Item 9-A

 

Planning Commission Meeting:  March 15, 2006                              Santa Monica, California

 

 

TO:                  The Honorable Planning Commission

 

FROM:            Planning Staff

 

SUBJECT:     Development Review Permit 06-002

                        Reduced Parking Permit 06-002

                        Fence/Wall Height Modification 06-001

                        Environmental Impact Report 00EIR-008 with Statement of Overriding Considerations

 

                        Address:              415 Pacific Coast Highway, Santa Monica, CA

                        Applicant:            City of Santa Monica

                        Property Owner:  State of California Department of Parks and Recreation

 

INTRODUCTION

 

Action: Application for approval of Development Review Permit 06DR-002; Reduced Parking Permit 06RPP-002; and Fence/Wall Height Modification 06FWHM-001 for the rehabilitation and adaptive reuse of the property at 415 Pacific Coast Highway (415 Palisades Beach Road).

 

Recommendation: 

 

1.      Adopt a Resolution certifying the Environmental Impact Report;

2.      Adopt a Resolution making necessary CEQA findings, adopting a Statement of Overriding Considerations and adopting a Mitigation Monitoring Plan;

3.      Approve Development Review Permit 06DR-002; Reduced Parking Permit 06RPP-002; and Fence/Wall Height Modification 06FWHM-001, with conditions.

 

Certification of Environmental Impact Report Deadline: January 27, 2007

 

Permit Streamlining Expiration Date:  180 days from certification of the Environmental Impact Report, pursuant to Government Code Section 65950.

 

SITE LOCATION AND DESCRIPTION

 

The subject property located at 415 Palisades Beach Road (415 PCH) is a designated City Landmark property located on Santa Monica State Beach. The subject property is a 213,879 square foot parcel located on the west side of Palisades Beach Road approximately 700 feet south of the northern city limits and less than ½ mile north of California Incline. Surrounding uses consist of private residential uses (RVC District) to the north and south, the Pacific Coast Highway and the Palisades Bluffs to the east, and public beach and the Pacific Ocean to the west. 

 

The property, which was operated as a private beach club for many years, has been vacant, boarded and fenced since it was damaged in the 1994 Northridge earthquake. Existing on-site improvements include two elements from the former 1920s Marion Davies Estate that are identified with the site’s period of significance: the North House and the swimming pool. Remnants of the original bulkhead on the west side of the site also remain on site. Other existing on-site improvements constructed for subsequent private club uses on the property include the following: the 16,950 square foot locker building, recreation courts, and two surface parking lots. The locker building and existing recreation courts are proposed for demolition in conjunction with the proposed project. 

 

  Zoning District:           Residential-Visitor-Commercial (RVC) Zoning District;

                                       Beach Parking District (BPD); and

                                       Beach Overlay District

 

Land Use District:        High Density Housing

 

Parcel Area:                 Irregular-shaped: approximately 213,879 square feet (4.91 acres)

 

PROJECT DESCRIPTION

 

The project proposes the rehabilitation and adaptive reuse of the former 1920s Marion Davies Estate as a beach-oriented, public recreational and meeting facility with space for limited cultural and social event programming. These uses are permitted in the RVC and Beach Overlay Districts. The project includes the following elements:

 

1.                  Construction of a two-story, approximately 7,000 square foot Pool House with locker and changing rooms, a multi-purpose room, staff offices, and associated storage and equipment rooms.

 

2.                  Restoration and Rehabilitation of the existing historic swimming pool and deck area.

 

3.                  Construction of a one-story, approximately 700 square foot Entry Pavilion with lifeguard and staff offices, and associated support spaces.

 

4.                  Development of outdoor recreation and leisure areas including two garden courts, paddle and beach volleyball courts, a family picnic and child’s play area, and two beach boardwalks.

 

5.                  Construction of a one-story, approximately 5,000 square foot Event House. The facility will include two meeting rooms, one multi-purpose room, a food staging area (with counter space, sink, electrical outlets and refrigeration), and associated support spaces. The facility is designed to accommodate recreational, interpretative and cultural programs and classes; meetings and retreats; and small social gatherings and functions.

 

6.                  Rehabilitation and adaptive reuse of the historic, two-story 9,127 square foot North House. The facility would include meeting spaces, an interpretive center, kitchen, staff offices, and associated support spaces.

 

7.                  Resurface and landscape the existing Beach Parking Lot 10 (South Parking Lot) and the North Parking Lot to provide a total of 117 new vehicle parking spaces, resulting in a total of 279 parking on site including the existing 162 spaces in Beach Parking Lot 10 that are required to remain.

 

A Development Review Permit has been requested for the proposed new construction.  A Reduced Parking Permit is proposed to allow for implementation of a shared parking plan in lieu of providing 106 of the 223 required parking spaces required for the site.  A Fence/Wall Height Modification is also proposed to allow construction of a 7’-4” fence in the front yard setback area where a maximum height of 3’- 6” is permitted.

 

The proposed project also includes the following activities that are located on public beach land that does not have a Zoning District designation, and therefore are not subject to Zoning Ordinance requirements:

·        Removal of the existing restroom building and construction of a one-story, 1,000 square foot Beach Concessions Building at the northwest corner of the project area;

·        Construction of a one-story, approximately 550 square foot Restroom Building immediately west of the proposed Entry Pavilion; and

·        Addition of a new take-out window to the existing Back on the Beach cafι at the southwest corner of the site.

 

MUNICIPAL CODE AND GENERAL PLAN CONFORMANCE

 

The proposed project is consistent with the Municipal Code and in conformity with the General Plan as shown in Attachment A, with the exception of compliance with off-street parking requirements and the 42” height limitation for a wall within the front yard setback.  Accordingly, a Reduced Parking Permit and a Wall Height Modification are requested.  Landscaping plans including a landscaping adjustment, lighting plans, and signage plans will be reviewed by the Landmarks Commission through a Certificate of Appropriateness application.

 

HISTORIC RESOURCES INVENTORY STATUS

 

The subject property was originally developed by William Randolph Hearst for actress Marion Davies in the 1920s with several structures designed by renowned California architect, Julia Morgan.  At the time, this stretch of beachfront property was known as the “Gold Coast” because of the numerous opulent residences found there and the lavish lifestyle of their owners and their friends. The original estate featured a 100-room, Georgian Revival style mansion constructed in 1928, a large Guest House (North House) constructed in 1929, a swimming pool, and tennis courts. 

 

After World War II, the property was sold and the owner at the time added three buildings to the site and demolished the Mansion. In 1959, the site was purchased by the State of California. The State leased the site to the City of Santa Monica who, in turn, leased it to the Sand & Sea Club for use as private beach club from 1960 to 1990. The City operated a seasonal, day-use beach facility at the site after the expiration of the Sand & Sea Club lease. The site was damaged in the Northridge Earthquake in 1994, requiring closure of all structures on the site.

 

The 415 PCH site continues to be owned by the State of California and, pursuant to a recently executed long-term operating agreement with the State, the City of Santa Monica is responsible for all site improvements, maintenance and operations. The proposed project has been guided by the goals for public use articulated in the 415 PCH Reuse Plan that was adopted by the City Council in 1999.

 

The site has been formally determined eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places and is therefore listed in the California Register of Historical Resources. The property was designated as City Landmark in July of 1980 and was declared a City of Santa Monica Point of Historical Interest in 1987. 

 

The proposed project incorporates rehabilitation and adaptive reuse of the project site, including rehabilitation of the remaining significant features of the original Marion Davies Estate, and new construction on site. The EIR prepared for the project evaluated the proposed rehabilitation of the remaining North House and swimming pool, and also evaluated the compatibility of the proposed new construction on site. Mitigation measures (Mitigation Measures AES-2(b) & (c) and HR-1(a) & (b)) have been proposed to ensure that the proposed project complies with the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties with Guidelines for Preserving, Rehabilitating, Restoring, and Reconstructing Historic Buildings (1995).  The Landmarks Commission will also review the project’s design for compliance with the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards through consideration of a Certificate of Appropriateness.

 

RENT CONTROL STATUS

 

The site contains a commercial structure and is exempt from Rent Control.

 

PUBLIC NOTIFICATION

 

Site posting providing the following information has been verified by staff:  Project case number, brief project description, name and telephone number of applicant, site address, date, time and location of public hearing, and the City Planning Division phone number.  A copy of the site posting photograph is contained in Attachment B. It is the applicant's responsibility to update the hearing date if it is changed after posting.

 

In addition, pursuant to Municipal Code Section 9.04.20.22.050, notice of the public hearing was mailed to all owners and residential and commercial tenants of property located within a 500 foot radius of the project and published in the “California” Section of The Los Angeles Times at least ten consecutive calendar days prior to the hearing.  A copy of the notice is contained in Attachment B.

 

A number of public workshops and meetings have been convened since the summer of 2005 to discuss the 415 PCH Project and to gather community comments on the emerging design and programming for the site:

 

1.                  On July 28, 2005, a public open house was held to reintroduce the public to the site and the intended approach to the project. Approximately 80 community members participated in this event.

 

2.                  On October 1st and 2nd, 2005, a community workshop was held on-site with approximately 120 community members in attendance. The first day consisted of a formal presentation of the emerging schematic design by the design-build team and rotating break-out sessions focusing on neighborhood impacts, historic elements and design and community access and activities. The second day consisted of the project team providing a summary and response to public comments from the previous day.

 

3.                  On January 3, 2006, January 26, 2006 and February 21, 2006 meetings were held with neighbors of the site to discuss specific neighbor concerns expressed during the previous community workshop including site security, vehicular access to and from the site, and City operations and maintenance of the facility.

 

A dedicated website for the 415 PCH Project was established allowing members of the public to view the schematic design for the site and submit comments throughout the development of the proposed project. 

 

In addition to the public outreach described above, presentations on the status of the project and the schematic design for the site have been made to the City Arts Commission; Commission for a Senior Community; Disabilities Commission; Landmarks Commission; Recreation and Parks Commission; Social Services Commission; Pier Restoration Corporation; and Santa Monica Convention and Visitor’s Bureau.  Presentations have also been made to California State Parks, California State Office of Historic Preservation, Caltrans, and the California Coastal Commission.

 

ANALYSIS

 

Project Design

 

The design of the 415 PCH project and the parameters for site operations have been guided by the goals of the 1999 Reuse Plan and by comments gathered from a variety of sources including adjacent neighbors, the community at large, public agencies such as the State Office of Historic Preservation, California State Parks, and the California Coastal Commission, as well as the Annenberg Foundation. The 1999 Reuse Plan envisions a public place that would:

 

• Preserve the history of the site;

• Encourage a “light touch” on the site;

• Create a community-oriented destination;

• Provide public recreation activities;

• Increase public access to the beach;

• Create a range of uses;

• Encourage diverse users;

• Provide year-round use; and

• Link to the regional open space network.

 

The resulting 415 PCH proposal includes a series of inter-related indoor/outdoor spaces that have been principally designed to establish year-round, public beach recreational use and also to provide for limited event and cultural programming during non-peak periods.  A total of approximately 13,550 square feet of new construction is proposed along with the addition of 117 new parking spaces, resulting in a total of 279 parking spaces on site.

 

Pool House

New construction of an approximately 7,000 square foot Pool House is proposed south of the Event House and east of the existing historic pool in order to mark the location of the original estate mansion’s ocean-facing faηade. The new two-story Pool House has been designed to reflect both the physical and formal stature of the mansion and its specific relationship to the Julia Morgan-designed pool. The design incorporates vertical, pre-cast concrete columns on the west elevation of the Pool House that have been designed to recall the original mansion’s height and formality. The design also incorporates a new colonnade that shades a portion of the deck area. This element is intended to recall the spatial quality and architectural scale of the original multi-story porch that was found on the mansion.

