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HomeMy WebLinkAboutResolution 6466 N.C.S. 12/03/1973 EER:mi 11-26-73 'elution No. 6466 N. C. Saf ORIGINAL RESOLUTION ADOPTING AMENDMENTS TO THE GENERAL PLAN AND THE ENVIRONMENTAL DESIGN PLAN INTRODUCED BY COUNCILMAN n /�� Al "�f and SECONDED BY COUNCILMAN !i✓ 1 at a Regular Meeting of the City Council of the City of Petaluma, on the 3rd day of December WHEREAS the. City. City Planning Commission has reviewed the proposed amendments to the General Plan and the :Environmental Design Plan, and has held a hearing thereon and after said hearing finds the proposed amendments to the General Plan and the Environmental Design Plan should be adopted, and WHEREAS , the City Planning Commission filed with the City Clerk on the 13th day of November, 1973, its report as set forth in its Resolution No. 24-73k75-j3 ; recommending adoption of said proposed amendments to the General Plan and the Environmental Design Plan, and WHEREAS , the City Council has reviewed the proposed amendments to the General Plan and the Environmental Design Plan, and has held a hearing thereon on the third day of December, 1973, and after said hearing finds that the proposed amendments to the General Plan and the Environmental Design Plan should be adopted, NOW,. THEREFORE , BE IT RESOLVED that the proposed amendments to the General Plan and the Environmental Design Plan are hereby adopted in the form as prepared by the staff, a copy of which is attached hereto and in- corporated herein. under the power and authority conferred upon this Council by the Charter of said City. I hereby certify that the foregoing Resolution was.duly and regulary introduced and adopted by the Council of the City of Petaluma on the 3rd day of December 19:._7 3......., by the following votes: AYES: • Councilmen Daly, Harberson, Mattei, Perry, Jr. , and Mayor Putnam. • NOES: None. • ABSENT Councilmen_Bru tner and Cavanagh Jr. City Clerk `- May or FORM CA IO.73 ,.) �� ^ (MODIP CCATIO 'S TO THE GENERAL PLAN (Ps approved by. the Planning Commission on Novemher 6 , 1973) AREA NO. MODIFICATION 1 Rural to Medium Density Residential. (Proposed Urban Density) 2 Proposed school site to Transitional 3 School &, Park site - Move to location as shown on EDP' 4 Retail and Of flee. COmmercial to Medium Density Residential (Proposed 'Urban Density Residential.) 5 School & Park site to Medium Density Residential (Proposed Urban ,Density.) and Park site relocated as shown on EDP 6 Medium Density Residential to approximately 3 acres of Retail and Office Commercial 7 Show Parks as shown on EDP B School replaced by Park for Flood Plain Area; Planned Res idential for remainder of area 9 Show Trails as shown on EDP 10 General Industrial to Rural li Park & Low & Medium Density Residential - Relocate Part; Locations to cover approximate area as shown in Areas .(Ell & .442 12 Low Density Residential to School Site & Path 13 petal & Office Commercial , .and Service & Thoroughfare Commercial to Transitional 14 Retail. & Office Commercial to Medical Offices 15 MediuM Density and Retail & Office Commercial to Urban High Density 16 Transitional - No Change 17 Medium Density Residential. to Urban High Density • MODIFICATIONS TO THE ENV.iPpNMENTAL DESIGN PLANS As approved by the planning Commission on November 6., 1973) AREA NO. rAnoirIcATIcw. 20 Office S. Neighborhood Commetcidl to Study Area 21. Specific" Planning Area to Industrial 22 Speedgl StUdV Area to Medium DenSitV ReSidentiai. 23 24 Special Study Area to Community Commercial. 25 Special StUdy Area to Community Commercial 26 Special Study Area to industrial 27 ..led0Strial to SeiVice CoMMercial 28 Urban Low Density Residential to Neighborhood Commercial 29' Service Commercial to industrial 30 Medium Density Residential to : .1.1 Strip along Petaluma Blvd, to SerVide CoMMereial :21 Interior portion- as Urban Low Density 31 High Density ReSidential to Special Study Area 32 High Density Residential to Medium Density Resiencial (Proposed Nrban Density Residential) 33 Office - No change 34 Industrial to Service Commercial 3.5 80godal stuffy Area. to Planned Residential for portion With proposed development and Agriebitural/Open Space for remainder to include, location of the greenbelt 36 1) High density residential to Commercial for one lot depth along Petaluma Blvd , No 2) Area adjacent :to the west and along Keller & Kentucky Streets south from urban low density to high density. residential High density residential to Special Study Area 38 Urban LoW Density Residentidi to V:edinm Density Residential (PrepoSed Urban Density) 39 Medium Density Residential to Planned Residential. 40 Agtisult-O'car/oPen iFiace. to a Special Study Area 41 Service Commercial & Medium Density Residential to Yndgstrial 42 P.atK & Low I Medium. Densiity Residential - Expand park to cover apprOximately same area as shown in Areas #I1 & [4.2 REPORT TO: City Council November 13 , 1973 FROM: Department of Community Development SUBJECT: Report on Modifications to the Petaluma Area General Plan, the Environmental Design Plan and the Master Plan of Zoning INTRODUCTION : State law, AB 1301 , has required that County or City zoning ordinances shall be consistent with the General Plan of the County or City. In the spring of 1973 , Petaluma adhered to that law by a number of modifica- tions to the General Plan. At that time the Planning Commission suggested that further changes be made in order that the City' s Environ- mental Design Plan shall also be consistent with both the General Plan and the Master. Plan of Zoning. While not specifically required by State law, such a step is both logical and wise as the EDP is both a middle- range document between the General Plan and the Master Plan of Zoning and our most recently adopted land use policy document. Upon study of the various necessary changes , it was found that changes were required to all three documents , In addition , it is suggested that certain study areas on the EDP can be changed at this time from study designation to more specific land use designations . DEFINITIONS : State law, AB 1725 , has defined "consistent" as, "The various land uses authorized by the ordinance are compatible with the objectives , policies , general land uses and programs specified in such a plan. " Therefore , the plans are consistent if an area on the Master Plan of Zoning is zoned for a residential use and the EDP shows the area as a commercial use since the commercial is a higher use of the land and if the objectives and policies of the City are aimed towards the development or redevelop- ment of that area to the higher. use . In addition, it should be noted that consistency does not propose that the General Plan, the EDP and the zoning map all be exact replicas of each other , but that they show a general logical progression of the development of the City . Minor inconsistencies involving one or more small lots are not relevant to general land use patterns . In order to carry out these aims , earlier action established two new land use categories to the Petaluma Area General Plano The transitional designation indicates areas where there is a passing of one condition to another over a period of time . The "-_panhandle" of the City involving the Denman area and areas directly south along the freeway and the Petaluma River provide the prime example of such a designation. Much of the area was zoned f-L in the hopes of attracting more industry to the