HomeMy WebLinkAboutCC Resolution 7881 (Ambassy Suites)RESOLUTION NO. 7881
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
SAN RAFAEL APPROVING A MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION & SETTING
FORTH FINDINGS FOR REZONING OF PROPERTY ON MCINNIS PARKWAY,
EAST OF CIVIC CENTER DRIVE
(EMBASSY SUITES)
WHEREAS, pursuant to Title 14 (Zoning) of the San Rafael
Municipal Code, an amendment to rezone that certain real
property on McInnis Parkway, east of Civic Center Drive, and
more particularly described in Exhibit "A" hereto, was
initiated by the property owner as application No. 288-1; and
WHEREAS, on December 13, 1988, the Planning Commission
adopted Resolution 88-22 finding the proposed amendment would
not create any significant adverse impacts and recommending to
the City Council the approval of a Mitigated Negative
Declaration; and
WHEREAS, on December 13, 1988 the Planning Commission
adopted Resolution 88-23 setting forth findings, recommending
to the City Council approval of said Rezoning, and concurrently
granting Commission approval of Use Permit and Subdivision
applications; and
WHEREAS, the City Council has reviewed and considered the
minutes of all Planning Commission meetings, staff's reports to
the Planning Commission, and Planning Commission Resolutions
88-22 and 88-23;
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED that the San Rafael City
Council concurs in and adopts as its own the findings contained
in Planning Commission Resolutions 88-22 and 88-23; attached
hereto; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the San Rafael City Council
finds that there is no substantial evidence in the record
showing that the project may have a significant effect on the
environment, and approves the Mitigated Negative Declaration
for Z88-1.
I, JEANNE M. LEONCINI, Clerk of the City of San Rafael,
hereby certify that the foregoing resolution was duly and
regularly introduced and adopted at a regular meeting of the
Council of said City on Monday , the 19th day
of December 1988, by the following vote, to wit:
L R � G %N6 A
AYES: COUNCILMEMBERS: Boro, Breiner, Frugoli, Thayer & Mayor Mulryan
NOES: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
ABSENT: COUNCILMEMBERS: None
2
ACNE M. LEONINI, City Clerk
EXHIBIT 'A'
REAL PROPERTY SITUATED IN MARIN COUNTY, STATE OF CALIFORNIA,
DESCRIBED AS FOLLOWS:
ALL OF PARCEL ONE, AS SHOWN ON THE "PARCEL MAP OF CIVIC CENTER
NORTH" RECORDED AUGUST 26, 1985, IN BOOK 23 OF PARCEL MAPS, AT
PAGE 52, MARIN COUNTY RECORDS.
END OF DESCRIPTION.
RESOLUTION NO. 88-22
RESOLUTION OF THE SAN RAFAEL PLANNING COMMISSION APPROVING AND
RECOMMENDING TO THE CITY COUNCIL APPROVAL OF A MITIGATED
NEGATIVE DECLARATION FOR A 236 -ROOM FIVE STORY HOTEL (THE
PROJECT) TO BE LOCATED ON MCINNIS PARKWAY, APN 180-410-03.
WHEREAS, following a review of the project proposal, an
Initial Study was prepared for the project by the City of San
Rafael (City) staff after a determination that the City is the
Lead Agency for the environmental review of the project; and
WHEREAS, 'the Initial Study determined that a Negative
Declaration should be prepared for the project; and
WHEREAS, prior to Planning Commission public hearings held
to consider the Negative Declaration and the merits of the
project, notice that the Lead Agency proposed adoption of a
Negative Declaration was provided to the public by publication
in a newspaper of general circulation in the area of the
proposed project, by direct mailing to owners of property
contiguous to the project and by direct mailing to other
organizations and individuals, including those who had
previously requested such notice; and
WHEREAS, noticed and/or continued public hearings for the
project applications and the Negative Declaration were held
before the Planning Commission on September 13, September 27,
October 11, October 25, November 15, November 29, and December
13, 1988; and
WHEREAS, public comment on environmental issues and the
Negative Declaration was accepted by and considered by the
Planning Commission during the public hearings, in conjunction
with information contained in the proposed Negative Declaration
and contained in staff reports (incorporated by reference
1
herein) prepared for the public hearings; and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Planning
Commission finds it has considered the mitigated Negative
Declaration together with comments received during the public
review process and the Planning Commission finds on the basis
of the Initial Study, information contained within staff
reports for the noticed public hearings, and comments received
that there is no substantial evidence that the project will
have a significant effect on the environment; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Planning Commission
approves and recommends to the City Council approval of the
Negative Declaration; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that this resolution shall take
affect upon its adoption.
The foregoing resolution was adopted at the regular San
Rafael Commission meeting held on December 13, 1988.
Moved by Commissioner O'Brien and seconded by
Commissioner Cobb
AYES COMMISSIONERS: Cobb, Scott, Livingston, O'Brien,
NOES COMMISSIONERS: RifkindCohen
ABSENT COMMISSIONERS: None
ABSTAIN COMMISSIONERS: Walz
SAN RAFAEL PLANNING COMMISSION
ATTEST BY:
CURTZ0rTON, SECRETARY SUE SCOTT, CHAIRMAN
RESOLUTION NO. 88-23
RESOLUTION OF THE SAN RAFAEL PLANNING COMMISSION SETTING FORTH
FINDINGS, RECOMMENDING TO CITY COUNCIL CONDITIONAL APPROVAL OF
A REZONING APPLICATION AND CONDITIONALLY APPROVING USE PERMIT
AND SUBDIVISION APPLICATIONS FOR A 236 ROOM HOTEL (THE PROJECT)
TO BE LOCATED ON MCINNIS PARKWAY APN 180-410-03.
WHEREAS, applications for rezoning, use permit and
subdivision approval have been filed with the City for the
project; and
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission held public hearings on
September 13, 1988, September 27, 1988, October 11, 1988,
October 25, 1988 and November 29, 1988 to consider adoption of
a Mitigated Negative Declaration and to consider approval of
the merits of the project applications; and
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission on December 13
1988, approved a Mitigated Negative Declaration for the project
by adoption of Resolution No. 88-22; and
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission has received, reviewed
and considered information contained in staff's report for each
public hearing, together with oral comments and documentation
presented during each public hearing; and
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission has considered the
consistency of the project applications with the General Plan
2000, and has reviewed, concurs in and adopts as its own the
findings of consistency with General Plan 2000 policies as set
forth in Exhibit A; and
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission has reviewed and concurs
in the recommended conditions of approval contained in Exhibit
B; and
01
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED the Planning Commission finds
the project applications for rezoning, use permit and
subdivision to be consistent th the General Plan 2000 as set
forth in Exhibit B; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED the Planning Commission finds the
establishment, maintenance or operation of the hotel use and/or
structures applied for will not under the circumstances of the
particular case, be detrimental to the health, safety, peace,
morals, comfort and general welfare of persons in the
neighborhood of the proposed hotel use, or be detrimental or
injurious to property and improvements in the neighborhood, or
to the general welfare of the City; thus warranting
consideration of approval of the requested use permit; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED the Planning Commission recommends
City Council approval of Zone Change 88-1 subject to conditions
as set forth Exhibit B; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED the Planning Commission approves
Use Permit 88-9 and subdivision 88-2, subject to the conditions
contained within Exhibit B; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that this resolution shall take
affect upon its adoption.
The foregoing resolution was adopted at the regular San Rafael
Planning Commission meeting held on December 13
1988.
Moved by Commissioner O'Brien and seconded
by Commissioner Cobb
rA
AYES COMMISSIONERS: Cobb, Scott, Livingston, O'Brien, Rifkind
NOES COMMISSIONERS: Cohen
ABSENT COMMISSIONERS: None
ABSTAIN COMMISSIONERS: Walz
ATTES�
Curt Jns on, Secretary
3
SAN RAFAEL PLANNING COMMISSION
b Y' :�P�/�-C
Sue Scott, Chairman
EXHIBIT A
GENERAL PLAri 2000 COMPLIANCE FINDINGS
EMBASSY SUITES HOTEL Z88-1, UP88-9, ED88-4 & S88-2
Per Planning Commission Approval December 13, 1988
The following are findings of the consistency of the Embassy
Suites Hotel proposal with those policies of the General Plan
2000 policies which have been determined applicable to the
project:
11LU-1 Timing of Development. For health, safety and
general welfare reasons, new development is to be
constructed consistent with the following policies:
a. Circulation: New development may be constructed only
after needed circulation project funding has been
guaranteed, circulation project and environmental
review has been completed, and findings have been
made that the time frame for completion of the needed
circulation improvements will not cause LOS D to be
exceeded."