 

The floor plan of the proposed Pool House includes locker and changing rooms, staff offices, and storage and equipment rooms on the ground floor. The second floor includes a 1,904 square foot multi-purpose room with views of the ocean, a staff office, public restrooms, and a viewing deck. Access to the second floor of the Pool House is provided from two exterior stairwells and a centrally-located elevator. In response to neighbors’ concerns regarding potential event impacts, the size of the multipurpose room has been reduced to less than 2,000 square feet.

 

Historic Swimming Pool & Deck Area

The historic swimming pool and surrounding marble paving will be maintained and restored. The historic concrete deck pavers with tile inserts will be removed for pool rehabilitation and replaced in kind.  Approximately 1,500 square feet of deck area on the west and east sides of the pool will be expanded for chairs and chaise lounges.  The pool will be heated via a solar collection system. 

 

Entry Pavilion & Restroom Building

New construction of a one-story, approximately 700 square foot Entry Pavilion is proposed between the Pool House and existing Beach Parking Lot 10 (South Parking Lot). The Entry Pavilion has been designed to house lifeguard and staff offices, a concessions window, and storage spaces. The Entry Pavilion is designed to be the primary entry point for visitors entering the site from the South Parking Lot. A designated passenger pick up/drop off location is proposed in front of the Entry Pavilion (south elevation).

 

The existing public restroom building on the northwest corner of the site will be demolished and construction of a one-story, approximately 550 square foot Restroom Building is proposed in a controlled area immediately adjacent to the Entry Pavilion. The building will include men’s and women’s restrooms, family changing rooms, and an outdoor shower/rinse area. Although the Restroom Building is proposed on public beach land that does not have a Zoning District designation and therefore is not subject to zoning requirements, the building’s proposed form, scale, and materials are well-integrated with the design of the Entry Pavilion.

 

Outdoor Spaces

The proposed site design incorporates a variety of outdoor spaces for beach-oriented recreational activities, leisure activities, and informal gatherings.  The beach area to the west is defined and organized by two main boardwalks composed of wood and concrete. This system of boardwalks will provide universal access and pedestrian circulation through this portion of the site to the parking lots, and to the bike path. The north-south alignment of the Beach Walk has been designed to follow the historic 1921 mean high tide line and the location of the historic bulkhead.  The east-west alignment of the Ocean Walk provides access to the existing bike path further west.  

 

Beach volleyball and paddle tennis courts will be located at the north end of the beach area. A children’s play area is proposed at the south end of the beach area. This space will include play equipment and rubber safety surface paths that will provide universal access to all equipment. 

 

Several key open spaces have been planned east of the Boardwalk. The Garden Terrace, located between the Event House and the North House, will be a level area with both landscape and hardscape features. A solid masonry or cast-in-place concrete wall at the east side of the Garden Terrace will act as a sound buffer to Pacific Coast Highway. This wall will also include a re-circulating water element.  On the north side of the Garden Terrace, an existing retaining wall will be maintained. The western edge of this space will be defined by a railing and a grouping of palm trees to separate the Garden Terrace from the Beach Walk. The siting of the Garden Terrace has been designed to recall and maintain a key spatial relationship that characterized the Marion Davies Estate where tennis courts were originally located between the North House and the original mansion.

 

A smaller, terraced North House Garden has been proposed immediately west of the North House. The location of this garden reflects the original site design that incorporated a small pool in this area adjacent to the North House. 

 

In response to community comments, the site design also includes an enclosed family picnic area with a water play feature adjacent to the historic swimming pool. As well, in order to address community concerns regarding site security, design refinements have been made to also include gates at all entries to open space areas east of the Beach Walk.

 

Event House

New construction of a one-story, approximately 5,000 square foot Event House is proposed on the east side of the subject property, south of the North House.  The siting of the Event House allows for views of the beach by creating open space areas on the west side of the site adjacent to the beach. The scale and massing of the Event House has been designed to create a lower profile element to serve as a transition between the new, two-story Pool House to the south and the historic North House. The use of concrete, concrete block, wood panels and tile has been incorporated in order to evoke a sense of permanence associated with other important community structures.  Window and door systems clad in wood on the interior and aluminum on the exterior and trellis screens have been incorporated to add details reminiscent of the construction and scale of the North House and original Mansion, while providing for durability.

 

In response to neighbors’ concerns regarding event impacts, several key aspects of the proposal have been revised. These changes to the Event House include: reduction of total size of the Event House by approximately 1,000 square feet; elimination of the physical connection to the Pool House; and elimination of a large Event Room and reconfiguration of interior spaces.

 

The Event House as revised includes a 100 person meeting room (approximately 1,900 square feet); two smaller 50 person meeting rooms (each approximately 750 square feet); a food staging area (with counter space, sink, electrical outlets and refrigeration); and associated support spaces. The facility is designed to accommodate meetings and retreats; recreational, interpretative and cultural programs and classes; and small social gatherings and functions. 

 

North House

The historic, two-story plus basement, 9,127 square foot North House is an extant feature of the original Marion Davies Estate. The Georgian Revival style North House was designed by renowned architect Julia Morgan. This structure will be rehabilitated in accordance with the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties. To the extent possible, all interior and exterior character-defining features, materials, spatial relationships, and finishes identified in the historic structures report prepared for the property will be retained and restored, or replaced in kind as necessary.  Alterations required for the reuse of the North House will be proposed in a manner that does not obscure or detrimentally alter character-defining features of the structure.

 

The ground floor of the North House will contain two meeting rooms, an interpretive center for visitors providing information and exhibits about the historic characteristics of the site, a restored kitchen, and staff offices. The second floor will contain four meeting rooms, a restored veranda with an ocean view on the west side of the building, and associated support spaces. An elevator will be installed in the North House in order to provide ADA accessibility for the facility. The existing, attached porte cochere for a service driveway will be retained. Exterior finishes and features such as the fenestration, clapboard siding, portico and columns, and the molded cornice along the roofline will be restored and/or replaced in kind as necessary.

 

The basement of the North House will continue to serve as space for storage and mechanical equipment. 

 

Other Site Improvements

The proposed project also includes demolition of the existing public restroom building on public beach land at the northwest corner of the project area and construction of a one-story, 1,000 square foot Beach Concessions Building for recreational equipment in its place. The proposed project also includes the addition of a new take-out window, and other tenant improvements that will not increase existing floor areas or seating, at the existing Back on the Beach cafι located at the southwest corner of the project area. Both areas are located on public beach land that do not have a Zoning District designation and therefore are not subject to Zoning Ordinance requirements.

 

A preliminary landscaping plan has been developed for the project site, including the North and South Parking Lots. Further refinement and details will be developed to include plant materials selection based on coastal zone compatibility and minimal irrigation requirements. The Landmarks Commission will be required to review forthcoming landscaping plans through consideration of a Certificate of Appropriateness.

 

Site Security Measures & Parameters for Site Operations

The proposed project incorporates a variety of measures that will help to provide enhanced security on the 415 PCH project site in order to ensure compatibility with the adjacent residential uses.  The applicant has proposed measures such as installation of a system of perimeter fencing and internal/external gates. These proposed site security measures have been incorporated as conditions of project approval. In addition, a variety of conditions of approval related to the operational aspects of the project have also been incorporated to ensure compatibility (Special Conditions #40 to #63). 

 

Sustainability/LEED certification

The project will incorporate a number of sustainable features with the goal of attaining a LEED Silver rating including the following: plant materials will be selected for coastal zone compatibility and water conservation requirements; design strategies involving water efficiency measures; selection of materials with high recycled content and no or low VOC’s; dual flush toilets; 11 waterless urinals; use of natural light and ventilation; and solar water heating for the pool.

 

Development Review Permit/Neighborhood Compatibility

 

Approval of a Development Review Permit is required as new construction has been proposed in excess of 7,500 square feet in floor area. The rehabilitation and reuse of the historic North House and swimming pool has been proposed in a manner consistent with the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties and, consistent with Mitigation Measures AES-2(b) & (c) and HR-1(a), will be reviewed by the Landmarks Commission through a Certificate of Appropriateness Application.

 

The location and scale of proposed new structures on site have been designed to achieve a strong public identity and to ensure compatibility with the surrounding neighborhood, and with the remaining historic features and overall historic nature of the site.  The new one- and two-story structures are centrally located on the site with ample setbacks from adjacent residential properties provided. The new construction has also been designed in an L-shape to reflect the site’s history, to provide useable and varied open spaces, and to take advantage of the ocean and mountain views provided from the site.  The proposed Event House and Pool House have been reduced in size and re-designed to ensure compatibility with nearby residential uses. A system of perimeter fencing and gates has been incorporated into the project in order to help control access to the site.

 

In addition, a variety of measures related to use of the parking lots in conjunction with booked special events have been developed to help ensure compatibility with nearby residential uses. These measures include the following: parking spaces furthest from the adjacent residential uses will be utilized first; parking lots will be closed at 11 pm on weekdays and midnight on weekends; and parking lots will be staffed during events and parking permits shall be issued to event guests.

 

The overall site plan has been designed to create a beach-oriented, public gathering place that also responds to the cultural history of the site. The location, size, massing and placement of the proposed new construction on the site have been designed to be compatible with the surround residential and beach-oriented uses. The proposed recreational uses and amenities on the parcel have been developed to create a stronger connection to regional open spaces such as the Santa Monica State Beach. The proposed project is also consistent with the Municipal Code in that the project is located within the RVC (Residential Visitor Commercial), BPD (Beach Parking) and Beach Overlay Zoning Districts which allow for the community-oriented uses including recreational buildings, entertainment and cultural uses, conference and convention facilities, playgrounds, and recreational areas. Therefore, as conditioned and with incorporation of the mitigation measures provided in the EIR, the proposed project is compatible with the neighborhood and meets the Development Review Permit findings.

 

Site Access/Circulation

 

The existing Beach Parking Lot 10 (South Parking Lot) and the North Parking Lot will be connected by the existing driveway along the eastern edge of the site. Vehicular access to the site will be provided from Pacific Coast Highway into the existing driveway at the South Parking Lot. Once on-site, vehicles will pass a kiosk where they will be directed to park in either the south lot or north lot. Vehicles parking in the north parking lot will exit the site from an exit-only driveway at the north end of the site and vehicles parking in the south lot will be able to exit the site at the south driveway. Access to the site for emergency vehicles will be provided from driveways at both the north and south lots.

 

The EIR concluded that the project will have a significant impact on the intersection of the entry driveway to the South Parking Lot and Pacific Coast Highway and determined that a full traffic signal would fully mitigate the impact. However, since the City does not have jurisdiction over the Caltrans controlled public-right-of-way, the City does not have the authority to impose this requirement unilaterally.  A mitigation measure has been included requiring that the applicant formally make an application to Caltrans for implementation of this measure. The mitigation measure also requires that the request to Caltrans specify that the full traffic signal be demand-actuated and be integrated into the signal progression on Pacific Coast Highway.

 

Pedestrian and bicycle access to the site will be provided via the existing bike path located to the west of the site. Parking areas for a total of 50 bicycles will be provided throughout the facility.

