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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2001-02-05 City Council (6)TO: City of Palo Alto City Manager’s Report HONORABLE CITY COUNCIL FROM:CITY MANAGER DEPARTMENT: . PLANNING AND COMMUNITY ENVIRONMENT DATE: SUBJECT: FEBRUARY 5, 2001 CMR:124:01 675 EL CAMINO REAL, NEXTEL COMMUNICATIONS (00-PC-3; 00- ARB-128): PLANNED COMMUNITY (PC) ZONING DISTRICT AND ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT APPLICATIONS BY NEXTEL COMMUNICATIONS TO AMEND ZONING DISTRICT PC- 4465 TO ALLOW BUILDING-MOUNTED TELECOMMUNICATIONS FACILITIES, INCLUDING 12 PANEL-TYPE ANTENNAS AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT ATOP A 5-STORY, HOTEL BUILDING LOCATED AT THE NORTHEAST CORNER OF EL CAMINO REAL AND WELLS AVENUE. RECOMMENDATION Staff and the Planning Commission recommend that the City Council adopt the attached ordinance (Attachment A), amending Planned Community (PC)Zoning District PC-4465 to allow building-m0tmted telecommunication facilities, and approve the Environmental Impact Assessment application (Attachment E) prepared for the project. PROJECT DESCRIPTION The 1.28-acre project site is located at the northeast comer of E1 Camino Real and Wells Avenue and is the location of the Westin Hotel, a 5-story, 194-room hotel complex and subterranean garage. The site and buildings are owned by Pacific Hotel Development Venture. Immediate adjacent parcels include a hotel to the north, an unoccupied warehouse building to the east, an outpatient care facility to the south and Stanford University lands to the west. The Westin Hotel site was rezoned from CS to the PC Zoning District by Ordinance No. 4465 on December 1, 1997. The PC zoning designation established the allowed uses of the site, which include hotel rooms, meeting rooms, restaurant, office and ancillary space and underground parking. On March 17, 2000, a Conditional Use Permit was granted to CellularOne for the installation of antennas at the Westin Hotel in a location adjacent to the CMR:I24:01 Page 1 of 3 proposed Nextel antennas. It has been determined that the addition of cellular antennas and related equipment constitute a new use, described as a "telecommunication facility,, and the addition of these facilities in PC zones requires an amendment to the allowed uses in each PC district. At present, telecommunications facilities, such as the one proposed by Nextei Communications, are not a permitted use within the zone district PC-4465. If the attached ordinance is adopted amending this zone district, building-mounted telecommunications facilities will be permitted, subject to design approval through the Architectural Review process. BOARD/PLANNING COMMISSION REVIEW AND RECOMMENDATIONS ~ The Planning Commission reviewed the proposal on December 13, 2000 and recommended that the City Council approve the PC Zoning District amendment and EIA applications (6-0- 0-1, Commissioner Schink absent). The Commission found that installing telecommunication facilities at this site, in the manner allowed by the ordinance, is a public benefit. The height of the existing hotel is ideally suited for placement of telecommunication antennas in order for the equipment to function properly. The provisions of on-site telecommunications facilities will result in a public benefit through improved wireless communication services in this geographical area of Palo Alto. The public benefit f’mdings are included in Attachment F of this report. ATTACHMENTS Attachment A: Attachment B: Attachment C: Attachment D: Attachment E: Attachment F: Proposed Ordinance amending Ordinance No. 4465 Location Map Planning Division Staff Report dated December 13, 2000 (w/o att.) Draft excerpt of December 13, 2000 Planning Commission Minutes Environmental Impact Assessment PC Zoning District Public Benefit Findings Project plans (Council Members only) Prepared By: Steven Turner, Associate Planner DEPARTMENT HEAD REVIEW: G. EDWARD GAWF Director of Planning and Community Environment Page 2 of 3 CITY MANAGER APPROVAL: EMILY Assistant City Manager cc:Dan Alterwein, Nextel Communications, 1255 Treat Boulevard, Suite 800, Walnut Creek, CA 94596 Palo Alto Development Venture, 831 Montgomery Street, San Francisco, CA 94133 Page 3 of 3 Attachment A ORDINANCE NO. ORDINANCE OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PALO ALTO AMENDING SECTION 18.08.040 OF THE PALO ALTO MUNICIPAL CODE (THE ZONING MAP)TO CHANGE THE CLASSIFICATION OF PROPERTY AT THE INTERSECTION OF EL CAMINO REAL AND WELLS AVENUE KNOWN AS 675-695 E1 CAMINO REAL/WELLS AVENUE FROM PC PLANNED COMMUNITY 4465 TO PC PLANNED COMMUNITY The Council of the City of Palo Alto does ORDAIN as follows: SECTION I. Section 18.08.040 of.the Palo Alto Municipal Code, (the Zoning Map), is hereby amended by changing the zoning of certain property at the intersection of E1 Camino Real and Wells Avenue from PC Planned Community 4465 to PC Planned Community The subject property, consisting of approximately 1.27 acres, is shown on the map labeled Exhibit "A" attached to this ordinance and made a part of it. SECTION 2. The City Council hereby finds that: (a) The City Council adopted Ordinance No. 4465 establishinq PC-4465 on December i, 1997. The principal use authorized was a five story hotel and associated parkinq. Telecommunications facilities.were not a permitted use. (b) The Planninq Commission, after a duly noticed public hearinqs held December 13, 2000 has recommended that Section 18.08.040 (the Zoning Map) of the Palo Alto Municipal Code be amended to permit telecommunications facilities on the subject property. (c) The proposed amendment is in the public interest and will promote the public health, safety and welfare, as hereinafter set forth. (d) Modification of the existinq PC Planned Community 4465 District to permit buildinq-mounted telecommunications facilities on the site is consistent with the Palo Alto Comprehensive Plan and is compatible with existing and potential use on adjoininq sites and in the general vicinity. In particular: (i) Establishment of building-mounted telecommuni- cation facilities in developments such as the Westin Hotel is supported by the followinq Comprehensive Plan Policies: 010122 syn 0090741 a. Business and Economics Policy B-13: Support the development of technologically-advanced communications infrastructure and other improvements that will facilitate the growth of emerginq telecommunications industries. b. Business and Economics Policy B-14: Work with electronic information network providers to maximize potential benefits for Palo Alto businesses, schools, residences, and other potential users. (ii) Building-mounted telecommunications facilities are a conditionally permitted use in City zoning districts. Palo Alto Square has buildings suitable for telecommunications facilities. (e) The site is so situated, and the use or uses proposed for the site are of such characteristics that’the application of general dist~ricts or combining districts will not provide sufficient flexibility to allow the proposed development. The majority of building-mounted telecommunication facilities must be placed at a heiqht siqnificantly above surroundin~ development in order to function properly. This often requires that such facilities be on the taller buildings in the City. The five-story Westin Hotel is one such buildinq. (f) Development of the-site under the provisions of the PC planned community district will result in public benefits not otherwise attainable by application of the regulations of qeneral districts or combininq districts. The subject site is already developed in accordance with the existing PC Zoning District standards and the proposed inclusion of telecommunications facilities as a permitted use will not materially alter the physical or aesthetic appearance of the site. Moreover, the provision of on-site telecommunications facilities will result in a benefit to the public through improved and more wide ranging wireless communication services. (q) The use or uses permitted, and the site development requlations applicable within the district are consistent with the Palo Alto comprehensive plan, and are compatible with existin~ and potential uses on adjoining sites or within the general vicinity. Comprehensive Plan Policies B-13 and B-14 promote the establishment of technologically advanced telecommunications infrastructure that will benefit the City’s residents, schools, and businesses. Permitting buildinq-mounted telecommunication facilities at the subject site is consistent with these Comprehensive Plan Policies. On this site, the antenna can be effectively screened from public view and is compatible with surrounding land uses. 010122 syn 0090741 2 SECTION 3. The Council has reviewed and considered the proposed Negative Declaration, including the initial study, prepared for this project, on file with the Department of Planning and Community Environment, together with the comments received during the public review period. The City Council finds, on the basis of the whole .record, that there is no substantial evidence that the.project will have a significant effect on the environment. The City Council further finds that the negative declaration reflects the independent judgement of the City. The Negative Declaration is hereby adopted. SECTION 4. In initially approving Ordinance No. 4465, the City Council found that: (a) The site is so situated, and the uses and improvements proposed for the subject property are of such characteristics that the application of general districts or combining districts will not provide sufficient flexibility to allow the proposed development, in that neither the existing CS zoning, nor any other commercial zoning district, would accommodate the size of the proposed project. The limitations on floor area, floor area ratio, and height which are .applicable in the conventional commercial zoning districts would not allow the development of this hotel project consisting of a floor area of 127,019 square feet and including buildings fifty feet in height. (b) Development of the site under the provisions of the PC Planned Community District will result in public benefits not otherwise attainable by application of general districts or combining districts, as follows: (i)The project will provide a five (5) foot. wide right-of-way dedication along the 354-foot long Wells Avenue frontage, which will allow construction of a sidewalk where none currently exists. The new sidewalk to be constructed in the new public right-of-way matches that to be constructed across the street along the Palo Alto Medical Foundation project frontage and will serve the public. (ii) The project includes a program to provide meeting space for up to i00 persons without charge to nonprofit groups, once per month through the year 2001. (iii) The project wi!l contribute $150,000 to the pedestrian crossing proposed to be constructed between Downtown and the Urban Lane Extension area, or to pedestrian-serving improvements in the vicinity if the crossing is not built. 