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.

October 8, 2008 Minutes

GREATER GOLDEN HILL PLANNING COMMITTEE MINUTES:

OCTOBER 8, 2008

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

Call to order: David Skillman, acting chair, called to order at 6:45 pm.

Agenda had been posted earlier.  Copies were available.

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

 Treasurer’s Report: no change in account, balance around $75.00. Carole Caffey is still look into getting a PO Box for the group so that she gets regular statements, and getting signature card changed on account.

 Community Police Officer Dawn Summers:  No special crimes or activity to report.  The International Council of Police will be meeting in San Diego soon.  Light the Night Against Crime will be 10/24/08.

 City Council District 8.  Diana Jurado-Sainz: The Golden Hill Banner District will be up for approval at City Council on 10/14.  This district must be approved for banners to be legally permitted and displayed.  The MAD will be placing banners when it is legal to do so.  Homeless persons have been congregating at the bus stop at 25^th and Broadway.  Council office has been working with the police and Metro Transit System to alleviate this problem.

 53^rd Congressional District.  Kathryn Fortner. Representative Davis voted in favor of the EECA.

 City Council District 3. Jeffrey Tom;  Mayor; 76^th Assembly District; City Planning Department. Bernie Turgeon:  no reports

 Approval of Minutes.  Approval of September minutes was postponed until next month, as the agenda incorrectly listed approval of AUGUST minutes.

 PUBLIC COMMENT. 

Resident Lacey Dunne:  Lives near 30^th & Juniper and is concerned about the number of bars in the area, and says that others in the neighborhood agree with her.  Scott Glazebrook had done some research and found that our PDO does not restrict the number of liquor licenses in a certain area, nor do City ordinances, Health Department or Alcoholic Beverage Commission.  Resident Mike Huarte said that he lives in that area and is in favor of commercial development there, to make this a more integrated residential and business community. After some discussion, Scott Glazebrook summarized:  this matter is not one that our committee has any jurisdiction over.  We should be asked to review remodeling plans and signage permits.  Laurie Burgett noted that this concern should be addressed when the PDO is revised.  

 INFORMATION ITEMS:

Chairs Report/Mail. No report.

 Clean, Green and Safe (MAD) Oversight Board.   David Skillman reported the monthly meeting, will be held 10/20.  A new program manager, Alex, has been hired; phone numbers remain the same.

 SUBCOMMITEE REPORTS.

Membership.  Members (4) are now needed. According to the updated bylaws, candidates for election in February must have attended two meetings prior to the February meeting. 

 Parks.  No report.

 Code Compliance.  No report.

 Transportation.  Nothing to report. 

 Balboa Park Committee. Laurie Burgett reported that they are working on a governance document, as a result of workshops held in the past few months.

 Airport Noise Advisory.  Nothing to report.

 Historic.  No report.

 David Skillman:  reminded members of COW scheduled for 10/29/08

 Anita Margolis: Provided information about the proposed settlement between the City of San Diego and other parties involved in the condo conversion lawsuit, which relates to the applicability of CEQA to condo conversions.  The settlement agreement would allow final parcel maps to be issued without all of the interior and exterior site improvements being completed.  Only performance of certain conditions of approval would be required at the time the final parcel map is issued, but the remaining improvements and conditions could be deferred and completed before the units are sold.  The City planning department has approved the settlement, but it must be brought before the local planning groups before it can be presented to the City Council for final approval."

 Meeting adjourned at 7: 20 pm.

 Marie Skillman, Secretary.

September 10, 2008 Minutes

GREATER GOLDEN HILL PLANNING COMMITTEE MINUTES: SEPT. 10, 2008

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

Call to order: David Skillman, acting chair, called to order at 6:35 pm.

Agenda had been posted earlier.  Copies were available.

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

 Treasurer’s Report: no change in account, balance around $75.00 Carole Caffey will look into getting a PO Box for the group so that she gets regular statements.