 

Reduced Parking Permit

 

Pursuant to SMMC 9.10.08.040, which sets forth off-street parking requirements, a total of 223 new parking spaces are required for the new construction on site and for the reuse of the existing North House. A total of 385 spaces are required including the existing 162 parking spaces in the City-operated Beach Lot 10 that must remain on site (see Table 1 below).  

 

Both the North and South Parking Lots will be resurfaced and re-striped to provide 117 new vehicle parking spaces, resulting in a total of 279 parking spaces provided on site, which is 106 spaces fewer than the 385 spaces required by the Code.  For this reason a Reduced Parking Permit has been requested to allow for the implementation of a shared parking plan in lieu of providing the additional 106 required parking spaces on site.

 

Table 1.

 

415 PCH Project

BULDING/SPACE

Assembly Use @ 1:80 SF

Other Uses @ 1:300 SF

Parking Requirement

North House

3,510

1,305

48

Event House

3,794

565

49

Pool House

1,904

2,607

32

Entry Pavilion

0

634

2

 

 

 

 

Garden Terrace

3,000

0

38

North Garden

1,750

0

22

Pool

2,530

0

32

Total

16,488

5,111

223

New Parking Spaces Proposed

 

 

117

Existing Spaces in Beach Lot 10  (To Remain)

 

 

162

Total Spaces Proposed On Site

 

 

279

Reduced Parking Permit

 

 

106

 

A parking demand analysis for the project was prepared in the EIR (Section 4.10). Parking demand includes 162 existing spaces for public beachgoers in Beach Lot 10 which will remain, plus the added project demand. Shared parking between beachgoers and site users was assumed in this analysis given the site’s location and proposed beach-oriented amenities. This analysis assumed that 25% of recreational pool users would also be beachgoers, thus resulting in a credit of 12 spaces. Finally, the analysis assumed use during the peak summer beach period, defined as 10 AM to 6 PM, Fridays-Sundays, during the months of June through September.

 

The parking demand analysis determined that the 415 PCH facility alone would generate a parking demand of 212 spaces; 100 of these spaces would be needed only to meet the demand generated by a maximum 200 guest special event. When combined with beachgoer parking demand, the analysis found that the peak period parking demand for the 415 PCH facility (including employees) would be 374 spaces during special events and 274 spaces when no events are occurring. Therefore, the 279 parking spaces on the 415 PCH site and in Beach Lot 10 are sufficient to meet regular operations.

 

In order to address the event-related demand of 100 parking spaces, the EIR recommends a mitigation measure (Mitigation Measure T-2). This measure requires that, if events are scheduled during peak summer beach hours, the party booking the event shall secure off-site parking within 5 miles of the project site for the guests with a shuttle bus system to transport them to the site. The party booking the event shall be required to submit a Transportation and Parking Management Plan to the operator of the site prior to issuance of a permit for use of the facility. The mitigation measure further requires that the management plan include a description of the methodology of notifying guests of the location for the shuttle and shall include evidence demonstrating that 1) pre-paid parking has been secured; and 2) pre-paid shuttle service has been hired between the site and the off-site parking lot.  This mitigation measure has been identified to address the greatest parking demand during the peak period and has been incorporated into the project conditions of approval.

 

Wall Height Modification  

 

The applicant proposes to define the site boundary along Pacific Coast Highway with a new perimeter fence and a row of Washingtonian Palms. The chain link fence that currently runs along the eastern property line was installed when the original fence was removed in 1995 after the Northridge earthquake. In addition to a Certificate of Appropriateness issued by the Landmarks Commission, a Memorandum of Agreement was entered into between the City, the State Office of Historic Preservation and the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation regarding removal of the original fence. The agreement required that a new fence be approved in consultation with the State Historic Preservation Officer. The currently-proposed fence will be constructed in accordance with this Memorandum of Agreement.

 

The proposed 7’-4” fence would run the 750 foot length of the east side property line and replace the existing chain link fence on site.  The height of the proposed perimeter fence exceeds the 42” height limitation for fences located in required front yard areas. Rolling gates that are a minimum of 20’-0” wide would be stationed at each of the four access driveways on PCH. These gates would be opened during operating hours to allow access and views into the site. The proposed fence has been designed to address the programmatic needs of the site. Specifically, the proposed 7’-4” fence will help mitigate sound impacts on the site from Pacific Coast Highway, and help to address site security issues by controlling access to the site.

 

The schematic fence proposal has been designed to reflect a rhythm similar to the original, historic fence, in terms of its height, scale and general character. The proposed fence has also been designed to be compatible with the contemporary architecture of the new construction on site. The fence design incorporates concrete piers that are similar in form to the vertical pre-cast concrete columns proposed on the Pool House.  

 

A fence conforming to the existing 42” limitation for fences in a required front yard area would not serve to attenuate noise from Pacific Coast Highway and would not reflect the form of the original, historic fence and would not be compatible with the scale of the existing and proposed improvements on site. Furthermore, the proposed 7’-4” fence is compatible and similar, in terms of its height and proximity to the public right-of-way, to other existing improvements along Pacific Coast Highway in the area of the project site.

 

CEQA ANALYSIS

 

An Environmental Impact Report (EIR) has been prepared for this project in accordance with Section 15087 of the CEQA Guidelines. A Notice of Preparation (NOP) was filed with the California Office of Planning and Research and distributed to involved public agencies and interested parties for a public review period which began February 11, 2005, and concluded on March 21, 2005.  On March 3, 2005 a public scoping meeting was held and approximately 25 people attended.

 

Copies of the Draft EIR were made available on November 8, 2005 for a 45-day public review period which closed on December 22, 2005. Six comment letters were received on the Draft EIR.  Response to those comments has been incorporated into the Final EIR.

 

In accordance with Section 15128 (Effects Not Found to be Significant) of the CEQA Guidelines, the Initial Study/NOP provided reasons why the following environmental impacts were not considered significant and, therefore, are not addressed further the EIR:

 

  • Biological Resources;
  • Population and Housing;
  • Shadows;
  • Land Use and Planning;
  • Mineral Resources; Agricultural Resources;
  • Public Services;
  • Utilities/Service Systems;
  • Economic and Social Impacts; and
  • Recreation.

 

The Initial Study/NOP identified potentially significant impacts on the following issue areas associated with the construction and/or operation of the proposed project, which are addressed in detail in the EIR: 

 

  • Geology and Soils;
  • Construction Effects;
  • Historic/Cultural Resources;
  • Transportation/Circulation and Parking;
  • Aesthetics;
  • Hazards and Hazardous Materials;
  • Hydrology and Water Quality;
  • Air Quality;
  • Noise; and
  • Neighborhood Effects.        

 

The EIR analyzed the issue areas referenced above and identified potentially significant environmental impacts, including site-specific and cumulative effects of the project in accordance with the provisions set forth in the CEQA Guidelines.The EIR identified potentially significant impacts in the issue areas of Geology and Soils; Construction Effects; Cultural Resources; Transportation/Circulation and Parking; Aesthetics; Hazards and Hazardous Materials; Hydrology and Water Quality; and Utilities/Service Systems. A chart summarizing these impacts with recommended mitigation measures is provided in Table ES-1, in the Executive Summary section of the EIR.  Mitigation measures have been proposed to reduce all these impacts to a less than significant level with the exception of Transportation/Circulation where the impacts remain significant and unavoidable. All of these mitigation measures are incorporated into the conditions of approval (Condition #38) and discussed in greater detail in Attachment F. All mitigation measures will be implemented and monitored in accordance with the proposed Mitigation Monitoring Program contained in Attachment F.  The EIR also identified Air Quality and Noise issue areas as being less than significant without mitigation. 

 

Transportation/Circulation

A traffic study prepared for the proposed project has determined that the estimated project-generated traffic volumes and the cumulative, base traffic projections would result in a total of 24 weekday A.M. peak hour trips, 104 weekday P.M. peak hour trips, and 104 weekend peak hour trips. These additional peak hour vehicle trips traveling on the surround road network would result in significant and unavoidable impacts at the following two intersections in the project vicinity: Pacific Coast Highway (Palisades Beach Road) and California Incline; and at the project site’s primary access driveway at Beach Lot 10 and Pacific Coast Highway.

 

The addition of a southbound left-turn lane on Pacific Coast Highway and an additional departure lane along the California Incline has been recommended to fully mitigate significant impacts to the Pacific Coast Highway and California Incline intersection. However, implementation of mitigation at the intersection of Pacific Coast Highway and California Incline is not possible due to physical constraints such as the Palisades Bluffs to the east and existing development to the west. Therefore, this mitigation measure has been deemed infeasible. 

 

Installation of a full or half signal light at the intersection of Beach Lot 10 on Pacific Coast Highway has been recommended to fully mitigate significant project impacts to transportation and circulation in the project area. Installation of a half-signal would require the construction of a raised median divider to separate vehicles accelerating to the north away from the site and away from the unrelated northbound through traffic.  However, the existing lanes on PCH in this area are of substandard width (less than 12 feet wide). Therefore it is not possible to implement a half signal light at this location without widening the roadway, which is infeasible due to the physical constraints including the bluffs to the east and property development to the west.  Installation of a full traffic signal at the intersection of Beach Lot 10 on Pacific Coast Highway would necessitate the provision of some combination of new striping, signage, controller cabinets, poles, mast arms, detectors and/or signal heads.  However, it would not require the construction of a raised median divider, acceleration lane or the associated roadway widening.

 

The California State Department of Transportation (Caltrans) retains jurisdiction over both of these intersections in the public right-of-way (Pacific Coast Highway/California Incline; and Pacific Coast Highway/driveway at Beach Lot 10).  Since the City does not have jurisdiction over Caltrans controlled public-right-of-way, the City does not have the authority to impose any of these proposed requirements unilaterally.  Therefore, no feasible mitigation measures have been identified and project-related impacts to transportation and circulation remain significant and unavoidable. Adoption of a Statement of Overriding Considerations would be required in order to approve the proposed project.  However, as noted, a mitigation measure has been imposed which would require the following: The applicant shall use its good faith reasonable efforts to obtain approval of a full signal at this location, including filing a Caltrans Encroachment Permit application or other application, plans, specification and studies that provide sufficient information and details to enable Caltrans to evaluate implementing the Mitigation Measure. These applications shall be submitted prior to issuance of building permits.  If timely approved by Caltrans, such improvements shall be completed prior to issuance of a certificate of occupancy for the project.  In submitting applications for this signal, the applicant will request that the signal be demand-actuated and be integrated into the signal progression on Pacific Coast Highway. (Condition #38).

 

Discussion of Alternatives

 

Consistent Section 15091, 15092, and 15093 of the State of California CEQA Guidelines, consideration of alternatives to the proposed project is required in order to compare the environmental impacts and feasibility of these alternatives to the impacts foreseen for the proposed project. These project alternatives were then analyzed to compare their impacts as well as their abilities to meet the project’s objectives to develop a beach-oriented, public recreational and meeting facility that preserves the unique history of the site. As detailed more fully in Section 6.0 of the EIR, three project alternatives were studied: No Project; Recreational Beach Use; and the preferred design identified in the 1998 Reuse Plan. 

 

No Project Alternative

Under the No Project Alternative, the site would be left in its current, uninhabitable state and no rehabilitation of the site or new construction would occur. The Final EIR found that the No Project Alternative would be environmentally superior to the proposed project on the basis of the minimization or avoidance of physical environmental impacts. However, the No Project Alternative is not feasible since it does not satisfy the project objectives of creating a community-oriented public recreation facility that encourages diverse users and preserves the history of the site by providing a range of uses including public recreational activities on a year-round basis and links to the regional open space network in that the site would remain vacant, boarded and fenced.  None of the benefits of the project would be obtained if the No Project Alternative were adopted. 