Findinas. Portions of LU -1, other than stated
above, do not apply to the project. Funding of the
Merrydale Overcrossing, which is a circulation
project needed for the hotel project, has been
guaranteed by assessment district. Environmental
review for the Merrydale Overcrossing has been
completed by Caltrans, resulting in a Finding of No
Significant Impact/Negative Declaration.
As described in the project Negative Declaration and
as further described in staff's report to Planning
Commission for the September 13 and 27, 1988
meetings, the traffic of the hotel project added to
the existing traffic at the intersection of Civic
Center Drive and the Freitas Parkway Northbound
Highway 101 ramps will not cause LOS D to be exceeded
prior to completion of the Merrydale Overcrossing.f
As similarly described, addition of the traffic from
the hotel project together with traffic from the
other possible development projects listed in a
memorandum from the City Traffic Engineer dated
7/6/88, could cause LOS low D at the intersection
prior to the completion of the Merrydale Overcrossing
scheduled for Summer 1990.
General Plan Policy C-2 establishes LOS mid D as a
minimally acceptable standard for most circumstances.
A 1
Although the LOS low D projected for the hotel
traffic plus traffic from other projects would not
comply with the mid D standard of policy C-2, another
General Plan policy, namely NG -3, allows exceptions
to the LOS mid D limitations. A portion of policy
NG -3 states:
"Development which has provided
assessment district funding for
the Merrydale Overcrossing
improvements may proceed."
Since the hotel is to be located on property which
has funded the Overcrossing assessment district, the
proposed hotel fulfills the policy NG -3 criteria for
an exception to the LOS mid D standard which might
other -wise apply by virtue of polices LU -1 and C-2.
Because of the exception allowed by policy NG -3, the
hotel project is found to be consistent and in
compliance with policies LU -1 and C-2.
"LU -13 Commercial and Industrial Land Use Categories.
C. General Commercial: General retail and service uses;
restaurant; automobile sales and service uses;
hotel/motel; ancillary offices."
Findincrs. The proposed hotel is consistent with the
General Commercial land use category. Subsections a,
b and d through j of LU -13 do not apply to the hotel
project.
"LU -14 Intensity of Commercial and Industrial Development."
(This policy establishes Floor Area Ratios (FARs) for
different areas of the City, including a FAR of 0.3
for all commercial and industrial uses in the
Northgate Area.)
Findinus. The proposed hotel FAR exceeds 0.3.
Pursuant to policy LU -45, hotels in Northgate are
exempt from FAR limits applicable to commercial uses.
The proposal is therefore consistent with LU -14
pursuant to the exemption of LU -45. The remaining
provisions LU -14 do apply to the project.
"LU -16 Master Plan Zoning. Master plan all commercial and
industrial sites greater than five acres in size."
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GENERAL PLAN 2000 COMPLIANCE FINDINGS
Findincrs. The 6.2 acre project site is zoned P-
D, a master plan zoning district. The existing
zoning is to be amended to accommodate 236 hotel
rooms, in lieu of the 200 rooms allowed by the
existing master plan zoning. The existing and
proposed zoning are consistent with LU -16.
11LU-19 Design Approach. Agencies responsible for design
review shall be proactive to ensure that excellence
of design shall be required of all new development.
Project design shall enhance important community
entryways, major travel corridors, major linkages and
waterways. New development and redevelopment shall
harmonize style, intensity and type of new
residential, commercial or industrial construction
with the natural environment and respect the unique
needs and features of each area. The project should
also be designed in relation to the surrounding
area."
Findings. The Planning Commission intends to ensure
excellence of design through future Environmental and
Design Review approval processes. The project site
is not located at an important community entryway,
and therefore- need not enhance entryways. The
proposed building is set back one third mile from the
major travel corridor of Highway 101. The project
design enhances the waterway of the South Fork of
Gallinas Creek by appropriate setbacks, native
landscaping and other design features. The proposal
is of harmonious style, intensity and relation with
the natural environment and unique needs and features
of each area, in that the project has been designed
to minimize and mitigate any affect upon the creek
channel and designed to compliment and provide access
to the adjoining Marin County Auditorium and
Exhibition buildings. The proposal is consistent
with LU -19 for purposes of granting zoning use/permit
and subdivision approvals. An additional finding, of
compliance with LU -19 should be made prior to
Environmental and Design review approval.
"LU -20 Overall City Character. The "small town" character
of San Rafael shall be retained by 1) maintaining the
historic design character and pedestrian scale in
orientation of core downtown developments; 2)
retaining the existing suburban scale of development
of els awhere in San Rafael with increasing attention
paid to unifying landscaping standards, setbacks
A 3
GENERAL PLAN 2000 COMPLIANCE FINDINGS
connections and the design image of individual
areas."
Findinas. Phrase 1) does not apply to the project.
The proposed five story scale of the project does not
conflict with the suburban scale of development
elsewhere in San Rafael. The proposed 54 foot
predominant height of the hotel is less than portions
of the nearby County Auditorium. The size of the
hotel footprint is compatible with the footprints of
the County Auditorium and Exhibition buildings. The
hotel footprint is substantially smaller than the
County offices building. Unifying landscaping
standards have been proposed for the hotel in
conjuction with the nearby previously approved
McInnis Parkway landscaping for the Marin Lagoon
project. Building setbacks have been designed to
meet or exceed setbacks of the zoning standards and
the General Plan policies with respect to McInnis
Parkway and the Creek. A pedestrian connection and
access for a vehicular connection from the hotel to
the adjoining Marin County land uses are included in
the project.
11LU-20' Building Heights. Allow building heights to three
stories or 36 feet where more varied setbacks and
increased landscaping will result. Certain sites
identified on the Downtown Floor Area Ratios and
Height Limits map and Lincoln Avenue residential
sites may be up to four stories or 48 feet to achieve
more intensive floor area ratios or residential
densities, consistent with design policies. Height
Limits in predominantly single family areas shall
continue to be lower than three stories or 30 feet.
Buildings existing and approved as of 1-1-87 more
than three stories in height shall not be considered
non conforming. An additional one story may be
considered as result of Design Plans identified in
LU -p."
Findings. Hotel heights in excess of three stories
are allowed pursuant to policy LU -45. A proposal
consistent with LU -45 therefore does not conflict
with LU -20.
"LU -32 Water Conservation. Require conserving landscaped
design and fixtures types in all development."
Findinas. The proposed hotel is to use reclaimed
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GENERAL PLAN 2000 COMPLIANCE FINDINGS
water for landscaping irrigation and is consistent
with LU -32.
11LU-35 Project Design Considerations. Following are some
overall criteria to be used in evaluating excellence
in project design:
a. sensitivity to natural landscape and site
features
b. compatibility of colors, materials, scale and
building and site design with surrounding
development
C. use of high quality building materials
d. creation of interest and building elevation
including large overhangs, projecting
windows/doors, varied setbacks, pedestrian -
oriented features, etc.
e. provision of variations of in large complexes
(roof lines, color/materials, window treatment)
f. screening of parking and distribution of parking
to provide easy access to units/building
entrances
g. attractive screening of equipment consistent
with overall project design
h. provision of good vehicular and pedestrian
access and circulation on-site and in relation
to surrounding area
i. building orientation to meet solar requirements,
provide southern exposure and other "passive"
energy conservation measures.
j. incorporation of site/project amenities an
attractive landscaping
k. incorporation of fire/police safety concerns
1. provision of a sense of entry
M. variation in building placement"
Findinas. The proposal includes planting of native
materials within the Natural Area, demonstrating
sensitivity to natural landscape and site features.
The 54 foot predominant height of the hotel is less
than the height of the stage of the Marin Center
Auditorium and is compatible with the scale of that
building. The site design, which includes ornamental
landscaping within parking areas, native vegetation
along the creek and native vegetation within the
Natural Area, is compatible with the surrounding
development. The pedestrian bridge and walkways
create pedestrian -oriented features. The parking lot
has been designed to provide easy access to the front
A 5
GENERAL PLAN 2000 COMPLIANCE FINDINGS
entrance of the hotel for guests and to the rear
entrance for employees. The proposed areas of
landscaping provides screening of parking areas.
Mechanical equipment is to be located in screened
ground level areas. The site design incorporates
good vehicular and pedestrian access, and the
pedestrian bridge and access easement provide good
access to the adjoining County property. The
building has been oriented to the extent feasible to
meet solar requirements, provide southern exposure
and other "passive" energy conservation measures,
given the concomitant need to create the number of
rooms and other facilities within the project site.
The:: proposed landscaping, walkways and pedestrian
bridge will furnish site/project amenities and
attractive landscaping. The proposed porte cochere
provides a sense of entry. Since only one building
is proposed, its placement does not conflict with the
specification for variation in building placement.
The project design, for purposes of granting zone
change, use permit and subdivision approvals, is
consistent with LU -35 a, f, h, i , j, 1 and m; an
additional finding of compliance with LU -35 b, c, d,
e, g and k should be made prior to Environmental and
Design Review approval.
