of the California Fire Chiefs Association
addressed the Mayor and City Council, stating it was a great honor to be present to honor a long time
friend and mentor to him, as well as many other members of the Fire Service, noting Fire Chief
Marcucci's reputation for being involved with the Community, the City and the California Fire Service.
He explained the Ronny Jack Coleman award is a very special award in California, stating Ronny
Coleman, retired State Fire Marshal, is internationally respected as a true leader in the Fire Service
SRCC Minutes (Regular) 11/6/2000 Page 3
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and recently was named one of the top 20 fire officials for the past century. Mr. Perry read the
dedication on the plaque, which he stated personified the award:
"Presented annually to the one person in California who embodies the
leadership abilities, professional posture, dedication, commitment and vision,
as represented by the career of Ronny Jack Coleman, Fire Chief and State
Fire Marshal. This award recognizes and is presented to a truly outstanding
professional who through acts and deeds in their profession, home,
community and country, serve as an example and challenge for all other Fire
Chief Executives throughout California. "
He reiterated what an outstanding individual Fire Chief Marcucci is, and stated that anyone who could
survive as a Fire Chief for so many years and be so successful, is a very special person. He
congratulated Chief Marcucci, adding he could not think of anyone more worthy.
Accepting the award, Fire Chief Marcucci thanked Mr. Perry for taking the time to come to San Rafael,
noting how arduous a task it is being a Fire Chief and on the Board of Directors of the California
Chiefs, having done this himself. He applauded Mr. Perry, as an outstanding individual who represents
the California Fire Chiefs, both at the State and Western Regional levels, adding it was an honor for
him to receive this award. He thanked the City Council and City Manager for their flexibility, and his
staff for their support.
Chief Marcucci stated that Ronny Coleman is presently an acting Fire Chief, before moving on to other
endeavors; he is an author and an outstanding individual and to receive an award with his name on it,
added Chief Marcucci, is probably the pinnacle of his career. He added "to use an analogy, I hope if
we go to post season play my batting average is better than Barry Bonds". Chief Marcucci commented
that he was going to do a lot of post season play.
He again, thanked Joe Perry for attending and Ronny Coleman for being his mentor.
Mayor Boro stated "We all have a very special place in our hearts for you" and confirmed for the
audience that several weeks ago Chief Marcucci reached 40 years of service with the City, 29 of these
as Chief. Mayor Boro added that he was given the task of getting Chief Marcucci lost for two hours to
enable a party to be set up in the Fire Station. In conversation, Chief Marcucci commented that people
were telling him he should retire and asked the Mayor for his thoughts. Replying, Mayor Boro stated
"Why would you want to do that, you are having fun", and Chief Marcucci replied that was his feeling.
Mayor Boro stated how proud we are to have Chief Marcucci and encouraged him to stay as long as
he wished.
12. PRESENTATION OF THE WES MCCLURE OUTSTANDING ASSISTANT AWARD 2000 TO LYDIA
ROMERO, ASSISTANT TO THE CITY MANAGER (CM) —File 102 x 9-3-11 (Verbal)
Mayor Boro announced Lydia Romero, Assistant to the City Manager, stating Greg Sam, President,
Municipal Management Assistants of Northern California, would make the presentation. He added how
blessed the City was with its employees, two wonderful examples being present this evening.
Mr. Sam thanked the Mayor and Councilmembers and stated it was a pleasure to be here representing
MMANC, explaining that this is a group of local government management professionals, who aspire to
becoming Local Government CEOs, comparable to Rod Gould, San Rafael City Manager. In
explaining this award, Mr. Sam stated that from several awards given out each year, the Wes McClure
Outstanding Assistant Award is the most prestigious. It is named after a gentleman who is very well
known in City Management and City Manager circles. He is a former City Manager in San Leandro
and also former Range Rider with the League of California Cities. The award was named because of
Mr. McClure's exemplary dedication and commitment to the profession. Mr. Sam continued that each
year the Managers, Government CEOs, and Members are asked to nominate someone who
epitomizes the Local Government or City Management profession. This year, he stated, it was his
pleasure to announce the Awards Committee selected Lydia Romero for this prestigious award.
