March 11, 2009 Minutes

GREATER GOLDEN HILL PLANNING COMMITTEE MINUTES:

March 11, 2009

 

Meeting held at Balboa Park Golf Course Clubhouse – Golf Course Drive

Call to order: Chris Blatt, chair, was absent.  David Skillman called the meeting to order at 6:38 pm.  Agenda had been posted earlier.

 

Members present: Richard Baldwin, Laurie Burgett, Maureen Burke, Carole Caffey, Dave Caldwell, Scott Glazebrook, Anita Margolis, Frederick Ruffell, David Skillman, Marie Skillman, Angela Vasconcellos. 

Treasurer’s Report: still have about $75

Community Police Officer:  not present.

City Council District 3:  Councilmember Todd Gloria.  Introduced Anthony Bernal, his staff person for Golden Hill, and Jamie Fox-Rice, his chief of staff.  Reported that the city has an operating shortfall of $54 million, deep cuts will be required when budget is adopted, Mayor to present in April. Mandatory water conservation is likely, they are working on fairness for previous good behavior; a minimum “floor” is being set, a ceiling might be needed as well. Discussed sewer vs. outdoor use calculations. Wants to make sure the revised Community Plan reflects our goals.  Gloria is head of council’s Land Use Committee.  He asked us to work with him by giving input to him or his staff.  He will be holding community coffees in the near future.

City Council District 8 - Diana Jurado:  On 3/28, the second annual tree planting will be held.  Over 100 trees are to be planted at Burbank Elementary.  Also on 3/28 is a community cleanup.  Waste bins will be at the SD Japanese church, 1920 E Street.  RFP for the consultant for the 25^th Street Revival will be out by 3/13.  Sketches are available at CDC website; project goals include walk ability and smart growth.

53^rd Congressional District - Katherine Fortner:  recovery.gov is the website with information about federal agency use of stimulus funds; also see Rep. Davis website.  A forum about local impact of stimulus will be held 3/28 from 10-11:30 AM at USD.  Must RSVP. Margolis asked about COBRA coverage: details in Davis Dispatch (copies were distributed). Baldwin asked that Davis support renewal of Small Business Grants program.

Mayor; 76^th Assembly District: no reports

 

Approval of Minutes:  December minutes were approved (Caffey, Caldwell, Burgett abstained).  February minutes were approved (Burke abstained).

 

Public Comment. 

Richard Alvarez:  referred to Union Tribune article about noise levels at Chapel of Happiness.  Reported that on 3/10 graffiti appeared on the 3^rd floor and stairwells in the condo building.  Photos were being taken last week.  Chapel was cited on 2/28 for noise, next time will be a $500 fine.

Shey Calskey:  lives near Felton & Beech street, wants a stop sign.  Traffic from military housing complex in the area is fast and reckless, especially weekdays after 5 PM and on weekend nights. Ruffell was not hopeful; Caffey stated that this takes time. Calskey has spoken with Anthony Bernal of District 3 office.

William Yee, CCDC:  Projects are in the ground for $128 million of public infrastructure, including pedestrian bridge, demolition of blighted buildings at 13^th & Market and 13^th & F, streetlights on Cortez Hill.  Bids for area-wide traffic signals to be advertised in the next week.  Construction:  Cortez Hill Family center contract has been awarded, Studio 15 to finish in a few weeks, 1050 B underway, 9^th & Broadway under design review.  Budget of $159 million will get first reading next week, this is 15% less than last year.  Design reviewer position was eliminated, function combined with other jobs.  Coffee with CCDC:  Friday, 4/3 at 8 AM.

 

Election.  Ballots were distributed.  Candidates Ruchell Alvarez and Richard Santini introduced themselves.  Members running for re-election were Blatt, Caldwell, Burgett, Glazebrook, Marie Skillman, and Vasconcellos.  Burke counted the ballots (18 were cast) and all on ballot were elected. New members will be seated at the April meeting.

 

INFORMATION ITEMS:

Chairs Report/Mail.  Chairman was not present. 

Clean, Green and Safe (MAD) Oversight Committee. Caffey reported that a letter was being drafted, asking about the legality of rolling funds over from one year to the next.  Program managers have recommended using MAD funds for sidewalk repairs:  there are questions as to appropriateness to Engineer’s report, and the fact that the city and homeowner generally pay for sidewalks.  The Urban Corps contract is being reviewed

Land Use. Took no action on agenda item re: Verizon Tower because nobody was present at Land Use Subcommittee with details.  Caldwell wonders if there are additional city requirements.  A member of the community circulated photos of the site and voiced his objection to it as an eyesore.

 

City Planning Department. Bernie Turgeon:  Has received several applications for the Community Plan Advisory Committee (CPAC).  At the April meeting we must have an action item to elect the GGHPC representatives and appoint the community members. A show of hands indicated that almost all of the GGHPC members are interested in being on the CPAC. Turgeon explained the time commitments: First 6 months (May – November) monthly meetings plus charettes (1 evening, 1 Saturday) in November. Next 6 months, periodic meetings.  Later, there would more meetings to finalize.  After some discussion, it was moved by M. Skillman, seconded by Burke that Burgett review the community applications and email a summary of them to all of the GGHPC members.  After receiving the summary, GGHPC members still interested in being on the CPAC will send a short statement of their qualifications to Burgett, who will then forward these statements to the entire committee, in advance of the April meeting.  Motion passed unanimously.  Turgeon is to email the timeline to committee members.

 

SUBCOMMITEE REPORTS.

Membership. There are now 2 vacancies on the committee.

Parks. Transportation. Code Compliance.  No report.