11LU-36 Additional Community Design Map Considerations. In
addition to project design considerations, Community
Design Maps A and B identify some of the important
design attributes and concerns of the community
relating to specific area features to be considered
in evaluating projects for high quality design.
d. Creeks and Drainage Ways.
preserve and enhance for wildlife/scenic values
use as pedestrian and bicycle access corridors
where feasible
require adequate setbacks for maintenance,
erosion control, access where feasible"
Findinns. The project will preserve wildlife/scenic
values by not permanently encroaching upon the creek
wetlands other than for construction of pedestrian
bridge supports. The proposed Natural Area will
enhance wildlife/scenic values. A pedestrian path
along the creek is not proposed in order to minimize
human intrusion into the wetland habitat. The
project proposal includes a setback of improvements
GENERAL PLAID 2000 COMPLIANCE FINDINGS
and a maintenance access easement along the entire
creek frontage. The proposal is consistent with LU -
36 d. The remainder of LU -36 does not apply.
11LU-45 Hotels. Encourage development of hotels in
commercial and industrial areas and allow hotel and
motel development in some multiple family areas with
strict design and use control. In the traffic
sensitive areas of Northgate, East San Rafael and
Francisco Boulevard West, hotels are exempt from FAR
limits applicable to other commercial uses; site peak
hour trip allocation shall be used as the basis for
establishing the size of a hotel building. Hotels
are allowed up to a four story height. Upon
demonstration to the Planning Commission of the
necessity of a building height up to five stories to
achieve a viable hotel development, the City may
approve such additional height following a finding of
significant community benefit and acceptable design
consistent with City design policies."
Findincrs. The site peak hour trip allocation
specified for a hotel by the General Plan 2000 is 146
trips. The peak hour trip generation from the
proposed 236 hotel is 157 peak hour trips, 11 more
than the allocation. Pursuant to a finding made for
policy C-5, a transfer of 11 peak hour trips is to be
made for the hotel site. The transfer creates an
allocation of 157 peak hour trips, for which the
proposed hotel size is appropriate.
The applicant has filed and prested information to
demonstrate the necessity of a building height up to
five stories to achieve a viable hotel development.
The information includes the foll wing:
Applicant's oral presentation to Planning
Commission November 29, 1988
Letter from Danial Robin itz the Woodmont
Company to Dwight Winther, dated November 17,
1988
Letter from Whitney Carp nter, Laventhol &
Horwath to Cece Bridges, dat d October 6, 1988
Applicant's oral presentation September 13, 1988
Letter from Edward Stefoniak, the Woodmont
Companies, to Anne Moore dated July 8, 1988
The information filed and presented constitutes an
adequate demonstration of the necessity of a building
A 7
GENERAL PLAN 2000 COMPLIANCE FINDINGS
height of five stories to achieve a viable hotel
development.
Upon review of the information filed and presented by
the applicant and City staff, it is found that the
tax revenues, in particular the transient occupancy
taxes projected to be generated by the Embassy Suites
hotel together with the conference facilities which
can support improved utilization of the adjoining
Marin County Auditorium and Exhibition building,
constitute significant community benefit which
warrants a five story building height.
Upon review of the applicant's site plans and
building plans, the following elements of the hotel
proposal are found to be acceptable design consistent
with City design policies:
1. The site plan, consisting of: the size of the
building footprint; the location of building
footprint; the shape of building footprint; the
setbacks of the building and parking areas from
perimeter property lines and the creek; and the
location and design of parking spaces access
aisles and other site improvements.
2. A building mass five stories high, other than
for the one story conference center; a mass
including a maximum of 236 suites, a 10,000
square foot conference center and a central
atrium extending from ground level to the
ceiling of the fifth floor.
Given the need for the applicant to complete the
Environmental and Design Review process which will
include a subsequent review and approval action by
the Planning Commission, a future finding of
acceptable design consistent with City design
policies must be made for design elements consisting
of facade and fenestration design, exterior building
materials and landscaping materials.
"LU -51 Water and Sewer Facilities. Ensure provision of
adequate water and sewer facilities to meet needs of
existing and new development. Future development
should coordinated with responsible districts and
agencies to assure facility expansion and/or
improvement meets Federal and State standards and
occurs in a timely fashion."
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GENERAL PLA14 2000 COMPLIANCE FINDINGS
Findings. The applicant has applied for water and
sewer connections from the responsible agencies. The
project complies with LU -51.
11LU-32 Water Conservation. Promote and encourage water
conservation measures."
Findings. The proposal to use reclaimed water for
landscaping irrigation is consistent with the LU -32.
"LU -pp Neighborhood Meetings. Continue the City's practice
of consulting with neighborhood representatives and
nearby property owners as a part of the development
review process."
Findinas. Meetings with neighborhood representatives
have been held June 23, 1988, August 15, 1988,
October 10, 1988 and November 17, 1988. These
meetings demonstrate consistency with the
Neighborhood Meetings policy.
11C-3 Timing of Development with Transportation
Improvements. For health, safety and general welfare
reasons, new development is to be constructed only
after needed circulation project funding has
guaranteed, circulation project environmental review
has been completed, and findings have been made that
the time frame for completion of the needed
circulation improvements will not cause LOS D to be
exceeded. Major needed circulation improvements in
specific areas' affected by this timing policy are
listed below. Other circulation improvements
identified in Policy C-8 may also be necessary to
maintain LOS standards.
C. Northgate East:
Lucas Valley Road/Smith Ranch Road/101
Interchange;
Manual Freitas Parkway/Merrydale
overcrossing;
North San Padro and Merrydale Road
Improvements
Additionally, new development at the Marin Ranch
Airport is also contingent on construction of the
Lincoln -Los Ranchitos connector and the eastside
arterial through to Smith Ranch Road."
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GENERAL PLAN 2000 COMPLIANCE FINDINGS
Findinas. See finding for LU -1 for finding of
compliance with above. The remainder of C-3 does not
apply to the project. The project proposal is
consistent with C-3.
11C-4 Trip Allocations. In the most traffic sensitive
areas, (North San Rafael, Northgate and East San
Rafael/Francisco Boulevard West), individual parcels
have been assigned a portion of area trips based on
peak hour trip generation in order to achieve Level
of Service standards. Trip allocations are detailed
in the appendices. These allocations may not be
exceeded and are consistent with General Plan Floor
Area Ratios for typical uses. In other parts of the
planning area, designated Floor Area Ratios and
residential densities are used to determine intensity
of use and trip generation."
Findinas. The project proposal to generate 157 peak
hour trips exceeds the General Plan 2000 trip
allocation of 146 by 11 peak hour trips. Policy C-5
allows transfer of trips under certain circumstances.
Following such a transfer of 11 peak hour trips
pursuant to C-5, the project is consistent with C-4.
11C-5 Trip Transfers. Trip transfers among sites shall not
generally be allowed. The City will reserve any
unused trip allocations after approval of projects
for City/public benefit purposes, such as affordable
housing and as a means to guarantee acceptable
transportation operating conditions. However,
consolidation of trip allocations may be allowed, at
the discretion of the City, where all of the
following is shown by the applicant:
1. Parcels to which trips have been allocated are
held under common ownership;
2. Traffic impacts the same intersections and
roadways;
3. Total Trips for all parcels shall not exceed the
total allocations;
4. Such transfer of trips would not result in
additionally significant adverse environmental
impacts on the City's circulation system.
5. The Parcel from which the trips have been
transferred would continue to have significant
trips for varied uses consistent with the land
use designation.
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GENERAL PLAN 2000 COMPLIANCE FINDINGS
6. Floor Area Ratio limits would not be exceeded."
Findinas. Policy C-5 allows trip transfers under
either of two circumstances: transfer is allowed when
all the six enumerated criteria are met, or a
transfer is allowed, pursuant to the second sentence
of C-5, for city/public benefit purposes. The
proposed hotel does not warrant a trip transfer by
virtue of meeting all the six criteria, but a
transfer of 11 peak hour trips to the hotel site is
warranted for city/public benefit purposes, for the
reasons stated below:
When the nearby Marin Lagoon (Civic Center North
Residential) project was approved by the City, the
project's density was reduced from 300 units to 224
units. This reduction in density results in
generation of 69 fewer peak hour trips than the 281
peak hour trips allocated to the property by the
general plan. By virtue of the reduction in density
to 224 units, 69 peak hour trips reverted to the City
and, pursuant to the second sentence of policy C-5,
the 69 trips may be used for city/public benefit
purposes.
Upon review of the Embassy Suites hotel proposal, it
is found that the hotel proposal will have
city/public benefit, due to the generation of
substantial taxes and by facilitating increased
utilization and increased user fees for the Marin
County Auditorium and Exhibition buildings. It is
further found that a hotel of 236 rooms will likely
generate more tax revenues and better utilization of
county facilities than would a hotel of 200 rooms.