City. But it has become increasingly apparent that not all that area is required or is even desirable for industry . What is not so apparent is the future land use for those areas not needed for industrial growth or how much will not be needed. Therefore , the areas remain zoned M-L, but ate designated as transitional pending specific develop- ment plans . Within this context , transitional is also used to corres- pond to special study areas on the Environmental Design Plans where the central urban designation does not apply. rm Report on Modifications to the Petaluma Area General Plan, the Environ- mental Design Plan and the Master Plan of. Zoning , November 13 , 1973 The central urban designation was established to provide a land use category which incorporates abroad mix of commercial , office , industrial and residential uses in the Central portion of the City and which permits the flexibility in long ranee development policy that the General Plan is designed to allow. COMPLEXITY OF CHANCES : Proposed modifications to the General Plan and the EDP as mentioned earlier, to bring all three documents into consistency, proves to be a complex matter, with changes to all three documents . At times , a change to one document dictates a change to one or the other of the other two documents . Certain changes will require more detailed land use studies as will be indicated under the discussion of these changes . TRANSPORTATION STUDY : A forthcoming report will involve itself with a transportation study. No changes to road alignments , designations , etc. , will be suggested in this report. SPECIAL STUDY AREAS : Land use designations are recommended for a number of the Study Areas on the EDP. No changes are proposed for two areas at this time. A review of these areas follows. The first to be :reviewed is the Special Study Area bounded by Washington Street, Lakeville Street and "D" Street. This area involves the rail- road yards and is presently zoned M-L. It would appear in light of zone changes and proposed zone changes to Central Commercial involving adjacent lands , that this entire area may evolve to commercial uses . However , to change the EDP to indicate a commercial designation at this point would require a change in the zoning of the Study Area in order that the Zoning Map and the EDP might be consistent with each other. In view of the fact that there are no development proposals for this area, such a rezoning may well be premature. Therefore , it would appear reasonable to show this Special Study Area to: remain in this designation until such time as development. proposals Are presented and a rezoning application As flied. A similar situation exists for the Special Study Area which includes flcNear Island, except in this particular case a portion of the Study Area ' may remain in .industria:i. use This area is further complicated by the fact that that part of the island is not within the City limits , although annexation has been proposed. Further study is required to determine the appropriate land use for this entire Study Area . RESIDENTIAL DESIGNATIONS; Considerable misunderstanding exists with regards to the residential designations on the Generai 'Plan and the Envir-onmental Design Plan. The General Plan has two residential designations , low density and medium -2 _ i Report oh Modifications to the Petaluma Area General Plan, the Environ- mental 'Design. Plan and the Master Plan of Zoninq,, .. November 13 , 1973 density. These densities are expected to reflect gross density over a large average area rather than precise figures. However, the low density is expected to reflect, generally , sudh zoning as R-1-10 ,000 to R-1-20 ,000. The medium density generally reflects R-1-6, 500, R-C , R-M-G and R-M-H zoning. Confusion arises when these designations are compared to the Environmental Design Plans designations of suburban low, urban low, medium, and high. The medium density designation of the EDP describes a limited designation which is comparable to the R-M-G (Garden Apartment) zoning , not the more encompassing designation as used on the General Plan. Therefore , it is suggested that the designations on both the General Plan and the EDP be changed in order that they might .be more consistent with each other , and reflect more precisely the expected and existing land use and zoning. Following are the proposed designations compared to general zoning classi- fications and approximate land use . It must be remembered that such comparisons must be general or the General Plan and the EDP would no longer be long range and middle range documents, but carbon copies of the Zoning Ordinance . PROPOSED RESIDENTIAL DESIGNATIONS : General Zoning Approximate General Plan EDP Classification Land Use R-1-20 ,-000 -- Single-family on Suburban Low Suburban Low lane lots -R-1-10 , 000 q R-1-6 , 500 Single-family Urban Low -° R-C Duplex Urban Planned Residential PUD-PCD Mix of residential ° types at 6 . 0 units y maximum per gross acre ee :Urban R-M-G Garden apartments R-M-G Garden apartments Urban High Urban High High rise apartments Some overlap can be expected as per example , PUD zoning could occur in urban low areas and R-1-6 , 500 in planned residential areas without violation of the general policies and consistency of the documents . RECOMMENDATION: The resid.entail designations. on the General Plan be changed to suburban low: density , urban density and urban high, density , and that the medium residential designation on the •EDP be changed to urban and the high residential designation be changed to urban high. • Report on Modifications tb the Petaluma At-ea General Plan, the Environ- mental Design Plan and the Master Plan of _Zoning, November 13 , 1'973 If these designation changes are adopted., three- areas on the General Plan will require changing to reflect the new designation of urban high and to be consistent with the EDP. There are more high density designations on the EDP, but the remainder of these areas- fall into the General Plan central urban designation. This designation was specifically set up to Hover situations where there is , within a' relatively small area, a mix of varying residential uses , commercial uses , office uses , and perhaps industrial uses. The following are the areas recommended for change . PROPOSED MODIFICATIONS TO THE GENERAL PLAN : AREA #1 : Location - Easterly corner of Ely Road and Casa Grande within the greenbelt General Plan - Medium density residential and rural designation EDP - Planned residential Zoning - County "A" Agricultural Land Use - Pasture land Analysis - The EDP indicates all areas within the greenbelt as areas to be designated for development. It is logical progression and therefore consistent for the area to change from County "A" to some residential zoning. Recommendation - That Area #1 designated as rural on the General Plan., be changed to medium density residential (proposed urban density) ; medium density being the designation which corresponds to the EDP residential designations of the urban low, planned residential , and medium density. AREA 42 : Location - North McDowell Blvd. and Lynch Creek adjacent to Lucchesi Park General Plan -. Indicates a Senior High School EDP - Irdicatee a hospital site Zoning - County "A" Agricultural. Land Use - Mostly pasture - one louse Analysis - The :General Plan text locates three new high schools on the East side of the freeway. The Petaluma High School is to accommodate West side