Balboa Park Committee. Burgett will get details by next month on work on Golf Course Drive.

Airport Noise Advisory.  D. Skillman and M. Skillman reported on the public meeting they attended on 3/10 about the noise abatement program.  Baldwin reported that some homes in his neighborhood were getting sound abatement. Glazebrook needs a letter from Chair to be accepted as alternate Advisory Committee meetings.

Historic.  Nothing to report.

 

Meeting adjourned at 8:15 pm.

 

Marie Skillman, Secretary.

 

 

December 10, 2008 minutes

GREATER GOLDEN HILL PLANNING COMMITTEE MINUTES:

DECEMBER 10, 2008

 

Meeting held at the Baldwin residence, 2475 E Street.

Call to order: Chris Blatt, chair, called to order at 6:40 pm.  Agenda had been posted.

 

Members present: Richard Baldwin, Chris Blatt, Maureen Burke, Scott Glazebrook, David Skillman, Marie Skillman. Frederick Ruffell, Angela Vasconcellos

 

Potluck supper was enjoyed by the committee members and several other area residents.

 

Meeting adjourned at 8:30 pm.

 

Marie Skillman, Secretary.

February 11, 2009 minutes

GREATER GOLDEN HILL PLANNING COMMITTEE MINUTES:

February 11, 2009

 

Meeting held at Balboa Park Golf Course Clubhouse – Golf Course Drive

Call to order: Chris Blatt, chair, called to order at 6:33 pm.  Agenda had been posted earlier.

 

Members present: Richard Baldwin, Chris Blatt, Carole Caffey, Dave Caldwell, Scott Glazebrook, Frederick Ruffell, David Skillman, Marie Skillman, Angela Vasconcellos.  Arrived later:  Laurie Burgett and Anita Margolis (at 7:00)

Treasurer’s Report: still have about $75

Community Police Officer John Graham:  There have been 20 residential burglaries between December and January.  Most were due to unlocked doors and windows.  Educational materials are being prepared. Some commercial burglaries happened in December but have stopped.  The Police Department offers a free home walk-through, where an officer will suggest security improvements.

City Council District 8 - Diana Jurado:  2 new stop signs have been requested at 22^nd & Broadway.  Looking for volunteers to circulate petitions for angled parking on B Street from 2400-3000 (neighbors must suggest). Brush is being cleared in canyon at 24^th & A Streets.  Fire damaged house on Edgemont:  council has signed off on having it demolished but the Mayor must make the final decision.  Contact Mayor’s office to request action.  Councilman Hueso will deliver the State of the District address on 2/26 (flyers passed out).  Caffey asked that detour routes be reviewed on 30^th street (utility work); bus has been routed onto residential streets.

53^rd Congressional District - Katherine Fortner:  was not present but copies of latest Davis Dispatch were passed out.

City Council District 3; Mayor; 76^th Assembly District: no reports

City Planning Department. Bernie Turgeon:  The Initial Public Meeting to discuss community plan update was held on 1/28/09.  The 15 member advisory subcommittee for GGH will have 15 members, 8 from PC and 7 from community.  Community applications are due by 2/23; 6 had been received.  If there are more than 8 applications, there will be a lottery to select members.  Applications are due 2/27 for historic home survey.  Asked Blatt to be sure to put discussion of subcommittee on agenda for next month.  At the April meeting we should have subcommittee board members selected and make appointment of community members.  The process will take 2 years, more time required at the start of the process.

 

Approval of Minutes.  Approved January minutes (motion by D. Skillman) (Margolis abstained)

Minutes of December meeting to be approved at March meeting.

 

PUBLIC COMMENT. 

Ruchelle Alvarez and Richard Alvarez: Richard played a tape made at his home 3078 Broadway of services at the Chapel of Happiness at 3060 Broadway.  Jurado circulated a copy of the Mayor’s memo (text at end of minutes) on the subject.  Councilman Hueso had met with Ruchelle and Richard, a code compliance officer and police officer Dawn Summers, suggesting mediation or a possible Small Claims court suit.  Councilman has not been successful in contacting church representatives.  Richard reported that they had been to mediation (unsuccessfully) 3 times in the past 12 years of complaints.  17 statements from condo owners have been submitted to code compliance. Richard stated that Mr. Vacchi of Code Compliance said that they would not take any more complaints about the issue.  Juardo stated and Blatt confirmed that Code Compliance has closed the case. Any further action must come from the Mayor’s office, which issued a memo on the subject. Rochelle went to the Police Captain’s meeting in January. She wanted to know why GGHPC can do nothing about the complaints. Turgeon stated that GGHPC is an advisory committee.  Under the San Diego’s Strong Mayor type of government, the Mayor is the top executive and he has made his pronouncement.  Caldwell asked if the police was investigating.  Juardo said the church had made some improvements to doors and windows and some other neighbors found that things are quieter.  Blatt owns apartments on the other side of the church, said his tenants have not complained to him about the noise.  Ruffell stated that sound levels need to be tested with an approved meter.  Juardo asked us to contact the Mayor’s office.

WILLIAM YEE, CCDC:  Is filling in for Sheila Hardin, out on medical leave for a few months.  Free bus tours of downtown are on 1^st & 3^rd Saturday of month.  CCDC has “shovel ready” public works projects when funding is available.  RFP for quieting train horns will be completed in 60 days.  Affordable housing project in process at 1050 B Street, also Gateway II, Studio 15^th Lofts, Park Terrace at 13^th & Island.