Therefore a hotel of 236 rooms will likely create
greater city/public benefit than a hotel of 200
rooms.
It is further found that a 236 room hotel will
generate 157 peak hour trips, some 11 trips more than
the General Plan 2000 allocation of 146 such trips.
A transfer of 11 additional peak hour trips is
therefore required to create an allocation of a
maximum 157 peak hour trips to support a hotel of a
maximum of 236 rooms.
It is further found that since 69 peak hour trips are
available to the City by the reduction in density of
the Marin Lagoon project, and since the proposed
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GENERAL PLAN 2000 COMPLIANCE FINDINGS
hotel will have city/public benefit, and since
transfer of 11 such trips will facilitate larger
hotel with likely increased city/public benefit, it
is found that pursuant to the second sentence of
policy C-5, 11 peak hour trips are hereby transferred
from the Marin Lagoon 69- trip reversion, to create
revised allocation of a maximum of 157 peak hour
trips for the proposed hotel.
"C-8 Planned Roadway Improvements." (This policy
describes 28 planned roadway improvements, among
which two are applicable to the project as follows:)
"11. Construct a direct Highway 101 northbound on-
ramp at Manuel Freitas Parkway
12. Construct the proposed Merrydale Road
Overcrossing over Highway 101"
Findinas. These two roadway improvement projects are
currently funded and supported by the assessment
district to which the hotel site contributes
fundings. The proposal is consistent with C-8
projects 11 and 12.
11C-15 Design of Projects Adjacent to Transitway. New land
uses should be designed to be compatible with
potential use of the Northwest Pacific Railroad
right-of-way as a transitway. Noise attenuation,
setbacks, access, etc. should be considered."
Findinas. The hotel land use is compatible with
transitway use of the right-of-way.
11C-17 Circulation Improvement Funding. The City will take
a strong advocacy role in achieving the funding of
planned circulation improvements. Comprehensive
funding programs which include Federal, State,
County, Redevelopment, Local Development Mitigation,
and Assessment District fees should be established to
fund planned improvements in various areas. Local
development project's share of the responsibility to
fund improvements is based on: (1) the generation of
additional traffic which creates the need for the
improvement; (2) the improvement's role in the
overall transportation network; (3) the probability
of security funding from alternative sources; and (4)
the timing of the improvement."
Findinas. The project contributes assessment
A 12
GENERAL PLAN 2000 COMPLIANCE FINDINGS
district funding for the Merrydale Overcrossing which
has been determined mitigation of a 200 room hotel.
Although the proposed 236 room hotel will generate 11
peak hour trips more than a 200 room hotel for which
assessments have been levied, it is not necessary to
increase the assessment in order to conclude that the
236 room hotel traffic is consistent with C-17.
Assessments need not increased because the 224 unit
Marin Lagoon project which is also in the district,
will generate 69 fewer peak hour trips than the 300
trip level on which Marin Lagoon assessments have
been based. The net change in traffic from both the
hotel and Marin Lagoon projects is 58 trips fewer
than the level for which assessments are based.
Therefore the proposed increase in hotel size will
not result in additional "unfunded" traffic, and the
236 room hotel is consistent with C-17.
"C-22 Transportation System Management (TSM). Continue to
work cooperatively with the business and residential
communities to minimize peak period traffic demand
through a proposed comprehensive transportation
system management program. TSM programs will be
mandatory for large new developments and initially
voluntary for existing development. The proposed
voluntary program if performance goals are not met."
Findina_s. Staff considers the proposed hotel to be a
large new development for which a TSM program is
required. Provision of such a program is recommended
by a condition of approval.
"NE -13 Protection of Environmental Resources. Protect and
enhance environmental resources. Such resources
include but are not limited to ridgelines, wetlands,
creeks, shorelines, threatened and endangered species
habitat and archeological "sites."
Findinas. The hotel proposal does not include
construction within habitat for threatened and
endangered species. The project protects the
existing wetland by keeping all proposed fill outside
wetland area and by limiting construction within
wetland to less than 50 square feet of area for
pedestrian bridge piers. The proposal will enhance
environmental resources by creation of 2700 square
feet of new wetland habitat, thereby providing 54 to
1 acreage mitigation of 50 square feet of permanently
lost wetland. The project proposal is consistent
A 13
GENERAL PLAN 2000 COMPLIANCE FINDINGS
with NE -13.
"NE -15 Wetland Buffer Areas. Buffers shall be provided
between development projects and adjacent wetlands
(as identified/referenced on Map GP -16b). Generally,
a minimum 50 foot setback from wetlands shall be
maintained for structures. Wider setbacks (100 feet
ideally) will be required on larger parcels through
project review. Creeks (See Policy NE -17), existing
concrete line drainageways, and the San Rafael Canal
(between Highway 101 and the western boundary of
Pickleweed Park --See Policy CB -6) are excluded from
the policy. A property owner may apply for a waiver
to this setbacks policy if the property owner can
demonstrate that the proposed setback adequately
protects the value of the wetland habitat to the
satisfaction of the Department of Fish and Game or
similar wildlife agency, or if the property owner can
demonstrate that the implementation of this policy
would substantially interfere with any reasonable
economic use of the property."
Findings. The hotel project is excluded from NE -15
wetland buffer area provisions per council direction
because the site adjoins a waterway identified as a
creek by the General Plan 2000.
"NE -17 Creek/Drainageway Setbacks. Creeks are defined as
permanent and intermittent water courses identified
on Map GP -16c, which is based information from the
latest USGS and Fish and Wildlife Service maps.
Drainageways are defined as open hillside drainage
swales which collect in concentrate stormwater and
open improved drainage channel. Major drainageways
are identified on Map GP -16c and are based on
information on the lasted USGS and Fish and Wildlife
Service maps.
Setbacks from creeks and drainageways shall be
established in new development for the following
reasons: safety factors including adequate
maintenance and emergency vehicle access in difficult
terrain and adequate debris flow avalanche corridor;
reserve areas for flood control; transition areas
between inhabited structures and waterways to protect
properties from damage due to streambank
undercutting; environmental factors including
preservation of riparian habitat and wildlife
corridors; recreational factors including
A 14
GENERAL PLAN 2000 COMPLIANCE FINDINGS
opportunities for public recreation and view
corridors; and aesthetic factors such as provision of
landscaping.
Generally, a minimum 25 foot setback from the high
top of creekbanks shall be maintained for structures.
Wider creek setbacks (up to 100 feet) will be
required on larger parcels (two or more acres in
size) where individual project review concludes a
wider setback is needed. Drainageway setbacks shall
be established through individual project review
based on the above factors."
Council Direction: Retain 25 setback foot setback
for creeks and exclude them from wetlands setback
provisions, exclude concrete line drainageways from
the 50 foot wetland setback, retain the 25 foot
setback from top of creekbank for the San Rafael
Canal, exempt Spinnaker Point V, revised wetlands
Se-tback landscaped to state a property owner may
apply for a waiver if it can be demonstrated that the
proposed setback would adequately protect the value
of the wetland habitat, and consider a broadening of
waiver from the wetlands fill policy for Auburn
Street area site, given how site effects surrounding
properties.
Findings_ The last paragraph above reflects final
revisions to policy NE -17 upon adoption by the City
Council. Pursuant to this paragraph, the required
setback of structures from the high top of creekbank
is 25 feet minimum; the project proposal of 85 or
more feet greatly exceeds the minimum. Council
discussion indicated that parking lot pavement does
not constitute.a "structure" for which the 25 foot
minimum setback should be observed. However, the
project proposal, includes a 25 foot minimum setback
of pavement.
"NE -18 Enhancement of Drainageways. Explore enhancement of
drainageways to serve as wildlife habitat as well as
drainage facilities."
Findings. The proposal to create a 2700 square foot
Wetland Area is consistent with NE -18.
"NE -b Private Open Space. When development permits are
sought which would result in portions of the site
being retained in privately owned open space, insure
A 15
GENERAL PLAN 2000 COMPLIANCE FINDINGS
the preservation of the character of that open space
by deed limitations or other means."
Findinqs. The proposed Natural Area will be subject
to this policy. A condition of approval has been
recommended requiring dedication of development
rights to the Natural Area to insure preservation of
the area. Adoption of the condition will make the
proposal consistent with Private Open Space policy.
"NE -g Wetland Mitigation. Continue the City's practice of
requiring mitigation for projects which would effect
wetlands, in conjunction with recommendations of
State and Federal Trustee agencies."
Findinas. The proposed 2700 square foot Wetlands
Area will constitute 54 to 1 mitigation of loss of 50
square feet of wetlands area to construction bridge
piers. The proposal is consistent with NE -g.