students living within one mile . The text admits that some West side students will have to attend East side high schools, but because -4- • 1 Report on Modifications tr the Petaluma Area General Plan, the Environ- mental Design Plan and the Master Plan of Zoning , November 13 , 1973 each school will serve more East ,side students than West side students, the three schools are located on the East side. The text also states that under this plan only one additional high sehool will be needed to serve the rest of the high school district outside the planning area. This last mentioned school has since been :built-, the Rancho Cotati School . Ten years later all these statements need careful re- evaluation. The EDP calls 'for balanced growth which may mean that it is more logical to locate one new high school west of the freewav; Or„ since the high school district encompasses the Cotati-Rohnert Park area, an additional school to the already built Rancho Cotati may be needed in this area to serve the rapidly increas- ing Rohnert Park populations All these factors _require careful consideration and will be studied thoroughly in the forthcoming General Plan review. In the meantime:, it is logical to bring the General Plan into conformity with the EDP by changing this area to indicate hospital facilities. Staff Recommendation - Change Area #2 on the General Plan from proposed high school site to proposed hospital facilities . Planning Commission Review - The seismic safety aspect was questioned and it was suggested that if the recom- mended change was made, another change might he necessary next year . Planning Commission Recommendation -- Change Area #2 to "Transitional. " AREA Location - East of Ely Road, near proposed Sonoma Mountain Road General. Plan - Indicates .a school and park surrounded by medium density residential EDP' - Indicates an elementary school located on the other side of Ely Road, to the west and north, Zoning - County "A" , Agricultural. Land Use - Farms and scattered houses Analysis - This- suggested change is minor in nature for the purpose Of Making the General Plan consistent with the EDP. It involves moving the location of the elementary school to conform to the EDP. Recommendation - Move the location of. the elementary school and park to conform to the location shown on the EDP. -5- Report on Modifications td the Petaluma Area General Plan, the Environ- mental Design Plan and the Master Plan of Zoning , November 13 , 1973 AREA #n.: Location - Eli- Road and proposed Sonoma Mountain Road General Plan - Retail and Office CoMMerc al EDP - Indicates planned residential Zoning - County "A" , Agricultural Land Use - Scattered houses , pasture Analysis - In order to make the General Plan consistent with the EDP , it is necessary to change this area of retail and office commercial to medium density residential (proposed urban density) , or change. the EDP to indicate neighbor- hood commercial for this area. Although standards would indicate that a neighborhood shopping center would be logical for this area, further study is necessary to determine the need for commercial uses in this area. The most recent document, the Environmental Design Plans , do not indicate a need for such a facility. Therefore , at this time it would appear most logical to bring the General Plan into conformity with the EDP . Recommendation - Change Area #4 from retail and office commercial to medium density residential (proposed urban density residential) . AREA #5 : Location - East of Ely Road General Plan - Elementary school and neighborhood park Zoning - County "A" , Agricultural EDP - Planned residential liand Use - Pastute Analysis - The EDP , the City ' s most recent land use document, does not show the need for an elementary school here in addi- tion to the school sites shown south of Casa Grande and near the proposed Caulfield Lane . There is shown a need for a park in this area.. Therefore, it is proposed that the school site be removed and the park site be relocated to conform to. the EDP . Recommendation - That the school site and park site be changed to medium density residential (proposed urban density) and the park site be relocated as shown on the EDP. -6- Report on Modifications to the Petaluma Area General Plan, the Environ- mental Design Plan and the Master. Plan -ct Zoning, November 13 , 19'73 • AREA #6 : Location - Southwest corner of South McDowell Blvd. and Casa Grande Road General Plan - Medium dehsitY residential EDP - Neighborhood commercial Zoning - "A" Agricultural; rezoning to P .C . -- P .U .D. applied for Land Use - Pasture - house Analysis - The FDP indicates a need, for a neighborhood shopping center in this area . Standards indicate that such a center should serve residential areas within one-half mile This proposed commercial area is more than one- halt mile from the proposed center at Bavo:ood Drive and Perry Lane . Recommendation - Change Area #6 from medium density residential to retail and office commercial , area to be neighborhood commercial size , approximately three acres . AREA #7 : Analysis - The FOP shows many more parks than are shown on the Genera. Plan-, The text of the EDP discusses the need for neighborhood parks and linear parks along the Petaluma River to improve the urban form of the City , especially the. portion of the City east of the freeway. Recommendation - in :order that the two documen.tshe consistent, tree: parks shown on the EDP should also be shown on the General Plan. AREA #8 : Location - Between the Petaluma River and the railroad tracks north. of Pavan Street General Plan - Elementary school and nark EDP' - Park and planned residential Zoning - County "A" Agricultural Land Use, - Farm and pasture land Analysis ^ The EDP does not indicate the need for a school in this location , instead a school location is shown to the west on the other side of Petalima Blvd . North. The current school site is located partially in the flood plain which could result in hazardous conditions for the children,. A park along the river is, shown . • Report on Modifications to the Petaluma Area General Plan, the Environ- mental Design Plan and the blaster Plan of Zoning., November 13 , 103 Recommendation - The school designation should be replaced by park designation for the flood plain area and planned residential for the remainder of the area. AREA #9 : Analysis - The EDP provides for trails along the linear parks and oreeks and for trail links between these recreational areas . With the increasing interest in bicycling , walk- ing and jogging , the proposed location of these trails should be indicated on the General Plan . Recommendation - All trails shown on the EDP shall also be shown on the General Plana AREA #10 : Location - West of the railroad spur and south of the small craft harbor, and east of the freeway General Plan - General Industrial EDP - Agricultural open space Zoning - M-L, County "A" (Agricultural) , County M-1 , County M-2 , Prezoned "A" (Agricultural ) Land Use - Vacant land, industrial plant , oil tank farm, truck stop and cafe Analysis - In order that the General Plan and the EDP are consistent with each other, a change must be made to one of these documents. - The proposed change to the General Plan from general industrial to rural for the major portion of the land was based on several factors. A large portion of the land is either prezoned "A" (Agricultural) or in County "A" (Agricultural) . A small portion of the land