GENE GUERRIERO, resident at 33^rd & Ash:  Golden Hill Elementary is going from K-5 to K-8.  Under the Educational Code, bonds that were sold said the property would be for “school and community purposes”, and all the information about the school project said that it would be a K-5 school and there would be a park. A gym was built but no park. Now that school enrollment is low, they are changing to K-8.  Fears this change will impact foot and vehicle traffic in the area.  Juardo and Burgett noted that the park was not built due to canyon-saving environmental concerns.  Turgeon noted that schools are exempt from most planning rules, although when built the capacity is set.  Traffic calming measures could be instituted.  M. Skillman suggested that a representative of the school or school district be asked to comment at the next meeting.  Margolis agreed to make contact.

 

INFORMATION ITEMS :

Chairs Report/Mail.  Nothing to report

Clean, Green and Safe (MAD) Oversight Committee.   D. Skillman reported that Caffey was elected chair of the Oversight Committee, with Blatt as vice-chair.  Using MAD funds for sidewalk repairs is under discussion, perhaps in a 50/50 program with residents.   Kathy Vandenhusel of CDC noted that residents may request to “ride-along” with Urban Corp to see the work they are doing.

Land Use.   Nothing to report.

 

SUBCOMMITEE REPORTS.

Membership. Vasconcellos reported that Margolis’ membership on the committee was suspended due to 4 absences during the year.  Vasconcellos moved, Burgett seconded, to appoint Margolis to the board with term ending in 2010.  All voted in favor (Margolis abstained). Elections are to be held in March. Vasconcellos said there several candidates for vacant positions, along with current members whose terms expire running for re-election. Vasconcellos will send out the roster, asking everyone to note what year they were elected, as there is a service limit of 8 years. Turgeon will check to see if that limit can be waived in the case of less candidates than open positions.  

Parks.  No report.

Transportation.  Nothing to report.

Code Compliance.  Nothing to report.

Balboa Park Committee. Nothing to report.

Airport Noise Advisory.  Caffey was unable to attend last meeting.  Glazebrook volunteered to be alternate for the meetings, they will work together to get paperwork in place.

Historic.  Nothing to report.

 

Meeting adjourned at 7:48 pm.

 

Marie Skillman, Secretary.

 

 

 

Text of Mayor’s Memorandum

 

The City of San Diego

mayor jerry sanders

 

M  e  m  o  r  a  n  d  u  m

 

 

DATE:                        January 22^nd, 2009

 

TO:                        Erik W. Caldwell, Mayor’s Office

 

FROM:                        Robert Vacchi, Deputy Director, Neighborhood Code Compliance

 

SUBJECT:                        R. Alvarez comments at PS&NS regarding NCC and the Chapel of Happiness

____________________________________________________________________________

 

This case concerns a noise complaint regarding religious services at the Chapel of Happiness located at 3060 Broadway. The Neighborhood Code Compliance Division (NCC) has responded to several complaints over the years about noise emanating from this church. Each of these cases dealt with a single complainant and in every instance, the church turned down the music and the case was closed when no further complaints were received.

 

Noise violations are determined two different ways by NCC. Regulations for noise may be found under SDMC §59.5.0401 “Sound Level Limits” or under SDMC §59.5.0501 et. al “Public Nuisance Noise”.  In order to establish a violation of Sound Level Limits, NCC staff must measure decibel levels against regulatory limits pertaining to time of day and zone.  Noise qualifying as a violation must exceed the allowable decibel level in the zone over a one hour period. Noise thresholds vary from zone to zone with single family neighborhoods being the most restrictive followed by multi-family, commercial and industrial zones.

 

Public Nuisance Noise violations are determined using a reasonable person standard detailed within the Public Nuisance Noise regulations. The noise is evaluated in terms of type, time and location and measured against the ambient noise. If the disturbing noise is reasonably determined to be a public nuisance, enforcement action may be initiated. Sound Level Limit violations are typically enforced by NCC staff. Public Nuisance Noise is also enforced by NCC, however, it is also commonly enforced by the Police Department (PD) as these disturbances often occur after normal business hours. A typical example of PD response to public nuisance noise would be officers issuing an Administrative Citation for party noise in the college area.

 

In May of 2008, NCC opened a case at the request of Richard Alvarez. Mr. Alvarez’ complaint alleged both noise and building code violations at the church. NCC’s subsequent investigation revealed minor building code violations that were voluntarily corrected by the owners of the church. There is one remaining issue in the case. NCC is awaiting a pending electrical permit approval. No other violations remain on the property.

 

In response to Mr. Alvarez noise complaint, NCC conducted at least four separate inspections to check sound level limits at the church. Each test was performed at the specific request of Mr. Alvarez. Two of the tests were performed after Mr. Alvarez questioned the methodology of previous tests and requested a retest. In each case, the ambient noise levels caused by traffic and overhead aircraft already exceeded allowable noise levels for the zone. Due to these high ambient noise levels, NCC could not determine that the music from the church exceeded allowable noise levels to the extent that they constituted a violation of the Sound Level Limits. Further, during those inspections, NCC investigators determined that the noise from the church did not constitute a violation under the Public Nuisance Noise requirements.  Mr. Alvarez was encouraged to mediate his dispute with the church. The City Attorney’s Office facilitated the mediation, but the parties did not reach an agreement. 

 

Mr. Alvarez and his daughter continue to complain about the noise and continue to demand enforcement action by NCC. NCC has refused to do so as the case has been thoroughly investigated and no noise violations have been found. Under California law, a city is not required to continue to investigate a complaint when it becomes evident that a violation does not exist or that repeated investigation will waste limited resources. Cities must be able to use resources equitably and have the right to determine a reasonable allocation of resources per case. In this case, it became obvious that NCC was dealing with a single complainant who had more at issue with the church than a simple noise complaint. No other independent complaints were received regarding either the noise or the building code issues. The complainant provided NCC with signed letters from adjacent neighbors, but when NCC contacted those neighbors, they stated that the church had quieted down. We have received no further complaints from anyone other than Mr. Alvarez and his daughter.

