ABSTRACT: Random Reportings on Grants to Pacific Repertory Theatre, Star Creek Ranch Grazing Goats, Free Historical and Nature Walks, City Expenditures for Sale of the Flanders Mansion Property and City Compensation to RFM Architects for the Forest Theatre Schematic Design are presented.
• Grants to Pacific Repertory Theatre (PacRep): PacRep received a $5,000 grant (2009-10) from the William McCaskey Chapman & Adaline Dinsmore Chapman Foundation and a $3,000 grant from the Pebble Beach Company Foundation.
• Star Creek Ranch Grazing Goats: Goats from Star Creek Ranch (Aromas, CA.) are an eco-friendly method of weed control. One herd of about 300 goats can clear an environmentally sensitive area at about an acre a day. And according to owner Pete Pulis, the cost is a few hundred dollars per acre. The City contracting with Star Creek Ranch would be ideal for ridding Mission Trail Nature Preserve of poison oak and other “weeds” and allow more native plants to grow in the city’s largest park and only cost a few thousand dollars for the entire 35 acres of Mission Trail Nature Preserve.
• Free Historical and Nature Walks: On Saturdays, August 22, September 12 and September 26, the Flanders Foundation hosts Historical and Nature Walks with Flanders Foundation President Melanie Billig, Local Environmentalist Joyce Stevens and Noted “Birder” Bill Hill, beginning at the Rio Road entrance of Mission Trail Nature Preserve and ending at the Flanders Mansion in Mission Trail Nature Preserve. Reservations Required, please call (831) 626-3826. For More Information, view Flanders Foundation Website. Complimentary cold drinks provided.
• City Expenditures for Sale of the Flanders Mansion Property: As of the City’s July 2009 Check Register, the City expended $18,624.73 for the month of July 2009 for the Sale of the Flanders Mansion Property for a grand total of $785,906.20, including a total of $163,059.01 to Attorney Joel Franklin.
• City Compensation to RFM Architects for the Forest Theatre Schematic Design: Since the City Council’s unanimous adoption of a Resolution entering into an agreement with RFM Architects for architectural services in an amount of $131,000 at the December 2, 2008 City Council Meeting, the City has expended a total of $38,226.86 to R.F. McCann & Company Architects, as follows:
118096 6/16/09 R.F. MCCANN & COMPANY ARCHITECTS $33,226.86 01 89429 FOREST THEATER MASTER PLAN PROJECT DESIGN SERVICES
117184 1/20/09 R.F. MCCANN & COMPANY ARCHITECTS $5,000.00 01 89429 FOREST THEATER MASTER PLAN DESIGN WORK
Additionally, the City expended $740.85 to JRP Historical Consulting for a Forest Theatre Historic Survey in July 2009, as follows:
118225 7/7/09 JRP HISTORICAL CONSULTING $ 740.85 01 64051 FOREST THEATER HISTORIC SURVEY
Sunday, August 16, 2009
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
‘MINUTES’ of Two Noteworthy 12 August 2009 Planning Commission Agenda Items
CITY OF CARMEL-BY-THE-SEA
PLANNING COMMISSION – MINUTES
August 12, 2009
I. CALL TO ORDER AND ROLL CALL
PRESENT: Commission Members: Hewer, Hillyard, Reimers, Wilson
ABSENT: Commission Members: None
STAFF PRESENT: Sean Conroy, Planning & Building Services Manager
Leslie Fenton, Administrative Coordinator
II. ADMINISTRATION
1. Swearing in of new Planning Commissioner.
Architect John Thodos
X. PUBLIC HEARINGS
If you challenge the nature of the proposed action in court, you may be limited to raising only those issues you or someone else raised at the public hearing described in this notice, or in written correspondence delivered to the Planning Commission at, or prior to, the public hearing.
1. DR 01-33/RE 01-39/UP 01-26
John Mandurrago
SE corner Dolores & 7th
Block 91, Lot(s) 2-8
Reconsideration of the certification of an EIR and permits for demolition of an existing building and construction of a mixed-use development including a two level underground parking garage, 5 market-rate condominiums, two low income housing units, and commercial floor area.