"S-3 Geotechnical Review. The City will continue to
require geotechnical studies for development of
proposal; such studies should determine the actual
extent of geotechnical hazards, optimum location for
structures, the advisability of special structure
requirements, and the feasibility and desirability of
a proposed facility and a specific location. The
requirements for geotechnical investigations will be
set forth in the City's Geotechnical Review Matrix."
Findings. Prior to zoning approval in 1983, a
geotechnical investigation was submitted and
subjected to geotechnical review.
A separate geotechnical investigation has been
prepared for the hotel proposal by Donald Herzog and
Associates. Pursuant to recommended condition of
approval, the investigation will be subjected to
geotechnical review prior to the issuance of building
permits.
11S-4 Use of Hazard Maps in Development Review. Slopes
Stability, Seismic Hazard and Flood Hazard Maps will
be reviewed at the time a development is proposed.
Appropriate studies shall be undertaken to assure
identification and implementation of mitigation
measures for identified hazards."
Findinqs. The indicated Maps have been reviewed and
A 16
GENERAL PLAN 2000 COMPLIANCE FINDINGS
mitigation measures for the identified hazards have
been incorporated into the project proposal. The
project proposal is consistent with S-4.
11S-5 Soils and Geologic Review. The City shall require
soils and geologic review of development proposals in
accordance with the Geotechnical Review Matrix to
assess such hazards as potential seismic hazards,
liquefaction, landsliding, mudsliding, erosion,
sedimentation and settlement in order to determine if
these hazards can be adequately mitigated. Levels of
exposure to seismic risks for land uses and
structures are also outlined in the Geotechnical
Review Matrix, which shall be considered in
conjunction with development review."
Findinas. The geotechnical investigation submitted
by Donald Herzog Associates assesses seismic hazards,
liquefaction and settlement, and recommends
appropriate mitigation. A separate report prepared
by Oberkamper and Associates estimates erosion and
sedimentation. These reports have been reviewed by
staff and pursuant to a recommended condition of
approval are to subjected to geotechnical review as
specified by the Geotechnical Review Matrix prior to
the issuance of building permits.
11S-6 Minimize Geological Hazards. Development proposed
within areas of potential -geologic hazards shall not
be endangered by, nor contribute to, the hazardous
conditions on the site or on adjoining properties.
Development in areas subject soils and geologic
hazards shall incorporate adequate mitigation
measures. The City will only approve new development
in areas of identified hazard if such hazard can
appropriately mitigated."
Findinas. Mitigation of geologic hazards has been
proposed by the applicant, have been reviewed by City
staff and pursuant to a recommended condition of
approval will be subjected to Geotechnical Review in
compliance with S-6.
11S-7 Seismic Safety of New Buildings. All new buildings
shall be designed and constructed to resist stresses
produce by earthquakes."
Findinas. The applicant has proposed to implement
the recommendations of the Donald Herzog and
Associates Geotechnical Investigation which include
A 17
GENERAL PLAN 2000 COMPLIANCE FINDINGS
designing the building in strict accordance with
earthquake design standards. The proposal is
consistent with -S-7.
11S-9 Potential Hazardous Soils Conditions. New
development on sites filled to 1974 or on sites which
were historically auto service uses, industrial uses,
or other land uses which may have involved hazardous
materials shall be evaluated for the presence of
toxic or hazardous materials prior to development
approvals. See Map GP -22 "artificial fill areas" for
initial mapping of areas of concern to be evaluated.
This map will be refined through program S -h
"Potentially Hazardous Soils." The requirements for
sites specific investigation are contained in the
Geotechnical Review Matrix in the Plan Appendices."
Findincr. Testing for soils gas has been preformed by
Harding Lawson Associates. The testing has
identified methane gas at low concentrations and
recommends mitigation measures for the gas. The
applicant has proposed to implement the Harding
Lawson recommendations. The proposal is consistent
with S-9.
"5-12 Flood Protection of New Development. New development
shall be designed to provide protection from
potential impacts of flooding during the 111% chance"
or 11100 -year" flood."
Findincrs. The project has been proposed to meet City
standards for floor protection of. the 100 year flood.
The proposal is consistent with 5-12.
"5-17 Creeks and Drainageways. In order to prevent undue
erosion of creekbanks, the City will seek to retain
creek channels in their natural state, and to provide
maintenance access along creeks where appropriate."
Findincr. The project proposal includes retention of
the existing creek channel except for construction of
two pedestrian bridge support piers and for creation
of a new Wetland Area. Maintenance access is
proposed along the creekbank. The proposal is
consistent with S-17.
"5-20 Fire Safety of New Development. All new development
shall be constructed, at a minimum, to the fire
safety standards contained in the Uniform Fire and
A 18
4. Materials to be planted adjacent to the waterway
should be selected with consideration for
enhancing the habitat value of the waterways.
5. New creekbank plant materials should not
visually conflict with the color, height,
density, and other characteristics of materials
existing on the opposite creekbank in order that
a balanced and unified appearance be created for
both sides of the creek.
6. Continuous pedestrian access along the creekbank
and pedestrian access into the creekbank slopes
or waterways should be discouraged by a signing,
fencing, and landscaping.
II -3
GENERAL PLAN 2000 COMPLIANCE FINDINGS
Building Codes."
Findings. Pursuant to recommended conditions, of
approval, The project will be required to conform to
the Uniform Fire and Building Codes, consistent with
5-20.
"5-22 Safety Review of Development Projects. Crime
prevention and fire prevention techniques shall be
required in new development. Police and Fire
Department personnel shall continue to review
development applications to insure that landscaping,
lighting, building siting and design, adequate water
pressure and peak loads storage capacity, and
building construction materials reduce the
opportunity for crime and fire hazards."
Findinas. The project has been reviewed by Police
and Fire Department personnel who have recommended
conditions of approval for the project. The proposal
is consistent with 5-22.
"5-23 Access for Emergency Vehicles. New development shall
provide adequate access for emergency vehicles,
particularly fire fighting equipment."
Findinq. The project proposal has been reviewed by
Fire Department personnel for adequacy of access.
The proposal is consistent with S-23.
11N-7 Interior Noise Standards. To protect against
exterior noise sources, interior standards for new
residential and residential health care projects,
excluding hotels and motels, shall be 40 dB Ldn for
bedrooms and 45 dB Ldn for other rooms. Hotels and
motels shall meet 45 dB Ldn standard. In multi
family projects, hotels and motels, sound
transmission between units shall be as described by
State Administrative Codes standards, Title 25, Part
2 . "
Findings._ Pursuant to a recommended condition of
approval, design of the hotel to meet 45 dB Ldn
standard and sound transmission standards described
Title 25, Part 2 will be required, consistent with N-
7.
"NG -3 Development Timing. Timing of Northgate Development
projects shall occur in conjunction with needed road
A 19
GENERAL PLAN 2000 COMPLIANCE FINDINGS
improvements as described in circulation policy C-3
and specific site recommendations. Development which
has provided assessment district funding for
Merrydale Overcrossing improvements may proceed."
Findinas. See findings for policy LU -1 and C-3. The
proposal is consistent with NG -3.
"NG -4 Circulation Improvements. Provide the circulation
improvements called for in the Circulation background
section and/or the Circulation Plan Map. Major
improvements include the Lincoln/Los Ranchitos
connector, the proposed eastside arterial, the
Merrydale Overcrossing, and interchange/ intersection
improvements at Lucas Valley Road, Freitas Parkway
and North San Padro and Merrydale Roads."
Findinas. The hotel site is within the assessment
district formed to fund the Merrydale Overcrossing
which has been determined to be mitigation for a 200
room hotel. The proposal is consistent with NG -4.
"NG -5 Traffic Allocations for Development. Development
potential Northgate has been limited based on traffic
capacity defined by LOS standards. Underdeveloped
parcels in Northgate are individually allocated
additional trips as identified in the Appendices.
The trip allocation system distributes traffic
capacity of proposed roadway improvements and insures
that ultimate development will not exceed the
improved transportation system's capacity. Traffic
mitigation fees based on the project's share of
increased PM peak. Traffic will be collected to
provide partial funding for needed transportation
improvements."
Findinas. See findings for policies C-3, C-4 and C-
5. The proposal is consistent with NG -5.
"NG -6 Design Considerations in areas adjacent to the Civic
Center.
Require urban design analysis to assure
compatibility of materials, colors and building
masses with Civic Center
Require functional inter -connection with Civic
Center
Design to compliment Civic Center architecture
rather than compete
A 20
GENERAL PLAN 2000 COMPLIANCE FINDINGS
Site plans should acknowledge vistas to Mt.