 

After several meetings and discussions with both Mr. Alvarez and Police Department staff, we issued a letter to Mr. Alvarez on September 10, 2008 stating that we could no longer expend resources in continuing an investigation of noise level limits. However, within in the same letter, we stated that Mr. Alvarez could continue to file public nuisance noise complaints with the Police Department. This decision allows NCC to reasonably control its own resources while allowing Mr. Alvarez the ability to contact the City for help if and when a public nuisance actually occurs.

 

 

January 14, 2009 Minutes

GREATER GOLDEN HILL PLANNING COMMITTEE MINUTES:

January 14, 2009

Meeting held at Balboa Park Golf Course Clubhouse – Golf Course Drive

Call to order: Chris Blatt, chair, called to order at 6:30 pm.  Agenda had not been posted earlier.

Members present: Richard Baldwin, Chris Blatt, Maureen Burke, Laurie Burgett, Scott Glazebrook Angela Vasconcellos.  Arrived later:  David Skillman & Marie Skillman (6:40) Frederick Ruffell (6:50)

Treasurer’s Report: no report

Community Police Officer John Graham:  The Central Enforcement Team has been reactivated.  The Captain’s meeting will be 1/27/09 at the station at 25^th & Imperial.

City Council District 8 - Diana Jurado-Sainz:  Thanked community members for their expressions of sympathy at the death of her husband and father. Councilman Hueso is now chair of the council Rules Committee.  Passed out flyers for a community recycling event 1/16/09.  CDC has ordered decorative light pole covers.  A letter summarizing accomplishments in the district will be coming.  New stop signs are to be installed at 24^th & Broadway and 30^th & A Streets.

53^rd Congressional District - Katherine Fortner:  Representative is in Washington DC working with new congress. The Ledbetter bill regarding pay discrimination was passed

City Council District 3; Mayor; 76^th Assembly District: no reports

City Planning Department. Bernie Turgeon:  (A) The council ordinance regarding indemnification of planning board members, which was approved in November, came up for a second reading.  Changes are needed before final approval.  Changes relate to (1) newly elected members who have not attended the training sessions offered 2 times a year (2) covering former members for acts during their terms (3) reading online documents before taking office.   (B) Alex Hempton from Turgeon’s office provided information about the application for a Verizon antenna at northwest corner of 30^th & Ivy.  (C) Passed out flyers about the Initial Public Meeting to discuss community plan update.  The meeting will be held on 1/28/09.  The meeting will cover the process, public review process, stakeholder committees.  Planning Committee members are automatically members of the update committee. Stakeholder committees, made up of other community members, are to be selected in February. The city is still working on hiring consultants to manage this process. 

Approval of Minutes.  Unanimously approved November minutes (motion by David Skillman) 

Discussed whether the December meeting had status as regular meeting.  Angela Vasconcellos asked Turgeon to clarify whether members with excess absences could be reappointed; they can.

PUBLIC COMMENT. 

Bill Hillsdorf:  There are too many stop signs being installed.  GGHMAD is providing nothing to him.  Graffiti is not being removed promptly.

Jerry Ray:  A grassy area at the south end of GH Park on 28^th Street has signs up “area closed” due to excess moisture.  Signs are being ignored.  Park & Recreation office has been notified.

Rochelle Alvaraze and her father:  Spoke about a noise nuisance at their home at 3078 Broadway, caused by services at the Chapel of Happiness at 3060 Broadway.  Provided documentation of complaints to Code Compliance going back 9 years, which have not made any change in the noise level; services are held 5 days a week (S,T,W,Th,F) from 10 am to 10 pm.  Will bring a recorded sample of loud music to the next meeting.  Code addresses location re: living quarters.  Has called police many times and been to mediation 3 times with the church with no resolution.  Chris Blatt said he would contact the Code Compliance department and discuss the matter at the Police Captain’s meeting on the 27^th.

 INFORMATION ITEMS :

Chairs Report/Mail.  Discussed Verizon tower.  New grant cycle has begun.

Clean, Green and Safe (MAD) Oversight Board.   David Skillman reported the monthly meeting date has been changed to the first Monday, at a new location.  The MAD has about $600,000 to spend, GGHCDC has proposed some projects that are being questioned re: EIR.  Urban Corps is doing as contracted.  Mediation between Oversight Committee and GHCDC produced improvement in communication. 

Lite House:  is a co-ed, long term residential treatment facility for substance abusers, with an 80% retention rate (% who complete the program).  The facility is physically capable of housing 45 residents but the city has only permitted them to house 36, due to parking issues.  Wanted to let the committee know that they have requested that the Conditional Use Permit be changed to allow 45 residents.  No additional staffing would be required as they currently have staff ratio of 1:4, where 1:15 is required.  They have worked with community members to reduce noise levels

Land Use.   Scott Glazebrook asked the committee to approve Permit #136563, a street vacation on E Street between 29^th & 30^th, to allow access from E Street and for development rights.  The City has asked the property owner to build a cul-de-sac at the intersection, in exchange for vacating the street.  The property owner appeared, described the location and noted that all of the neighbors approve. The City denied his request 2 years ago, but he has worked with them to arrive at this solution.  The lots involved are zoned R4.  Motion by Laurie Burgett, seconded by David Skillman, to approve.  Motion passed, with Chris Blatt abstaining. 