010122 syn 0090741 (iv) Public art, as approved by the Public Art Commission and the Architectural Review Board, will be integrated into the project. (v)The project will contribute $20,000 for improvements to the existing pedestrian tunnel on the south side of University Avenue. (c) The uses permitted and the site development regulations applicable within the district are consistent with the Palo Alto Comprehensive Plan, and with the uses which presently exist in the surrounding neighborhood. Specifically, the project would be consistent with the following Comprehensive Plan policies and programs: (i) Urban Design Element Policy #3: "Promote visual aesthetics through tree planting, landscaped areas and removal of visually disruptive elements on major City streets." This project provides a row of street trees along E1 Camino Real and Wells Avenue and landscaping along both frontages. The proposed landscaping and public art proposals will enhance the appearance of the existing site from E1 Camino Real and Wells Avenue. (ii) Urban Design Element, Objective, page 42, "Promote the orderly and harmonious development of the City and the attainment of the most desirable land use and improvements through the review of new development." The site is designated Service Commercial and is well suited for this use. The site is surrounded by similar and compatible commercial, office and hotel uses in the vicinity. (iii) Urban Design Element, Objective, p.42: "Promote visual environments which are of high aesthetic quality and variety and considerate of each other." The proposed hotel features high quality materials and attractive landscaping and ~he building is architecturally compatible with the adjacent Holiday Inn and PAMF facility. Proposed street trees and perimeter landscaping are designed at a human scale that is visually attractive to pedestrians. Section 5.Those certain plans entitled "Palo Alto Holiday Inn Expansion, 675 E1 Camino Real, Palo Alto, CA" prepared by Sandy & Babcok International, dated April 21, 1997 and approved by the Architectural Review Board on August 21, 1997,copy on file in the Planning Division office, and to which copy reference is 010122 syn 0090741 hereby made, were previously approved as the Development Plan for the subject property, pursuant to Palo Alto Municipal Code Section 18.68.120. Those plans, as supplemented by those certain plans entitled "Specialized Mobile Radio Facility, Site Number CA-2150E," dated August 8, 2000, prepared by Nazari Associates Architects and approved by City Staff on December 7, 2000, a copy of which is on file with the Planning Division of the City, is made a part of this ordinance by this reference. Said Development Plan is approved pursuant to Section 18.68.070 of the Palo Alto Municipal Code subject to the following conditions: to: (a)Permitted Uses.The permitted uses shall be limited (i) a hotel and ancillary uses incidental thereto, including approximately 127,019 square feet of hotel rooms, meeting rooms, restaurant, office and ancillary space; and approximately 97,646 square feet of underground automobile parking for a total of approximately 224,665 square feet; and (ii) building-mounted telecommunications facilities provided that the proposed facility is approved by the Director of Planninq and Community Environment after desiqn review. (b) allowed. Conditional Uses.No conditional uses shall be (c) Site Development Requlations. All improvements and development shall be substantially in accordance with the approved Development Plan and the Conditions of Project Approval adopted by the Council in conjunction with approval of this ordinance. The following are site development regulations which establish rules for modifications or additions to any 5uilding, accessory structure or landscaping on the subject property. Definitions of terms used shall be in accordance with Chapter 18.04 (Definitions) of Title 18 (Zoning) of the Palo Alto Municipal Code. (i) Final plans, including materials and colors, complete lighting and photometric plans, detailed landscaping and irrigation plans encompassing on- and off-site plantable areas, and signs shall be reviewed and approved by the Architectural Review Board ("ARB") prior to issuance of building permits. All utility meters, lines, transformers, backflow preventers, electric panel switchboards, and any other required utilities shall be shown on the final plans and shal! show that no conflict will occur between 010122 syn 0090741 5 the utilities and landscape materials and shall be screened in a manner which respect the building design and setback requirements. (ii) Any other exterior changes to thebuildings or any new construction not specifically permitted by the Development Plan or by these site development regulations shall require an amendment to this Planned Community Zone or, if eligible, approval under Chapter 18.99 of the Municipal Code. (iii) The approved Development Plan permits some tree removal and requires the preservation and protection of certain trees within the development. No future development or improvement proposed forthe subject property following initial construction authorized by Architectural Review Approval shall result in the removal or destruction of trees without the approval of the City of Palo Alto in accordance with applicable procedures. (d) Parkinq_and Loading Requirements. The parking for the subject property shall be in accordance with the Development Plan. (e)Special Conditions. (i) Right’ of Way Dedication. The project includes dedication to the City of a five foot wide right of way along the project’s entire Wells Avenue frontage. The site plan for the project shall show this area to be dedicated and the dedication shall be completed prior to issuance of the first building permit. (ii) Public Art. This project was approved in part on the basis that it will incorporate original art facing E1 Camino Real, visible to the public, as a public benefit of the project. The applicant’s public art proposal must be submitted to and approved by the Public Art Con~nission, applying the standards set forth in PAMC 2.26.040, and by the Architectural Review Board prior to issuance of the first building permit for the project, and shall be fully installed prior to the date of initial occupancy of the project. (iii) Pedestrian Improvements. This project was approved in part on the basis that it will provide One Hundred Fifty Thousand Dollars ($150,000) toward construction of a pedestrian crossing proposed to link Downtown with the Wells Avenue/Urban Lane area. Prior to issuance of a building permit, an agreement in a form satisfactory to the City Attorney shall be executed and recorded to provide for payment of this sum at such time as the tunnel project is approved. The agreement shall 010122 syn 0090741 6 further provide for the use of this sum by City for other pedestrian-serving improvements in the vicinity of the Urban Lane area, in the event that a new pedestrian crossing is not approved. (iv) Meeting Space. This project was approved in part on the basis that it will provide to non-profit organizations, on a monthly basis, meeting space accommodating up to I00 people through the year 2021. Prior to issuance of a building permit, an agreement in a form satisfactory to the City Attorney shall be executed and recorded, guaranteeing the provision of the space and specifying the manner in which the space will be made available. (f) Development Schedule. Construction of the project, exclusive of telecommunication facilities, shall commence on or before July i, 1998, and shall be completed and ready for occupancy on or before December 31, 1999. SECTION 5. This ordinance shall be effective on the thirty-first day after the date of its adoption. INTRODUCED: PASSED: AYES: NOES: ABSTENTIONS: ABSENT: ATTEST:APPROVED: City Clerk APPROVED AS TO FORM: Senior Asst. City Attorney Mayor City Manager Director of Planning and Community Environment 010122 syn 0090741 7 Attachment B PF PC- 3! The City of Palo Alto PLANNING DIVISION s:\Plan\Pladiv\GIS\Westin.ai File No: 00-PC-03, 00-ARB-128 Proposed Action: Amend existing PC zone to allow telecommunications facilities. This map is a product of the City of Palo Alto GIS Attachment C PLANNING DIVISION STAFF REPORT Agenda Date:December: 13, 2000 To:Planning Commission From:Steven Turner,Department:Planning Associate Planner Subject:675 E! Camino Real, Nextel Communications (00-PC-3; 00-ARB- 128): Planned Community (PC) Zoning District and Environmental Impact Assessment applications by Nextel Communications to amend Zoning District PC-4465 to allow building-mounted telecommunications facilities. Nextel Communications’ proposal would allow 12 panel-type antennas, and associated equipment, atop a 5-story, hotel building located at the northeast comer of E1 Camino Real and Wells Avenue. An Architectural Review Board application has been filed for the specific design of the project. A Negative Declaration has. been circulated for this project in accordance with California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines. RECOMMENDATION Staff recommends that the Planning Commission recommend City Council approval of the Planned Community (PC) Zoning District amendment, and Environmental Impact