Tamalpais"
Findings. The future Environmental and Design Review
process will consider the compatibility of materials,
color and with the Civic Center. The building height
is consistent with the height and mass of the Civic
Center. The proposed pedestrian bridge and vehicular
access easement will furnish a functional inter-
connection with the Civic Center. The hotel site
plans acknowledge vistas to Mt. Tamalpais. For
purposes of granting zone change, use permit and
subdivision approvals, the project proposal is
consistent with NG -6. An additional finding for
consistency with NG -6 for colors, materials and
complimenting of Civic Center architecture should be
made prior to Environmental and Design Review
approval.
"NG -10 Civic Center North Land Uses. Civic Center North
provides an excellent residential and hotel
development location. The previously approved office
use is retained on this site to provide a buffer
between Marin Center uses and residential areas.
Sufficient additional right-of-way to accommodate a
four lane arterial shall be reserved as a part of
future development approvals. The site also provides
an alternative potential neighborhood park location
for the Northgate East area, if it is impossible to
provides such a park on the Marin Ranch Airport site.
Revision of the Civic Center North Master Plan to
allow a hotel of up to 300 rooms is acceptable
through adjustment of intensity of the Civic Center
North office site or by complying with any other
provisions. Wetland buffers and threatened and
endangered species protection are important
consideration for development of this site."
Findings. The hotel is proposed at the site
referenced in policy NG -10. Pursuant to
recommendations of the Public Works Department, the
existing right-of-way of McInnis Parkway is
sufficient to accommodate a four lane arterial and no
additional right-of-way needs to be reserved. Of the
Civic Center North land uses, the hotel site is
inappropriate for a potential neighborhood park. The
hotel proposal does not request a 100 room increase
through intensity adjustment of the office site, but
instead seeks approval of a 36 room increase by
A 21
GENERAL PLAN 2000 COMPLIANCE FINDINGS
complying with other provisions of the General Plan
2000.
As stated in the analysis for policy NE -17, the
project is exempt from wetland buffers. Threatened
and endangered species protection for the Civic
Center North land uses have been implemented through
dedication of wetlands and establishment of wetland
setbacks by the 1983 zoning approval. As stated in
the analysis for policy NE -17, the hotel proposal
includes creek setbacks larger than required by the
1983 zoning and in compliance with General Plan 2000
policies.
A 22
EXHIBIT B
CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL
EMBASSY SUITES HOTEL
ZONE CHANGE 88-1
(1) Ordinance 1449 and the approved Development Plan standards
entitled Civic Center North Development Plan, prepared by
Dan Coleman Associates, dated November 3, 1981, are hereby
amended and superceded as follows:
(a) The Civic Center North Hotel Area Development Plan
standards are amended as stated in Exhibit I.
(b) The Civic Center North Restaurant Area Development
Plan standards are amended as stated in Exhibit II.
(2) Concurrent with recordation of a parcel map and prior to
the issuance of grading permits and building permits, an
easement or other non -revokable agreement, prepared to the
satisfaction of the City Attorney and Planning Director,
shall be recorded, allowing parking of up to 200 vehicles
from the hotel land use on the offices site, (Parcel 2 of
23 PM 52), on each weekday from 5:30 pm to 8:00 am and at
all times on each Saturday and Sunday. The 200 spaces
shall be paved and available for use prior to occupancy of
the hotel.
(3) The applicant shall submit for approval by the Planning
Director specification of a 15 foot wide landscape
easement along and within the southwest property line of
Parcel 2 of 23 PM 52 (i.e. the Civic Center North Offices
site). The approved easement shall be recorded prior to
the issuance of building permits, and the area of the
easement shall be landscaped prior to hotel occupancy.
(4) Prior to issuance of grading permits or building permits
for either the Hotel Area or the Restaurant Area, the
applicant shall submit an analysis prepared by a qualified
engineer or irrigation consultant, analyzing the adequacy
of the existing four inch reclaimed water line within
McInnis Parkway to serve the landscaping irrigation needs
of the Civic Center North restaurant, hotel, office and
Marin Lagoon projects. The analysis shall presume
irrigation of all landscaping with in the hotel and
offices projects as currently proposed, all public -use or
common use landscaping within the Marin Lagoon project and
all landscaping within a typical development of a three
acre restaurant site. If the analysis shows the four inch
line has insufficient capacity, the hotel applicant shall
B 1
install an additional line for the capacity required to
serve the hotel, prior to occupancy of the hotel. If the
analysis shows insufficient capacity, additional capacity
shall likewise be provided by the developer of the
restaurant site.
USE PERMIT 88-9
Planning Department
(1) Approval is granted for a maximum of 236 hotel suites,
each consisting of a separate sleeping room, bathroom and
a sitting or meeting room. Approved accessory uses shall
consist of: a conference center having 10,000 square feet
minimum of floor area within meeting rooms and a single
meeting room with a capacity to seat 500 persons minimum
at row tables; a non -destination restaurant and bar; a
central atrium space of approximately 10,000 square feet
extending from ground floor to fifth floor ceiling level;
a gift shop; recreation activities for hotel guests; and
hotel administration and iiiaintenance activities.
(2) Prior to the issuance of an occupancy permit, the
applicant shall secure separate use permit approval for
the operator of the restaurant and bar within the hotel.
The use permit review shall assure the operation is non -
destination for which adequate parking is available on
site.
(3) Maximum utilization of the conference facilities for
activities lasting less than 24 hours shall be 500 persons
except that maximum use between weekday hours of 8:00 AM
to 11:00 AM and between weekday hours of 4:00 PM to 5:00
PM shall be 350 persons. Maximum utilization for
activities lasting longer than 24 hours on weekdays shall
be up to 200 hotel guests plus up to 200 attendees who
reside within driving distance of the hotel, plus up to
100 attendees who are guests of other nearby hotels and
who arrive and depart the conference by transportation
other than private automobiles. The adequacy of parking
shall be monitored by the City (with financial assistance
from the applicant) annually for the first five years of
operation of the hotel, and if found inadequate, further
limitations on the use of the conference facilities may be
imposed by the Planning Commission at a noticed hearing
for this purpose, if no acceptable additional parking can
be provided to the satisfaction of the City.
(4) A Transportation System Management Plan, fulfilling the
requirements of General Plan Policy C-22, shall be
submitted for approval by the Planning Director prior to
the issuance of building permits.
(5) Prior to the issuance of building permits, the applicant
shall dedicate to the City development rights for the land
within the proposed Natural Area.
(6) The Natural Area shall be maintained in a condition
acceptable for natural habitat, at all times.
(7) Prior to the issuance of grading permits, the applicant
shall erect a temporary chain link fence at the inland
edge of wetland as shown on the proposed grading plan.
All grading and other construction activity, other than
the regrading of the proposed Wetland Area and the
construction of pedestrian bridge supports, shall be
conducted inland of the temporary fence.
(8) Prior to the issuance of a grading permit, the applicant
shall submit improvement plans, for the portion of the
maintenance access easement adjoining the natural area,
for approval by the Directors of Planning and Public
Works. Such plans shall provide for a roadway subbase,
capable of supporting maintenance vehicles, covered with
topsoil.
(9) All provisions of the submitted Geotechnical Investigation
shall be implemented, subject to City Geotechnical Review.
(10) Prior to the issuance of foundation or building permits,
the applicant shall submit documentation by a Geotechnical
Engineer stating the grading plans and or building working
drawings incorporate mitigation of soil gas as recommended
in the Harding Lawson Associates letter to the Planning
Director dated July 21, 1988.
(11) Prior to the issuance of a grading permit, the applicant
shall submit documentation by a Civil Engineer certifying
that the grading has been designed to include sediment
basins and other erosion control provisions of the
Association of Bav Area Governments Manual of Standards
for Erosion and Sediment Control Measures.
(12) All site grading shall be completed after spring rain and
before winter rain. Graded slopes adjoining the Creek
shall be hydroseeded and otherwise landscaped after
grading and prior to winter rains.
(13) Prior to the issuance of a building permit, the applicant
shall submit documentation by an acoustical engineer
certifying that the building working drawings incorporate
noise attenuation adequate to maintain 45 dBa Ldn within
all sleeping rooms, given the off-site noise sources of
McInnis Parkway, mass transit use of the NWPRR right -of -
17M
way, and the County Fairgrounds.
(14) A 40 foot wide access easement in favor of the County of
Marin shall be dedicated at a location to be approved by
the City and County Planning Directors prior to issuance
of grading or building permits.
(15) All operation of grading equipment and all pile driving
activities shall be limited to the hours between 8:00 am
and 5:00 pm on non -holiday weekdays.
(16) Prior to the issuance of a building permit, the applicant
shall submit a letter by a landscape architect certifying
that the landscaping working drawings incorporate
specification of salt tolerant planting wherever soils
conditions contribute to salt uptake.