Consultant Brian Roseth presented the staff report. Chairman Hewer opened the public hearing. Members of the public, including but not limited to, John Mandurrago and his attorney Dennis Beougher and Barbara Livingston. There being no other appearances, the public hearing was closed.
Commissioner HILLYARD moved denial of the project, seconded by WILSON and carried by the following roll call vote:
AYES: HILLYARD, REIMERS, THODOS, WILSON, HEWER
NOES: NONE
ABSENT: NONE
ABSTAIN: NONE
2. MP 09-6
City of Carmel-by-the-Sea
Carmel Beach south of 10th Ave
Consideration of recommendations to the City Council regarding the rules and regulations of fires on Carmel Beach.
Sean Conroy, Planning & Building Services Manager, presented the staff report. Chairman Hewer opened the public hearing. Members of the public, including, but not limited to, Lindsay Hanna, Skip Lloyd, Barbara Livingston, Roberta Miller, Linda Anderson, Clayton Anderson, Hugo Ferlito, Karen Ferlito and Elinor Laiolo. There being no other appearances, the public hearing was closed.
Commissioner WILSON moved making recommendations to the City Council regarding the rules and regulations of fires on Carmel Beach, including:
• Increase Education about the rules and regulations of fires on Carmel Beach
• Increase Funding for beach clean up and management
• Explore options for enforcement
• Adopt Sunset Clause, 15 months
• Appoint Ad Hoc Committee under the direction of the City Forester, seconded by THODOS and carried by the following roll call vote:
AYES: HILLYARD, REIMERS, THODOS, WILSON, HEWER
NOES: NONE
ABSENT: NONE
ABSTAIN: NONE
PLANNING COMMISSION – MINUTES
August 12, 2009
I. CALL TO ORDER AND ROLL CALL
PRESENT: Commission Members: Hewer, Hillyard, Reimers, Wilson
ABSENT: Commission Members: None
STAFF PRESENT: Sean Conroy, Planning & Building Services Manager
Leslie Fenton, Administrative Coordinator
II. ADMINISTRATION
1. Swearing in of new Planning Commissioner.
Architect John Thodos
X. PUBLIC HEARINGS
If you challenge the nature of the proposed action in court, you may be limited to raising only those issues you or someone else raised at the public hearing described in this notice, or in written correspondence delivered to the Planning Commission at, or prior to, the public hearing.
1. DR 01-33/RE 01-39/UP 01-26
John Mandurrago
SE corner Dolores & 7th
Block 91, Lot(s) 2-8
Reconsideration of the certification of an EIR and permits for demolition of an existing building and construction of a mixed-use development including a two level underground parking garage, 5 market-rate condominiums, two low income housing units, and commercial floor area.
Consultant Brian Roseth presented the staff report. Chairman Hewer opened the public hearing. Members of the public, including but not limited to, John Mandurrago and his attorney Dennis Beougher and Barbara Livingston. There being no other appearances, the public hearing was closed.
Commissioner HILLYARD moved denial of the project, seconded by WILSON and carried by the following roll call vote:
AYES: HILLYARD, REIMERS, THODOS, WILSON, HEWER
NOES: NONE
ABSENT: NONE
ABSTAIN: NONE
2. MP 09-6
City of Carmel-by-the-Sea
Carmel Beach south of 10th Ave
Consideration of recommendations to the City Council regarding the rules and regulations of fires on Carmel Beach.
Sean Conroy, Planning & Building Services Manager, presented the staff report. Chairman Hewer opened the public hearing. Members of the public, including, but not limited to, Lindsay Hanna, Skip Lloyd, Barbara Livingston, Roberta Miller, Linda Anderson, Clayton Anderson, Hugo Ferlito, Karen Ferlito and Elinor Laiolo. There being no other appearances, the public hearing was closed.