 

Recreational Beach Use Alternative

Under the Recreational Beach Use Alternative, a majority of the site would be devoted to courts and fields for active beach recreation. The existing Locker Building would be demolished, and the North House and historic pool would be rehabilitated and reused. The North House would be utilized for community meetings and administrative offices. The pool would be rehabilitated as a swimming facility, and changing rooms for visitors and maintenance/equipment storage buildings would be constructed. The Recreational Beach Use Alternative is not environmentally superior to the proposed project in that the impacts would be similar to the proposed project in most respects.  Long-term impacts associated with geology and hydrology would be reduced in comparison to the proposed project due to the increased amount of permeable surface area.  Traffic impacts would both be better and worse than the proposed project depending on the day and hour of peak traffic.  AM peak hour and weekend peak hour trips would be worse than the proposed project and weekday PM peak hour trips would be slightly lower than the proposed project.  The parking demand for this alternative would be lower than the proposed project, however the proposed parking supply associated with the Recreation Beach Use alternative would not be sufficient to meet the project demand and additional parking would need to be added to mitigate this impact which could result in a reduction in the recreational area proposed under this alternative.  This alternative would not achieve all project objectives to provide a full range of uses because no new meeting or multi-purpose rooms would be built.  Furthermore, this alternative would not meet the year-round use objective for the project because only the North House would be available for activities during inclement weather whereby the proposed project would provide multiple indoor spaces for community use.

 

1998 Reuse Plan Alternative

The 1998 Reuse Plan Alternative includes the use of the site as a public community space that would include outdoor recreational areas and an event/meeting center. This alternative includes adaptively reusing the historic North House as a meeting facility, and rehabilitating the existing Locker Building to be used for meeting and special events. The existing pool would be rehabilitated for public recreational swimming use. Changing rooms and a pool equipment maintenance and storage facility would be developed near the pool.  Based on the other project alternatives, the 1998 Reuse Plan is environmentally superior. This alternative would not incur the potential impacts to historic resources associated with new construction although similar impacts would be associated with the reuse of the North House and there may be potential impacts associated with the reuse of the Locker Building due to its proximity to the North House.    The 1998 Reuse Plan alternative would not be feasible in that the costs associated with seismically retrofitting the Locker Building, providing a new roof and other improvements to the building shell, installing new building systems including, but not limited to HVAC, plumbing and electrical and reconfiguring the interiors greatly exceeds the costs to demolish the building and construct a new facility.  It is further infeasible because it does not achieve the project objectives of maximizing a range of integrated community-oriented uses and diverse users while preserving the history of the site. The 3-story Locker Building is not from the period of historic significance and thus detracts from the history of the site. This alternative also would not recall the site of the original mansion as effectively as the proposed project does by locating the new Event House and Pool house in an L-shaped configuration reminiscent of the mansion since neither structure would be built.  Further the 3-story height of the Locker Building blocks views to the ocean from the site compromising the overall beach experience and its central placement breaks up the historic feel as well as the integrated flow of the community uses.  Additionally, this alternative, unlike the proposed project would not provide the historic North House with ample open space around it given the scale and proximate location of the existing Locker Building to the North House.  Furthermore, the 1998 Reuse Plan alternative would result in the same unmitigable traffic impacts as the proposed project, the only impacts of the proposed project that were found to be unmitigable.

 

Alternative locations were also considered but not identified because there are no alternative locations available that would meet the project objectives. Furthermore, other sites of sufficient size that would potentially reduce or avoid the project’s environmental impacts are not located within the City of Santa Monica.

 

Based on the forgoing, and consistent with CEQA Section 15091(a)(3), it is recommended that the Commission find that the project alternatives identified in the EIR are infeasible because they do not meet the specific objectives identified for the site as compared to the subject proposal.

 

Statement of Overriding Considerations

 

Examination of the above alternatives did not identify an alternative project that would be environmentally superior, reasonably feasible, and would meet the specific objectives identified for the site when compared to the proposed project. All feasible mitigation measures have been incorporated to reduce identified impacts to a less than significant level.  However, there will be significant and unavoidable traffic impacts on the intersection of Pacific Coast Highway and California Incline and at the entrance of Beach Lot 10 on Pacific Coast Highway.

 

The public benefits of the proposed project would outweigh its significant, unavoidable environmental impacts for the following reasons:

 

A.     The 415 Pacific Coast Highway project will rehabilitate a 5 acre historically significant site along the Gold Coast for community use.  The public site has been vacant, boarded and fenced for 12 years and this project will implement objectives of the 1998 Reuse Plan for the site.

 

B.     The 415 Pacific Coast Highway project will provide a public beach recreation facility on 5 acres of Santa Monica State Beach, Santa Monica’s most recognized and used open space.

 

C.    The 415 Pacific Coast Highway project will preserve the history of the site. The historic North House and pool which were both designed by Julia Morgan will be rehabilitated for current and future generations to enjoy.

 

D.    The 415 Pacific Coast Highway project will significantly improve the existing conditions of the site by converting existing impervious surfaces to landscaped and permeable surfaces, increasing groundwater recharge and decreasing the amount of stormwater runoff which is consistent with sustainable city goals.

 

E.     Land Use Element Policy 1.11.1 encourages the development of recreational facilities to meet the needs of both the resident and daytime populations.  The project supports this policy of the Land Use Element with the provision of inter-related indoor and outdoor spaces that encourage public beach recreational use year-round and also provide for targeted event and cultural programming during non-peak periods.

 

F.     Objective 1 of the Open Space Element calls for the City to develop and maintain a diversified and balanced system of high quality open space.  This project supports this objective of the Open Space Element by providing a community oriented destination with a variety of open space areas that accommodate swimming, volleyball, paddle tennis, picnicking, and children’s play including water play and sand play.

 

G.    Objective 2 and Policy 2.1 of the Open Space Element call for the city to expand the open space system through the use of public properties.  This project supports this objective by returning a publicly owned site that has been closed for many years to a productive public use providing an opportunity for community members and visitors to enjoy a quintessential Southern California beach experience while at the same time sensing the site’s important historic past.

 

H.     Land Use Element Policy 3.1.3 encourages the retention of historic and architecturally significant resources.  This project supports this policy in that the historically significant North House and swimming pool will be preserved and rehabilitated and the site development will feature a multi-faceted interpretive program in response to the high level of community interest in the site’s history and local and regional context.

 

I.         Land Use Element Policy 3.1.3 also states that the design of new buildings should respect the character of nearby historic resources and the project supports this policy because the event house and pool house are both designed to be compatible with the historic structures on the site while not mimicking their design.

 

J.      Objective 5 of the Open Space Element calls for establishing stronger connections to regional open spaces. This project supports this objective by reusing a portion of State owned beachfront property along the California Coastline for broad public access.  Furthermore through the site’s interpretive program visitors will be connected to the significance of the site as a gateway to the Santa Monica National Recreation Area and as a part of Santa Monica State Beach.

 

In light of these benefits, it is recommended that the Final EIR be certified and a Statement of Overriding Considerations be adopted (Attachment F). 

 

GENERAL PLAN CONSISTENCY

 

The project is consistent with General Plan Citywide Objective 1.1 of the Land Use Element which calls for improving the quality of life by providing a balance of land uses consistent with fulfilling the City’s role as a regional recreational and business center by providing a regional public recreational resource at the site.  The project is also consistent with Land Use Element Policy 3.1.3 which encourages the retention of historic and architecturally significant resources, in that the historically significant North House and swimming pool will be preserved and rehabilitated and the site development will feature a multi-faceted interpretive program in response to the high level of community interest in the site’s history and its local and regional context.

 

CONCLUSION

 

The 415 PCH project has been designed to create a unique, beach-oriented, public gathering place that responds to the cultural history of the site and encourages year-round, public beach recreational use, and limited special events. The project includes the rehabilitation of the historic North House and swimming pool, and also features community and event rooms to be used for meetings, informal recreation, and social events; and recreational and open spaces such as volleyball courts, gardens, playgrounds and walkways. The size, scale, and siting of the project are compatible with the surrounding residential uses with the proposed conditions. With approval of a Reduced Parking Permit to allow shared parking of the North and South Parking Lots with conditions as noted, the project meets Municipal Code requirements.  The EIR identified mitigation measures which are either incorporated as conditions of approval. 

 

ALTERNATIVES

 

Other than the recommended action, the Planning Commission may:

 

·        Certify the EIR, adopt the Statement of Overriding Considerations and Mitigation Monitoring Plan, Approve Development Review Permit 06-002, Reduced Parking Permit 06-002, and Fence/Wall Height Modification 06-001 based upon revised findings and conditions;

  • Certify the EIR and continue the project for redesign;

·        Certify the EIR and Deny Development Review Permit 06-002, Reduced Parking Permit 06-002, and Fence/Wall Height Modification 06-001without prejudice, based upon revised findings;

·        Certify the EIR and Deny Development Review Permit 06-002, Reduced Parking Permit 06-002, and Fence/Wall Height Modification 06-001, based upon revised findings; or

·        Deny certification of the EIR.

 

RECOMMENDATION

 

It is recommended that the Planning Commission certify the EIR, make the necessary CEQA findings, adopt the Statement of Overriding Considerations and Mitigation Monitoring Plan, approve Development Review Permit 06-002, Reduced Parking Permit 06-002 and Fence/Wall Height Modification 06-001 based upon the following findings and conditions:

 

DEVELOPMENT REVIEW FINDINGS

 

1.                  The physical location, size, massing and placement of proposed structures on the site and the location of proposed uses within the project are compatible with and relate harmoniously to surrounding sites and neighborhoods, in that, the project, located on five acres of Santa Monica State Beach includes the rehabilitation of historic structures (North House and swimming pool), and the construction of well-designed, new one- and two-story buildings centrally located on the site with ample setbacks from adjacent residential properties. The new construction has also been designed in an L-shape to reflect the site’s history, to provide useable and varied open spaces, and to take advantage of the ocean and mountain views provided from the site.  The Event House and Pool House have been reduced in sized and re-designed to ensure compatibility with nearby residential uses. The scale of structures has been designed to ensure compatibility with the remaining historic features and overall historic nature of the site. A system of perimeter fencing and gates has been incorporated into the project design in order to control access to the site, and installation of security cameras on site is a condition of project approval. A variety of measures related to use of the site have been have been developed to help ensure compatibility with nearby residential uses. Measures related to on-site parking facilities include the following: Use of parking lots in conjunction with booked special events requires that parking spaces furthest from the adjacent residential uses will be utilized first; parking lots will be closed at 11 pm on weekdays and midnight on weekends; and parking lots will be staffed during events and parking permits shall be issued to event guests. Measures related to on-site activities include the following: amplified music shall be permitted outdoors during City sponsored day-time events only; and a priority reservation system shall be established at peak use periods for use of the public pool and picnic area as noted on the plans dated March 2, 2006.

 

2.                  The rights-of-way can accommodate autos and pedestrians, including parking and access, in that 279 parking spaces will be provided on site within two interconnected lots to serve the project and the beach in a shared use arrangement. Vehicular access is provided from Pacific Coast Highway into a driveway at the south parking lot (Beach Lot 10), with exiting permitted from both the south lot and north lot.  Pedestrian and bicycle access to the site is provided along the Santa Monica Beach Bike Path and the sand area between the 1921 mean high tide line and the bike path is defined and organized by two main boardwalks providing universal access and pedestrian circulation to all areas of the site.