(17) Prior to the issuance of building permits, landscape plans
shall be modified to include a 42 inch high vinal clad
chain link fence running along the south edge of parking
lot to protect the wetland habitat.
(18) Grease separators shall be included in all parking area
catch basins, and maintained to the satisfaction of the
Department of Public Works. The parking lot shall be
swept on a regular basis.
(19) Prior to grading of the Wetlands Area, existing marsh
plants shall be salvaged and replanted upon completion of
grading in accordance with the LSA Associates Habitat
Enhancement Plan on file in the Planning Department
offices.
(20) All parking lot and other exterior lighting shall be
directed downward and shielded to prevent viewing of the
light source from off-site points, and fixtures shall be
consistent with those used in the adjoining offices
project. Exterior lighting of the building, other than
that from bollard fixtures and parking lot lights shall be
prohibited. All parking lot lighting shall be high
pressure sodium (max. 70 whps) or an approved equal energy
efficient light. Exterior lighting shall be kept to a
minimum intensity.
(21) The existing creekbank maintenance access easement shall
be relocated to the satisfaction of the director of Public
Works prior to issuance of building permits.
(22) Environmental and Design Review approval shall be secured
prior to issuance of building permits.
(23) This use permit shall take effect only after the City
Council passes the first reading of an ordinance amending
Ordinance 1449, Civic Center North Development Plan, for
the hotel land use. Notwithstanding the above, the appeal
period for this use permit shall commence December 13,
1988.
Public Works Department
(24) Storm drainage encroachment permit will be required prior
to performing any work within the drainage channel (Parcel
B) .
(25) The improvement plans shall show details for the
construction of the pedestrian bridge providing access to
the Marin Center Theatre Area. Any required permits from
Dept. of Fish/game and Corps of Engineers, and
authorization for construction of the bridge on County
owned land shall be obtained prior to bridge construction.
Bridge construction shall be completed prior to occupancy.
PLANS, PERMITS AND EASEMENTS
(26) An engineered site improvement plan showing all existing
and proposed site conditions shall be submitted with the
application for a building permit.
(27) An encroachment permit shall be required for all work
performed within the right-of-way any within the City
owned open space parcel.
(28) Prior to issuance of a building permit, the approved
Parcel Map separating this project from the parcel to the
west shall be recorded.
(29) All necessary Fish and Game and U.S. Army Corps of
Engineers permits shall be obtained prior to commencement
of any work within their jurisdictions (drainage channel).
(30) Additional maintenance access easements shall be granted
across the property as necessary to enable clear access
to, from and along the drainage channel prior to the
issuance of building permits. Improvements within the 20
feet maintenance access easements shall be subject to
approval by the City Engineer. Access along this easement
shall not be restricted by landscaping or other
incompatible uses. Parking and vehicle use will be
permitted, however, all paving within this easement shall
conform to construction road load bering requirements.
GRADING AND EARTHWORK
B 5
(31) A level "C" soils report must be submitted with the
application for a building permit. Geotechnical review
may be required as determined by the City Engineer.
(32) The final finished floor elevation must be above +9.0
(M.S.L.) after 30 years settlement. Certification of this
elevation by a registered engineer or surveyor shall be
supplied prior to building final.
(33) Grading plans shall show all proposed and existing
contours as well as proposed drainage improvements.
(34) Grading, drainage and foundation plans shall be reviewed
and approved by the project soils engineer.
(35) All earth and foundation work shall be done under the
director of a soils engineer; and a final report shall be
submitted prior to occupancy.
(36) A grading permit will be required.
(37) An erosion control _plan shall be submitted showing how
erosion and siltation are to be controlled during
construction.
(38) Any siltation of the drainage channel caused by this
project shall be removed to the satisfaction of the City
Engineer. A siltation basin will be required if this
project is constructed during the winter (October 15 -
April 15).
STORM DRAINAGE
(39) The improvement plans shall show all existing and proposed
drainage facilities.
(40) An on-site detention system for all site storm drainage
may be required, minimizing the number of discharge
points, as determined by the Department of Public Works.
The storm water discharge at the south easterly corner
shall be positioned along the property line with a
drainage easement created for the benefit of the adjacent
parcel 2. Designed improvements for the reciprocal use of
this discharge shall be required on the plans.
(41) The gradient of all storm drain system shall be designed
to accommodate predicated settlements. The improvement
plans shall show profiles and grades before and after
settlements.
(42) Runoff from improved areas shall be collected and conveyed
by underground conduit and/or under sidewalk drains.
HE
Drainage shall not be diverted or concentrated onto
adjoining properties, or over sidewalk and driveways.
(43) An encroachment permit will be required for the
construction of drainage improvements within the public
drainage channel.
(44) The drainage channel to the south of the project shall be
appropriately maintained to the satisfaction of the
Department of Public Works.
SANITARY SEWERS
(45) The improvement plans shall show the location of all
existing and proposed sanitary sewer facilities.
(46) Prior to issuance of a building permit a letter shall be
submitted from the Las Gallinas Valley Sanitary District
indicating that they have reviewed the plans and reports;
and that sewer connections are available.
(47) Grease traps or interceptors shall be required as set
forth in condition 18.
FRONTAGE AND PARKING IMPROVEMENTS
(48) The improvement plans shall show all existing and proposed
frontage improvements.
(49) Standard driveway connections shall be constructed on the
frontage. The western most driveway entrance, which is
also to serve for vehicular access to county -owned land,
shall be provided a driveway approach or street
intersection approach to the satisfaction of the Director
of Public Works.
(50) All frontage improvements shall be constructed in
accordance with the "Uniform Construction Standards for
the Cities and County of Marin".
(51) All existing curb and gutter damaged during construction
shall be replaced to the satisfaction of the City
Engineer.
(52) Standard sidewalk shall be constructed along all street
frontage.
(53) The final parking lot pavement section shall be reviewed
by the project soils engineer and shall be subject to the
approval of the City Engineer.
(54) An encroachment permit will be required for the
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construction of all frontage improvements.
(55) The on site traffic circulation and parking plan shall be
subject to the approval of the City Engineer.
(56) Signing, striping and other traffic control devices shall
be installed as require by the City Engineer.
(57) All proposed street trees shall be planted with plastic
root shields as approved by the City Engineer.
(58) The improvement plans shall show details for the
construction of the pedestrian bridge providing access to
the main center Theater area. The pedestrian bridge shall
be constructed prior to building occupancy.
(59) Unless overturned by appeal to the City Council, State
mandated "Handicapped Access" requirements must be
complied with as a condition of building permit issuance.
UTILITIES
(60) The improvement plans shall show all existing and proposed
utilities.
(61) The parking areas shall be illuminated with "high pressure
sodium" lighting or other approved energy efficient
systems.
(62) All utility services shall be underground.
FIRE DEPARTMENT
(63) On-site fire hydrants type Jones 3740 as specified by fire
marshal.
(64) Building to be equipped with fully automatic fire
sprinklers conforming to NFPA standard 13 and standpipes
outlets located ad specified by fire marshall conforming
to NFPA standard 14. Alarms and valves to be monitored by
U.L. approved company conforming to Fire Department
standard 300.
(65) Smoke detection and evaluation system to comply with UBC
chapters for atriums and malls. A functional smoke test
to be conducted, witnessed by fire marshall prior to
occupancy.
(66) Manual fire alarms to be installed conforming to UFC and
Title 24 P2 and P3.
(67) Emergency plan to be reviewed by fire marshall prior to
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implementation.
(68) "No Parking Fire Lanes" to be posted conforming to Fire
Department standard 204.
(69) Conference rooms and public assembly occupancies to
conform to requirements of Titles 19 and 24 CAC.
Police Department
STREET ACCESS - PARKING
(70) Post signs and paint driveways/parking areas which have
emergency access lanes.
ADDRESS
(71) The street number shall be displayed in a prominent
location on the street side of the property in such a
position that the number is easily visible to approaching
emergency vehicles. The numbers shall be no less than 6
inches in height and shall be of contrasting color to the
background to which they are attached, and illuminated.
(72) There shall be positioned at each entrance of a multiple
dwelling complex, an illuminated diagram (scaled drawing)
of the complex which shows the location of the viewer and
the unit designations within the complex. In addition,
each individual unit within the complex shall display a
prominent identification number, not less than 6 inches in
height, which is easily visible to approaching vehicular
and/or pedestrian traffic, and illuminated.
(73) Each Room No. shall be displayed in a prominent location
100's first floor/ 200's 2nd floor/ 300's 3rd floor/ 400's
4th floor/ 500's 5th floor.
EXTERIOR FEATURES
(74) Exposed roof vents and ducts, shall be grated or
constructed of an impact resistant material to the
satisfaction of the Police Department. Skylights shall be
secure and hatch openings shall be burglary resistant.
Glazing shall be of a burglary -resistant glass or glass-
like material.