In accepting, Lydia thanked Greg Sam, noting this was one of his final acts, being outgoing President
of MMANC. She thanked City Manager Rod Gould, who nominated her for the award, as well as the
City Council.
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PUBLIC HEARINGS:
13. AMENDMENT TO PLANNED DEVELOPMENT DISTRICT, USE PERMIT AND ENVIRONMENTAL
AND DESIGN REVIEW PERMIT FOR THE PROPOSED CONSTRUCTION OF A 9,216 SQUARE
FOOT MULTI-PURPOSE BUILDING AND 4,896 SQUARE FOOT CLASSROOM BUILDING FOR
ARTS AND SCIENCES CLASSES AT SAINT MARK'S SCHOOL, LOCATED AT 39 TRELLIS
DRIVE; ASSESSOR'S PARCEL NUMBER 175-060-01, SAN RAFAEL, CA; DIXIE SCHOOL
DISTRICT, OWNER; SAINT MARK'S SCHOOL, APPLICANT; JEANNE MACLEAMY, ARCHITECT,
REPRESENTATIVE (CD)- File 10-3 x 10-5 x 10-7
Mayor Boro informed the audience that Staff had requested this item be carried over to a future
date. (Item will be re -noticed.)
Councilmember Phillips inquired as to the reason for the continuation.
Community Development Director Bob Brown stated staff received a call this morning
suggesting there was a small seasonal wetland on the St. Mark's site. He reported that when
the environmental assessment for this project was done during the summer the area was dry.
Today, staff went out to the site and confirmed there are some sedges is a small area at the
base of the slope, which are indicator plants of seasonal wetlands, and staff believes the ring
driveway might impact that area. Therefore, they would like to have a biologist review the area
and if need be, work with the project applicant to relocate that driveway.
14. REQUEST FOR REZONING FROM Ll/0 (LIGHT INDUSTRIAL/OFFICE) TO PD
(PLANNED DEVELOPMENT) ZONING DISTRICT, USE PERMIT, ENVIRONMENTAL AND
DESIGN REVIEW PERMIT AND LOT LINE ADJUSTMENT O.E. PARCEL MERGER) FOR
PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT OF A 130,000 SQUARE FOOT LIGHT INDUSTRIAL/OFFICE
COMPLEX CONSISTING OF FOUR ONE-STORY BUILDINGS, LANDSCAPING, PARKING
AND CREEK/BUFFER SETBACK IMPROVEMENTS ON A 10.0 ACRE SITE, FORMERLY
OCCUPIED BY FAIRCHILD SEMICONDUCTOR, LOCATED AT 4300 REDWOOD
HIGHWAY; ASSESSOR'S PARCEL NUMBER'S (APN) 155-110-05 AND 06 (FORMER
FAIRCHILD PROPERTY) (CD)- File 10-3 x 10-5 x 10-7
Associate Planner Kraig Tambornini, stated the project is the redevelopment of a 10 acre
industrial site to a new 130,000 square foot Light Industrial/office complex, which would be a
multi -tenant complex to include limited high technology, research, development and office
tenants, as well as light industrial uses, warehouse uses and mini -warehouse uses. He stated
the project has been reviewed by City staff, the Design Review Board and Planning
Commission, and based on these reviews it has been concluded that the project is within the
General Plan traffic allocation and floor area ratio limits which apply to this site. Also, it has
been found to be consistent with the General Plan and zoning requirements regulating design,
environmental protection, land use, local business needs, neighborhood compatibility and the
recent Priority Project Procedure approval, which was granted to the site by the City Council in
December. There has been a Mitigated Negative Declaration prepared for this site in
compliance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), which concluded that there
would be no significant impacts by the project.
Impacts found relating to the development have to do with ongoing site remediation, which
would need to be concluded before development, as well as potential construction noise, traffic
impacts, and project related traffic impacts which would be mitigated through the mitigation
measures.