 

3.                  The health and safety services (police, fire, etc.) and public infrastructure (e.g. utilities) are sufficient to accommodate the new development, in that these services already exist to meet the needs of the site and will be complimented by on site security during the evening hours.

 

4.                  Any on-site provision of housing or parks and public open space, which are part of the required project mitigation measures required in Subchapter 9.04.70 Part 9.04.10.12 of the City of Santa Monica Comprehensive Land Use and Zoning Ordinance, satisfactory meet the goals of the mitigation program, in that the project is exempt based on the fact that the project is not an office development.

 

5.                  The project is generally consistent with the Municipal Code and General Plan, in that the project is located within the RVC (Residential Visitor Commercial), BPD (Beach Parking) and Beach Overlay Zoning Districts which allow for the community-oriented uses including recreational buildings, public beaches, playgrounds, recreational areas and parking and these uses are consistent with those proposed by the project.  Furthermore, the project is consistent with General Plan Citywide Objective 1.1 of the Land Use Element which calls for improving the quality of life by providing a balance of land uses consistent with fulfilling the City’s role as a regional recreational and business center by providing a regional public recreational resource at the site, and Land Use Element Policy 1.11.1 which encourages the development of recreation facilities to meet the needs of both resident and daytime populations with attention to creating amenities for families with children in that the project includes the rehabilitation of the existing pool for recreational use, construction of a new water play area and associated pool amenities such as showers, restrooms, changing rooms and lockers  as well as a community room to be used for informal recreation, an event house, gardens, playgrounds and walkways.  The project is consistent with Land Use Element Policy 3.1.3 which encourages the retention of historic and architecturally significant resources, in that the historically significant North House and swimming pool will be preserved and rehabilitated and the site development will feature a multi-faceted interpretive program in response to the high level of community interest in the site’s history and its local and regional context. Land Use Element Policy 3.1.3 also states that the design of new buildings should respect the character of nearby historic resources and the new buildings are designed to be compatible with the historic structures on the site while not mimicking their design.   The project is consistent with Objective 5 of the Open Space Element which called for establishing stronger connections to regional open spaces in that the project will reuse a portion of State owned beachfront property along the California Coastline for broad public access and through the site’s interpretive program will connect visitors to the significance of this site as part of the Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area and Santa Monica State Beach.

 

  1. Feasible mitigation measures have been included for all adverse impacts identified in an Initial Study or Environmental Impact Report, in that an Environmental Impact Report was prepared for the project and all proposed feasible mitigation measures have been included in the project approval.

 

REDUCED PARKING PERMIT FINDINGS

 

Shared Parking

 

1.                  A sufficient number of spaces are provided to meet the greater parking demand of the participating uses in that a total of 279 parking spaces will be provided on site which is sufficient to address the following: The parking demand analysis contained in the EIR determined that the 415 PCH facility would generate a parking demand of 212 spaces. There are 162 existing parking spaces in Beach Lot 10 which must be retained. The demand analysis indicated a peak beach season parking demand of 374 spaces, including 100 parking spaces needed to meet the demand for a maximum 200 guest special event. A total of 274 spaces are required for the 415 PCH facility and beachgoers when special events are not occurring. Therefore, the 279 available spaces are sufficient to meet the parking demand for the 415 PCH facility and beachgoers, except when these special events are scheduled at the meeting facilities during the peak summer beach period (10:00am to 6:00pm, Fridays through Sundays, June through September).

 

2.                  Satisfactory evidence has been submitted by the parties operating the shared parking facility, describing the nature of the uses and times when the uses operate so as to demonstrate the lack of conflict between them in that the City Of Santa Monica operates all parking lots involved in the parking calculations and a shared parking analysis was conducted as part of the project’s Environmental Impact Report (EIR). The analysis indicated that sufficient parking is available for full use of the public beach spaces and the 415 PCH facility except if special events are scheduled during peak summer beach period. A mitigation measure has been identified to address this greater parking demand. The parking facilities for beachgoers (Beach Lot 10) and for the 415 PCH project can be shared except if events are scheduled to occur during the peak summer beach period (10AM to 6PM, Fridays – Sundays, during the months of June through September).  A mitigation measure (Mitigation Measure T-2) has been identified to address the greater parking demand under this scenario. If events are scheduled during peak summer beach hours, the party booking the event shall secure off-site parking within 5 miles of the project site for the guests with a shuttle bus system to transport them to the site. The party booking the event shall be required to submit a Transportation and Parking Management Plan to the operator of the site prior to issuance of a permit for use of the facility. This management plan shall include a description of the methodology of notifying guests of the location for the shuttle and shall include evidence demonstrating that 1) pre-paid parking has been secured; and 2) pre-paid shuttle service has been hired between the site and the off-site

 

3.                  Additional documents, covenants, deed restrictions or other agreements as may be deemed necessary by the Zoning Administrator are executed to assure that the required parking spaces provided are maintained and uses with similar hours and parking requirements as those uses sharing the parking remain for the life of the building in that the proposed use is on land subject to a long-term operating agreement with the State of California, and includes parking facilities operated by the City of Santa Monica.  The City will continue to operate the parking facilities on site that will continue to serve visitors going to the beach and/or to the 415 PCH facility.

 

 

WALL HEIGHT MODIFICATION FINDINGS

 

1.         The subject fence, wall or hedge will be compatible with other similar structures in the neighborhood and is required to mitigate impacts from adjacent land uses, the subject property’s proximity to public rights-of-way, or safety concerns in that the project fronts on Pacific Coast Highway, an arterial roadway that carries over 75,000 vehicles per day north of the California Incline.  The proposed 7’-4” fence is similar in terms of its height and proximity to the public right-of-way when compared to other existing improvements along Pacific Coast Highway in the area of the project site. The proposed 7’-4” fence will help mitigate sound impacts on the site from the highway, and help to address site security issues by controlling access to the site.  Additionally, breaks in the fence of a minimum of 20 feet in length will be provided at the south and north parking lots providing views into the site and the shoreline from the highway.  

 

2.         The granting of such modification will not be detrimental or injurious to the property or improvements in the general vicinity and district in which the property is located in that the proposed fence will extend along the property frontage for a maximum distance of 662 feet and will replace the historic fence with a fence of similar height that was removed in 1995 due to extensive damage following approval of a Certificate of Appropriateness (Dec. 13, 1993 and extended Oct. 10, 1994). The proposed fence will be replaced in accordance with a Memorandum of Agreement between the City of Santa Monica, the State Office of Historic Preservation and the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation, which specifies that, in addition to local agency review and approval, the design of the new fence will be approved in consultation with the State Historic Preservation Officer.

 

3.         The modification will not impair the integrity and character of the neighborhood in which the fence, wall or hedge is located, in that the fence will replace a chain link fence that was installed to secure the site along PCH with a fence that is compatible with the site and is reminiscent of the historic fence that once was located along this property line in terms of its height, scale and general character. The proposed fence has been designed to reflect a rhythm similar to the original, historic fence and has also been designed to be compatible with the contemporary architecture of the new construction on site. The proposed fence also addresses the programmatic needs of the site in that it would serve to visually define the facility along PCH, provide site security, and serve as a sound wall. 

 

CONDITIONS

 

Plans

 

1.                  This approval is for those plans dated March 2, 2006 a copy of which shall be maintained in the files of the City Planning Division.  Project development shall be consistent with such plans, except as otherwise specified in these conditions of approval.

 

2.                  The Plans shall comply with all other provisions of Chapter 1, Article IX of the Municipal Code, (Zoning Ordinance) and all other pertinent ordinances and General Plan policies of the City of Santa Monica.

 

3.                  Final parking lot layout, specifications, and operations shall be subject to the review and approval of the Transportation Management Division.

 

4.                  Minor amendments to the plans shall be subject to approval by the Director of Planning.  A significant change in the approved concept shall be subject to Planning Commission Review.  Construction shall be in conformance with the plans submitted or as modified by the Planning Commission, Landmarks Commission, or Director of Planning.

 

Landmarks Commission

 

5.                  Prior to consideration of the project by the Landmarks Commission, the applicant shall review disabled access requirements with the Building and Safety Division and make any necessary changes in the project design to achieve compliance with such requirements. The Landmarks Commission, in its review, shall pay particular attention to the aesthetic, landscaping, and setback impacts of any ramps or other features necessitated by accessibility requirements.

 

6.                  Plans for final design, landscaping, screening, trash enclosures, and signage shall be subject to review and approval by the Landmarks Commission.

 

7.                  The Landmarks Commission, in its review, shall pay particular attention to the proposed project’s treatment of the historic North House and swimming pool to ensure that all rehabilitation work is done in compliance with the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties.  The Commission shall also pay particular attention to the design of the new buildings on site to ensure that they are compatible with the remaining historic features on the site and the overall historic character of the site. 

 

8.                  Refuse areas, storage areas and mechanical equipment shall screened in accordance with SMMC Section 9.04.10.02.130-90.04.10.02.150.  Refuse areas shall be of a size adequate to meet on-site need, including recy­cling. The Landmarks Commission in its review shall pay particu­lar attention to the screening of such areas and equipment.  Any roof­top mechanical equipment shall be minimized in height and area, and shall be located in such a way as to minimize noise and visual impacts to surrounding properties.  Unless otherwise approved by the Landmarks Commission, rooftop mechanical equipment shall be located at least five feet from the edge of the roof.

 

Demolition

 

9.                  Until such time as the demolition is undertaken, and unless the struc­ture is currently in use, the existing structure shall be maintained and secured by boarding up all openings, erecting a security fence, and removing all debris, bushes and planting that inhibit the easy surveillance of the property to the satisfaction of the Building and Safety Officer and the Fire Department.  Any landscaping material remaining shall be watered and maintained until demolition occurs.

 

10.             Street trees shall be maintained, relocated or provided as required in a manner consistent with the City’s Community Forest Management Plan 2000, per the specifications of the Open Space Management Division of the Community and Cultural Services Department and the City’s Tree Code (SMMC Section 7.40).  No street trees shall be removed without the approval of the Open Space Management Division.

 

11.             Immediately after demolition (and during construction), a security fence, the height of which shall be the maximum permitted by the Zoning Ordinance, shall be maintained around the perimeter of the lot.  The lot shall be kept clear of all trash, weeds, etc.

 

12.             Prior to issuance of a demolition permit, applicant shall prepare for Building Division approval a rodent and pest control plan to ensure that demolition and construction activities at the site do not create pest control impacts on the project neighborhood.

 

13.             Prior to issuance of any demolition permits, a demolition materials recycling plan shall be filed for approval by the Department of Environmental and Public Works Management which seeks to maximize the reuse/recycling of existing building materials.

 

14.             The applicant shall submit a report from an industrial hygienist to be reviewed and approved as to content and form by the Environmental and Public Works Management/Environmental Programs Division.  The report shall consist of a hazardous materials survey for the structure proposed for demolition.  The report shall include a section on asbestos and in accordance with the South Coast AQMD Rule 1403, the asbestos survey shall be performed by a state Certified Asbestos Consultant (CAC).  The report shall include a section on lead, which shall be performed by a state Certified Lead Inspector/Assessor.  Additional hazardous materials to be considered by the industrial hygienist shall include: mercury (in thermostats, switches, fluorescent light); polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) (including light Ballast), and fuels, pesticides, and batteries.

 

Construction

 

15.             Unless otherwise approved by the Department of Environmental and Public Works Management, all sidewalks shall be kept clear and passable during the grading and construction phase of the project.