Assessment applications. PROJECT DESCRIPTION The 1.28-acre project site is located at the northeast comer of El Camino Real and Wells Avenue and is the location of the Westin Hotel, a 5-story, 194 room hotel complex and subterranean garage. The site and buildings are owned by Pacific Hotel Development Venture. Immediate adjacent parcels include a hotel to the north, an unoccupied warehouse building to the east, an outpatient care facility to the southand Stanford University lands to the west. The applicant, Nextel Communications, is proposing to construct and operate a wireless S:Plan:Pladiv:PCSR:3000ECRwinstar Page 1 telecommunications facility atop the hotel building at the southwest comer of the roof structure. Since the site’s existing PC zoning does not allow the operation of telecommunications facilities, Nextel has submitted the subject PC zoning amendment application which would add building-mounted telecommunications facilities to the district’s allowable uses. Nextel has also submitted an application for Architectural Review (file number 00-ARB-128) forthe specific design of the project. On March 17, 2000 a Conditional Use Permit was granted to CellularOne for the installation of antennas at 675 El Camino Real in a location adjacent to the proposed Nextel antennas. It has been determined that the addition of cellular antennas and related equipment constitute a new use described as a "telecommunication facility" and the addition of these facilities in PC zones requires .an amendment to the allowed uses in each PC .district. As proposed, Nextel’s facility would consist of 12 panel-type antennas mounted at three locations on the roof. Four antennas will be attached to an existing penthouse parapet, which faces E1 Camino Real. The second set of four antennas will be attached to the north-facing wall of a penthouse containing a stairwell, located at the northwest portion of the roof. The third set of four antennas will be attached to an exterior wall of a new 238 square foot equipment enclosure that will be located at the southwest comer of the roof structure. The antennas measure approximately 48 inches high by 8 inches wide and, when mounted, would project,approximately 12 inches from the face of the penthouse. All antennas would be shielded from view by a fiberglass screen painted and finished to match the existing structure. The facility includes a rooftop equipment shelter, measuring 14 feet by 17 feet (238 square feet). Its height would not exceed that of the existing penthouses. Nextel’s telecommunications facility is designed to provide network wireless services based on Enhanced Special Mobilized Radio technology~ which will provide users with wireless digital and dispatching communications off of one handset, unlike conventional telecommunications infrastructure that solely provides Wireless telephone service. BACKGROUND The Westin Hotel site was rezoned from the "CS" zoning district to the Planned Community Zoning District by Ordinance N.o. 4465 on December 1, 1997. This PC zoning designation has remained in effect since that time. Ordinance No. 4465 enumerates the allowable uses of the site, which include hotel rooms, meeting rooms, restaurant, office and ancillary space and underground parking. As noted, any land use, such as Nextel’s building-mounted telecommunications facility, proposed for the Westin Hotel site not already allowed by the ordinance requires an amendment to the PC Zoning District. POLICY IMPLICATIONS The proposed PC zoning amendment is consistent with the Policies, Programs, and text of the Comprehensive Plan. Policies specifically relevant to the project are noted below: S:PlanlPladivlPCSRI675EI Camino Real.Nextel Page 2 ¯Policy B-13: Support the development of technologically advanced communications infrastructure and other improvements that will facilitate the growth of emerging telecommunications industries. ¯Policy B-14: Work with electronic information network providers to maximize potential benefits for Palo Alto businesses, schools, residences, and other-potential users. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ISSUES Given the technology being used and the range of telecommunications services that Nextel’s facility is designed to provide, the facility must be established at a location that provides considerable height and line-of-sight to client locations. At five stories, the Westin Hotel is a suitable location for the location of telecommunications facilities. The key issue in locating any type of equipment atop a prominent structure is the visual appearance of such equipment. As proposed, all of the Nextel antennas would be hidden behind a fiberglass screen that ?matches the building and penthouses. The proposed equipment enclosure is set back from the edge of the roof in order to minimize the visual impacts. The enclosure will be similar to the existing penthouses in size, height and detail. While the addition of the new telecommunications equipment will alter the building’s appearance, it will not constitute a major physical change and the telecommunications use itself is largely an ancillary one to those primarily undertaken on the site. The installation of telecommunication facilities at this site, in the manner, allowed by th’~ proposed ordinance, is a public benefit. Public benefit findings are included in Attachment C. TIMELINE Prior to this Planning¯ Commission hearing, a staff level architectural review of the antennas, screens and equipment enclosure was completed and approved on December 7, 2000. The approval letter with conditions is included in this report as Attachment D. No further¯ review by the Planning Commission will be required. City Council is tentatively scheduled to make a final determination on this project on January 16, 2001 ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW As part of the Environmental Impact Assessment application submitted for this project, an Initial Study was prepared and a Negative Declaration was issued in accordance with CEQA Guidelines. A Negative Declaration was circulated for public review on November 22, 2000. The public review period for the Negative Declaration closed on December 13, 2000. PUBLIC NOTICE Public notice of this project was provided by publication of the agenda in a local newspaper ’ofgeneral circulation and via mailed notifications to surrounding property owners and S:PlanlPladivtpCSRI675EI Camino Real.Nextel Page 3 occupants within 300 feet of the site. ATTACHMENTS Attachment A: Proposed Ordinance amending Ordinance No. 4465 Attachment B: Location Map Attachment C: Public Benefit Findings Attachment D: Architectural Review Approval Letter Attachment E: Environmental Impact Assessment/Initial Study Attachment F: Project Description Letter Project plans (Planning Commissioners only) prepared By:Steven Turner, Associate Planner Manager Review: John Lusardi, Current Planning Manager DEPARTMENT/DIVISION HEAD APPROVAL: LISA GROTE Chief Planning Official S:PlanlPIadiv[PCSRI675EI Camino ReaI.Nextel Page 4 December 7, 2000 Department o[ Planning ahd Community Environment Dan Alterwein Nextel Communications 1255 Treet Boulevard, Suite 800 Walnut Creek, CA 94596 Subject:675 El Camino Real, 00-ARB-128, 00-PC-03 Dear Mr. Alterwein: On Thursday, December 7, 2000, the Architectural Review Board application Planning ~ivlsio~)0_ARB. 128 for the project referenced below was conditionally approved by planning staff pursuant to the Palo Alto Municipal Code (PAMC) Section 16.48.050(h)(1), as follows: PROS .CTi Application by Nextel Communications for installation of twelve panel-type antennas and related fiberglass screening on the exterio.r walls of penthouse enclosures and construction of a 238 square foot equipment room on the roof of the existing building (Westin Hotel). FINDINGS FOR APPROVAL: 1. The apl~roval is based upon the finding that the proposed equipment will be screened from public view in accordance with design guidelines adopted by the Architectural Review Board. 2.The approval of this project shall be subject to the following conditions: CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL: 1.- Installation of the antennas, screening and equipment room are subject to Planning and Transportation Commission recommendation and City Council approval of the ordinance to amend the existing Planned Community ordinance No. 4465 to allow telecommunications facilities at this location. Permits will not be granted until.the amended ordinance becomes final after City Council approval. 2. ¯ Fiberglass equipment screens to be installed shall match the colors and textures of the exiting faqade uponwhich the screen will be attached. Construction of the screen shall be accomplished in such a way that will minimize the appearance of the screen form the public right-of-way. Planning Division staff prior to the issuance of any permits shall review.colors, materials, and construction drawings. 3.The mechanical and equipment room shall be constructed with materials that roach the existing penthouses on the roof. Materials to match include, but ~re not limited to, the tile roof, exterior walls, fascias, and paint colors. 250 Hamilton Avenue P.O. Box 10250 Palo Alto, CA 94303 650.329.2441 650.329.2154 fax An appeal of this staff ARB decision may be filed in writing with the City Clerk within __four working days of the date of the staff ARB d~cision. .