 Community Police Officer John Graham:  Crime is down in this neighborhood. Police caught 2 persons who had been breaking into cars in Balboa Park (Zoo lot).  Captain’s meeting is 9/25 at 5:30 at the Imperial station.  A central team that handled issues such as homeless persons had to be disbanded due to personnel cuts. Carole Caffey asked about gang activity, homeless sleeping at base of on-ramp at B Street and I-5.  Dave Caldwell reported that he had noticed a trailer at the homeless encampment at 32^nd & C Street area. Maureen Burke asked if we should call about these kinds of issues:  YES. It creates a record of the activity. Call police or email Officer Graham:  jagraham@pd.sandiego.gov.  Graffiti photos should be emailed to Art Perea:  aperea@pd.sandiego.gov.

 City Council District 3. Jeffrey Tom:  Council had a recess in August, is now back to regular meetings.  Councilmember Atkins is hosting a water forum at the SD Natural History Museum on 10/2.  Two items are on the council agenda on Monday, Sept. 15 relating to a proposed Oversized Vehicle Parking Ordinance.  #200 is citywide; #201 is a pilot project in beach and Clairemont areas.  A grant of $1,000 has been received for restoring turf in leash-free area of Grape St. Park

 City Council District 8.  Diana Jurado-Sainz: The Committee congratulated Diana on her recent marriage.  Diana gave additional information about Oversized Vehicle Ordinance.  A new City Traffic Engineer, Siad Amadi, is interested in parking and stop sign issues.  His survey determined that one at 30^th & A is not warranted under normal guidelines, but may be allowed under an alternate process.  She is hopeful to move the request forward under the alternate process.  A condo conversion at 2775 A Street was approved at council, after issues with parking and utilities had been resolved.

 53^rd Congressional District.  Katherine Fortner. Representative Davis sponsored an amendment to the Higher Education Act, which was recently reauthorized.  This amendment authorizes payment to work-study students who are unable to go to work during an emergency or disaster declaration.

 City Planning Department. Bernie Turgeon: Contract proposals for Plan Update have been received and are under review.  RFP for on other aspects are in process.  A meeting of Planning Committee chairs will be scheduled soon.  Showed photos of cell tower pole at 26^th & C Street, where a palm tree had been removed and replace with the pole, painted in a coordinating color.  Dave Caldwell asked about a cell site at 30^th & Juniper that never came before the Committee.  The cell phone antennas are inside a sign.  Dave suggested that sign regulations need to be revised to cover this type of installation.  Carole asked if both sign and telecommunications ordinances apply.  Bernie is to check into it.  Dave reported that Pathfinders might be moving to North Park.  He asked Bernie to find out if their CUP stays with the local address.  

 Mayor, 76^th Assembly District:  no reports

 Approval of Minutes.  Approval of July minutes:  Approved with addition of members present at the meeting.  Abstained from voting: David Skillman, Marie Skillman, and Maureen Burke

 PUBLIC COMMENT. 

CCDC. Sheila Hardin.  Passed out a fact sheet on economic gain from redevelopment.  CCDC is focusing on public access (pedestrian bridge near Convention Center) sustainability, and downtown lighting.  Board member Jennifer LeSar is heading search for a new director; public input on qualifications is requested.  7^th & Market project was cancelled due to conflict of interest of former director.  All recent projects are being audited. 

 INFORMATION ITEMS:

Chairs Report/Mail. No report.

 Clean, Green and Safe (MAD) Oversight Board.   David Skillman reported the monthly meeting, will be held 9/15. Oversight/City/CDC mediation is getting underway.   Urban Corps has been contracted to do graffiti removal and trash pickup. They are checking out duplications with city services.  Scott Glazebrook reported that he had seen good results of trash pickup.

 Police Officer’s CPC Meeting will be September 25 at 5:30 at their station at 25^th and Imperial.