Commissioner WILSON moved making recommendations to the City Council regarding the rules and regulations of fires on Carmel Beach, including:
• Increase Education about the rules and regulations of fires on Carmel Beach
• Increase Funding for beach clean up and management
• Explore options for enforcement
• Adopt Sunset Clause, 15 months
• Appoint Ad Hoc Committee under the direction of the City Forester, seconded by THODOS and carried by the following roll call vote:
AYES: HILLYARD, REIMERS, THODOS, WILSON, HEWER
NOES: NONE
ABSENT: NONE
ABSTAIN: NONE
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
Two Noteworthy 12 August 2009 Planning Commission Agenda Items
CITY OF CARMEL-BY-THE-SEA
PLANNING COMMISSION
AGENDA
Regular Meeting August 12, 2009
City Hall Wednesday
East side of Monte Verde Street 3:30 p.m. Between Ocean & Seventh Avenues
I. CALL TO ORDER AND ROLL CALL
Commissioners: Steve Hillyard
Janet Reimers
Robin Wilson
Alan Hewer, Vice-chair
II. ADMINISTRATION
1. Swearing in of new Planning Commissioner.
Architect John Thodos
III. TOUR OF INSPECTION
Shortly after 3:30 p.m. the Commission will leave the Council Chambers for an on-site Tour of Inspection of all properties listed on this agenda (including those on the Consent Agenda). Prior to the beginning of the Tour of Inspection, the Commission may eliminate one or more on-site visits. The public is welcome to follow the Commission on its tour of the determined sites. The Commission will return to the Council Chambers at 4:30 p.m. or as soon thereafter as possible.
X. PUBLIC HEARINGS
If you challenge the nature of the proposed action in court, you may be limited to raising only those issues you or someone else raised at the public hearing described in this notice, or in written correspondence delivered to the Planning Commission at, or prior to, the public hearing.
1. DR 01-33/RE 01-39/UP 01-26
John Mandurrago
SE corner Dolores & 7th
Block 91, Lot(s) 2-8
Reconsideration of the certification of an EIR and permits for demolition of an existing building and construction of a mixed-use development including a two level underground parking garage, 5 market-rate condominiums, two low income housing units, and commercial floor area.
2. MP 09-6
City of Carmel-by-the-Sea
Carmel Beach south of 10th Ave
Consideration of recommendations to the City Council regarding the rules and regulations of fires on Carmel Beach.
PLANNING COMMISSION
AGENDA
Regular Meeting August 12, 2009
City Hall Wednesday
East side of Monte Verde Street 3:30 p.m. Between Ocean & Seventh Avenues
I. CALL TO ORDER AND ROLL CALL
Commissioners: Steve Hillyard
Janet Reimers
Robin Wilson
Alan Hewer, Vice-chair
II. ADMINISTRATION
1. Swearing in of new Planning Commissioner.
Architect John Thodos
III. TOUR OF INSPECTION
Shortly after 3:30 p.m. the Commission will leave the Council Chambers for an on-site Tour of Inspection of all properties listed on this agenda (including those on the Consent Agenda). Prior to the beginning of the Tour of Inspection, the Commission may eliminate one or more on-site visits. The public is welcome to follow the Commission on its tour of the determined sites. The Commission will return to the Council Chambers at 4:30 p.m. or as soon thereafter as possible.
X. PUBLIC HEARINGS
If you challenge the nature of the proposed action in court, you may be limited to raising only those issues you or someone else raised at the public hearing described in this notice, or in written correspondence delivered to the Planning Commission at, or prior to, the public hearing.
1. DR 01-33/RE 01-39/UP 01-26
John Mandurrago
SE corner Dolores & 7th
Block 91, Lot(s) 2-8
Reconsideration of the certification of an EIR and permits for demolition of an existing building and construction of a mixed-use development including a two level underground parking garage, 5 market-rate condominiums, two low income housing units, and commercial floor area.
2. MP 09-6
City of Carmel-by-the-Sea
Carmel Beach south of 10th Ave
Consideration of recommendations to the City Council regarding the rules and regulations of fires on Carmel Beach.
Friday, August 07, 2009
California Coastal Commission: City of Carmel-by-the-Sea LCP Amendment No. 2-09 (Design Review Process)
UPDATE: CENTRAL COAST DISTRICT
6. LOCAL COASTAL PROGRAMS (LCPs). See AGENDA CATEGORIES.
a. City of Carmel by the Sea LCP Amendment No. 2-09 (Design Review Process). Concurrence with the Executive Director’s determination that the request by the City of Carmel by the Sea to amend the certified LCP to eliminate the Design Review Board and move its responsibilities to the City’s Planning Commission is minor. (MW-SC) [APPROVED]
ABSTRACT: On the 12 August 2009 California Coastal Commission Agenda is the agenda item, City of Carmel by the Sea LCP Amendment No. 2-09 (Design Review Process). Concurrence with the Executive Director’s determination that the request by the City of Carmel by the Sea to amend the certified LCP to eliminate the Design Review Board and move its responsibilities to the City’s Planning Commission is minor. The Staff Report, prepared by Dan Carl, District Manager and Mike Watson, Coastal Planner, is reproduced.