-. Should you have any questionsregarding this ARB action, please do not hesitate to call the Plarming Division at (650) 329-2155. Sincerely, Steven Turner Associate Planner Palo Alto Hotel Development Venture, 83 i Montgomery Street, San Francisco, CA 94133 Nextei C~ommunications 1255 Treat Boulevard, Suite 800, Walnut Creek CA 94596 NEXTEE Proposed Wireless Telecommunications Facility 675 El Camino Real Palo Alto, CA 94301 APN#: 120-32-033 Nextel Site: CA-2150E, Downtown Palo Alto August 3 I, 2000 City of Pale Alto Department of Planning and Community Environment 250 Hamilton Avenue Pale Alto, CA 94301 Dear Planning Division Officials, Pursuant with the zoning ordinances and requirements of the City of Pale Alto, the Westin Hotel and Nextel Communications, Inc., propose to construct an unmanned, wireless telecommunications facility at 675 E1 Camino Real Pal0 Alto, CA 94301. This proposal is the result of an extensive candidate search aimed at selecting a site to provide maximum coverage and optimal service to the customers of Nextel within the City of Pale Alto. The proposed Nextel wireless communications facility consists of an equipment shelter and three sectors of antennas that contain up to four antennas per sector. Two sectors of these antennas are to be placed on two separate penthousesthat are located on the west and no~dawest sides of the rooftop the building. These sectors are to be completely screened to match the original architecture of the building. The third sector of antennas is to be placed with.in the proposed Nextel equipment shelter that is to be located on the southwest side of the. roof. In addition, the proposed Nextel equipment shelter is to be designed to match the existing architecture of the building. Please view the enclosed photo-simulations and zoning drawings for an illustration. The proposed site, incorporating the above mentioned design, resultsin a nominal visual impact that does not alter the aesthetic character of the building or that of the City of Palb Alto, while providing the general public with access to a wireless communications service. -Furthermore, since Cellular One is pre-existing on the rooftop of the building, where Nextel is proposing the above-mentioned project, this is a co-location site. Nextel Communications utiliz.es an exclusive Enhanced Special Mobilized I~dio (I~SiVIK) technology and is authorized by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to construct and operate the first multi- purpose digital ESlvI~ system in the United States. This technology differs from other cellular communications carders because the service provided by Nextel offers both wireless digital and dispatching communications off of one handset. This allows one person to talk to an entire group, while providing private cellular phone access. In addition, Nextel Communications is able to offer service to local police, ftre, and other emergency public service agencies. Sincerely, Dan Altenvein Zoning Project Manager Nextel Communications Attachment D DRAFT EXCERPT VERBATIM MINUTES PLANNING AND TRANSPORTATION COMMISSION NEW BUSINESS. Public Hearings. 675 El Camino Real (00-PC-03; 00ARB-128)*: Application by Nextel Communications for a telecommunications.facility consisting of twelve roof mounted antennas and an associated equipment room located on the roof of an existing commercial hotel building. Environmental Assessment: An initial study has been completed and a Negative Declaration has been prepared in accordance with California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) requirements. Zoning District: (PC-4465). Ms. Grote: Thank you Chair Bialson and Commissioners. This is an application for an amendment to an existing Planned Community Zone at 675 E1 Camino Real which isthe Westin Hotel. The reason for the amendment is to allow 12 antennas that are considered utility facilities to be located on the penthouse of the existing hotel. A utility facility is a use in and of itself. It was not a use that was identified in the Planned Community Zone originally. It is a use that we believe is consistent with the zone and the surrounding zones and we are recommending approval of the amendment to the Planned Community Zone. As with a previous similar application at Palo Alto Square we are recommending that the use itself be considered a public benefit because it is specifically mentioned as a desirable use in the Comprehensive Plan and the building itself is particularly well suited for this type of use. So there are very few locations or fewer locations’that this type of use could be located and this is a particularly good one for that. So with that I would like to introduce Steven Turner. He is the project planner for the application and I believe it is the first item he has appeared before you. We are both here to answer questions should you have them. That concludes the Staff report. Chairman Bialson: Thank you and welcome. Do we have any questions from Commissioners or do we want to have applicants speak first. Let’s let the applicant speak. I have a card here from Dan Alterwein. You will have 15 minutes. Mr. Dan Alterwein, 1255 Treat Boulevard, Suite 800, Walnut Creek: Good evening. Irepresent Nextel Communications and the Westin Hotel. This project is designed to provide in-building coverage, in-car coverage and on-street coverage for the customers of Nextel Communications in the City of Palo Alto. It is the result of an extensive search within Palo Alto along E1 Camino Real. We’ve come up with a design that we believe has a nominal if any negative visual effect at all. We’ve been able to incorporate three sectors of four antennas as seen on the drawings that are to be completely screened behind screening that is to match architecturally with the building on the north wall and on the west wall. Then we’re to put in an equipment shelter on the roof as well that is to match the architecture as well and will have antennas hidden in that too. That will basically cover the south portion of E1 Camino Real. Chairman Bialson: Thank you. Any questions, Commissioners? Kathy. Commissioner Schmidt: A small question about the fiberglass screen that are going to be in front of these antennas. The enhanced photographs here look exactly like the pre-photographs. I’m wondering how the fiberglass would actually look with the existing building materials. Mr. Alterwein: It looks quite similar if not exactly. We have a construction team that works on that. We have done this before in other cities. It is expensive but we think it is well worth it and it comes out integrated into the design. Commissioner Schmidt: Thank you.. Chairman Bialson: Any other Commissioners? Owen. Commissioner Byrd: My question is for Staff. It concerns the existing Cellular One antennas. I’m confused. The Staff report says that a conditional use permit was issued for their installation. Why wasn’t a PC amendment needed for Cellular One? Ms. Grote: That, unfortunately, was a mistakenly issued conditional use permit that should have been a PC amendment. When the application was submitted the zoning map that was referenced had not been updated so the old CS Zone still showed on the zoning map. In a CS Zone utility facilities require a conditional use permit. So that’s the process that was used to review and ultimately approve those antennas. When this applicant came forward the zoning map had been updated with the correct PC on the map. That’s when it became apparent that it should have been a PC amendment for the first set of applications. Chairman Bialson: Bonnie. Commissioner Packer: The first question that I have is to make sure that I don’t have any conflict of interest. Our family owns a little bit of stock in SBC Communications and [Votaphone]. Do you know ifNextel has any connections with either of those two companies and any of their affiliates? !, myself, checked the 10K and I didn’t find any but I just want to be sure. Mr. Alterwein: I’m sorry I am not versed in that. I couldn’t answer you either way. Commissioner Packer: Okay, well I am just going to assume that I do not have a conflict and proceed because my little bit of research didn’t show anything like that but I wanted to make sure. My second question is for Staff. Perhaps I just need a little clarifications. When you modify the PC Ordinance in 5A2, the new language that you want to add to allow building mounted telecommunications facilities. In the future, if another applicant or Nextel or whomever, wants to add some more of these telecommunications facilities what would the process be and how could we be sure that it isn’t going to be something huge or something that doesn’t have the criteria that we’re seeing in this application? Ms. Grote: That application would be processed through an architectural review. It may be at Staff level or it might be at Board level depending on the extent of the application. But because it would become a permitted use it would then be subject to architectural review. So that’s where we would look for compatibility with the existing structure, compatibility with the use and type of facility that is now referenced or would then be referenced in the ordinance. So it would be subject to an architectural review.- Chairman Bialson: Any other questions from Commissioners? Commissioner Cassel: I have a question for Staff. Are we questioning the applicant at this time? Chairman Bialson: As well, yes. Commissioner Cassel: Did I misunderstand? Is there not an additional equipment buildingbeing put on top for this? Mr. Alterwein: Yes, there is. That would be on the southern elevation. It should show it right there. Commissioner Cassel: Okay, that’s what I thought. So my question of Staff is this building had an exception for its height and then a certain amount of equipment was placed on top and there is a coverage for that. What is the maximum coverage we’re allowed to put in utility buildings on top of the roof that already exists? This is another building and that’s my concern. Ms. Grote: There isn’t a standard for percentage of rooftop that can be covered with mechanical equipment. As long at it is screened from sight we have accepted varying percentages of mechanical equipment on the tops of roofs. It generally runs between 25% to 30%. Sometimes with particularly heavy users they need to have maybe up to 50% of their rooftop covered with mechanical equipment but that is fairly rare. It is usually more around 25% to 35% of the’rooftop covered. Commissioner Cassel: Then what percentage of this is going to be covered? What we are doing is adding a business on top. So when people say we have a height limit they expect some height limit to be there. Now we are talking about additional buildings, essentially a building for another business, on top. of the building. Ms. Grote: We still have the 50 foot height limit which the main building adheres to in the Planned Community Zone. Then we have a general regulation