 Land Use Report: Brief discussion of PTS 158970 (1115 27^th Street House Addition) and PTS 132506 (City Lights Town homes)

 ACTION ITEM: 

Land Use Subcommittee:  A letter had been drafted (copies had been sent to committee member in advance of meeting) asking that the Huckleberry Canyon/32^nd Street Sewer Maintenance Access Project to move forward, with recommendation of the subcommittee, with assurances that the project is currently in the concept stages and that further design and development will involve GGHPC.  Moved by Dave Caldwell, seconded by Scott Glazebrook, to approve the letter.  Approved unanimously.  Letter is to be signed by Scott Glazebrook if Chris Blatt is out of town. Albert Sohikish of Metropolitan Wastewater was present and requested that a copy of the minutes relating to this item be sent to him once the minutes were approved.  Copy of letter is at the end of these minutes.

 PUBLIC COMMENT:

A community resident:  Asked the committee’s advice.  She lives near 30^th & Juniper and is concerned about the number of bars in the area (a new one is near opening and another proposed), and wondered what regulations govern liquor licenses.  Dave Caldwell said that he thought no more liquor licenses were being issued in the area, on the advice of Police Dept. Vice unit.  Frederick Ruffell suggested she check the Municipal Code as to density of liquor licenses per block.  City Planner Bernie Turgeon said the City follows that code for zoning, and that the police and Alcoholic Beverage Commission also weigh in.  Also mentioned in the discussion were alcohol related crimes (Police Officer Dawn Summers has been studying this in the area) and parking regulations.  Scott Glazebrook thought that GGHPC would be involved if a variance to any existing regulation was requested.  He noted that the City is encouraging commercial growth in that corridor.  He said he would do some research on the issue.

 SUBCOMMITEE REPORTS.

Membership.  Members (4) are now needed. According to the updated bylaws, candidates for election in February must have attended two meetings prior to the February meeting.  Frederick reported that two of his neighbors are interested.  Advertising for members was discussed.

Parks.  Recreation councils may merge.

Code Compliance.  Nothing to report.

Pedestrian Master Plan Update.  Members had received email about public meetings.

Transportation.  Nothing to report. 

Balboa Park Committee. Nothing to report.

Airport Noise Advisory.  No report.

Historic.  Nothing to report.

Secretary: Will forward to all an email regarding Advanced Development Services Workshop

Meeting adjourned at 8: 25 pm.

Marie Skillman, Secretary.

 

 

 

September 10 2008

 

From:

Greater Golden Hill Planning Committee

 

To:

City of San Diego Development Services Department

1222 First Avenue

San Diego California 92101

 

Re: 32nd Street / Huckleberry Canyon Long-term Sewer Maintenance Access Project

 

Based on the informational presentation made to our Committee on August 13 2008 and the action presentation made to the Land-use Subcommittee on August 27 2008, we understand that this maintenance access and sewer realignment project has the goal to reduce long-term regional (sewer main breaks) and local (maintenance access) impacts to and disruption of natural and native habitats and resources; however we feel further study is needed during the subsequent detailed design and engineering stages of the project to reduce short- and mid-term impacts of this project.  It is with the understanding of our Committee’s continued involvement in subsequent design and implementation phases of this project that we recommend that the project proceed with the following conditions:

 

Sewer Line Realignment

1.     The Greater Golden Hill Planning Committee is continually involved in all on-going and future planning, including detailed site and engineering analysis, for work to be done within the canyon.

2.     Further study shall be completed at the Edgemont and Beech sewer line realignment to preserve existing mature trees that lend “community character”.

3.     Short- and mid-term revegetation plans are implemented and successful.

 

Maintenance Access

1.     The Greater Golden Hill Planning Committee is continually involved in all on-going and future planning, including detailed site and engineering analysis, for work to be done within the canyon.

2.     Deletion of lower canyon parallel access paths proposed to reduce stream crossings; one stream crossing would be preferred to two separate permanent paths.

3.     Change alignment of Edgemont Street and Beech Street sewer line realignment could consolidate two separate manholes and shorten proposed permanent access path.

 

Please feel free to contact us with any questions or comments. We look forward to our continued involvement with this project.