 SUBCOMMITEE REPORTS.

Membership.  Angela Vasconcellos reported that 4 members are now needed.  Elections are to be held in March. 

Parks.  Maureen Burke reported that the Community Garden is going great.

Transportation.  No report.  Scott will be attending a meeting on downtown parking this month.

Code Compliance.  Nothing to report.

Balboa Park Committee. Laurie Burgett reported that the advisory committee had issued its report to the city.

Airport Noise Advisory.  No report.

Historic.  Nothing to report.

 Meeting adjourned at 7:50 pm.

 Marie Skillman, Secretary.

April 11, 2007 Minutes

Greater Golden Hill Planning Committee

Board Meeting

Wednesday, April 11.2007

Moose Lodge

Present: Chair Chris Blatt; Marc Kratzschmar; Steve Stratman; Dave Caldwell; Richard Baldwin; Carole Caffey; Carlos LeGerrette; ; Nora Vargas; John McWilliams;  Scott Glazebrook, Angela Vasconcellos, Laurie Burgett, Maureen Burke, Richard Barerra and Dana Shutt-Mendibles

 

Chair Blatt called the meeting to order at approximately 6:40 pm.

 

Treasurers Report: no report.

 

Community Police Report:  Chris Lahey of the neighborhood resource team reported to committee. Discussed that graffiti is a major concern in area currently. Community members discussed a new residential facility that has opened on E street that appears to have a large number of members who are currently on parole. Officer was not aware of this facility and indicated he would mention to his unit. Discussion of increase in petty theft in the area as a result. Officer indicated he would put in a notice in his morning line up.

 

District 3-Steve Hill: Reported that budgets for the upcoming year. The mayor presents his on coming Friday and sends to council on Monday. Mayor has indicated that service levels should not be impacted. Reported that attachments will be put on city web-site to follow dockets on items being voted on. Reported that 30th street underground trenching has started from Maple to A streets. Expected to be completed in August 2007. Reported council  member will have a booth at Earth Fair and community is encouraged to stop and visit.

 

District 8-Diana Juardo-Sainz: Diana was ill and send another member of council office to attend in her absence. Committee was advised that the parking study was still in process with traffic engineers. Community is encouraged to let their office know of any areas of particular concern that should be included in report.

 

76th Assembly District-Eddie Meyer: No report.

 

53rd Congressional District-Ricardo Flores: No report.

 

Mayor:-Tanya Duggan: No report.

Discussion with committee that there are still concerns about low representation from Mayors office to meetings. Committee felt that office should at least provide a written report on new developments on dates that they are unable to send a representative.

 

Ron Roberts Office:-no one present.

 

City Planners Report-Myles Pomeroy: COW originally set for April 24 would be postponed to May. The department is going to Council with the proposed  changes with the Brown Act Provisions. Tentative new date is May 19 and will send an email to Chair when new date set.

Discussion of facility at 2456 E Street. It is operated by Windstone Properties and leased to HealthCare Services. It is a residential care facility that has taken over the conditional use permit from Charlow Manor. They have a license for a drug and alcohol care facility. Under that CPU they have a contract with the state department of corrections to house parolees. Some of the residents are voluntary but not all. He does not have the ratio but is in the process of finding out. The CUP allows 36 beds. The facility offers services to addicts but is not a halfway house. The previous facility housed mentally ill patients. The parolees are referred by the court system or their parole officers. No notice is needed to be provided to the planning committee since this was a transfer with the land from one owner to another CUP on site.

Committee requested a copy of the CUP. The previous CUPS do not expire as they contain sunsets. Council would have to amend the residential care facility amendment.  Committee asked if there is a limit to the number of facilities in an area. 300 feet is required by the state. If facility has more then 7 beds it is increased to one quarter of a mile. This is not enforced because a CUP was previously in force.  Committee requested a report that shows the number of facilities per area to determine if we are in excess. Discussion that the CCDC is trying to amend the CUPS in downtown to make it easier for residential facilities.

 

Approval of Minutes-March 2007:-A motion was made to approve the minutes and was approved with no opposed.

 

Public Comment (non-agenda items):-

Sheila Hardin (CCDC): Discussed new a workshop held last week on the topic of affordable housing downtown. There are many programs in process to increase ownership vs. rental. There is a project on Broadway and 11th to target those with income diversity. They are addressing questions about family housing issues. NOFA is a program to help with funding. They are also recommending public subsidies and 1st time home buyers programs. The proposed condo site at 9th and Broadway has lost their developer and are currently looking for new one.

Hal Tyvoll: Presented a memo about the proposed GGH maintenance assessment district (MAD) and a copy of publication 880-S which covers prop 218 from the November 1996 ballot. Hal indicated that there should be 2 publicly noticed meetings on the topic. He felt the current meeting did not count toward this total as the location was moved at the last minute due to the construction going on at our normal location.

He felt all community members should be sent notices.

Steve Stratman: Passed out a petition started by Paul Broadway for the community to sign in regards to keeping the park system and maintenance of that park within the city control.