in the• northwesterly portion of the area is zoned. M-L, but most Of that portion has been suggested to remain in the general industrial. designation due to the existing zoning and due to the existing land use of a tallow plant and a dump.., The land west of the Petaluma River is zoned County P9-I and M-2 , hut since this is County zoning , . it does not constitute inconsistency in terms of our General Plan and EDP . A second factor is consideration of the Environmental Design Plans as the most recent document. When the EDP was formulated a careful study was made of the industrially dsignated and zoned land in and around the city . As a result of this study, this area between the abandoned railroad spur and the freeway was designated in agricul- ture/open space . -8- a. • Report on Modifications to the Petaluma-Area General Plan; the Environ- mental Design Plan and the Master Plan of Zoning, November 13 , 1973 A third factor is the ,fact that most of this land is in Open space used for raising' oat -hay. The portion occupied by the tallow plant and the dump have been left in the industrial designation, The, majority of the area is within the natural flood plain of the Petaluma River. Recommendation - Change Area #I0 from general industrial designation to rural designation. AREA #11 : Location - West of Hillcrest Hospital General Plan - Park , low and medium density residential EDP - Agricultural/open space; planned residential Zoning - County "A" , Agricultural ; A-E, Exclusive Agriculture; R-1-6 ,500 Land Use - Open land , several farm houses Analysis - The General Plan proposes a large park for the hills west of the City. The general location appears to be in an area which is distinguished by a creek and lovely oak woodland vegetation . The area would appear especially well suited to a park generally designed for recreational activities which would retain the natural landscape. Such activities could include, picnic areas , hiking and equestrian trails , and facilities , although there could be room for a play field for more formalized recreation. The EDP also proposes a park for the western hills , how- ever , it is smaller in size and especially designated to protect a. ridge which runs from behind the Hillcrest Hospital northwest towards Western Avenue, This ridge is subject to landslipnage , and upon field check twelve slumps or small landslides were noted. Such slopes are generally unsuited to development. Such conditions also indicate that a park along this ridge he limited to hiking trails in order to protect the unstable slopes . It should be mentioned that oeonle hiking along such trails would enjoy unparalleled view of the city and valley from a number of Vista points . In order that the General Plan and the EDP be consistent with each other , it is necessary to resolve the two park locations . However , if the EDP park location was designated on both documents, the value of a more useable park in a truly beautiful area Would be lost. If the General Plan, park was chosen, the unstable ridge and slopes would be left unprotected. A discussion with the Sonoma County Pares. & Recreation nepartment revealed that they are interested in this area of the western hills -9- • Report on Modifications to the Petaluma Area .General Plan , the Environ- _ mental Design Plan and the Master Plan of :Zoning , November 13 , 1973 for a subregional park. Such a nark might he a City- County project and thus be large enough to encompass both the oak woodland and the ridge . The County has indicated that a subregional park in this general area has high priority to be purchased at least in part over the next few years., Therefore, it is proposed that the current park shown on the General Plan be relocated slightly to take better advantage of the oak woodland and avoid an existing farmhouse, and expanded to include the unstable ridge. (lt is further proposed that the EDP park be expanded (Area #42) to include the oak woodland, thus making the two documents consistent. Recommendation - That the park locations in the western hills on the. General Plan and the EDP be expanded and relocated in order to cover approximately the same area as shown in Areas ill and #42 .. AREA #12 : Location - Gossage Avenue and the proposed Sonoma Mountain Road General Plan -- Low density residential (proposed suburban low) EDP - School site Zoning - County "A" , Agricultural Land Use - Pasture - scattered houses Analysis - This site was designated on the EDP to replace the elementary school site located oh the General Plan in Area #8 . The EDP is the more recent document and it was felt that this area was the more logical location for a school.. Recommendation - That Area #i2 he changed on the General Plan from low density residential to elementary school site and park, AREA #13 : Location - Bodega Avenue and Lohrman Lane - Strauhvilie General Plan - Retail and. .office: commercial, service and thorough- fare commercial EDP - Agricultural/open space Zoning - County "General Commercial" District Land Use - Older residential uses , varied commercial uses tending to be geared to highway service commercial or agricultural commercial such as plant nursery; pump and well service , sand and gravel yard and service station. -10- Report on modifications to the Petaluma Area General Plan, the Environ- mental Design Plan and the Matter Plan of Zoning, November 13 , '1973 Analysis - The proper and use designation of this area is a complex and difficult question .. The land is zoned commercial by the County and, is occupied by a mix of older and newer commercial uses„ semi industrial uses and older residential uses . The commercial designation on the General Plan might be appropriate except that it is not consistent with the EDP and it poses the problem of what limit can be set. Are commercial uses to be allowed to proliferate along this highway to Highway One? However , the agricul- tural open-space designation of the EDP does not take into account the parceling of the land. Most of the parcels are top :small for agricultural uses , being 5 acres or less and much less in some cases : There are 6 ,000 to 10 , 000 sq. ft. lots . At one time this area was agricultural mixed with residential, but now it ke slowly passing to another condition.:. Such a description would appear to fit the transitional land use category. Recommendation - Area #13 designated retail and office commercial and service and thoroughfare commercial on the General Plan be Changed to Transitional. AREA #14 : Location - East Washington Street , east of the Washington Square Shopping Center General Plan - Retail and office commercial EDP - Special Study Area and office commercial Zoning - P-C and C-0 Land Use - Dentist offices under construction , proposed medical offices Analysis - A portion of this land is already shown as office on the EDP. The remainder in the study area is discussed later under changes to the EDP , The Study area involved is proposed for a medical office complex and the result of a study Of this portion of the area is that medical office use is appropriate . Recommendation - Area #:14 on the General Plan be changed to medical offices . AREA #15 : Location - Haywood Drive between St. Francis Drive '& Perry Lane General Plan - Medium density (proposed urban density) and retail and office commercial EDP - High density (proposed urban high) -11- • Report on Modifications -co the Petaluma Area.. General Plan, the Environ- mental Design