 

Regards,

 

 

 

 

 

Chris Blatt, Chair, Greater Golden Hill Planning Committee

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Updated Roster as of 9/15/2008

BALDWIN, Richard
BLATT, Chris – chair
BURKE, Maureen
CAFFEY, Carole – treasurer
CALDWELL, Dave
BURGETT, Laurie
GLAZEBROOK, Scott
MARGOLIS, ANITA
RUFFELL, Frederick
SKILLMAN, David
SKILLMAN, Marie - secretary
VASCONCELLOS, Angela

August 13, 2008 Minutes

Golden Hill planning minutes AUGUST 13, 2008

Called to order at 6.30

PRESENT: Richard Baldwin, Carole Caffey, Dave Caldwell, Laurie Burgett, Scott Glazebrook, Anita Margolis, Frederick Ruffell, Angela Vasconcellos ABSENT: Chris Blatt, Maureen Burke, David Skillman, Marie Skillman

Police report:

Biotech conference downtown was good

Comicon was also pretty good

La Raza convention was also good

Tagging should come to an end w. end of school holidays

Violent crime is a little up, but all the homicides have been sorted. Isolated events rather than gang driven

Question from the audience : Critical Mass, what is the status ?

A: Adults don’t have to wear helmets. The police are watching it but are loathe to interfere. Loosely monitored

Question from the Audience: Have you found the bomber from this morning?

A: Officer knows nothing about it

Report from district eight

-6 angles parking spots have been installed on 1200 block of 28^th st

-If you want angled parking plese call Yolanda, street needs to be 50’ or more wide

-30thand A, B and 26^th st speeding. Traffic is investigating the possibility of four way stops

-Don’t know if there are more trees available for street planting, but working on it

-Dave Suggested evaluation of 30^th and L and 30^th and Fern st for speeding evaluation

-Dave suggested icon for unsafe crossing on walkability study at Fern and Elm

Report from Susan Davis office

-Congresswoman is here

-Had a water forum

-Grants workshop is coming up

-Home foreclosure workshop is proposed

Question from the audience: What is the answer for the water

A: 20 gallon challenge (use only 20 gallons per day)

-Discussion on desalination v. reuse

Report form the Planner’s office

- Community plan update almost done, out to consultants. RFP request for proposal out for historic survey and facilitatior. Hoping to get it all done by Sept. Oct. January kickoff for update. Meeting scheduled for planning group chairs sept. 8^th

- City lights townhouses, hearing officer report available. Will email to Dave

Question from the audience: Is the urban forest in the update ?

A: Process has not been started, not sure. Interested parties will have the opportunity to take part. Should include a historic survey of trees

Public comment

Tertia Delgin: City has received FEMA funding for brush management in the canyons. Canyon people are apprehensive about this

Ashley Gardiner from the Women’s History Museum wanted to bring attention to it, also gave a plug for the upcoming suffrage ball a fundraiser for the WHM

Representative from the CDC MAD program (manager)

-Urban core contract signed

Urban core started this week on cleaning , including powerwashing sidewalks

Mon&Fri commercial areas, Tue Thur residential

Now have a supervisor, graffiti crew, cleaning crew, powerwashing crew.

Question from audience: Which streets will be powerwashed ?

A: Power washing will be done as needed

A tree trimmer will be hired through a RFP process

Q: Can MAD look after the greenway ?

A Landowners should be looking after the greenway. Needs to be looked at, not sure. Concreting suggested, decorative brick suggested. Helping homeowners keep it clean suggested

Q: Is there a certain time to contact MAD ?

A: 8-4 on weekdays

Q: Will they let homeowners know when tree trimming will occur ?