that allows mechanical equipment, antennas and other kinds of appurtenances to extend 15 feet above the 50 foot height limit. So that would be 65 feet. These antennas do not extend up to that 65 foot point and in fact don’t extend beyond the existing penthouse. Commissioner Cassel: I’m not concerned about the height of the antennas because they are on the building. I was concerned about the fact that we are adding essentially another structure on top. Ms. Grote: That structure still would be within the 15 feet allowed over the 50 foot maximum height limit. So it is still within the regulations. Commissioner Cassel: And the percentage you cover on top of that roof?. Ms. Grote: We can check thatl We don’t have that number. We can verify it. Chairman Bialson: Anyone else? Thank you. I’ll take this back to the Commission now. Any discussion or comments by Commissioners? Does anybody want to make a motion? Commissioner Cassel: I just had that one concern that I am expressing. That is, how much of the rooftop that’s visible from the street are we putting mechanical equipment on? It is the antennas themselves because we’ve done this before and they are clearly not going to show. But here is now essentially another structure on top. I just wondered if any other people were feeling a problem with that with people so excited and concerned about height limits. Chairman Bialson: Pat. Commissioner Burr: I do share some concern but I’m not sure from what Staff has described of the current zoning regulations we have a great deal of latitude. I’d be interested, Phyllis, if you had some basis for why this is not conforming. Otherwise it seems like it might be an issue that we would want to discuss under the zoning ordinance update. Commissioner Cassel: That’s okay, I’m just expressing some concem and didn’t know if anyone else was concerned about it. Chairman Bialson: Owen. MOTION Commissioner Byrd: I’d like to move that the Commission recommend to City Council approval of the Planned Community Zoning District amendment and the Environmental Impact Assessment’ applications for this applicatio.n. Chairman Bialson: Any second? SECOND Commissioner Schmidt: I’ll second it. Chairman Bialson: Thank you, Kathy. Any discussion? Ready for the vote? MOTION PASSED Chairman Bialson: All those in favor say aye. (ayes) All those against? That motion carries with all Commissioners in attendance voting aye. Thank you very much. We will now go on to item number two. Commissioner Schmidt: When does that. go to Council? Ms. Grote: This is scheduled to go to Council on January 161 2001. Attachment E ENVIRONMENTAL CHECKLIST FORM City of Palo Alto Department of Planning and Community Environment = = 10. 11. Project Title:Next~l Communications Wireless Communications Facility Lead Agency Name and Address:City of Palo Alto- Planning Division 250 Hamilton Avenue Palo. Alto, CA 94301 Contact Person and Phone Number: Project Location: Application Number(s): Project Sponsor’s Name and Address: Steven Turner, Associate Planner (650) 329-2155 675 El Camino Real 00-PC-05, 00-ARB-i 28 Dan Alterwein Nextel Communications ’ 1255 Treet Blvd., Suite 800 Walnut Creek, CA 94596 General Plan Designation: Zoning: Service Commercial ’ Planned Communiiy #4465 Description of the Project: (Describe the whole action involved, including but not limited to later phases of .the project, and any secondary, support, or off-site features necessary for its implementation. (Attach additional sheets if necessary) Planned Community Zone change to allow telecommunications facitities and installation of twelve panel-type antennas on a penthouse and a new equipment room of an existin.g multi-story hotel ¯ building, and related equipment and screening. The. wireless telecommunications facility would be ¯ operated by Nextel Communications. Surrounding Land Uses, and Setting: (Briefly describe the project’s surroundings) The subject property is located at the northeast corner of El Camino Real and Wells Avenue, Palo Alto. The proposed antennas would be attached to an existing penthouse and a new 238 square foot equipment room, located on the roof of the hotel building, immediate adjacent parcels include a hotel to the north, an unoccupied warehouse building to the east, a n outpatient care facility to the south and Stanford University lands to the west.. Other public agencies whose approval is required (e.g. permits, financing approval, or participation agreement). Federal Communications C~mmission (FCC) S:\PLAN\PLADIV~EIA\675ECR-Wireless Communication.doc Page 1 of 16 ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS POTENTIALLY AFFECTED: The environmental factors checked below would, be potentially affected by this project, involving.at least one impact that is a "potentially Significant Impact" as indicated by the checklist on the following pages. Aesthetics Agriculture Resources Air Quality Biological Resoumes Cultural Resources Geo. Iogy/Soils Hazards & Hazardous Materials -Hydrology/Water Quality Land Use/Planning Mineral Resources Noise Pppulation/Housing Public Services Recreation X Transportation/]:raftic Utilities/Service Systems Mandatory Findings of Significance None DETERMINATION: (TO be completed by the Lead Agency). On the basis of this initial evaluation: I ~ind that the proposed project COULD NOT have a significant effect on the environment, and a NEGATIVE DECLARATION will be prepared. find that although the proposed project could have a significant effect on the environment, there will not be a significant effect in this case because revisions in the project have been made by or agreed to by the project proponent. A MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION will .be prepared. I find that the proposed project MAY have a significant effect on the environment, and an ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT is required. I find that the proposed project MAY have a "potentially significant impact" or "potentially significant unless mitigated" impact on the environment, but at least one effect: 1) has been adequately analyzed in an earlier document pursuant to applicable legal standards, and 2) has been addressed by mitigation measures based on the earlier analysis as described on attached sheets. An ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT is required, but it must analyze only the effects that remain to be addressed. I find that although the proposed project could have a significant effect on the environment, because all potentially significant effects (a) have been analyzed adequately in an earlier EIR or NEGATIVE DECLARATION pursuant to applicable standards, and (b) have been avoided or mitigated.pursuant to that earlier EIR or NEGATIVE DECLARATION, including revisions or miti_o.a~:m measures that are imposed upon the proposed project, nothing further is required. Directo~ of Plan~in~and Community Environment Date Date X S:\PLAN\PLADIV\EIA\675ECR-Wireless Communication,doc Page 2 .of 16 EVALUATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS; 1)A brief explanation is required for all answers except "No Impact" answers that are adequately supported by the information sources a lead agency cites in the parentheses.following each question. A "No Impact" answe~ is adequately supported if the referenced information sources show th~. the impact simply does not apply toprojects like the one involved (e. g. the project falls outside a rupture zone). A "No Impact" answer should be explained where it is based on project-specific factors as well as general standards (e. g. the project will not expose sensitive receptors to pollutants, based on a project-specific screening analysis). 2) All answers must take account of the whole action involved, including off-site as weli as on-site, . cumulative as well as project-level, indirect as well as direct, and construction as well as operational impacts. 3).Once the lead agency has determined that a particular physical impact may occur, then the checklist answers must indicate whether the impact is potentially significant, less than significant, with mitigation, or less than significant. :Potentially Significant Impact" is appropriate if there is substantial evidence that an effect may be significant. If there are one or more "Potentially Significant Impact" entries when the determination is made, an EIR is required. 4) 5) "Negative Declaration: Less Than Significant With Mitigation Incorporated" applies where the incorporation of mitigation measures has reduced an effect from "Potentially Significant Impact" to a "Less than Significant Impact.~ The lead agency must descdbe the mitigation measures, and briefly explain how they reduce the effect to a less than significant level (mitigation measures from Section 17, "Earlier AnalYsis," may be cross-referenced). Earlier analysis may be used where, pursuant to the tiering, program EIR, or other CEQA process, an effect has been adequately analyzed in an earlier EIR or negative declaration. Section 15063 (C) (3) (D). In this case, a brief discussion should identify the following:i a) Earlier Analysis Used. Identify and state where they are available for review. b) Impacts Adequately Addressed. Identify which effects.from the above checklist were within the scope of and adequately analyzed in an earlier document pursuant to applicable legal standards, and state whether such effects were addressed by mitigation measures based on the earlier analysis. c) Mitigation Measures. For effects that are "Less than Significant with Mitigation Measures Incorporated," describe the mitigation measures which were incorporated or. refined from the earlier document and the extent to which they address site-specific conditions for the project. 6)Lead agencies are encouraged to incorporate into the checklist references to information sources for potential impacts (e.g. general plans, zoning ordinances). Reference to a previously prepared or outside document should, where appropriate, include a reference to the page or pages where the statement is substantiated. 