Plan and the Master Plan of Zoning , November 13 , 1973 Zoning - R-M-G Land Use - Developed in garden type apartment units at about 20 units per acre Analysis - A change to the proposed urban high designation would more accurately reflect the existing land use and zoning and also bring this area into consistency with the EDP. In addition, this change would reduce the size of the indicated retail and office commercial shown on the General Plan, such a reduction also being more consistent with the EDP , which shows a smaller neighborhood commercial designation in this area., Recommendation - Change Area #15 to the proposed urban high designation. AREA ;#16 : Location - West side of No. McDowell Blvd. adjacent to Lynch Creek General Plan - Transitional EDP - High density residential (proposed urban high) Zoning - R-1-6 , 500 Land Use - Pasture land Analysis - This area was designated Transitional because further study was required to determine if the EDP designation of high density was appropriate , The purpose behind the designa- tion of high density areas on the EDP was to achieve a goal of balancing development types among sections of the City. While the "Annual Review and Update to the Housing Element" shows that a big first step has been made towards remedying the imbalance between the east and the west with regard to multi-family units , there is still a need for areas designa- ted high density on the east side , Thus , the designation of Area #16 is appropriate with regard to Horsing Element goals . It would appear that this location is appropriate . . It is within easy walking distance of several important facilities such as the shopping center , Lucchesi Park and the school . if medical facilities and/or the hospital were to locate across McDowell Blvd. , this would add another facility which might Make this area desirable housing for the elderly where they would not need transportation to reach stores., doctors offices and a park. The existing zoning would be consistent with the proposed change as it would represent logical progression to a higher use of the land. Staff Recommendation - Change Area #16 from Transitional to the proposed Urban High . -12- c Report on Modifications to the Petaluma Area General Plan, the Environ- ` mental Design Plan. and, the Master-Plan of Zoning, November 13, 1973 Planning Commission Review —There is already a. great deal of high density designation to the north of this area. Planning Commission Recommendation - Area #16 should remain Transitional. AREA #17 : Location - Ellis St. , Washington Creek and E. Washington Street General Plan - Medium density residential (proposed urban density residential) . EDP - High density residential Zoning - R-M-G Land Use - Vacant land, 2 Or 3 single-family houses , apartments Analysis - This area is already partially developed with multi- family units and the. EDP finds this area a logical location for the further development of multi-family units in the central area. Recommendation - Change Area #17 from medium to proposed urban high. PROPOSED MODIFICATIONS TO THE ENVIRONMENTAL DESIGN PLANS : The .numbering of these areas starts with #20 in order that numbers 18 and 19 might be reserved for additional suggested modifications to the General Plan. AREA #20 : Location - McDowell Blvd. and proposed Caulfield Lane. EDP - Office commercial and neighborhood commercial General Plan - Medium density residential Zoning - R-1-6 , 500 Land Use - Church , scattered single family houses , vacant land Analysis - A zoning change for this area to commercial was turned down by the City Council upon a heavy protest of surround- ing residents , At that time it was suggested that the EDE should be modified to reflect the current zoning. Such °a modification would also bring the EDP into con- sistency with the General Plan. Since the designation "Planned Residential was established for undeveloped and underdeveloped areas , this is the designation which appears to be most logical . -13- Report on Modifications to the Petaluma Area General Plan, the Environ mental Design Plan and the Master' Plan of Zoning, November 13, 1973 Staff Recommendation That Area #20 be changed from office commercial and neighborhood commercial to planned residential.. Planning Commission Recommendation - Change to "Study Area" to await definite plans . AREA #21 : Location - Lakeville Street and Jefferson Street East EDP - Specific planning area General Plan - Limited industrial Zoning - M-L Land Use - Public uses , some industrial in nature , such as the school warehouse, or the Continuation High School , strictly a public use. Older houses located on and around the East Court area. Analysis - The entire specific planning area was studied previously and approved by the Planning Commission for industrial designation and highway commercial designation. Unfor- tunately , Area #21 was not described in the resolution , so legally the designation was not changed from specific planning area to industrial even though this was the intent of the Planning Commission. Therefore , at this time this area is brought forward again for the proper designation to he consistent with the industrial of the General Plan and the M-L zoning. Recommendation - Change Area #21 from Specific Planning Area to Industrial designation, AREA #22 : Location - McDowell Blvd. & Washington Street EDP - Special Study Area General Plan - Medium density residential, Zoning - p-C & P-U-D Land Use - Vacant Analysis - The Special Study Area , which for purposes of this report has been divided into Area #22 , #2.3, and #24 , was established by the Planning Commission at the time of the review and adoption of the EDP. The Planning Commission first recommended that the future study area be designated • -14- Report on Modifications, to the Petaluma Area. General Plan, the Environ- mental Design Plan and the Master Plan of Zoning, November 13 , 1973 as planned residential , After a hearing , the City Council recommended that sorie. portion of the area be designated high density residential use . The Planning Commission then recommended that the area be made a Special Study Area, and the Plans were so adopted. In January of 1973 ; the entire area was zoned P-C-D with a 9 . 1 dwelling unit per acre overall density for that portion proposed to he in residential use and 6 . 7 acres for professional-medical area. Area #22 covers the land proposed to be in residential use. Qantas Development Corporation came before the Residential Development Evaluation Board With. a request for approximately 104 multi-family units for the 1973-74 allotment year , of a proposed 20? multi-family units and 73 single-family units . The City Council allocated the 100 multi-family units , the 73 single-family units were not allotted. In the meantime:, the Planning staff made a study of the Special Study Area which suggested that the study area was a prime area for development and would contribute to the EDP policy of infilling of vacant land. The Planned Community Development proposed would be an appropriate use provided that traffic congestion was relieved by providing bridges across Washington Creek Extension to connect various streets . The study also noted that the proposed multi-family units would be situated to act as a buffer between the commercial and professional activity in the shopping centers and the single-family residential activities.. Since that time the developers have requested and received P-U-D zoning for a portion of the multi-family area and have submitted Tentative and Final Maps . They also have a request into the allocation board for the remainder of the multi-family units and for the single-family units . The request has dropped to 57 single-family units. Therefore , it would appear logical that Area #22 , the portion of the Special Study Area proposed to be developed to residential uses to a density of 9 . 