CALIFORNIA COASTAL COMMISSION
AUGUST 2009 AGENDA
HYATT REGENCY EMBARCADERO
5 EMBARCADERO PLAZA
SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94111
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12, 2009
CENTRAL COAST DISTRICT
6. LOCAL COASTAL PROGRAMS (LCPs). See AGENDA CATEGORIES.
a. City of Carmel by the Sea LCP Amendment No. 2-09 (Design Review Process). Concurrence with the Executive Director’s determination that the request by the City of Carmel by the Sea to amend the certified LCP to eliminate the Design Review Board and move its responsibilities to the City’s Planning Commission is minor. (MW-SC)
STATE OF CALIFORNIA – NATURAL RESOURCES AGENCY ARNOLD SCHWARZENEGGER, GOVERNOR
CALIFORNIA COASTAL COMMISSION
CENTRAL COAST DISTRICT OFFICE
725 FRONT STREET, SUITE 300
SANTA CRUZ, CA 95060
PHONE: (831) 427-4863
FAX: (831) 427-4877
WEB: WWW.COASTAL.CA.GOV
Prepared July 22, 2009 (for August 12, 2009 Hearing)
To: Coastal Commissioners and Interested Persons
From: Dan Carl, District Manager
Mike Watson, Coastal Planner
Subject: Minor Amendment Determination for City of Carmel-by-the-Sea Local Coastal Program Amendment Number 2-09 (Design Review Process)
Carmel-by-the-Sea Proposed Amendment
Carmel-by-the-Sea is proposing to amend the certified Local Coastal Program (LCP) Implementation Plan (IP) to eliminate the City’s Design Review Board and to move its responsibilities to the City’s Planning Commission. See Exhibit A for the City’s staff report on this matter, Exhibit B for the adopted ordinance making the change, and Exhibit C for the cross-through and underline proposed changes.
Minor LCP Amendment Determination
Pursuant to California Code of Regulations (CCR) Section 13555, the Executive Director may determine that a proposed LCP amendment is “minor”. CCR Section 13554 defines minor LCP amendments. Among other things, minor LCP amendments include:
CCR Section 13554(a). Changes in wording which make the use as designated in the zoning ordinances, zoning district maps or other implementing actions more specific and which do not change the kind, location, intensity, or density of use and which are found by the Executive Director of the Commission or the Commission to be consistent with the land use plan as certified by the Commission.
If the Executive Director determines that an amendment is minor, that determination must be reported to the Commission. If one-third of the appointed members of the Commission request that it be processed as a major LCP amendment, then the amendment shall be set for a future public hearing; if one-third of the appointed members of the Commission do not object to the minor LCP amendment determination,
then the amendment is deemed approved, and it becomes a certified part of the LCP immediately (in this case, on August 12, 2009).
The purpose of this notice is to advise interested parties of the Executive Director’s determination that the proposed LCP amendment is minor.
Under the existing LCP, the City’s Design Review Board reviews more minor coastal development projects, including those which do not involve a use permit, variance, subdivision, or lot line adjustment. The Planning Commission reviews more major projects, including all coastal development projects that are not reviewed by the Design Review Board otherwise. The proposed amendment would eliminate the City’s Design Review Board, but it would not alter the LCP otherwise. In other words, existing LCP standards would not change, including those related to design review, but there would no longer be a separate Design Review Board and design review action. Instead, the responsibilities that previously rested with the Design Review Board would now reside wholly with the Planning Commission. It is anticipated that the amendment will simplify the coastal permit process in the City, but that it will not alter coastal resource protection under the LCP.