ROOF ACCESS
(75) Perimeter walls, fences, trash storage areas, etc., shall
be built to prevent access to the roof or balconies.
(76) Permanently affixed ladders leading to roofs shall be
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fully enclosed with sheet metal to a height of ten feet.
This covering shall be locked against the ladder with a
case hardened hasp secured with non -removable screws or
bolts. If a padlock is used, it shall have a hardened
steel shackle, locking at both hell and tow, and minimum
five pin tumbler operation.
EXTERIOR LIGHTING
(77) All exterior lighting shall be sufficient to establish a
sense of well-being to the pedestrian and one that is
sufficient to facilitate recognition of persons at a
reasonable distance. Type and placement of lighting shall
be to the satisfaction of Police Department.
(78) All garden and exterior lighting shall be vandal
resistant.
(79) All exterior lighting shall be on a master photo electric
cell.
(80) Minimum one foot candle ground level at overlaps in
parking areas and in all exterior doorways. Minimum 1/2
foot candle ground level at overlaps in all pedestrian
areas.
EXTERIOR DOORS
(81) All man doors shall be of solid core construction with a
minimum thickness of one and three-fourths (1 3/4) inches,
or with panels not less than nine sixteenths (9/16) inches
thick.
(82) Glass sliding doors shall have a secondary type locking to
the satisfaction of the Police Department.
(83) Suite doors shall have a deadlocking latch device with a
minimum throw of one-half inch and a deadbolt lock with a
cylinder guard, a hardened steel insert and a minimum
throw of one inch. Both locking mechanisms shall be
interconnected so that both may be disengaged by turning
the door knob from the inside.
(84) Exterior jambs for doors shall be so constructed or
protected so as to prevent violation of the function of
the strike plate from the outside, and the strike plate be
secured to the jamb by a minimum of two screws which must
penetrate at least two (2) inches into solid backing
beyond the jamb. Front doors to have a 180 door viewer.
(85) Exterior doors swinging out shall have nonremovable hinge
pins.
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(86) In -swinging exterior doors shall have rabbited jambs.
(87) Glass around or on the exterior doors within 40" shall be
break resistent glass or grasslike material to the
satisfaction of the Police Department.
(88) Exterior doors leading into the stairwells shall be
automatically locked to the outside (exit doors only).
WINDOWS
(89) All sliding glass windows within 12 feet from the ground
shall have a secondary lock mounted on the bottom of the
window. The secondary lock shall be a bolt lock and shall
be no less than 1/8 inch in thickness, and shall have a
minimum throw of one-half inch in thickness, and shall
have a minimum throw of one-half inch.
(90) Louvered windows shall not be used within eight feet of
ground level.
(91) Any window in or within 40" of a door shall be fixed
(Stationary) and nonremovable.
LANDSCAPING
(92) Barrier or thorny plants to be added to certain locations
to deter access to windows. (List is available from
Police Department.)
(93) No landscaping shall obstruct or block the view of any
door, window, or light fixture.
OTHER:
(94) Any alternate materials or method of construction shall be
reviewed with and approved by the Police Department before
installation.
(95) The crime prevention officer shall be notified and allowed
to inspect prior to occupancy.
(96) This use permit shall be approved for one year or until
December 13, 1989, and shall become null and void if a
building permit is not issued or a time extension granted.
SUBDIVISION 88-7.
(1) Concurrent with recordation of the parcel map, the
applicant shall segregate existing assessments over the
proposed lots.
E:1011"
(2) Comply with condition 2 of Zone Change 88-1.
(3) This subdivision shall take effect only after the City
Council passes the first reading of an ordinance amending
Ordinance 1449, Civic Center North Development Plan, for
the hotel land use. Notwithstanding the above, the appeal
period for this subdivision shall commence December 13,
1988.
(4) This subdivision map shall be valid for a period of two
years, or until December 13, 1990, unless extended by the
Planning Commission or the final map is recorded.
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EXHIBIT I
AMENDED HOTEL AREA DEVELOPMENT PLAN STANDARDS
III. HOTEL AREA
A. LAND AREA: 6.2+ Acres.
B. PERMITTED USE: A hotel of 236 suites maximum,
including accessory uses as approved
by use permit.
C. SETBACKS
1. Parcel perimeter landscaped setbacks
a. McInnis Parkway: 25 feet minimum
landscaped, from street curb to edge of
parking.
b. Southeast (Gallinas Creek) side: 25 feet
minimum, measured from edge of creek
wetlands (i.e. approximately elevation +5.0
NGVD) to the edge of parking lot,
landscaped.
C. Northeast Side: 20 feet minimum
landscaped, measured from parking lot edge
on the hotel property to edge of parking
lot on the adjoining property. Up to 15
feet of the landscaped strip may be located
the adjoining property if a landscaping
easement therefore is provided by the
adjoining property.
d. Southwest side: " 140 feet minimum measured
from property line to edge of parking lot,
to be landscaped predominantly with native
material.
2. Building Setbacks:
a. 60 feet minimum from McInnis Parkway right
of way.
b. 50 feet minimum from northeast property
line.
C. 80 feet minimum from southeast (Gallinas
Creek) property line.
D. BUILDING HEIGHTS: 5 stories maximum
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E. PARKING: 359 spaces minimum in a layout generally
conforming to that shown on the Site Plan prepared by
WSI Architects, identified as dated "November 10,
Redesign" in the files of the Planning Department.
F. ARCHITECTURAL STANDARDS: A maximum five story
building mass, over a maximum building footprint
generally as shown on the Site Plan prepared by WSI
Architects, identified as "November 10, Redesign" in
the files of the Planning Department. A maximum one
story high building mass is approved for that portion
of said Site Plan noted as "Conference Center".
Exterior facade and fenestration design, building
materials, colors and other design elements other
than the approved building mass shall be as approved
pursuant to an Environmental and Design Review
permit.
G. LANDSCAPE STANDARDS: Landscaping concepts as shown
on the Master Landscape Plan prepared by WSI
Architects, dated November 10, redesign on file on
the Planning Department offices. Precise location,
amount and size of plant materials shall be subject
to Environmental and Design Review approval.
H. TRIP ALLOCATION: A maximum of 157 PM peak hour
trips.
I-2
EXHIBIT II
AMENDED RESTAURANT AREA DEVELOPMENT PLAN STANDARDS
A. LAND AREA: 3+ acres
B. PERMITTED USE: Restaurant, including accessory uses
normally incidental to a restaurant, such as, but not
limited to, sale of alcoholic beverages. Maximum
building size: 7,500 square feet gross floor area.
C. SETBACKS:
1. Civic Center Drive: 250 feet, between property
line and building.
2. McInnis Parkway: 25 feet minimum, from street
curb to parking area edge, landscaped.
3. Gallinas Creek: 40 feet minimum between
restaurant and the top of creekbank slope.
D. PARKING: The standards of San Rafael Zoning
Ordinance Chapter 13 shall apply.
E. GRADING: Grading shall generally comply with the
grading Concepts Plan (Figure 4).
F. ARCHITECTURAL STANDARDS
1. The architectural character of the building
shall be unique and designed specifically for
this site; a "prototype" building shall not be
acceptable.
2. All building facades should be given equal
design emphasis in response to the high
visibility of the structure form all sides of
the site.
3. The appearance of the building including its
color and exterior materials, should not
conflict with nor detract from the Civic Center
and shall be integrated in appearance with the
other buildings and structures within Civic
Center North.
4. The building should be designed to capitalize
upon the potential views of the creek channel
and the Civic Center. Viewpoints should be
incorporated into interior and exterior spaces
in a manner appropriate to the use of the
building.
5. Roof design should provide for a full roof,
rather than flat roof. Mechanical equipment
shall be incorporated within the building or
architecturally screened from off-site viewing.
Trash storage areas and containers should be
screened by walls and landscaping.
G. SIGNAGE
1. The maximum size shall not exceed that permitted
by the San Rafael zoning Ordinance Chapter
14.12.
2. The sign shall be building -mounted and no other
free-standing signs shall be allowed.
3. The sign shall be compatible in color and
material with the building.
4. The sign shall be groundlit and not illuminated
from within.
G. BUILDING HEIGHT: One story with a 36 feet maximum to
top of roof.
H. LANDSCAPING
1. Street side setbacks should be extensively
landscaped with ground cover, low shrubs and
trees and shall complement the adjacent
surroundings. Shrubs and trees should be
grouped instead of being equally spaced, in
order to appropriately emphasize views, provide
screening and complement building design (Figure
5) .
2. Interior parking lot landscaping should be
provided at the ends of parking rows or between
parking stalls.
3. Plant materials should be salt -tolerant wherever
determined necessary by soils test. (A partial
list of salt -tolerant plants is provided in
Table 2).
II -2