1 units per acre be designated on the LDP as medium density residential, which consists Of a range around 10 units to the acre. Recommendation - That Area #22 on the EDP he changed from Special Study Area to medium density residential (proposed urban density) . AREA #23 : Location - McDowell Blvd. & East Washington Street EDP - Special Study Area General Plan - Retail and office commercial - suggested change to medical offices (See Area #14) . -15- Report on Modifications to the Petaluma. Area General Plan, the Environ- mental Design Plan and the Master Plan of Zoning , November 13 , 1973 Zoning - P-C-D Land Use - Vacant Analysis - This area is part of the Special Study Area discussed under Area #22. Plans have been submitted proposing the develop- ment of a. medical office complex for this area. A study suggested that such medical office uses would be an accept-- able buffer between adjacent proposed residential and the existing newly built shopping center. Recommendation - That Area #23 be changed to office designation. AREA #24 : Location - McDowell Blvd , & East Washington Street EDP - Special Study Area General Plan - Retail and office commercial Zoning - C-C. Land Use - Various shops and stores Analysis - Since this area was placed into special study the Gashington ,Square Shopping Center has expanded into this area, building among others , a new Safeway and a Mervyns department store. Recommendation - Area #24 should be changed from a Special Study Area to Community Commercial designation. AREA #25 : Location - Portion of the Special Study Area bounded by Lakeville St. , East Washington St. and the Petaluma River, fronting on Washington St . EDP - Special Study Area General Plan - Central Urban Zoning - C-H, M-L, proposed change from D^.' L to C-C tabled at this time Land Use - Highway oriented "commercial uses , cleared land , few light industrial uses. Analysis - See the supplemental report on the entire study area. Community Commercial designation would appear to fit possible proposed uses- and proposed zoning and would he more compatible with adjacent designations . -16- Report on Modifications to the Petaluma Area General Plan, the Environ- Meintal Design Plan and the Master Plan f, Zoning, November 13 , 1973 Recommendation - Change portion of the Special Study Area as indicated to Community Commercial designation. AREA #26: Location - Portion of the ;Special Study Area bounded by Lakeville Street, East Washington Street, and the Petaluma River, which lies north of the portion of the area fronting on East Washington Street, the apex of the triangle. EDP - Special Study Area General Plan - Central Urban Zoning M-L Land Use - Light industrial uses Analysis - See supplemental report on entire study area. Recommendation - Change portion of the Special Study Area , as indicated, to Industrial designation. AREA $27 : Location - Bounded by Lakeville Street , "D" Street, Erwin Street & Jefferson Street EDP - Industrial General Plan - Central Urban Zoning - C-H Land Use - Cleared' land, proposed veterinarian office, older 5-unit apartment' Analysis - This area was recently zoned to Highway Commercial with submitted plans for a veterinarian office. While adjacent land to the east is zoned M..L and C-N, the land use is residential and commercial uses . The service or highway commercial may serve as a buffer between industrial uses to the west -and these residential uses . The area is along a Major roadway, thus 'highway oriented. The lots are small to attract industrial uses , but most of the vacant lots are not too small to attract highway oriented commer- cial uses such as the proposed veterinarian office. Recommendation - Change the Industrial designation on the EDP to Service Commercial . -17- • Report on Modifications to the Petaluma Area General Plan, the Environ- mental Design Plan and the Master Plan of Zoning, November 13 , 1973 AREA #28 : Location - Area fronting on Wilson Street approximately between Washington Street and intersection of Wilson and "D" Streets . EDP - Urban low density residential General Plan = Central Urban Zoning - C-N generally; one or two lots M-L Land Use - Older residential uses ; commercial uses Analysis - At the time that the Master Plan of Zoning was updated in order that it might reflect the Zoning Ordinance , a citizens meeting was held for the area zoned R-C to the east and for this area zoned C-N. Since there are many residential uses in this area, inquiry was. Made by the Planning staff as to whether the property owners wished this area to remain zoned C-N or rezoned to R-C. As far .as could be determined from the persons responding , they requested that the zoning remain C-N, Neighborhood Commercial . There are a number of commercia uses located in this area, including a small grocery, a servic station , a plant nursery and a beauty .shop. The residences are older and many are adjacent to heavy commercial or indus- trial uses located on Washington Street and Lakeville Street. Wilson Street is a connector between the heavily traveled Washington and "D" Streets, so may well not be a desirable location for new residential uses when the existing residentia uses are phased out. Many of the lots are substandard in size for new .single-family residential uses and would have to be combined for new residential or commercial uses , In order that the EDP and the Zoning Map .be consistent, either the EDP designation will have to be changed or the zoning will have to be changed. It would appear that the more logical development in this area. is toward neighborhood type of commercial uses serving the adjacent P:-C District. Recommendation - Change Area 428 from Urban Low Density to Neighborhood Commercial. AREA #29 : Location - Fronting on "D" Street between the Petaluma River & 2nd Street EDP - Service Commercial General Plan - Central Urban Zoning - M-L Land Use - Industrial (Grain Mills) -18- • • Report on Modifications to. the Petaluma Area General Plan , the Environs mental Design Plan and the Master plan of Zoning', November 13 , 1973 Analysis - At the time that the Master Plan of Zoning was updated, to reflect the Zoning Ordinance , this area was zoned The former zoning was C-S , Which was eliminated from our new Zoning Ordinance . Areas so zoned were changed to either C-H or r?