Coastal Commission Concurrence
The Executive Director will report this minor LCP amendment determination, and any comments received on it, to the Coastal Commission at its August 12, 2009 meeting at the Hyatt Regency Embarcadero, 5 Embarcadero Plaza, in San Francisco. If you have any questions or need additional information regarding the proposed amendment or the method under which it is being processed, please contact Mike Watson at the Central Coast District Office in Santa Cruz. If you wish to comment on and/or object to the proposed minor LCP amendment determination, please do so by August 7, 2009.
Procedural Note - LCP Amendment Action Deadline
This proposed LCP amendment was filed as complete on July 16, 2009. It is IP only and the 60-day action deadline is September 14, 2009. Thus, unless the Commission extends the action deadline (it may be extended by up to one year), the Commission has until September 14, 2009 to take a final action on this LCP amendment.
Exhibits:
Exhibit A: City staff report regarding elimination of the Design Review Board
Exhibit B: City Council ordinance eliminating the Design Review Board
Exhibit C: Proposed changes to the LCP in strike-through and underline
6. LOCAL COASTAL PROGRAMS (LCPs). See AGENDA CATEGORIES.
a. City of Carmel by the Sea LCP Amendment No. 2-09 (Design Review Process). Concurrence with the Executive Director’s determination that the request by the City of Carmel by the Sea to amend the certified LCP to eliminate the Design Review Board and move its responsibilities to the City’s Planning Commission is minor. (MW-SC) [APPROVED]
ABSTRACT: On the 12 August 2009 California Coastal Commission Agenda is the agenda item, City of Carmel by the Sea LCP Amendment No. 2-09 (Design Review Process). Concurrence with the Executive Director’s determination that the request by the City of Carmel by the Sea to amend the certified LCP to eliminate the Design Review Board and move its responsibilities to the City’s Planning Commission is minor. The Staff Report, prepared by Dan Carl, District Manager and Mike Watson, Coastal Planner, is reproduced.
CALIFORNIA COASTAL COMMISSION
AUGUST 2009 AGENDA
HYATT REGENCY EMBARCADERO
5 EMBARCADERO PLAZA
SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94111
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 12, 2009
CENTRAL COAST DISTRICT
6. LOCAL COASTAL PROGRAMS (LCPs). See AGENDA CATEGORIES.
a. City of Carmel by the Sea LCP Amendment No. 2-09 (Design Review Process). Concurrence with the Executive Director’s determination that the request by the City of Carmel by the Sea to amend the certified LCP to eliminate the Design Review Board and move its responsibilities to the City’s Planning Commission is minor. (MW-SC)
STATE OF CALIFORNIA – NATURAL RESOURCES AGENCY ARNOLD SCHWARZENEGGER, GOVERNOR
CALIFORNIA COASTAL COMMISSION
CENTRAL COAST DISTRICT OFFICE
725 FRONT STREET, SUITE 300
SANTA CRUZ, CA 95060
PHONE: (831) 427-4863
FAX: (831) 427-4877
WEB: WWW.COASTAL.CA.GOV
Prepared July 22, 2009 (for August 12, 2009 Hearing)
To: Coastal Commissioners and Interested Persons
From: Dan Carl, District Manager
Mike Watson, Coastal Planner
Subject: Minor Amendment Determination for City of Carmel-by-the-Sea Local Coastal Program Amendment Number 2-09 (Design Review Process)
Carmel-by-the-Sea Proposed Amendment
Carmel-by-the-Sea is proposing to amend the certified Local Coastal Program (LCP) Implementation Plan (IP) to eliminate the City’s Design Review Board and to move its responsibilities to the City’s Planning Commission. See Exhibit A for the City’s staff report on this matter, Exhibit B for the adopted ordinance making the change, and Exhibit C for the cross-through and underline proposed changes.
Minor LCP Amendment Determination
Pursuant to California Code of Regulations (CCR) Section 13555, the Executive Director may determine that a proposed LCP amendment is “minor”. CCR Section 13554 defines minor LCP amendments. Among other things, minor LCP amendments include:
CCR Section 13554(a). Changes in wording which make the use as designated in the zoning ordinances, zoning district maps or other implementing actions more specific and which do not change the kind, location, intensity, or density of use and which are found by the Executive Director of the Commission or the Commission to be consistent with the land use plan as certified by the Commission.