 

16.             Sidewalks, curbs, gutters, paving and driveways which need replacing or removal as a result of the project as determined by the Department of Environmental and Public Works Management shall be reconstructed to the satisfaction of the Department of Environmental and Public Works Management.  Approval for this work shall be obtained from the Department of Environmental and Public Works management prior to issuance of the build­ing permits.

 

17.             Vehicles hauling dirt or other construction debris from the site shall cover any open load with a tarpaulin or other secure covering to minimize dust emissions.  Immediately after commencing dirt removal from the site, the general contractor shall provide the City of Santa Monica with written certification that all trucks leaving the site are covered in accordance with this condition of approval.

 

18.             A construction period mitigation plan shall be prepared by the applicant for approval by the Department of Environmental and Public Works Management prior to issuance of a building permit.  The approved mitigation plan shall be posted on the construction site for the duration of the project construction and shall be produced upon request.  As applicable, this plan shall 1) Specify the names, addresses, telephone numbers and business license numbers of all contractors and subcontractors as well as the developer and architect; 2) Describe how demolition of any existing structures is to be accomplished; 3) Indicate where any cranes are to be located for erection/construction; 4) Describe how much of the public street, alleyway, or sidewalk is proposed to be used in conjunction with construction; 5) Set forth the extent and nature of any pile-driving operations; 6) Describe the length and number of any tiebacks which must extend under the property of other persons; 7) Specify the nature and extent of any dewatering and its effect on any adjacent buildings; 8) Describe anticipated construction-related truck routes, number of truck trips, hours of hauling and parking location; 9) Specify the nature and extent of any helicopter hauling; 10) State whether any construction activity beyond normally permitted hours is proposed; 11) Describe any proposed construction noise mitigation measures; 12) Describe construction-period security measures including any fencing, lighting, and security personnel; 13) Provide a drainage plan; 14) Provide a construction-period parking plan which shall minimize use of public streets for parking; 15) List a designated on-site construction manager; 16)  Provide a construction materials recycling plan which seeks to maximize the reuse/recycling of construction waste; 17)  Provide a plan regarding use of recycled and low-environmental-impact materials in building construction; 18) provide a construction period water runoff control plan.

 

19.             A sign shall be posted on the property in a manner consistent with the public hearing sign requirements which shall identify the address and phone number of the owner and/or applicant for the purposes of responding to questions and complaints during the construction period.  Said sign shall also indicate the hours of permissible construction work.

 

20.             The property owner shall insure any graffiti on the site is promptly removed through compliance with the City's graffiti removal program.

 

21.             A copy of these conditions shall be posted in an easily visible and accessible location at all times during construction at the project site.  The pages shall be laminated or otherwise protected to ensure durability of the copy.

 

Environmental Mitigation

 

22.             Ultra-low flow plumbing fixtures are required on all new development and remodeling where plumbing is to be added.  (Maximum 1.6 gallon toilets and 1.0 gallon urinals and low flow shower head.)

 

23.             To mitigate solid waste impacts, prior to issuance of a Certificate of Occupancy, project owner shall submit a recycling plan to the Department of Environmental and Public Works Management for its approval.  The recycling plan shall include 1) list of materials such as white paper, computer paper, metal cans, and glass to be recycled; 2) location of recycling bins; 3) designated recycling coordinator; 4) nature and extent of internal and external pick-up service; 5) pick-up schedule; 6) plan to inform tenants/ occupants of service.

 

24.             To mitigate storm water and surface runoff from the project site, an Urban Runoff  Mitigation Plan may be required by the Department of Environmental and Public Works Management (EPWM) pursuant to Municipal Code Chapter 7.10.  Applicant shall contact EPWM to determine applicable requirements, which include the following:

·                    Non-stormwater runoff, sediment and construction waste from the construction site and parking areas is prohibited from leaving the site;

·                    An sediments or materials which are tracked off-site must be removed the same day they are tracked off-site;

·                    Excavated soil must be located on the site and soil piles should be covered and otherwise protected so that sediments do not go into the street or adjoining properties;

·                    Washing of construction or other vehicles shall be allowed adjacent to a construction site.  No runoff from washing vehicles on a construction site shall be allowed to leave the site;

·                    Drainage controls may be required depending on the extent of grading and topography of the site.

·                    New development is required to reduce projected runoff pollution by at least twenty percent through incorporation of design elements or principles, such as increasing permeable surfaces, diverting or catching runoff via swales, berms, and the like; orientation of drain gutters towards permeable areas; modification of grades; use of retention structures and other methods.

 

Miscellaneous Conditions

 

25.             The building address shall be painted on the roof of the building and shall measure four feet by eight feet (32 square feet).

 

26.             The operation shall at all times be conducted in a manner not detrimental to surrounding properties or residents by reason of lights, noise, activities, parking or other actions.

 

27.             If any archaeological remains are uncovered during excavation or construction, work in the affected area shall be suspended and a recognized specialist shall be contacted to conduct a survey of the affected area at project's owner's expense.  A determination shall then be made by the Director of Planning to determine the significance of the survey findings and appropriate actions and requirements, if any, to address such findings.

 

28.             Street and/or alley lighting shall be provided on public rights-of-way adjacent to the project if and as needed per the specifications and with the approval of the Department of Environmental and Public Works Management.

 

29.             Automotive repair facilities and dealerships, parking areas and structures, automotive paint shops, gas stations, equipment degreasing areas, and other facilities generating wastewater with significant oil and grease content are required to pretreat these wastes before discharging to the City sewer or storm drain system. Pretreatment will require that a clarifier or oil/water separator be installed and main­tained on site.  In cases where settleable solids are present (or expected) in greater amounts than floatable oil and grease, a clarifier unit will be required.  In cases where the opposite waste characteristics are present, an oil/water separator with automatic oil draw-off will be required instead.  The Environmental and Public Works Management Department will set specific requirements. Building permit plans shall show the required installation. 

 

30.             Mechanical equipment shall not be located on the side of any building which is adjacent to a residential building on the adjoining lot.  Roof locations may be used when the mechanical equipment is installed within a soundrated parapet enclosure.

 

31.             Final approval of any mechanical equipment installation will require a noise test in compliance with SMMC section 4.12.040.  Equipment for the test shall be provided by the owner or contractor and the test shall be conducted by the owner or contractor.  A copy of the noise test results on mechanical equipment shall be submitted to the Communi­ty Noise officer for review to ensure that noise levels do not exceed maximum allowable levels for the applicable noise zone.

 

32.             Final building plans submitted for approval of a building permit shall include on the plans a list of all permanent mechanical equipment to be placed outdoors and all permanent mechanical equipment to be placed indoors which may be heard outdoors.

 

33.             Prior to issuance of a Certificate of Occupancy Permit, the applicant shall post a notice at the building entry stating that the site is regulated by a Development Review Permit and the Statement of Official Action, which includes the establishment’s conditions of approval, is available upon request.  This notice shall remain posted at all time the establishment is in operation.

 

Validity of Permits

 

34.             In the event permittee violates or fails to comply with any conditions of approval of this permit, no further permits, licenses, approvals or certificates of occupancy shall be issued until such violation has been fully remedied.

 

35.             Within ten days of Planning Division transmittal of the Statement of Official Action, project applicant shall sign and return a copy of the Statement of Official Action prepared by the Planning Division, agreeing to the Conditions of approval and acknowledging that failure to comply with such conditions shall constitute grounds for potential re­vocation of the permit approval.  By signing same, applicant shall not thereby waive any legal rights applicant may possess regarding said conditions.  The signed Statement shall be returned to the City Planning Division.  Failure to comply with this condition shall constitute grounds for potential permit revocation.

 

36.             The Planning Commission’s approval, conditions of approval, or denial of this application may be appealed to the City Council if the appeal is filed with the Zoning Administrator within fourteen consecutive days following the date of the Planning Commission’s determination in the manner provided in Part 9.04.20.24, Sections 9.04.20.24.010 through 9.04.20.24.040. The approval of this permit shall expire if the rights granted are not exercised within eighteen (18) months from the permit’s effective date.   Exercise of rights shall mean issuance of a building permit to commence construction.  However, the permit shall also expire if the building permit expires, if final inspection is not completed or a Certificate of Occupancy is not issued within the time periods specified in SMMC Section 8.08.060, or if the rights granted are not exercised within one (1) year following the earliest to occur of the following: issuance of a Certificate of Occupancy or, if no certificate of Occupancy is required, the last required final inspection for the new construction.  One six month extension may be permitted if approved by the Director of Planning.  Applicant is on notice that time extensions shall not be granted if development standards or the development process relevant to the project have changed since project approval.   Additionally, the rights associated with this approval shall expire if the establishment ceases operation for a period of one year or longer.

 

37.             Applicant is advised that projects in the California Coastal Zone may need approval of the California Coastal Commission prior to issuance of any building permits by the City of Santa Monica.  Applicant is responsible for obtaining any such permits.

 

Mitigation Measure Conditions

 

38.             The project shall comply with the following mitigation measures identified in the Environmental Impact Report (EIR) prepared for the project:

 

                       

AES-2(a) Planning Commission Review.  The physical location, size, massing and placement of proposed structures on the site shall be compatible with and relate harmoniously to surrounding sites and neighborhood.  Prior to issuance of Building Permits, the applicant shall submit plans for review and approval by the Planning Commission to demonstrate compliance with this mitigation measure.

 

AES-2(b) Landmarks Commission Review.  The design, scale and character of project architecture shall be compatible with the existing Georgian Revival architectural style of the Marion Davies Estate.  Rehabilitation of historic resources shall comply with the recommendations of the Cultural Resources Technical Report:  Proposed 415 PCH Project (Historic Resources Group 2005) and shall be consistent with the final design requirements outlined in Mitigation Measure HR-1(a).  Prior to issuance of Building Permits, the applicant shall submit detailed plans for review and approval by the Landmarks Commission that demonstrate compliance with this mitigation measure.

 

AES-2(c) Fence Design Requirements.  Plans for the proposed project shall include design details of the fence that is envisioned along the street frontage of PCH.  The design of the fence shall be compatible with the existing Georgian Revival architectural style of the Marion Davies Estate and shall be subject to review by the Planning Commission and Landmarks Commission, as required pursuant to Mitigation Measures AES-2(a) and (b).

 

AES-3(a) Low-glare Materials.  All design and placement of windows shall be of low-glare specification.  Paint used for exterior facades shall be of low-reflectivity.  Metal surfaces shall be brush-polished, and shall not be highly reflective.

 

AES-3(b) Parking Lot Landscaping.  Parking areas shall be landscaped such that the size, type and location of species reduce the glare from vehicles parked on-site.

 

AES-3(c) Lighting Plan.  Any exterior night lighting installed on the project site shall be of low intensity, low glare design, and shall be hooded to direct light downward onto the subject parcel and prevent spillover onto adjacent parcels.  The City shall develop a Lighting Plan incorporating these requirements.