-t, as determined by land use . This small area was determined to properly fall in the Light Industrial Zoning District after meetings with property owners and a careful study of uses in the area. However, the EDP still reflects the previous zoning and the problem of consistency must be dealt with. Since all earlier studies showed that the present zoning is appropriate , it would appear logical to change the EDP . Recommendation - Change Area ' 29 from Ser+rice Commercial to Industrial designation. AREA #30 : Location - " I" Street , Petaluma Blvd. So. & Mountain View Avenue EDP - Medium density residential (proposed urban density residential) General Plan - Central urban and medium density residential (proposed urban density residential) Zoning - C-E , C-N and R-1-6 , 500 Land Use - Along Petaluma Blvd. - commercial uses such as car repair , furniture store and real estate office ; older single- family houses, and several lame vacant lots . Along "I" Street, Fifth Street and Mountain View Avenue the houses are generally nearer and well maintained. There are no commercial uses , "K" Street deadends into the interior of this large block and provides access for several large lots , Analysis - The designation on the EDP is not consistent with the commerciai zoning fronting on Petaluma Blvd. At the time the EDP was formulated there were several tentative residential development proposals for the large vacant lots. However ; nothi . Report on Modifications tb the Petaluma Area General Plan , the Fnviron- merita:i. .DeSign Plan and the Master Plan of Zoning , November 13 , 1973 i?eeammendation - Designate the strip of Ares-+- #31 along Petaluma. Blvd. from EDP medium density La ;service commercial. Designate the interior portion of Area #30 as urban low density residential to corresnond with the • existing urban low designation along Fifth Street , AREA #3l ; Location - Petaluma. Blvd . South EDP - High density residential (proposed urban high) • General Plan -- Central Urban Zoning -- C-H Land Use - Several commercial uses , vacant land Analysis - The designated high density for this relatively small area needs careful consideration as it is bounded on two sides by commercial and industrial uses and the this d side by the river . Traffic problems also need to be considered with regard to a high density use at this location . it would appear more logical that this area be designated service commercial to correspond to the existing land use and the zoning , However, there is presently a development proposal for condominiums for a. portion of this area and for the adjacent land which is designated nark . A change in designation from high density to service commercial may well affect consideration of the proposed condominium development, This proposed development must of course be considered in terms of the park designation, proper river development and traffic problems , as well as the designation of Area #31 , in view of the necessary studies that will he undertaken shortly , it may be best to designate this smaller area as a Special Study Area pending further study of the development proposal , traffic patterns and river development. . Recommendation - Designate Area #F31 as a Special Study Area . AREA n32 : Location - Sixth and "D" Streets EDP - High density residential (Proposed urban high) • General Plan - Central Urban Zoning - R r sC-omnact Single-Family Residence) District and C-C (Administrative and ProteSSi.anal Office) District --20.- I^ m. Report on Modifications to the Petaluma Area. General Plan, the Environ- mental Design Plan and the Master Plan of Zoning, November 1-3 , 1973 Land USe - Duplexes and older single-family houses , an office and apartments Analysis - This area is designated for high density on the EDP; however, several factors will either deter the development of high density units in this small area or make such development undesirable . The area abuts single-family residential areas , causing an abrupt transition between the urban low density and the high density and the lots are small for high density development. All the lots are developed mostly in single-family construction. While the houses are of older construction, most of them have been maintained in good. condition. A number of the houses have historical value and the area should be encouraged to retain the period architecture rather than endourage a shift to high rise apartments . The present R-C zoning does not fit high density residential. The criteria used for the high density designation was the need in Petaluma for higher density areas , especially adjacent to the downtown.. Some of the lots could be developed in small apartment buildings without disturbing the historical nature of the area. Therefore , it is proposed that the change in designation be to medium density (proposed urban density) which would uphold the policy of the EDP, yet be more consistent with present zoning and land use . Recommendation - Change .Area #32 to medium density residential (proposed urban density residential) . AREA #33 : Location - Sixth Street, Howard Street , Western Street & Washington Street EDP - Office General Plan - Central Urban Zoning - C-C1- C-0, and R-C Land Use - Commercial uses , offices and residential uses Analysis - Area $33 was studied to determine if the office designation was appropriate for this'area and consistent with the zoning: map. It would appear to he consistent as office uses are permitted in the C-C District . In addition, it may he logical progression that many of the older residential uses in the C--C zone will be removed and replaced b_v office uses. Recommendation - No change in the office designation . -21- • Report on, Modifications to the Petaluma Area General Plan, the Environ- mental Design Plan and the Master Plan of, Zoning , November 13, 1973 AREA #34 : Location - Western, Upham and English Streets EDP - Industrial General Plan - Central Urban • Zoning - C-H, R-C Land Use - Creamery Analysis - When the Master Plan of Zoning was modified to bring it into conformity with the newly adopted Zoning Ordinance , Area #34 was changed from the Special Industrial zone which no longer exists to C-H (Highway Commercial) . This zone under the new ordinance allows for. creameries . The proposed change to the EDP would simply reflect the recent ' change in zoning. Recommendation - Change Area #34 from Industrial to Service Commercial. AREA #35 : Location - "I" Street & Sunnyslope Road EDP - Special Study Area General Plan - Medium density residential Zoning __ P-U-D & P-C-D Land Use - Pasture land, proposed for subdivisions ; 200 units allocation received Analysis - See supplemental report. Recommendation -See supplemental report. AREA #36 ; Location - Petaluma Blvd . North , Kent Street , Oak Street EDP - High density residential (proposed urban high) General Plan - Central Urban Zoning - C-H (Highway Commercial) Land Use - Commercial and highway oriented commercial fused car sales , muffler shop) one small older apartment house , two older. houses -22- Report on Modifications to the Petaluma Pzea General Plan , the Environ- mental 'Design Plan and the Master Plan Of Zoning , November 13 , 1973 Analysis - The EDP designated this area high density residential as part of the pelicv to strengthen the downtown by providing a larger market Within walking distance. In addition, the Housing Element stresses the need for a better balance between the number of single-family and multi-family units within the City . Unfortunately, in the selection of this area, no in-depth study was made of zoning , land use and traffic patterns to insure that this area is appropriate for high density residential or indeed for any residential use. The zoning is C-H, therefore , the Zoning Ordinance and the EDP are not consistent with each other, A careful study was made of the area and revealed two factors which would appear to indicate that commercial designation is more appropriate for the area than residential . These factors are the seemingly healthy commercial activities in the area (such as a service station and repair garage , a retail bakery and used car sales) and the relatively high noise level along the Boulevard. Thus , it would seem that it is more appropriate to change the EDP to be consistent with the commercial zoning rather than the reverse . However , such a change, will weaken a policy of the EDP, and this is the second high density area which will have been changed., (See Area 432 . 