Mr. Tambornini stated Caltrans inquired about impacts on Highway 101 and staff has
responded that any impacts from the project on Highway 101 have been addressed in the
General Plan Circulation Element; therefore, no additional study is necessary. He stated the
project does include a planned development rezoning which will establish a sufficient level of
control over the mix of uses. Staff, through the building permit process and the business
licensing process, would handle compliance with the tenant mixes allowed. The project does
include conditions deemed appropriate by all city agencies and departments, together with
revisions to conditions recommended by the Planning Commission.
Mr. Tambornini closed his presentation, recommending hearing the applicant in public
testimony and adopting the resolutions and ordinance.
Councilmember Phillips noted in the Background section of the staff report the date of
November 24, 2000 should read October 24, 2000. He mentioned the site is currently under a
cleanup order by the Regional Water Quality Control Board, which contains a ground water
SRCC Minutes (Regular) 11/6/2000 Page 5
SRCC Minutes (Regular) 11/6/2000 Page 6
treatment system on site, and asked for more detail regarding the wording: "currently under
process, where we stand and how it interacts with the approval process."
Mr. Tambornini responded that since the site was vacated by the semi -conductor facility,
Regional Water has put a cleanup order on it; therefore, there is a slurry wall in place and a
remediation system which contains ground water, so it does not reach offsite or contaminate
adjacent areas. This treatment facility would stay in place and prior to development Regional
Water would require that any hot spots or contaminated areas of the soil be taken off and
replaced with clean fill. The order in place is under the regulatory authority of Regional Water
so measures are being taken presently which will remain in place as needed, with the Regional
Water Quality Control Board overseeing the entire process.
Councilmember Phillips inquired if there was an assurance that prior to construction this issue
would be properly addressed. Mr. Tambornini replied that approval would have to be obtained
from the Regional Water Quality Control Board before any site development work could
commence.
Councilmember Phillips addressed traffic, stating the intended usage had been somewhat
loosely defined, in that it is not a specific user who will occupy the building but a variety of
consumers, yet 182 peak trips have been allocated, and he inquired as to how to ensure the
use ultimately in place will not exceed the 182 peak trips.
Mr. Tambornini responded that each use type had been allocated a trip generation rate, and as
tenants come and go, there are certain maximums that would be allowed for the highest trip
generating use. The expectation is that there would be some fluctuations, with a median 182
peak trips.
Councilmember Phillips stated that reference was made to the Terra Linda area being traffic
sensitive and inquired if an assurance can be made that the ultimate use is not going to exceed
this figure. Community Development Director Brown stated that all traffic modeling is based on
assumptions and averages, but to give some sense of assurance, he stated the trip rates the
Traffic Engineer establishes are very conservative. The high technology rates essentially
correspond with the Traffic Engineer's rate for office, which is typically a higher generating use.
He illustrated the Bay View Business Park, where a maximum number of trips was established
with different uses and rates, and with that park now fully occupied, staff has gone back and
taken traffic counts to find the actual traffic generation from the entire development is
substantially less than the original number of trips allocated. He stated that, therefore, staff's
assumptions are conservative and they should fall within the 182 trips fairly easily.
Mayor Boro inquired if staff would be monitoring the uses to make sure they meet the norms in
the assumptions, and Mr. Brown confirmed that business licenses would be reviewed to make
sure they fall within these trip rates. Mr. Brown pointed out that because redevelopment of this
site had been so controversial in the past, pre -planning had been of the utmost importance in
gaining public acceptance.
Mayor Boro opened the public hearing, asking for comment.