7)Supporting Information Sources: A ’source list should be attached, and other sources used or individuals contacted should be cited in the discussion. ¯ 8) This is only a suggested form, and lead agencies are free to use different formats; however, lead -agencies should normally address the questions from this checklist that are relevant to a project’s environmental effects in whatever format is selected. 9) The explanation of each issue sl~ould identify: a) the significance criteria or threshold, if any, used to evaluate each question; and " b) the mitigation measure identified, if any, to reduce the impact to less than significance. S:\PLAN\PLADIV~EIA\675ECR-Wireless Communication.doc Page 3 of 16 Issues and Supporting Information Resources Soul’ces Potentially Potentially / Less Than No Significant Significant Significant Impact issues Unless Impact Mitigation incorporated I.AESTHETICS. Would the project: a)Have a substantial adverse effect.on a scenic vista? Substantiatly damage scenic resources, including, but not limited to, trees, rock outcroppings, and historic buildings within a state scenic highway? c) Substantially degrade the existing .visual character or quality of the site and its surroundings? d) Create a new source of substantial I1. b) c) III. a) a) 1,7 X X X Xlightor glare which would adversely t ,7 ’ affect day or nighttime views in the area? ¯ AGRICULTURE RESOURCES. In determining whether impacts to agricultural resources are ~ignificant environmental effects, lead agencies may refer to the California Agricultural Larid Evaluation and Site Assessment Model (1997) prepared by the California Dept. of Conservation as an optional model to use in assessing impacts on agriculture and farmland. Would’the project: Convert Prime Farmland, Unique I Farmland, or Farmland of Statewide Importance (Farmland), as shown on the maps prepared pursuant to the ~1 X Farmland Mapping and Monitoring Program of the California Resources to ;ricultural use? Conflict.with existing zoning for agricultural use., or a Williamso.n Act t ,2 X contract? Involve otherchanges in the existing environment which, due to their ’1,2,3 Xlocation or nature, could result in (L-9)conversion of Farmland, to non- agricultural use? ¯ I AIR QUALITY, Where available, the significance criteria established by the applicable air quality management or air pollution control district may be relied upon to make the.following determinations. Would the project: X X1,2 Conflict with or obstruct implementation of the applicable air )lan? Violate any air quality standard or contribute substantially to an existing iected air quality violation Result in a cumulatively considerable net increase of any criteria pollutant for which the project region is non- attainment under an applicable federal or state ambient air quality standard including releasing emissions which ¯ X S:\p LAN\P LADIV~EIA\67.5 ECR-W]reless Communication.doc Page 4 of 16 Issues and Supporting Information Resources exceed quantitatiw, thresholds for o~_nne precursors)? d) Expose sensitive receptors tosubstantial pollutant concentrations? e) Create objectionable odors affectinga a) b) c) Sources substantial number of people? Potentially I Significant Issues 1 BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES. Would the project: Have a substantial adverse effect, either directly or through habitat modifications, on any species identified as a candidate, sensitive, or special 1,2status species in local or regional ’(N-I)plans, policies, or regulations, or by the California Department of Fish and Game or U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service? Have a substantial adverse effect on any riparian habitat or other sensitive natural community identified in local or 1,2regional plans, policies, regulations or (N-l)by the California Department of Fish and Game or US Fish and Wildlife Service? " Have a substantial adverse effect on ¯ federally protected wetlands as defined by Section 404 of the Clean Water Act 1,2(including, but not limited tol marsh,(N-I)¯ vernal pool, coastal, etc.) through direct removal, filling, hydrological interruption, or other means? d) Interfere substantially with the movement of any native resident or migratory fish br wildlife species or with " t ,2 established native resident or (N-1) migratory wildlife corridors,’or impede the use of native wildlife nurser e) Conflict with any local policies or ordinances protecting biological t,2,4 resources, such as a tree preservation or ordinance? f)Conflict with the provisions of an adopted. Habitat Conservation Plan,1,2Natural Community Conservation Plan,(N-I)or other approved local, regional, or state habitat conservation an? V.CULTURAL RESOURCES, Would the project:. Cause a substantial adverse change in / 1,2/ ¯ the significance of a historical resource (L-7) as defined in 15064.57 . b) Cause a substantial adverse change in t,2 " the significance of an archaeotogical Potentially Significant Unless Mitigation Incorporated Less Than Significant Impact No Impact X X X X X X X X S:\PLAN\P LADiVkEIA\675ECR-Wireless Communication.doc Page 5 of 16 Issues and Supporting Information Resour.ces c) VI. resource pursuant to 15064.5? Directly or indirectly destroy a unique paleontological resource or site or unique geologic feature? Disturb any human remains, including those inter.red outside of formal cemeteries? ; GEOLOGY AND SOILS. Would the Expose people or structures to potential substantial adverse effects, including the risk of loss, injury, or death involving: Rupture of a known earthquake fault, as delineated On the most recent Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zoning Map issued by the State Geologist for the area or based on other substantial evidence of a known fault? Refer to Division of Mines and Geology Special Publication 42. ii) Strong seismic ground shaking? iii)Seismic-related ground failure, including liquefaction? Sources (L-8) 1,2 1,2 Potentially ’ Significant Issues Potentially Significant Unless Mitigation Incorporated ’ect: 6,7 (N-5) b) e) 2,5,7 (N-5, N-8, N-10) 2,5iv) Landslides? Result insubstantial soil erosion or the 1loss of topsoil? Be located on a geologic unit or soil that is unstable, or that would become unstable as a result of the project, and 2,5,7 poten.tially result in on- or off-site (N-5) landslide, lateral spreading, subsidence, liquefaction or Be located on expansive soil, as defined in Table 18-1-B of the Uniform 5,7 Building Code (1994), creating (N-5) substantial risks to life.or Have soils incapable of adequately supporting the use of septic tanks or alternative waste water disposal NA systems where sewers are not available for the disposal of waste ’ Less Than Significant ¯ Impact X X X No Impact X X water?HAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS. Would the project? Create a significant hazard to the / I/public or the environment through the " 1,9 routing transport, use, or disposal of X X S :\P LAN\PLADIV\EIA\675EC R-Wireless Communication.doc Page 6 of 16 Issues and Supporting Information Res o u rces Sources Potentially Potentially Less I ~a~~u Significant Significant Significant Im ~act Issues Unless Impact Mitigation Incorporated h=7=rdous materials? ~)) Create a significant hazard to the public or the environment through " reasonably foreseeable upset and ’1,9accident conditions involving the release of hazardous materials into the environment? c) Emit hazardous emissions or handlehazardous or acutely hazardous 2, ’t 0materials, substances, or waste within (N-9)one-quarter mile of an existing or - proposed school? d) . Be located on a site which is included on a list of hazardous materials sites compiled pursuant to Government .2, 10 Code Section 65962.5 and, as a result (N-9) would it create a significant hazard to ¯the public or the environment? e). For a project located within an airport land use plan or, where such a plan has not been adopted, within two miles of a public airport or public use airport,NA would the project result in a safety hazard for people residing or working in the project area? f)For a project within the vicinity of a private airstrip, would the project result NAin a.safety hazard for people residing or working the project area? g) impair implementation of or physically interfere with an adopted emergency 1,2 response plan Or emergency (N-7) evacuati.on plan? h) Expose people or structures to a significant risk of loss, injury, or death involving wildland fires, including 1,2 where wildlands are adjacent to (N-7) urbanized areas or where residenoes are intermixed with wildlands? VIii. HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY. Would the project:. Violate any water quality standards or 1,2waste discharge requirements? Substantially deplete groundwater supplies or interfere substantially with groundwater recharge such that there would be a net deficit in aquifer volume 1,2 ~r a lowering of the local groundwater (N-2)table level (e.g., the production rate of pre-existing nearby wells would drop to a level which would not support existina land uses or planned uses for - X X X X X X a)¯X b) X S:\p LAN\PLADIV~EIA\675ECR.V~reless C0mmunication.doc Page 7 of 16 Issues and Supporting Information c) d) e) g) h) J) Resources which permits have been granted)? Substantially alter the existing drainage pattern of the site or area, including through the alteration of the course of a stream or river, in a manner which would result in substantial erosion or siltation on- or off-site? Substantially alter the existing drainage pattern of the site or area,. including through the alteration of the course of a stream or river,, orsubstantially increase the rate or amount of surface runoff in a manner which would result in flooding on- or off-site? Create or contribute runoff water which would exceed the capacity of existing or planned stormwater drainage systems or provide substantial. additional sources of polluted runoff? Otherwise substantially degrade water quality? Place housing within a 100-year flood hazard area as mapped on a federal Flood Hazard Boundary or Flood Insurance Rate Map or other flood hazard delineation map? Place within a 100-year flood hazard area structures which would impede or redirect flood flows? Expose people or structures to a significant risk of loss, injury or death involve flooding, including flooding as a result of the failure of a levee or dam? LX. a) . Physically divide an established community? b) Conflict with any applicable land use plan, policy, or regulation of an agency with jurisdiction over the project (including, but not limited to the general plan, specific plan, local coastal program, or zoning ordinance) adopted for the purpose of avoiding or mitigating an environmental effect? c) Conflict with any applicable habitat conservation plan or natural. Sources Potentially Significant Issues 1,2 (N-2) t,2 t,2 1,2 NA 1,11 (N-6) Significant Unless Mitigation Less Than Significant Impact X No npact X X X X 2,7 (N-8) Inundation by seiche, tsunami, or t,2 mudflow?