7 In addition., many of these same circumstances apply to Area #37 , meaning perhaps a further loss of high density residential . Therefore , another area possibly suitable for high density residential was researched to maintain. the policy of reinforcing the downtown. The suggested area is directly adjacent to and to the west of Area #36 . The area is presently zoned ,R-M-(3 , and the land use consists of older single-family houses , newer duplexes and small apartments.. An apartment of 13 units is located at Oak and Keller Streets . Most of the recent construction has been multi-family and it can be expected that as some of the older houses are amortized out they might logically be replaced with multi -family units . The area has the advantage of being one lot depth away from Petaluma Blvd. North, thus easing_ the traffic noise while still providing close access to a collector street.. The reason why another area in closest to downtown along Kentucky and Keller Streets has been proposed to remain in medium density is that the older houses in this area are generally larger., better kept up, and of greater historical. value . This area adjacent to doWntotan may best he left in medium density so as to encourage the: retaining of these old homes which illustrate. Petaluma ' s cultural heritage . Recommendation - Change Area #36, one lot depth along Petaluma Blvd . North, to Commercial designation. Change the area adjacent and to the west along Keller and {tenruckv Streets south from urban low density designation to high density residential as shown on the map. -23- Report on Modifications to the Petaluma Area General Plan, the Environ- mental Design Plan and the Master Plan of Zoning , November 13 , 1973 AREA $37 : Location - Petaluma Blvd. North, Washington Street, Petaluma River EDP - High density residential (Proposed Urban High) General Plan - Central Urban • Zoning - C-H (Highway Commerical) , M-L (Light Industrial) Land Use - Commercial and highway oriented commercial (furniture store , auto parts , body shop, hardware store , etc. ) , industrial Analysis - As discussed in the analysis of Area #36 , this area was designated high density residential to strengthen the Downtown . It was designed with the idea that the residential would be adjacent to a park fronting on the river. However, this area is zoned commercial and industrial , in commercial and industrial uses , and the noise and traffic level on Petaluma Blvd . would appear to critically lessen the desirability of the area for resi- dential use. Designating this area commercial would not necessarily diminish the possibilities for the park along the river. A riverside park with small shops and restau- rants adjacent can he as attractive as a park bounded by residential uses . Such a park can definitely enhance a shopping area. The loss of the high density residential is partially replaced by the suggested designation of a high density area as discussed with regard to Area #h36 . The industrial zoned section which is part of Area #37 is relatively small, therefore it is not suggested that the industrial designation be included. Staff Recommendation —That Area #37 be changed to Commercial designa- tion. Planning Commission Review - Further study needs to be made before removing this residential designation. Planning Commission Recommendation - That Area 037 be changed to Special Study Area. AREA #38 : Location - Magnolia Boulevard EDP - Urban low density residential General Plan - Central Urban Zoning - R-M-G -24- Report on Modifications to the Petaluma Area General Plan, the Environ- mental Design Plan and the Master Plan of Zoning , November 13 , 1973 • Land Use - Mostly vacant, several single-family houses . Proposed. apartment complex for vacant land. Analysis - The proposed change in the EDP is designed to conform to the existing zoning and the proposed use of the land. Recommendation - Change Area #38 to medium density (proposed urban density) residential. AREA $39 : Location - Bounded by Petaluma River, .railroad track and boundary of Linda del Mar Subdivision EDP - Medium density residential General Plan - Central Urban Zoning - M-L Light Industrial) Land Use - 4 or 5 single-family residences , a trucking firm and a day nursery, Analysis - The existing industrial zoning is a historically established zone and appropriate at this time considering the railroad tracks and the largest present use on the land, the trucking firm. The existing inconsistency between the zoning and the EDP can be remedied by chang- ing the EDP. designation to planned residential.. Under this designation, until the City receives a definite plan for the area, rezoning should not be initiated. The existing zoning can be considered historical and consistent zoning, pending development plans . Moreover, planned resi- dential does not preclude other than residential uses . A plan for the area might include non-residential uses as a buffer strip along .the railroad and residential uses in the area adjacent to the Linda del Mar Subdivision.. Recommendation - Change Area #39 to Planned Residential. AREA 440 : Location - Bodega Avenue and Lohrman Lane - Straubville EDP - Agricultural/Open Space General Plan - Retail and office commercial , service and thoroughfare commercial • Zoning - County - "General Commercial" District -25- Repot on Modifications-.cations to the Petaluma Area GGene.ra:. Plan , the En ,_ °.-. mental Design Plan r<ri the Master 1".Lan Of Zoning , November 13 , 1973 .. Analysis This area was discussed under. Area 41_1', in changes to the General Plan, he proposed change was to Transitional to depict the t aCt that the area 1.s slowly passing from one contlit“rn to a o—hcr, In order that uhe t'. o documents he consistent , I .t is proposed that this area be putt into a Special Study Area. Such a designation will also allow tor: further study of the changing condition . Recommendation - Change Area 4410 to a Special Stuffy Area, AREA 441 : Location - Petaluma River , Lakeville Street, Madison Street EDP - Service Commercial, medium density -residential General Plan - Central Urban Zoning -- M-L ^,Light Industrial) Land Use - rood processing plant., older house Analysis - This area is zoned Industrial and the building site was just recently renovated for a food processing plant which appears to he an active operation, Recommendation - Area 441 be changed to Industrial, AREA 442 : Location - West of H1ticrest Hospital EDP -- Park , Agricultural/Open Space , Planned Residential General Plan - Park , low and medium density residential Zoning -- County "A" , Agricultural ; A-E., Exclusive Agriculture; R-1-6 , 500 Land Use Open n l ind , several farm houses Anal i,s - This area has been discussed with regard to the designation of _ La' .ax park :rn the western hilts under Area ±J.I It .7 s sufficient to sa`✓ that such a park, ,should also he indi- cated on the EDP to insure that the two documents are con- sistent and that both these sensitive areas are protected . Recommendation - That the park location be expanded to cover approxi- mately the same area as shown in Areas 411 and 442 , Respectfully submitted . Charlotte Teep:i.e4 Associate Planner CT : sd -26 -