 

CON-1 Construction Impact Mitigation Plan.  The City shall prepare and implement a Construction Impact Mitigation Plan to provide for traffic and parking capacity management during construction and demolition of the Locker Building.  This plan shall be subject to review and approval by the Departments of Environmental and Public Works Management and Planning and Community Development, Transportation Management Division, at a minimum, and shall include the following:

·  A public information program to advise motorists of impending construction activities (e.g., media coverage, portable message signs, and information signs at the construction site);

·  Approval from the City, or Caltrans if required, for any construction detours or construction work requiring encroachment into public rights-of-way, or any other street use activity (e.g. haul routes);

·  Timely notification of construction schedules to all affected agencies (e.g. Police Department, Fire Department, Department of Environmental and Public Works Management, and Department of Planning and Community Development);

·  Coordination of construction work with affected agencies five to ten days prior to start of work;

·  A traffic control plan for Pacific Coast Highway, which includes specific information regarding the project’s construction and activities that will disrupt normal traffic flow;

·  A pedestrian/bicyclists control plan for the beach pedestrian/bike path, which includes information regarding the project’s construction and activities that will disrupt public use of the path;

·  Minimizing dirt and demolition material hauling and construction material delivery during the morning and afternoon peak traffic periods and cleaning of streets and equipment as necessary;

·  Scheduling and expediting of work to cause the least amount of disruption and interference to the adjacent vehicular and pedestrian traffic flow.  Weekday daytime work on City streets shall primarily be performed between the hours of 9:00 AM and 3:00 PM;

·  Limiting of queuing of trucks to on-site and prohibition of truck queuing on Pacific Coast Highway;

·  Scheduling of preconstruction meetings with affected agencies to properly plan methods of controlling traffic through work areas;

·  Storage of construction material and equipment within the designated work area and limitation of equipment and material visibility to the public; and

·  Provision of off-street parking for construction workers, which may include the use of a remote location with shuttle transport to the site, it determined necessary by the City of Santa Monica.

 

CON-2(a) Dust Minimization.  Dust generated by the development activities shall be kept to a minimum with a goal of retaining dust on the site through implementation of the following measures recommended by the SCAQMD Rule 43 Handbook:

·    During clearing, grading, earth moving, excavation, or transportation of cut or fill materials, water trucks or sprinkler systems are to be used to the extent necessary to prevent dust from leaving the site and to create a crust after each day’s activities cease.

·    During clearing, grading, earth moving, excavation, or transportation of cut or fill materials, streets and sidewalks within 150 feet of the site perimeter shall be swept and cleaned a minimum of twice weekly.

·    During construction, water trucks or sprinkler systems shall be used to keep all areas of vehicle movement damp enough to prevent dust from leaving the site. At a minimum, this would include wetting down such areas in the later morning and after work is completed for the day and whenever wind exceeds 15 miles per hour.

·    Soil stockpiled for more than two days shall be covered, kept moist, or treated with soil binders to prevent dust generation.

 

CON-2(b) Construction Equipment Conditions.  Construction equipment used on the site shall meet the following conditions in order to minimize NOx and ROC emissions:

·    Diesel-powered equipment such as booster pumps or generators should be replaced by electric equipment to the extent feasible; and

·    The operation of heavy-duty construction equipment shall be limited to no more than 5 pieces of equipment at any one time.

 

CON-3(a) Diesel  Equipment Mufflers.  All diesel equipment shall be operated with closed engine doors and shall be equipped with factory-recommended mufflers.

 

CON-3(b) Electrically-Powered Tools.  Electrical power shall be used to run air compressors and similar power tools.

 

CON-3(c) Additional Noise Attenuation Techniques.  For all noise-generating activity on the project site associated with the installation of new facilities, additional noise attenuation techniques shall be employed to reduce noise levels to City of Santa Monica noise standards.  Such techniques may include, but are not limited to, the use of sound blankets on noise generating equipment and the construction of temporary sound barriers between construction sites and nearby sensitive receptors.

 

CON-3(d) Construction Sign Posting.  In accordance with Santa Monica Municipal Code Section 4.12.120, the City shall be required to post a sign informing all workers and subcontractors of the time restrictions for the installation of new facilities.  The sign shall also include the City telephone numbers where violations can be reported and complaints associated with noise associated with the installation of new facilities can be submitted.

 

GEO-2 Geotechnical Study.  A geotechnical study shall be prepared for the project site prior to development.  This report shall include, but is not limited to, an analysis of the liquefaction potential of the underlying materials.  If the site is found to be prone to seismically-induced liquefaction, appropriate techniques to minimize liquefaction potential shall be prescribed and implemented.  Suitable measures to reduce liquefaction impacts could include, but are not limited to: (1) specialized design of foundations by a structural engineer; (2) removal or treatment of liquefiable soils to reduce the potential for liquefaction; (3) in-situ densification of soils; and (4) other alterations to the ground characteristics.  Any recommended measures to minimize liquefaction potential specified by the geotechnical study shall be fully implemented in accordance with the Uniform Building Code and California Building Code requirements.

 

HHM-3:  As part of Mitigation Measure HR-1(a), as required in Final EIR Section 4.6 Historic Resources, a materials conservator would be required to evaluate the historic ceramic tiles in the pool and North House restrooms and provide appropriate methodology for repair and/or replacement in kind, if necessary.  Implementation of Mitigation Measure HR-1(a) would ensure that the historic tiles are maintained in good condition and further reduce any risk of lead exposure.

 

HR-1(a) Final Rehabilitation Design.  A historically compatible rehabilitation design for the North House, pool, and bulkhead shall comply with the Secretary of Interior’s Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties and Guidelines for Preserving, Rehabilitating, Restoring, and Reconstructing Historic Buildings or the Secretary of Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation and Guidelines for Historic Buildings (Weeks and Grimmer, 1995).  Prior to permit issuance, a design plan shall be prepared and submitted to the Community and Cultural Services Department for review as well as the Landmarks Commission as part of review for a Certificate of Appropriateness, which includes, but is not limited to the following:

·          Alterations required for the conversion of the North House into a meeting facility, including the installation of mechanical equipment and alterations related to ADA accessibility, shall be designed so as to integrate, rather than obscure, alter, or remove, character-defining features.

·          The architectural design of new facilities and landscaping shall be “differentiated from the old,” and not detract from or overwhelm the original historic features.

·          Signage shall be placed in a manner that is compatible with and does not obstruct character-defining features of the North House, pool, or bulkhead. 

·          Testing shall be performed where necessary to ensure that the safest and gentlest means possible are used to clean and repair materials.  A materials conservator shall evaluate historic ceramic tiles in the pool and North House restrooms and provide appropriate methodology for repair and/or replacement in kind if necessary.

·          New facilities, including the Event House, Pool House, Garden and children’s water play area shall be designed to maintain spatial relationships of the character-defining features as much as possible.  New elements constructed on the site shall be designed to be reversible and to cause minimal impact on the historic fabric of the site.

 

 HR-1 Mitigation Plan for Preservation of Historic Materials During Construction: The City shall prepare and implement a Mitigation Plan for Preservation of Historic Materials During Construction to protect historic materials during construction of the proposed project.  This plan shall be subject to review and approval by the Planning and Community Development Department prior to issuance of a building permit.  At a minimum, it shall include the following:

·          Character-defining features of the property shall dictate the placement of new design components, as well as methods and design of new construction.  Structural engineers, in consultation with a designated historian, shall evaluate the condition of extant historical resources to better understand the potential effects of excavation activities and foundation design.

·          Engineers shall provide a shoring design solution, if necessary, to protect historical resources from construction procedures and mitigate the possibility of settlement due to the removal of adjacent soil.  Structural engineers shall also evaluate what temporary seismic movement the new construction may have, and whether any measures need to be taken to allow for this movement.

·          The removal of historic materials shall be minimized to the extent feasible.  If any historic materials are removed, a materials conservator shall evaluate historic material and provide appropriate methodology for handling and/or preservation.

 

HWQ-3(a) Best Management Practices.  The City shall include best management practices (BMPs), such as sand filters and grease traps, within the reconfigured surface parking lots to intercept and effectively prohibit pollutants, sediment, and debris from discharging offsite.

 

HWQ-3(b) Landscape Maintenance Plan.  A landscaping maintenance plan shall be implemented that limits the use of herbicides and inorganic fertilizers applied to landscaping to quantities that are necessary to treat specific problems.  The maintenance plan shall incorporate features from the City of Santa Monica’s Integrated Pest Management Program, which include, but are not limited to the following:  pest-resistant plants, provisions for mechanical weed control to be used wherever and whenever possible as the first choice; determination of the probable cause of a disease problem and correction as necessary (e.g. soil nutrient problems, irrigation, water quality, and plant type) prior to chemical use; provisions that herbicides are to be used only when necessary to cure a problem and not as a preventative measure or as a regular, periodic application; and, guidelines for use of chemical forms that have a low potential for leaching from the site.

 

T-2 Off-Site Parking.  If events are scheduled during peak summer beach hours (Fridays-Sundays during June through September 10 AM – 6 PM), the party booking the event shall secure off-site parking within 5 miles of the project site for the guests with a shuttle bus system to transport them to the site and shall submit a Transportation and Parking Management Plan (Plan) to the operator of the site prior to issuance of a permit for use of the facility.  The Plan shall include a description of the methodology of notifying guests of the location for the shuttle and shall include evidence demonstrating that 1) pre-paid parking has been secured; and 2) pre-paid shuttle service has been hired between the site and the off-site parking lot.

 

T-1(c) PCH and Lot N Entrance/primary project access point.  The applicant shall use its good faith reasonable efforts to obtain approval of a full signal at this location, including filing a Caltrans Encroachment Permit application or other application, plans, specification and studies that provide sufficient information and details to enable Caltrans to evaluate implementing the Mitigation Measure.  These applications shall be submitted prior to issuance of building permits.  If timely approved by Caltrans, such improvements shall be completed prior to issuance of a certificate of occupancy for the project.  In submitting applications for this signal, the applicant will request that the signal be demand-actuated and be integrated into the signal progression on Pacific Coast Highway.

 

Monitoring of Conditions

 

39.             Pursuant to the requirements of Public Resources Code Section 21081.6, the City Planning Division will coordinate a monitoring and reporting program regarding any required changes to the project made in conjunction with project approval and any conditions of approval, including those conditions intended to mitigate or avoid significant effects on the environment. This program shall include, but is not limited to, ensuring that the City Planning Division itself and other City divisions and departments such as the Building Division, the Environmental and Public Works Management Department, the Fire Department, the Police Department, the Community and Economic Development Department and the Finance Department are aware of project requirements which must be satisfied prior to issuance of a Building Permit, Certificate of Occupancy, or other permit, and that other responsible agencies are also informed of conditions relating to their responsibilities.  Project owner shall demonstrate compliance with con­ditions of approval in a written report submitted to the Planning Director and Building Officer prior to issuance of a Building Permit or Certificate of Occupancy, and, as applicable, provide periodic reports regarding compliance with such conditions.

 

Special Conditions

 

40.             As shown on plans dated March 2, 2006, the following design elements are required: perimeter railings and fencing; gates at all parking lots; and gates at all entries to open space areas east of Beach Walk, including the public restroom entries.

 

41.             As shown on plans dated March 2, 2006, the following design elements are required: an enclosed picnic area adjacent to pool.

 

42.             Installation of security cameras shall be required on site prior to issuance of Certificate of Occupancy.

 

43.             The site will be staffed with on-site personnel year-round including daytime ranger staffing at peak use periods and night-time security staffing.

 

44.             The operation shall at all times be conducted in a manner not detrimental to surrounding properties or residents by reason of lights, noise, activities, parking or other actions.

 

45.             The size of individual meeting rooms shall not exceed 2,000 square feet.

 

46.             A priority reservation system shall be established at peak use periods for use of the public pool and picnic area as noted on the plans dated March 2, 2006.

 

47.             Parking lots shall close at dark for general public parking but remain open and available for event parking only.  Parking lots will be staffed during events and parking permits shall be issued to event guests.