 

Presentation By GGHCDC: Presentation and Handouts with frequently asked questions about the proposed MAD (maintenance assessment district). Clarified this is an informational only presentation to inform community only on the concept. Mike Ruiz and Mitch Burner had a power point presentation on the topic and what benefits it could provide as well as costs involved and how they are determined. Question sheets were passed out so community members could turn in questions and concerns to be addressed after presentation. GGHCDC have mailed out surveys to community with a preprinted date to return that has passed. They explained that they did not get them out on time and were only using that date as a goal and not an actual cut off date for response. They intend to collect for several more weeks. Mitch Burner is a professional from a company called Public Solutions that the GGHCDC has hired to make sure that all is handled professionally and if implemented, would be handled the same as other communities that have a MAD currently in place.  Feels that this is needed because of cuts in city funding that do not allow many services to be performed in our community. They defined a MAD as a legal mechanism that was put in place in 1972  as a result of Prop B and was changed in 1978 to require a vote of the people to put in place. Any property fees require a vote of the public. Prop 218 requires a majority approval of all taxes and  charges on property.  They intend to do a inventory with city as to the services they provide and will keep consistent.  Intend to address the special services that are a specific need to this community. If the 30% of required positive response from community received then the public meetings are set and they must appear before the City Council. To date, they had received 635 responses returned. Discussion about the fact that date for return has expired and how this affected collections since some community members may be discouraged. Also discussion as to what the 30% covered- ratio of support vs. opposition. Reported that after the initial 60 days they are provided a 30 day extension. Discussion that if put in place then any increase in fees or expansion would have to go to a vote. They will not repair sewers or street lighting-only things that the city is not obligated to do.

 

 

Action Items:

Open Space-no report

Discussion of SB373. The issue is difference between dedicated and designated. If land is designated as dedicated then the only way that land can be turned over to development is if the City Council votes to over turn it. Mayor is currently in process of providing a list to Christine Kehoe with proposed land. Mac intends to make sure that all of the property in Golden Hill is included.  Steve Hill is following this issue as well at Atkins office. The issue will be heard on April 18 at the Natural Resources Committee. The actual language of the bill does not include the specific parcels but just refers to the list.

 

Elections: All spots are now full.  Officers and Subcommittees.

New Officers and Committee Members elected and formed.

Membership and Elections-Nora Vargas. Richard Barerra will also serve on this committee.

Parks-Laurie Burgett to be representative to Balboa Parks Committee.

Code Compliance: Chris Blatt will continue to chair this committee.

Dana Shutt-Mendibles and Carole Caffey will sit on this group.

Transportation: Marc Kratzschmar currently represents the committee at these downtown meetings.  Angela Vasconcellos and Dave Caldwell will also attend these meetings.

Airport Noise: Dave Caldwell will continue to represent the committee to this group. Carole Caffey will be the alternate.

Land Use: Dave Caldwell will continue to serve as chair and Scott Glazebrook as co-chair. Angela Vasconcellos, John McWilliams, Carlos LeGerrette, Nora Vargas, Richard Baldwin, and Steve Stratman will serve on this committee.

Parks and Rec: Maureen Burke has previously been representative to this group.

Historical: John McWilliams will continue to serve as chair for this committee.  Richard Baldwin and Angela Vasconcellos will also serve on this committee.

(Pat is still on committee but will no longer be chair)

 

OFFICERS: Chair-Chris Blatt

Vice Chair-This position is open

Secretary-Dana Shutt-Mendibles

Treasurer-Carole Caffey

 

Balboa Park: Laurie continues to attend the committee meetings and report any updates that are applicable to our area.

 

There were no land use action motions this meeting.

 

The meeting was adjourned by Chair Blatt at approximately 9:30 PM

 

Respectfully submitted.

 

Dana Shutt-Mendibles,  recording secretary.

 

March 14, 2007 Minutes

Greater Golden Hill Planning Committee

Board Meeting

Wednesday, March 14,2007

Balboa Park Golf Curse Clubhouse

Present: Chair Chris Blatt; Marc Kratzschmar; Steve Stratman; Dave Caldwell;

Richard Baldwin; Carole Caffey; Patricia Shields; ; Nora Vargas; John McWilliams; Rob Leach; Scott Glazebrook, and Dana Shutt-Mendibles

 

Chair Blatt called the meeting to order at approximately 6:30 pm.

 

Treasurers Report: $67.43 in account.

 

Community Police Report:  Two community officers were in attendance for the meeting.  They referred the community to Ben Hueso’s office for graffiti. A crew will be out to clean up in approximately a 3 day turn-around. Reported increase in graffiti activity as two rival gangs in area are feuding. Encouraged residents to contact police if they have a moniker on their property. Police will come out and make a crime report. Reported a gang related stabbing at 30th and Juniper. A homicide occurred in January at 30th and A streets. They believe they have an ID on the suspect, but no arrest as of yet.  Reported that staffing for police department is an issue currently. Advised of code compliance citations that have recently been issued to an apartment building on B Street. The next Neighborhood Advisory Meeting will occur on 3/27/2007.

 

District 3-Steve Hill: The proposed sewer rate increases have been passed by Council. The water district has offered to come to meeting for another presentation if requested by committee. Encouraged residents to contact him with any questions or concerns directly at his office.

 

District 8-Diana Juardo-Sainz:  A community cleanup is scheduled at the Japanese Community Christian Church. No hazardous waste, paint or electronic equipment will be accepted.  The district does have a community partner that will pickup electronic equipment. There is a memo in process about a comprehensive community parking evaluation for all of Golden Hill…not just a street by street evaluation as has occurred in the past. There is also a study under way to change times of scheduled street sweeping and to address long term red curb painting. The Graffiti Paint Out for Golden Hill is scheduled for June 20th. The paint and supplies will be provided for this one day event. Her office has a goal of 24-72 hour turn around on reports of graffiti cover up reported to them. Their office has been involved in sting operations in the district that have turned up over 30 arrests.

 

76th Assembly District-Eddie Meyer:  Reported on upcoming Neighborhood Watch Program Events.  Also advised of upcoming community events including a community clean up in Mission Bay Park, an Electronic Waste Fair on 4/21/07 and a Community Health Fair on 5/12/07. Provided an update on “Crash” house research. He has sent an email to the Deputy Director for state certification who has indicated willingness to help answer our questions. He wants to work with planning committee to gather questions from community that he can then forward on to this contact.