John Lovewell, Keenan-Lovewell Ventures, stated he had worked for the past two years on this
project and in coming through the Priority Project Procedure (PPP) process they had proposed
two alternative projects for the City's selection: one being an office project and the other the
Light/Industrial project. The result of that process was a definite interest in the Light/Industrial
project, together with an admission that it would fall within the traffic requirements, so accepting
this as an approval to proceed, they redesigned and upgraded the project to Light/Industrial, of
a very high quality. They have had input from staff, the community, the Vision Committee,
Chamber of Commerce, Marin Conservation League and others, and have come up with a high
quality Light/Industrial project, recognizing this as a gateway site entering San Rafael with a lot
of visibility. The theme is an early 20th century industrial brick building, with metal sash
windows and aluminum canopies, incorporating substantial pedestrian amenities.
Mr. Lovewell stated there are some changes to Conditions 71, 72 and 75 which require a Lot
Line Adjustment, and final Design Review Board meeting, to examine some landscaping and
lighting details, prior to granting a building permit. He stated that in attempting to comply with
the PPP process to begin construction on December 6th, they requested flexibility from staff to
accomplish these items prior to occupancy. He stated they are waiting for a response from the
Las Gallinas Valley Sanitary District to the application submitted regarding fees, so a little
flexibility may be needed.
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SRCC Minutes (Regular) 11/6/2000 Page 7
Eugene Sakai, Architect, affirmed how excited he was to work on a project, which will turn a
local eyesore into a gateway feature. He presented drawings of the site, stating the four new
buildings are configured to allow for views of pleasant amenities. The scale of the buildings is
appropriate for the area, which is currently a Light/Industrial area, but the buildings will be of a
much higher quality and more in accordance with the older buildings. He presented a view of
the project from Redwood Highway, North to South, depicting the scale of the buildings. He
pointed out the entry feature, with a row of trees and enhanced paving. Mr. Sakai indicated that
from the highway, dominant features such as canopies and variations in the parapet height can
be seen, and on getting closer to the buildings these reveal themselves in variations in the
texture and detailing in the brick. He stated the window system would be of a unique steel
industrial sash, replicas of those seen in warehouses in the 1900s. The brick, again, is unique
in that it is composed of a variety of colors and textures. Mr. Sakai's drawings depicted the
canopies as made of steel and glass, lending both pedestrian and automotive scale. He stated
there would be outdoor gathering areas, which work with the landscaping and the buildings,
providing semi -sheltered, yet open courtyard areas for employees and visitors.
Vice -Mayor Heller inquired as to whether there would be any upgrades or changes relating to
the Las Gallinas Creek side of the property. Mr. Sakai deferred to the Landscape Architect,
commenting that they primarily want to enhance the natural riparian characteristics of the
woods, not wishing to make this a heavy use area, but enhance the view.
Mayor Boro inquired as to a signing program for the site and Mr. Sakai replied this would be
determined as the tenant mix is decided. Mayor Boro asked staff what kind of signing might be
expected on this site.
Mr. Tambornini stated there would be an entry monument sign and individual building
identification signs. He stated the Design Review Board requested a sign program to address
individual tenant needs together with building identification signage.
Councilmember Phillips commented that the Design Review Board had some issues which
include light standard and landscaping details and inquired as to their status, also with regard to
the giant trees depicted in the site plans he wondered if they would reach this actual maturity.
Mr. Sakai stated the trees in the site plans represent maturity, are typically fast growing and are
planted to give quick cover and shade.
Gary Layman, Landscape Architect, stated he was excited to work on this project both because
of the situation of the site and the natural amenities present. Having looked at the macro
factors, they came up with an overall concept which utilized plant materials, exclusively native,
along the creek area, which will have a significant wildlife benefit and be a strong visual key
from the creek area to the hillside. The same native palette is being used round the site
perimeters, with benefits visually, environmentally and ecologically. He stated it was important
to create a strong frontage for the buildings.
At the location of the sign, there would be a large green area with a generous setback where a
flowering accent tree would create a focal point, organizing the site, so visitors would have a
sense of position.