(N-6) LAND USE AND PLANNING. Would the project: X X X 1,2 X 1,2,3 X X S:\PLAN\PLADIV~EIA\675ECR-Wireless Communication.doc Page 8 of 16 Issues and Supporting Information Resources b) XI. b) -c) d) e) XlI. Sources Potentially Significant ssues community conservation plan? MINERAL RESOURCES. Would the project: Result in the loss of availability of a known mineral resource that would be 2of value to the region and the residents of the state? Result in the loss of availability of a ¯ locally-important mineral resource recovery site delineated on a local 2 general plan, specific plan or other land use plan? NOISE. Would the project result in: Exposure of persons to or generation of noise levels in excess of standards 2, 9establish6d in the local general plan or (N-3)noise ordinance, or applicable standards of other agencies? Exposure of persons to or generation of excessive ground borne vibration or 1,9 ground borne noise levers? A substantial permanent increase in ambient noise levels in the project 1,9vicinity above.levels existing without the project? A substantial temporary or periodic increase in ambient noise levels in the 1.,9project vicinity above levels existing without the project? For a project located within an airport land use plan or. where such a plan has not been adopted, would the NA.project expose people residing or working in the project area to excessive noise levels? For a project within the vicinity of a private airstrip, would the project expose people residing or working in NA the project.area to excessive noise levels? POPULATION AND HOUSING. Would the project: Induce substantial population growth in an area, either directly (for example, by proposing new homes and businesses)1or indirectly(for example, through extension of roads or other infrastructure)? b) .Displace substantial numbers of existing housing, necessitating the NAconstruction of replace.ment housing elsewhere? Potentially Significant Unless Mitigation Incorporated Significant Impact Impact X X X X X X X X X X S:\p LAN\PLADIV~EIA\675ECR-Wireless Communication.doc Page 9 of 16 ssues and Supporting Information Resources c)Displace substantial numbers of people, necessitating the construction of replacement housing elsewhere? XlII. PUBLIC SERVICES, a) Would the project result in substantial adverse physical impacts associated with the provision of new or pl~ysically altered governmental facilities, need for new or physically altered governmental facilities, the construction of which could cause significant environmental impacts, in order to maintain acceptable service ratios, response times or other performance objectives for any of the public services; Fire protection? Police protection? Schools? Parks? Other public facilities? XlV. RECREATION a) Would the project increase the use of existing neighborhood and regional parks or other recreational facilities such that substantial physical deterioration of the facility would occur or be.accelerated? b)Does the project include recreational facilities or require the construction or expansion of recreational facilities which might have an adverse physical effect on the environment? XV. TRANSPORTATION/TRAFFIC. a) Cause an increase in traffic which is substantial in relation to the existing traffic load and capacity of the street system (i.e., result in a substantial increase in either the number of vehicle trips, the volume to capacity ratio on roads, or congestion at intersections)? b) Exceed, either individually or cumulatively, a level of service standard established by the county conqestion management agency for Sources NA Potentially Significant Issues 10 t,9 2 2,11 NA Would the project: 1,9 (T-7, T- Potentially Significant Unless Mitigation Incorporated _ess I nan Significant Impagt Impact X X X X x X X X X X S:\p LAN\P LADIV~EIA\675ECR-Wireless Communication.doc Page 10 of 16 Issues and Supporting Information Resources designated roads or highways? Result in change in air traffic patterns, including either an increase in traffic leve.ls or a change in location that results in substantial safety dsks? Substantially increase hazards due to a design feature (e.g., sharp curves or dangerous intersections) or i.ncompatible uses (e.g., farm equipment)? Result in inadequate emergency access? c) d) e) f)g) Result in inadequate parking capacity? Conflict with adopted policies, plans, or programs supporting alternative transportation (e.g., bus turnouts, Sources Potentially Significant issues NA 1,11,t2 1, 10,11, 12 1,3,9 1,2,3 bicycle racks)? XVi. UTILITIES AND SERVICE SYSTEMS. Would the project: 2,9,11’ Potentially Significant Unless Mitigation Incorporated Less i nan Significant Impact Exceed wastewater treatment requirements of the applicable 1,2 Regional Water Quality Control Board? b) Require or result in the construction of new water or wastewater treatment facilities or expansion of existing t ,9facilities, the construction of which could cause significant environmental effects? c) Require or result in the construction of new storm water drainage facilities br expansion of existing facilities, the 1,9 construction of which could cause significant environmental effects? d) Have sufficient water supplies . available to serve the project from existing entitlements and resources, or t,9 are new or expanded entitlements needed? e) Result in a determination by the wastewater treatment provider which serves or may serve the project that it has adequate capacity to serve the 1,9 project’s projected demand in addition to the provider’s existing commitments? f) Be served by a landfill with sufficient permitted capacity to 1,2 accommodate the project’s solid waste disposal needs? a) Comply with federal, state, and local Impact X X X X X X X X .X X X S:\PLAN\P LADIV~EIA\675ECR-Wireless Communication.doc Page 11 of 16 Issues and Supporting Information Resources statutes and regulations related to solid waste? Sources Potentially Significant Issues Potentially Significant Unless Mitigation Incorporated Less i nan Significant Impact Impact XVII. b) c) MANDATORY FINDINGS OF SIGNIFICANCE, Does the project have the potential to degrade the quality of the environment, substantially reduce the habitat of a fish or wildlife species, cause a fish or wildlife population to drop below self- sustaining levels, threaten to eliminate t3a plant or animal commn’unity, reduce the number or restrict the range of a rare or endangered plant or animal or eliminate important examples of the major periods of California history or prehistory? Does the project have impacts that are individually limited, but cumulatively considerable? ("Cumulatively considerable" means that the incremental effects of a projeGt are 13considerable when viewed in connection with the effects of past projects, the effects of other current projects, and the effects of probable future projects)? Does the project have environmental effects which will cause substantial t 3adverse effects on human beings, either directly or indirectly? X X X soURcE REFERENCES: o o 9. 10. 11. "12. 13. Site Visit. Planner knowledge of the project and site Palo Alto comprehensive Plan 1998-2010 and Maps L-7,L-8,L-9, N-l, N-2, N-3, N-5, N-6, N-8, N-10, T-7, T-8 Palo Alto Municipal Code, Title 18-Zoning Ordinaince Palo Alto Municipal Code, Title 8- Trees and Vegetation Required Compliance with the Uniform Building Code (UBC) Standards for Seismic Safety and Winload Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zone Map California Environmental Quality Act Initial Study for 675 El Camino Real, dated August 27; 1997 prepared for the review of the Westin Hotel that Currently occupies the site. Uniform Building Code Information submitted by applicant City of Palo Alto Fire Department written comments on the project City of Palo Alto Public Works Department written comments on the project City of Palo Alto Transportation Division written comments on the. project Answers substantiated through the responses provided in items I-XVI of this checklist. S:\PLAN\PLADIV~EIA\675ECR.W~reless Communication.doc Page 12 of 16 EXPLANATION FOR CHECKLIST RESPONSES: -- Explain choice of impact category. !.Aesthetics I!. III. IV. V= Vl, The applicant has proposed fiberglass panels to screen the antennas from view. The panels will be constructed and painted to match the exterior of the existing surfaces towhich the antennas will be attached. The antennas will not been seen from the public right-of-way due to the screens. The 247 square foot equipment shelter will be constructed to match the existing design; height, color and materials, including roof materials, of the existing penthouses. The shelter will be set back from the roof so that it will have minimal visual impacts from off site areas. Mitigation Measures: None required beyond the features that are proposed. Agricultural Resources The site is not located on agricultural land, nor is the site zoned for agricultural or farmland use, and is not regulated by the Williamson Act. Mitigation Measures: None Required. Air Quality The proposed telecommunications facility will not have a significant impact on air quality. The antennas and equipment will not generate more vehicle trips than the existing hotel, as the facility is unmanned and serviced infrequently (two visits, per month). The projec~t would not result in temporarY dust emissions during installation as no grading is necessary. . . Mitigation