A: Will aim at a qualified tree trimmer, language will be added to give homeowners notification

A member of the audience also suggested that there should always be a person on any given crew who speaks English

-MAD is working on Golden Hill Banners, new trash receptacles and doggie poop bag dispensers

32^nd st Canyon sewer project report- Dirk Smith

Systems need to be maintained, for this access is needed. A lot of the required paths are already present, it will really be just formalizing the existing paths, as well as using the SDGE paths. Mitigation will be carried out offsite at both Lake Murray and San Diego river. Mitigation ratio depends on nature of disturbance, as determined by a biologist and reviewed by development services. Revegetation will be carried out with low growing plants and natives to protect from erosion.

Input from Tertia:

-Apprehensive about the project

-Dirk has helped address the issues

Question: will it go to Land use this month ?

A: Yes

Question: Why do you do offsite remediation? Is it due to cost ?

A: We want the site to be successful, this is easier offsite

A: discussion of policy for mitigation was discussed, as well as cities claim on canyons for such. Tertia will follow up on the cities claim on canyons for mitigation

The committee decided that the sewer stuff will come back to the full committee after landuse as an action item.

Tertia will forward letter about mitigation in the canyon to the committee.

Minutes for last month were unanimously accepted

Subcomittee reports

Landuse report

Nothing was reported

Membership and elections:

-Carlos has dropped out due to other commitments

-Need four more people, eleven is the lowest number possible

Comment from Bernie (planner) Will need public outreach for plan review, probably with a subcommittee from the planning group. Would be best to include a lot of different stakeholders

Parks:

Maureen not present

Transportation:

3^rd public workshop for downtown planning. The downtown parking is at 70-100% utilization, 85% off street. By 2015 there will be a small morning deficit, some in evening. Encourage off street parking at night. Universal valet has been proposed. Someone will park your car for you after you arrive downtown.

Balboa park :

Nothing to report

Historic:

The south park historic group has been contacted. They would like to do a presentation

Meeting was adjourned

Richard Baldwin, acting secretary.

April 9, 2008 Minutes

GREATER GOLDEN HILL PLANNING COMMITTEE MINTUES: APRIL 9, 2008

 

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

Call to order: Christ Blatt called to order at 6:32 pm.

Agenda had been posted earlier.  Copies were available.

 

Members present:  Chris Blatt, Richard Baldwin, Maureen Burke, Carole Caffey, Dave Caldwell, Scott Glazebrook, Carlos Legerrette, Anita Margolis, Frederick Ruffell, David Skillman, Marie Skillman, Angel Vasconcellos.  Absent: Laurie Burgett.

 

City Planning Department. Bernie Turgen. Question was raised about the plans for “Gala Foods” at 30^th& Grape Street.  A member of the audience stated that escrow is set to close on the property on June 1, and that it was possible that at 24-hour drug store and a “Fresh & Easy” market are planned for the site.  David Skillman reported hearing on the news that “Fresh & Easy” announced a pause in beginning new stores.  Neither Bernie nor the committee had received any information about the project.

 

Community Police Officer John Graham.  Reminded the committee that the Captain’s Advisory group meets at 25^th & Imperial at 5:30 pm.   In response to a question, he stated that the Lomas gang is not gone.  He recommended that committee or community members take pictures of graffiti or other evidence of gang activities and send them to Art Petrea, the officer in charge of keeping files of such materials.  These archives can be used in possible prosecutions.  Questions were raised about weapons activity at 33^rd & E Street, and an incident in the alley at 31^st Street between A & B Streets.  Officer Graham said that penalties for not cleaning up graffiti on private property are handled by Code Compliance.  14–day letters are sent to property owners.  He passed out pamphlets on “Reporting Disorder & Other Problems”.  This can be downloaded from city website.

 

District 3.  Jeffrey Tom.  Discussed the graffiti abatement program.  The hotline telephone number is 619-525-8522.  Free paint and brushes are available by calling 619-527-3431.  Toni Atkins’ last State of the District speech will be given on April 24.  Announced that the budget process, including 13 meetings, has begun. Passed out copies of April issue of “The Toni Times”.

 

District 8, Mayor, 76^th Assembly District, 53^rd Congressional District:  no reports

 

Approval of Minutes.  The minutes of the March meeting had just been distributed on April 9 and most committee members had not had the chance to review them.  It was decided not to ask for approval until next month.