Mr. Layman stated that along the front plaza areas it was critical to develop a pedestrian
friendly environment; therefore, a series of elements were used, including decorative lighting
along the main central spine within the pedestrian areas, and a strong canopy tree, 15 years
old. To separate the auto traffic from the pedestrian walkways there would be cast iron
bollards, to demarcate these areas, cast iron and wood benches, tree grates and at the
terminus of the main entry a clock tower. Mr. Layman stated they were invited to consider
enriching these areas using architectural themes. They looked at creating differentiated plazas
in front of the building areas in different densities of tree types, as well as seating areas, to
encompass different colors of paving and brick patterning.
Mayor Boro inquired as to the expected tree size and Mr. Layman used an illustration to point
out that the Bradford Pear tree depicted was 15' - 18' tall, so he would expect the trees to be in
that range in approximately 7 — 8 years. The Redwood trees seen in the backdrop are also fast
growing. He stated that because the site has a high water table it was necessary to select
trees which would be successful in that environment, so they studied the locality to observe
development, as well as basing land selections from their own experience.
Councilmember Miller complimented and thanked the architect for not having palm trees in the
selection. He stated that when he observed the site he was impressed with the truthfulness of
the design and concept.
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SRCC Minutes (Regular) 11/6/2000 Page 8
Councilmember Phillips inquired as to the status of the landscaping report
Mr. Layman responded that this was the same document as was reviewed in the previous
hearings, but the type of discussion they had been engaged in referred specifically to lighting
and looking at the treatment of the landscaping along some edges. The concern was not to
create a strong architectural linear hedgerow of redwood trees. What they have done is
introduced different species along the edges to create a natural appearance and worked with
neighbors to the south, who had issues relative to solar concerns.
Councilmember Phillips confirmed with the landscape architect that the boundary issue will be
returning to the Design Review Board, but the number of trees will not change and he reiterated
the improvement to the area.
Vice -Mayor Heller requested that with regard to parking lot trees the question of ample
protection for cars be considered. Mr. Layman responded that the planters are continuous and
will accommodate the overhang.
Ms. Keller stated she was pleased to note 48 parking spaces in reserve. She inquired if there
were any tenants tentatively selected and the anticipated completion date.
Architect Eugene Sakai replied that assuming commencement in December the project should
be complete by November, 2001, weather permitting, adding meetings were held with
prospective tenants but nothing was finalized.
Mayor Boro noted the staff report and description mentioned mini -storage and inquired how
much of the project would be devoted to mini -storage.
Mr. Sakai replied they were approached by a company dealing with wine storage for individuals
and small wineries, which would include installing a refrigeration system, and stated there were
several scenarios laid out in the plan, but possibly as much as 30,000 square feet of this type of
usage.
Mayor Boro asked for confirmation that there would not be signage similar to that prevalent on
the highway, advertising mini -storage. Mr. Sakai replied this would not be the case.
Mayor Boro reiterated how pleased everyone was with the project, stating that as well as being
an entry to the city it was also an exit, therefore, leaving an excellent last impression.
There being no further comment, Mayor Boro closed the public hearing.
Councilmember Miller moved and Councilmember Phillips seconded, to adopt the Resolution.