 

48.             On site events shall end no later than 10 pm weekdays and 11 pm on Saturdays and Sundays, with the parking lots closing no later than 11 pm weekdays and midnight on Saturdays and Sundays.

 

49.             Booked social functions or meetings where the primary activity includes sit-down meal service shall be limited to a total of 2,000 square feet at one time.  Food service that is incidental to meetings or social functions shall be exempt from this requirement. The existing restaurant on-site is exempt from this requirement.

 

50.             Organized food service shall be provided by on-site concessionaire and approved offsite caterers under contract with the City of Santa Monica.

 

51.             Alcohol use shall be restricted to beer and wine only; staffed bar service only (caterer permit), for booked indoor events only; service of alcohol is required to end ½ hour before end of events.

 

52.             No outside furniture rentals permitted for special functions or meetings.  Furniture to be provided by site operator.

 

53.             Amplified music shall be permitted outdoors during City sponsored day-time events only.

 

54.             The operator shall direct guests visiting the site for meetings or social functions to park their vehicles in the central lot before use of the south or north parking lots.

 

55.             The site east of the Beach Walk, and the public restrooms, as labeled on the plans dated March 2, 2006 shall close at dark year round except for booked uses.

 

56.             During social functions staff shall be provided to patrol the premises east of the Beach Walk and including the parking lots to ensure that guests are not disruptive to adjoining residential properties and their residents.

 

57.             The operator shall prohibit loitering and control noisy guests leaving the site.

 

58.             A minimum 15” X 12” sign shall be posted at each parking lot requesting patrons exit the site in a manner that will not disturb nearby residential neighborhoods. This information shall also be provided in all marketing materials that are prepared for rental of facilities on the site for meetings and social functions. 

 

59.             No exterior activities such as deliveries, trash disposal or other maintenance activities, except in the case of an emergency shall be conducted between 11 pm and 7:00 am seven days per week.

 

60.             The project shall at all times comply with the provisions of the Noise Ordinance (SMMC Chapter 4.12) unless more restrictive conditions are imposed by this permit.

 

61.             To mitigate solid waste impacts associated with the project, the applicant shall prior to issuance of a Certificate of Occupancy submit a recycling plan to the Environmental and Public Works Management Department for approval.  The recycling plan shall include 1) a list of recyclable material such as paper, plastic, metal aluminum and glass to be recycled; 2) the location of recycling bins 3)describe the nature and extent of pick up service 4) identify plans to inform visitors of the recycling program.

 

62.             Exterior building, parking lot and landscape lighting shall be designed to shed light pools on the project site to enhance safety.  All outdoor lighting shall be shielded and directed downward, and have sharp cutoff qualities at property lines to minimize light and glare impacts.

 

63.             Architectural lighting shall be provided to the extent necessary to highlight architectural elements.  Security lighting shall be installed as required to provide a secure environment for users of the site.

 

 

Prepared by:  Roxanne Tanemori, Associate Planner

 

Attachments:

 

  1. Municipal Code and General Plan Conformance
  2. Site Posting Photos, Notice of Public Hearing, and Radius and Location Map

C.  Resolution to Certify the Environmental Impact Report

D.  Resolution Adopting a Statement of Overriding Considerations and Mitigation Monitoring Plan

E.   Council Staff Report dated February 28, 2006

F.   Summary of Public Workshops on July 25, 2005; October 1-2, 2005

  1. Correspondence Received Regarding the Proposed Project
  2. Photographs of Site and Surrounding Properties

I.       Renderings, Plot Plan, Floor Plans and Elevations

J.    Final Environmental Impact Report


ATTACHMENT A

 

MUNICIPAL CODE AND GENERAL PLAN CONFORMANCE

 

06DR-002; 06RPP-002; 06FWHM-001

415 Pacific Coast Highway, Santa Monica

 

 

CATEGORY

 

LAND USE ELEMENT

 

MUNICIPAL CODE

 

PROJECT

 

Permitted Use

 

Land Use Category: High Density Housing.  This General Plan category allows multi-family dwellings and hotels at densities 48 du/ac and height up to 4 stories or (50’) consistent with the scale of existing development. This category contemplates visitor-serving commercial (hotel) uses. The proposed project can be viewed as a visitor-serving public facility.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Convention and conference facilities; entertainment and cultural uses; public parks and playgrounds; and swim clubs are permitted uses in the RVC District [SMMC 9.04.08.12.020] and the Beach Overlay District. [SMMC 9.04.08.46.020] 

 

Public parking facilities are a permitted use in the BPD District.

[SMMC 9.04.08.060.020]

 

Permitted Uses in the Beach Overlay District: All uses listed as permitted uses within the District in which the parcel is located. Open spaces, public beaches, parks, incidental park structures, gardens, playgrounds, recreational buildings, and recreational areas. Public parking. 

Prohibited Uses in the Beach Overlay District: Hotels, motels. Restaurants and/or food service facilities of more than 2,000 square feet and/or exceeding one story in height.  

[SMMC 9.04.08.46]

 

Rehabilitation of existing 9,127 SF historic North House as meeting and conference facility.

 

Rehabilitation of existing historic swimming pool.

 

New construction of 5,000 SF meeting/event/cultural programming facility.

 

New construction of 7,000 SF pool house with meeting room, and locker/changing rooms. 

 

New construction for 700 SF entry pavilion for lifeguard and staff offices, and a concessions window.  

 

New construction for outdoor garden terraces; children’s play area; picnic area; two paddle courts; and volleyball courts.

 

Retain existing 162 parking spaces provided in Beach Parking Lot 10.

 

The proposed project does not include a hotel, motel, restaurant and/or food service facility of more than 2,000 square feet and/or exceeding one story in height.   

 

 

Height of Building

 

---

 

Maximum 23’-0” (for a flat roof)

[SMMC 9.04.08.12.060 (a)]

 

Event House: 20’-0” frm ANG

Pool House: 30’-0” frm ANG

Entry Pavilion: 14’-0” frm ANG

Restroom Building: 20’-0” frm ANG

(Existing North House: 28’-9”)

 

 

Number of Stories

 

---

 

Maximum of two (2) stories permitted 

[SMMC 9.04.08.12.060 (a)]

 

Event House: one (1) story

Pool House: two (2) stories

Entry Pavilion: one (1) story

Restroom Building: one (1) story

(Existing North House: two (2) stories)

 

Setbacks:

Frontyard

Sideyard

Rear Yard

 

Stepbacks

 

 

N/A

 

 

20’-0” front yard setback; at least 30% of the building elevation above 14’-0” in height shall provide an additional 5’-0” average setback from the minimum required setback.

 

Minimum of 27’-5” side yard setback; at least 25% of the side elevation above 14’-0” in height shall provide an additional four-foot average setback from the minimum side yard setback.

 

Minimum of 55’-0” rear yard setback; 5’ minimum setback required for an accessory building.

 

[SMMC 9.04..08.12.060(c)]

 

A minimum front yard setback of 32’-6” is provided.

 

+/- 327’-6” side yard setback is provided on the south side yard; +/- 267’-6” are provided on the north side yard.

 

+/- 8’-0” rear yard setback provided for the proposed accessory building.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Projections Into Yard

 

N/A

[SMMC 9.04.10.02.180]

 

No projections into required yards are proposed.

 

Building Height

Projections

 

N/A

 

[SMMC 9.04.10.02.030]

 

No building height projections are proposed.

 

Lot Coverage

 

N/A

 

Maximum of 50% parcel coverage

 

[SMMC 9.04..08.12.060(c)]

 

 

Parcel coverage on site does not exceed the maximum allowable 41,800 SF (Land zoned RVC District). 

 

F.A.R.

 

 

 

Maximum F.A.R. is .5

[SMMC 9.04.08.12.060(a)]

 

F.A.R. for project, including existing North House is approximately .3

 

% Walls Demolished

 

 

 

 

 

100% of the existing locker building will be demolished (not determined to be a historically significant building on site).  Demolition of the historic North House is not proposed.

 

Parking Space Number

 

 

N/A

 

1 space per 80 SF of assembly use; 1 space per 300 SF of office, storage, and locker rooms.

 

162 existing beach lot parking spaces on site. 

 

[SMMC 9.04.10.08.040]

 

A Reduced Parking Permit may be requested to permit the reduction of required automobile parking spaces when shared parking is proposed as part of any development. 

[SMMC 9.04.20.26]

16,448 SF of assembly use: 206 spaces required

 

5,111 SF of office/storage/locker rooms: 17 spaces required

 

 

223 New Parking Spaces Required

 

117 New Parking Spaces Provided

 

162 existing beach lot parking spaces on site to remain

 

A Reduced Parking Permit has been requested to allow a reduction of 106 parking spaces provided on site in conjunction with a shared parking plan.

 

 

Compact Parking %

 

N/A

 

Maximum of 40% allowed

 

[SMMC 9.04.10.08.040]

 

53 compact spaces are provided (19% of total)

 

Bicycle Parking

 

N/A

 

Parking area for a minimum of 19 bicycles is required

[SMMC 9.04.10.08.040]

 

Parking for 50 bicycles is provided on site.

 

 

Height of Walls, Fences

 

N/A

 

Maximum height of 3’-6” permitted within required front yard; 8’-0” within required side & rear yards.

 

7’-4” fence proposed in the front yard setback.  A Fence Height Modification has been requested.

 

 

Trash Area

 

N/A

 

Trash enclosure with minimum area of 248 SF with a solid wall and gate is required.

 

[SMMC 9.04.10.02.151]

 

Trash enclosure meeting the minimum requirement is provided adjacent to Entry Pavilion and existing Beach Lot 10.

 

Mechanical Equipment Screening

 

 

N/A

 

Mechanical equipment extending more than 12" above roof parapet shall be fully screened from a horizontal plane.

 

Event House: equipment screened on roof; more detail will be shown on site plans to be reviewed and approved by the Landmarks Commission through issuance of a Certificate of Appropriateness.

 

Additional mechanical equipment to be located in machine rooms in Pool House and Entry Pavilion. 

 

Additional equipment to be located in the basement of existing North House.

 

Location of Mechanical Equipment

 

 

 

N/A

 

Not permitted on side of building if adjacent to a residential building on an adjoining lot.

 

No equipment is proposed adjacent to the residential building to the north of the site.

 

Parking Area Screen

 

N/A

 

 

 

Landscaping plans will be reviewed and approved by the Landmarks Commission through issuance of a Certificate of Appropriateness.

 

 

Frontyard Landscaping

 

 

N/A

 

 

 

Landscaping plans will be reviewed and approved by the Landmarks Commission through issuance of a Certificate of Appropriateness.

 

 

Sideyard Landscaping

 

 

N/A

 

 

 

Landscaping plans will be reviewed and approved by the Landmarks Commission through issuance of a Certificate of Appropriateness.

 

Pedestrian-Oriented
Design

 

N/A

Ground floor street frontage of each structure shall be designed with pedestrian orientation in accordance with Section 9.04.10.02.440. 

 

 

Due to the unique location of the site on PCH, the pedestrian areas of the site face the ocean. The portions of the buildings with street frontage serve as the ‘rear’ elevations. This is consistent with development patterns along PCH in the area of the project site. Pursuant to Section 9.04.10.02.440(c), a waiver of these requirements may be requested. The Landmarks Commission will review this request in conjunction with a Certificate of Appropriateness.

 

 

Historic Resources Inventory

 

N/A

 

Marion Davies Estate is a Designated City Landmark.

 

Certificate of Appropriateness for proposed project to be obtained from the Landmarks Commission.