Measures: None Required, Biological Resources No endangered or threatened animal, plant, or insect species have been identified on site. No trees or other landscaping will be impacted or changed as a result of the project. Mitigation Measures: None Required. Cultural Resources The site is currently developed with buildings, parking facilities and landscaping. Placing the antennas, screens, and equipment shelter on the roof of the hotel will be the only work required to install the facility. There are no known cultural resources on site. Mitigation Measures: None Required. Geology and Soils The entire state of California is in a seismically active area and the site is located in a seismic risk area, subject to strong ground shaking in the event of an earthquake. Seismic ground failure is possible, but not likely to cause any problems with the facility. S:\PLAN\PLADIV~EIA\675ECR-Wireless Communication.doc Page 13 of 16 VII. VIII, IX. No known faults cross the project site, therefore surface fault rupture at the site is very unlikely. Mitigation Measures: None Required. " Hazards and Hazardous Materials The project will involve the storage of hazardous materials. The applicant has completed a Hazardous Materials Disclosure Checklist. The Fire Department has reviewed the checklist and has required the applicant to provide a list of hazardous materials to be used at the.site, along with a description of the manner and use and storage for each. In addition, the applicant is required to submita Hazardous Materials Business Plan to be approved by the Fire Department before final inspection of the project.. Mitigation Measures: None required beyond what is already required by the a.pplicant. Hydrology and Water Quality The facility will not use any water. The site is not in a special floQd hazard zone. Mitigation Measures: None Required. Land Use Planning The Comprehensive Plan designation for this site is Service commercial. The surrounding land uses include public facilities, educational facilities and lands (Stanford University), hotel uses and a unoccupied warehouse building. The zoning designation is Planned Community, which, if the project is determined to be an acceptable location for telecommunications facilities, could be amended to allow the use. The facility will have little or no impact on residential districts beyond the project site. The proposed use would provide a desirable service to Palo Alto businesses, residents and visitors. Mitigation Measures: None Required. Mineral Resources The facility will not .have an impact on any known mineral resources located on or near the site. Mitigation Measures: None Required. XlI. Noise The applicant is required to comply with the Palo Alto Noise Ordinance, PAMC 9.10. The project site will contain HVAC equipment, which will produce sound of approximately 50 dBa. The units will be directed away from the street and will be located on the roof of the building, which shall minimize any potential noise impacts off the project site. Mitigation Measures: None required beyond the features that are proposed. Population and Housing S:\PLAN\PLADIV~EIA\675ECR-Wireless Comrnunication.doc Page 14 of 16 Xlll. There would not be any changes to housing or population as a rest~lt of the project. Mitigation Measures: None Required. Public Services Fire Th’~ proposed project would not impact fire service to the existing hotel. The site is not located.in a high fire hazard area. Police The site is located within the jurisdiction of the Palo Alto Police Department. The facility would not by itself result in the need for additional service, equipment, or facilities. SchoolsNo direct demand,~or school services would result from the project, as the proposal does not generate an increase in population and residents to Palo AIt.o.. Parks ¯ ~~ ~~ect demand for parks would result from the project, as the proposat does not generate an increase in population and residents to Palo Alto. Other Public Facilities - The project would not result in impacts to other public facilities because the scope of the proposal is small and is to be located on an existing developed property. Mitigation Measures: None Required. XIV. XV. Recreation No direct demand for recreation services would result from the project, as the proposal does not generate an increase in population and residents to Palo Alto. Mitigation Measures: None. Required. Transportation/Traffic The property front on El Camino Real, a four-lane arterial roadand Wells Avenue,. a side street that has a dead-end. Access to the facility will be from a, existing driveway. There will not be a parking or traffic impact as the facility is unmanned and is serviced infrequently. CirculationExisting driveways, access and circulation will be retained as they exist. One to two employees will visit the site twice a month for service and maintenance purposes. A vehicle may be parked on-site during those visits; there is no demand for " additional parking on the site. S:\p LAN\PLADIV~EIA\675ECR-Wireless Comrnunication.doc Page 15 of 16 Mitigation Measures: None Required. Utilities and Service Systems The project would not significantly increase the demand on existing utilities and service systems. Mitigation Measures: None Required. MANDATORY FINDINGS OF SIGNIFICANCE The project proposes twelve panel-type antennas that will be screened, and related equipment that will be contained in a 247 square foot equipment shelter. The project would not have an impact on fish or wildlife habitat, nor would it impact cultural or historic resources. The project would not involve any grading and there would be minimal disturbance to install the antennas, screen and equipment shelter. The use is appropriate for the site and will be of minimal visual impact as the antennas will not be visible. There is nothing in the nature of the proposed develop.ment and property.improvements that wou~d have a substantial adverse effect on human beings or other life or environmental impacts. S:\PLAN\PLADIV~EIA\675ECR-Wireless Cornmunication.doc Page 16 of 16 City of Palo Alto Department of Planning and Community Environment California Environmental Quality Act NEGATIVE DECLARATION I.DESCRIPTION OF PROJECT Date: November 22, 2000 Application Nos.: 00-PC-5, 00-ARB-128 Address of project: 675 E1 Camino Real Assessor’s Parcel No.: 120-32-033 Applicant:Nextel Communications 1255 Treet Blvd., Suite 800 Walnut Creek, CA 94596 Property Owner:Palo Alto Hotel Development Venture 831 Montgomery Street San Franciaco, CA 94133 Project Description and Location: Plarmed Community Zone Change to allow telecommunications facilities and installation .of twelve panel-type antennas on the penthouse arid new equipment room of anexisting multi-story hotel building, along with related equipment, on the roof. The wireless telecommunications. facility would be operated by Nextel Communications. II. DETERMINATION In accordance with the City of Palo Alto’s procedures for compliance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), the City has conducted an Initial Study to determine whether the proposed project located at 675 El Camino Real may have a significant effect on the environment. On the basis of that study, the City. makes the following determination: The proposed project COULD NOT have a significant effect on the environment, and a NEGATIVE DECLARARION is hereby adopted. Although the project, as proposed, could have a significant effect on the environment, there will not be a significant effect on the environment in this case because mitigation measures have been added to the project and, tl~erefore, a MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARAKION is hereby adopted. The attached initial study incorporates all relevant information regarding the potential environmental effects of the project and confirms the determination that an EIR is not required for the project. ¯Attachment F CJ PUBLIC BENEFIT FINDINGS .. 675 El Camino Real PC Zoning District Amendment Permitting Building-Mounted .Telecommunication. Facilities 00-PC-3; 00-ARB-128 The site is so situated, and the use or uses proposed for the site are of such characteristics that the application of general districts or combining districts will not provide sufficient fiexibility to allow the proposed development. The majority of building-mounted telecommunication facilities must be placed at a height significantly above surrounding development in order to function properly. This often requires that such facilities be located in Zoning Districts that allow building heights in excess of the City’s typical 50-foot height limit. The subject site is developed with a 65 foot, five-story hotel building and is ideally suited to accommodating such facilities. .Development bf the site under the provisions of the PC pIanned community district will result in public benefits not otherwise attainable by application of the regulations of general districts or combining districts. The subject site is already developed in accordance with the existing PC Zoning District standards and the proposed inclusion of telecommunication facilities as a permitted use will not materially alter the physical or aesthetic appearance of the site. Moreover, the provision of on-site telecommunication facilities will result in a benefit to the public through improved wireless communication services. The use or uses permitted, and the site development regulations applicable within the district shall be consistent with the Palo Alto comprehensive plan, and shall be compatible with existing and potential uses on adjoining sites or within the general vicinity. Comprehensive Plan Policies B-13 and B-14 promote, the establishment of technologically advanced telecommunications infrastructure that will benefit the City’s residents, schools, and businesses. Permitting building- mounted telecommunication facilities at the subject site is consistent with these Comprehensive Plan Policies. Additionally, telecommunication facilities are compatible with surrounding land uses, which consist of commercial and office- research and development uses. S:PlanIPIadivIPCSRI675EI Camino Real.Nextel Page 5