RESOLUTION NO. 10740 - RESOLUTION ADOPTING A MITIGATED NEGATIVE
DECLARATION AND MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING
PROGRAM FOR A PLANNED DEVELOPMENT (PD) ZONING
ORDINANCE AMENDMENT (ZC 00-5), MASTER USE PERMIT (UP
00-11), ENVIRONMENTAL AND DESIGN REVIEW PERMIT (ED 00-
36), AND LOT LINE ADJUSTMENT (S 00-8) FOR A 130,000 SQUARE
FOOT MULTI -TENANT LIGHT INDUSTRIAL/OFFICE DEVELOPMENT
LOCATED AT 4300 REDWOOD HIGHWAY (APN: 155-110-05 AND
155-110-06) (FORMER FAIRCHILD PROPERTY)
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS: Heller, Miller, Phillips and Mayor Boro
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: Councimember Cohen
The title of the Ordinance was read:
"AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF SAN RAFAEL AMENDING THE ZONING MAP OF THE CITY
OF SAN RAFAEL, CALIFORNIA, ADOPTED BY REFERENCE, BY SECTION 14.01.020 OF THE
MUNICIPAL CODE OF SAN RAFAEL, CALIFORNIA, SO AS TO RECLASSIFY CERTAIN REAL
PROPERTY FROM LIGHT INDUSTRIAL OFFICE (LI/0) DISTRICT TO PLANNED DEVELOPMENT
DISTRICT (ZC 00-5) FOR A MASTER PLANNED 130,000 SQUARE FOOT MULTI -TENANT LIGHT
INDUSTRIAL AND OFFICE COMPLEX DEVELOPMENT AT 4300 REDWOOD HIGHWAY (APN:
155-110-05 AND 155-110-06) (FORMER FAIRCHILD PROPERTY)"
SRCC Minutes (Regular) 11/6/2000 Page 8
SRCC Minutes (Regular) 11/6/2000 Page 9
Councilmember Phillips moved and Councilmember Heller seconded to dispense with the reading of
the Ordinance in its entirety and to refer to it by title only, and pass Charter Ordinance No. 1758 to
print, by the following vote, to wit:
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS: Heller, Miller, Phillips and Mayor Boro
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
ABSENT COUNCILMEMBERS: Councilmember Cohen
Before calling for a vote on the final Resolution, Mayor Boro asked if there were comments or
recommendations on Conditions 71, 72, 75, 80.
Associate Planner Tambornini replied that with regard to Condition 80 (provided by the applicant),
staff is comfortable with the language presented. With regard to the other items staff does not have a
problem issuing a foundation permit pending completion of these items prior to the erection of walls on
the building, and suggested a new condition 71 be inserted with the language "Permits for the
construction of building foundations may be obtained prior to recordation of the final lot line adjustment
document and approval of the final landscaping and lighting plans".
Councilmember Phillips moved and Councilmember Heller seconded, to adopt the Resolution with the
wording substituted by staff for Item No. 71, and that provided by the applicant for Item No. 80 (Prior to
issuance of a building permit, the applicant shall provide reasonable evidence that Sanitary Sewer
Service for the project will be available from the Las Gallinas Valley Sanitary District.)
RESOLUTION NO. 10741 — RESOLUTION APPROVING A MASTER USE PERMIT
(UP 00-11), ENVIRONMENTAL AND DESIGN REVIEW PERMIT (ED
00-36), AND LOT LINE ADJUSTMENT (S 00-8) FOR DEVELOPMENT
OF A 130,000 SQUARE FOOT MULTI -TENANT LIGHT INDUSTRIAL
COMPLEX LOCATED AT 4300 REDWOOD HIGHWAY (APN: 155-
110-05 AND 155-110-06) (FORMER FAIRCHILD PROPERTY) (As
amended)
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS:
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS:
ABSENT COUNCILMEMBERS:
COUNCILMEMBER REPORTS:
Heller, Miller, Phillips and Mayor Boro
None
Councilmember Cohen
15. a) RE: VISION 2020 - File 102
Councilmember Miller stated he visited Vision 2020 and on leaving, a delegation from the Tenants
Association of Marian Court, who were unable to attend the City Council Meeting, presented him
with a thank you gift for Mayor Boro and the City Council to show their appreciation. He presented
Mayor Boro with a statuette from Guatemala.
Mayor Boro thanked Councilmember Miller for all the outreach he conducts in the Canal
Neighborhood, which is recognized and appreciated.
b) RE: GLENWOOD SCHOOL - File 9-1
Vice -Mayor Heller informed the City Council she was invited to the Student Body Elections at
Glenwood School, K-6. She stated they had over 35 candidates, all of whom gave speeches; it was
well run and most enjoyable and she believes the entire Council will be invited to the different
Schools this year.
There being no further business, the City Council meeting was adjourned at 9:30 p.m.
JEANNE M. LEONCINI, City Clerk
APPROVED THIS DAY OF , 2000
MAYOR OF THE CITY OF SAN RAFAEL
SRCC Minutes (Regular) 11/6/2000 Page 9