 

 

53rd Congressional District-Ricardo Flores:  Congresswoman will be in town for a Neighborhood Day in Hillcrest. She is currently working on a bill regarding Veteran’s eligibility for home loans.  There has been a proposal from the Post Office to increase postage stamps by three cents.  There is a stamp being considered that will have a life time value. Referred residents to post office web site for more information.

 

Mayor:-Tanya Duggan: Indicated that she is a new representative for Mayor. She works in District 7,8 and parts of 2. There is currently no rep assigned to District 3. There had previously only been one community rep for all of city and her position was recently added. Committee members encouraged Tanya to attend more meetings and voiced a concern that planning groups had been ignored previously.  Tanya indicated that Mayor feels it is important to preserve the historic aspects of our district. She also indicated that Mayor has indicated one of his goals is to introduce himself to community and wants a good working relationship with the planning committees. She encouraged community to attend the Community Dialogue planned for 3/28/07.

 

Ron Roberts Office:-no one present.

 

Presentation By GGHCDC: Handouts and outline provided about a proposed maintenance assessment (MAD) for district. Outlined surveys that had recently been sent to homeowners to receive input about whether or not community members would support and how they would like it governed. It is required that a favorable rate of 30% be obtained in order to consider additional research.  If 30% received then the city’s assessment engineer will evaluate the cost of the plan to each individual based on the assessed value each individual property owner would receive from the plan. A map was provided that showed the covered areas and which areas would have more intensity of services and the most frequency. The purpose presented was to fund services for the community and property owners that can not be provided by the city. The GGHCDC proposes to elect an entity to over see the handling and would be a separate committee.  A full presentation is to be presented to community at the April meeting. The surveys are due in by April 15,2007.

 

City Planner’s Report-Myles Pomeroy:  At CPC last month the City Attorney  attended.  A sub-committee has been formed to strengthen the indemnification ordinance  in case of lawsuit. More details are to come. The next COW for new members of planning committees will be late April. Myles will send out a email with updated information.

 

ELECTIONS

8 Seats were available. 10 candidates ran for positions. Each candidate given 2 minutes to tell community and current members why they would like to be considered for a seat.  The members elected into office: Chris Blatt, Dave Caldwell, Scott Glazebrook, Marc Kratzschmar, Carlos LeGerrette, Angela Vasconcellos, Dana Shutt-Mendibles,  and Laurie Burgett. 39 ballots were collected.

 

 

Public Comment (non-agenda items):-

Sheila Hardin (CCDC): Discussed new projects in the works for parks, waterfront, Navy Broadway Complex, Tweet Street Park. A bridge is going to be built to connect downtown to Balboa Park across 163 freeway. Asked  for community  feedback on issues that are important to them? Among responses were parking, homeless people, concentration of weekly/monthly living facilities,

number of sex offenders ending up in Downtown region when released, affordable eating establishment, requests for more open discussions about status of Navy Broadway project and more residence oriented businesses in the Gaslamp area.

Hal Tyvoll:  Presented a memo to the committee and discussed his concerns about the proposed assessment district.  He outlined the municipal codes,  the areas of the California constitution and Prop 218 to highlight his concerns.

 Approval of Minutes-March 2007:-A motion was made to approve the minutes and was approved with no opposed and one abstention.

 Action Items:

Open Space-no report

Property on C Street in 32nd street canyon: Marc read the letter he had prepared to request that since the school district wishes to sell their land, consideration should be taken by the Mayor to obtain this land due to the importance this area has to the community.  A vote was taken and all were in favor of the letter being sent. Committee then discussed that 32nd street canyon is not a formal name or place but is an area that also contains streets and lots that are privately owned parcels

Parks Report: Mac led a discussion about the difference between Designated and Dedicated open space.  He is concerned about the Councils intention to keep open space designated as such. None of the 32nd street canyon is currently “dedicated”.  Steve Hill from District 3 indicated that there is a proposed bill (SB373) being presented by Christine Kehoe that would move all “designated” land to become “dedicated”.  This would move all city owned lane to the state.

Committee will draft a letter to supporting this motion. Committee questioned if this change will have any effect on eminent domain issues with school district.

Balboa Park: Laurie gave a report on the surge in homeless in the canyons and parks. The city has been cutting down more weeds and bushes in park and Golden Hill park to help. A question came up about a new parking structure for 200 vehicles. Laurie has not heard an update on this and will look into.  Discussion about status of turning city maintenance yard into overflow parking for the zoo.  The CCDC would like to be involved in updating this area and possibly turning it into park area. Steve Hill indicated that the CCDC has money in their budget to improve this area but the city would need to be able to move what is currently there.  Dave discussed moving the yard to the Chollas Creek facility. Laurie indicates there are sophisticated problems in moving the computer systems currently located in the maintenance yard.  The city centennial is 2015 and is the goal for something to be done in time for this.  Some estimates are that it would take over 37 million dollars to move the facility and this is not part of the city budget.  Laurie also discussed a study in process to turn over the running of Balboa park to a private entity due to city’s problems running it.

Historic: Mac advised that there are currently 4 houses up for historical designation in our area. The hearing will be later in the month.

The meeting was adjourned by Chair Blatt at approximately 8:40PM.

Respectfully submitted.

Dana Shutt-Mendibles, acting recording secretary.