 

Public Comment.  None.

 

Information Items:

Clean, Green and Safe (MAD) Advisory Board.  Will be holding a meeting at the Golf Course Clubhouse on April 14 at 6:00 pm regarding the budget for 2008-2009.  Regular meeting is April 21 at 6:30 pm.

 

Housing Commission.  Victoria Joes presented copies of the Annual Action Plan for FY09 to each committee member.  This action plan is the basis for Commission applications for funds from HUD. Victoria pointed out that there is a substantial amendment in the plan relating to Community Development Block Grant funding.  Such requests must now be for $25,000 or more.  This is a result of input from HUD monitors.  The monitors said that administrative costs were too high on smaller projects, unless they are a one-time action or can be completed in one funding cycle.   The last day for comments is May 4; the plan goes before the City Council on May 5.  She urged anyone with comments to direct them to her by telephone, letter or fax. Comments should state what specific project or objective they relate to.

 

 

 

 

 

Land Use Subcommittee.  

Information Item:  Dave Caldwell and Scott Glazebrook reported that property managers from 1503 30^th Street/ 3006 Beech (Permits #1 PTS 121366 #2 PTS 129408 #3 PTS 141955) would be making another presentation to the subcommittee.  Bernie Turgen from Planning Department is going to follow-up on the permits for that project. Dave asked Bernie to remind the Planning Department staff that this committee should see all plans for projects within the PDO.  

 

ACTION ITEMS:

Land Use Subcommittee:

Consent Agenda:  The following 4 items were approved unanimously:  (1) 1625 Felton Street PTS 128529 (2) 2448 A Street PTS127090  (3) 27^th & F Streets PTS 132506  (4) 1714 Dale Street – outside PDO.

 

Letter from City: A letter was received from the city in response to our letter last month regarding tree planting and Tershia d’Elgin.

 

SUBCOMMITTEE AND AD-HOC COMMITTEE REPORTS

Membership & Elections.  (Meets as needed) Angela Vasconcellos reported that 2 members are still needed to have a full committee.  Committee assignments were discussed.  Frederick Ruffell asked that each committee describe what they do and when they meet.  The secretary will distribute a list of meeting dates/times.  Carlos Legerrette will make name cards for members to use at the meetings.

 

Parks. (Meets last Wednesday of odd numbered months, 6 pm, Golf Course Clubhouse) Maureen Burke.  Talked about community garden.

 

Code Compliance.  (Meets last Wednesday of odd numbered months, Golf Course Clubhouse, meetings not open to public) Chris Blatt. Committee works with compliance officer Lewis Dennis on compliance issues that have been identified. 

 

Transportation.  (Will be meeting quarterly, no set day at this time)  Scott Glazebrook.

 

Balboa Park Committee.  Laurie Burgett was absent.

 

Airport Noise Advisory. (An advisory committee to the San Diego County Regional Airport Authority meets third Thursday of odd numbered months at 5:30 pm at the Commuter Terminal)  Carole Caffey is this committee’s representative now; Dave Caldwell held the position previously.

 

Historic. (Does not have regularly scheduled meetings at this time)  Angela Vasconcellos said she is now getting mailings from the City about historic reviews in the area.  Richard Baldwin passed around a flyer he had received about the public meeting scheduled on April 18, 2 pm at City Hall regarding changes to the Historic Review process.  Marie Skillman will attend the meeting and report back to the committee. 

 

OTHER DISCUSSION.

 

Marie Skillman asked when the Community Plan Update process would begin, and whether this committee would have a representative in the process.  Bernie Turgen said the process would begin in July, after the City budget is approved.

 

New members asked about documents for the current Community Plan and Planned District Ordinance.  These are available on the City website.  Zoning is in Chapter 14.  The PDO is in Chapter 15.

 

Marie Skillman offered to be the committee secretary for the coming year.  The committee approved this unanimously.

 

Meeting adjourned at 7:35 pm.