 

November 12, 2008 Minutes

GREATER GOLDEN HILL PLANNING COMMITTEE MINUTES:

NOVEMBER 12, 2008

 

Meeting held at Balboa Park Golf Course Clubhouse – Golf Course Drive

Call to order: Chris Blatt, chair, called to order at 6:33 pm.  Agenda had not been posted earlier, although Chris Blatt had provided it to the city in a timely manner. As there were no action items on the agenda, meeting was called to order. Copies were available.

 

Members present: Richard Baldwin, Chris Blatt, Maureen Burke, Laurie Burgett, Dave Caldwell,

Carole Caffey (arrived late), Scott Glazebrook, Anita Margolis (arrived late), David Skillman, Marie Skillman Frederick Ruffell, Angela Vasconcellos

 

Treasurer’s Report: no change in account, balance around $75.00.

 

Community Police Officer John Graham:  There was a robbery at Sombreros restaurant.  Several arrests have been made downtown relating to car prowls and laptop thefts.  Crime statistics in our area have been better than Little Italy recently.  Residents have requested a Citizen’s Patrol, police dept. is working to set up something similar to Stonewall group in Hillcrest area.

 

Deputy City Attorney Danielle Stroud:  Introduced herself as a liaison between community and Neighborhood Prosecution Unit of the Criminal Division. They focus on quality of life crimes.  Mentioned that there is a reward fund for people who make reports that lead to prosecutions on graffiti or other crimes. If you see a crime in action, call 911 of  619-531-2000.  Danielle’s phone numbers:  office 619-533-5500, cell 619-980-0732

 

City Council District 8 - Diana Jurado-Sainz; 53^rd Congressional District - Katherine Fortner; City Council District 3 - Jeffrey Tom;  Mayor; 76^th Assembly District: no reports

 

City Planning Department. Bernie Turgeon:  City staff has now interviewed the top applicants for Community Plan Update Facilitator. There is a new supervisor in this section.  Responses to the RFP for Design Consultant are due by next week; about 60 responses have been received so far.  The process tries to be unbiased.  At the last meeting of the Community Planning Chairs, they went over the need for stakeholders to participate in the process.  He expects the process to kickoff in January.  Committee members discussed poor attendance at committee meetings, which may make finding stakeholders outside the committee membership difficult. The last Greater Golden Hill Plan Update was in 1988.

 

Approval of Minutes.  Approval of September minutes (Baldwin, Blatt, Burgett abstained as they were not at that meeting.)  Approval of October minutes (Blatt, Burke, Caldwell, Ruffell, Vasconcellos abstained as they were not at that meeting.)

 

PUBLIC COMMENT. 

Sheila Hardin, CCDC:  Announced a meeting on 11/13/08 at 9AM for downtown homeowners and residents.  They aren’t expecting much new building in the next 3 years but current projects should be completed. CCDC website has a Downtown Living Guide listing the completed and in process projects.  Overall prices are lower, resale inventory is up and rentals are up. No. Embarcadero Plan is moving forward; Police Dept. project has stopped; Lane Field & Broadway Complex moving forward.  New federal courthouse starts in February.  Sheila has worked at CCDC for 23 years.  Recently ALL 54 of the staff members were consulted individually about their ideas on hiring a new CCDC president. 

 

INFORMATION ITEMS:

Chairs Report/Mail. Chris attended the CPC meeting, relating to Plan Update.  Committee members discussed how important it is that our community be represented properly as the Update Process will include several communities together. Bernie Turgeon described how the zoning and urban design guidelines will be integrated into the City General Plan.  Community Planning Areas will need to use overlay zones for deviations from the general guidelines.  This committee will be asked who, in addition to a subcommittee representing the GGHPC, should make up the stakeholder group for the process.  There may be several working groups reporting to the stakeholder group.  David and Marie Skillman reported on the SANDAG Smart Growth Design Workshop they attended. 

 

Clean, Green and Safe (MAD) Oversight Board.   David Skillman reported the monthly meeting, will be held 11/17.  An RFP is being written for tree trimming (excluding palm trees). 

 

Land Use.  Dave Caldwell reported trying to help a resident at 3900 29^th St. (outside our PDO) find our what the zoning on her property allowed in the way of commercial or rental use.  #158775, 29^th St. Townhomes, project has numerous deviations.  #164808, SD Housing Trust Fund was received 9 working days after the comment period ended.  A property owner appeared seeking help with acquiring a vacated alley/cul de sac on E Street west of 30^th, to allow access to his property.  He will return to Land Use in January with a detailed proposal. 

 

SUBCOMMITEE REPORTS.

Membership.  Angela Vasconcellos reported that 4 members are now needed. According to the updated bylaws, candidates for election in February must have attended two meetings prior to the February meeting, when the elections will be held.  She will review past records to find our which current members are eligible for re-election.  Angela will send out an updated roster. 

 

Parks.  Maureen Burke reported that the Community Garden has a new board and is working on bylaws.  They have been getting advice from the City Arborist.   

 

Transportation.  Scott Glazebrook needs to find out when the Community Transportation Board meetings are held as they do not follow a regular schedule.  Marie Skillman reported on the public workshop about the Pedestrian Master Plan she attended on 11/8/08.  Comments should be made as soon as possible at www.sandiego.gov/planning/programs/transportation/mobility or by calling Maureen Gardiner at 619-236-7065.

 

Code Compliance.  No report.

Balboa Park Committee. Nothing to report.

Airport Noise Advisory.  Nothing to report, meeting is next week.

Historic.  No report.

 

December Meeting will be a potluck at Richard Baldwin’s home.  He will email details, Chris will take care of proper noticing.

 

Meeting adjourned at 7:55 pm.

 

Marie Skillman, Secretary.