If the Executive Director determines that an amendment is minor, that determination must be reported to the Commission. If one-third of the appointed members of the Commission request that it be processed as a major LCP amendment, then the amendment shall be set for a future public hearing; if one-third of the appointed members of the Commission do not object to the minor LCP amendment determination,
then the amendment is deemed approved, and it becomes a certified part of the LCP immediately (in this case, on August 12, 2009).
The purpose of this notice is to advise interested parties of the Executive Director’s determination that the proposed LCP amendment is minor.
Under the existing LCP, the City’s Design Review Board reviews more minor coastal development projects, including those which do not involve a use permit, variance, subdivision, or lot line adjustment. The Planning Commission reviews more major projects, including all coastal development projects that are not reviewed by the Design Review Board otherwise. The proposed amendment would eliminate the City’s Design Review Board, but it would not alter the LCP otherwise. In other words, existing LCP standards would not change, including those related to design review, but there would no longer be a separate Design Review Board and design review action. Instead, the responsibilities that previously rested with the Design Review Board would now reside wholly with the Planning Commission. It is anticipated that the amendment will simplify the coastal permit process in the City, but that it will not alter coastal resource protection under the LCP.
Coastal Commission Concurrence
The Executive Director will report this minor LCP amendment determination, and any comments received on it, to the Coastal Commission at its August 12, 2009 meeting at the Hyatt Regency Embarcadero, 5 Embarcadero Plaza, in San Francisco. If you have any questions or need additional information regarding the proposed amendment or the method under which it is being processed, please contact Mike Watson at the Central Coast District Office in Santa Cruz. If you wish to comment on and/or object to the proposed minor LCP amendment determination, please do so by August 7, 2009.
Procedural Note - LCP Amendment Action Deadline
This proposed LCP amendment was filed as complete on July 16, 2009. It is IP only and the 60-day action deadline is September 14, 2009. Thus, unless the Commission extends the action deadline (it may be extended by up to one year), the Commission has until September 14, 2009 to take a final action on this LCP amendment.
Exhibits:
Exhibit A: City staff report regarding elimination of the Design Review Board
Exhibit B: City Council ordinance eliminating the Design Review Board
Exhibit C: Proposed changes to the LCP in strike-through and underline
Thursday, August 06, 2009
Carmel Art Association Presents PARKER SOLO SHOW, MARTIN & CROZIER TWO PERSON SHOW AND GALLERY SHOWCASE FEATURING HYBL & WAGSTAFF
Carmel Art Association
“Celebrating 81 years of local art”
Voted “Art Gallery of the Year” by the Carmel Business Association three consecutive years.
W/s Dolores St. between 5th Av. & 6th Av.
10:00 A.M. – 5:00 P.M., Daily, except major Holidays.
Open to the Public at No Charge
“Founded in 1927, Carmel's oldest gallery features the work of more than 120 professional local artists, and is dedicated to presenting only the finest work for sale by artists living on the Monterey Peninsula.”
For more information, Online or (831) 624-6176.
Carmel Art Association Presents PARKER’S SOLO SHOW ‘IN THE FIELDS,’ TWO PERSON SHOW ‘LOCAL FIGURES’ FEATURING MARTIN & CROZIER AND GALLERY SHOWCASE FEATURING HYBL & WAGSTAFF
Thursday, August 6 – Tuesday, September 1, 2009
SOLO SHOW “IN THE FIELDS” (Center Room):
Painter Carol Parker exhibits works of local field workers, farmlands and vineyards in oil and watercolor. View Carol Parker’s brief biography and three paintings including “Pear Study I,” “Pear Study II” and “White Orchid.”
TWO-PERSON SHOW “LOCAL FIGURES” (Beardsley Room, South Wall):
Artists Gerard Martin and Christine Crozier exhibit oil paintings inspired by figures on the beaches, in the fields and at play on the Monterey Peninsula.
View Gerard Martin’s paintings from "Agriculture: Revisited" (September 4 - 30, 2008). Also view Gerard Martin Artist web site.
View Crozier’s statement and oil paintings, including "Come to the Fair" and “Padre's Garden." Also view Crozier's web site.
GALLERY SHOWCASE (Segal Room):
Painter Heidi Hybl exhibits Plant Forms Series, abstract oil paintings on canvas incorporating elements of collage. View Heidi Hybl’s brief biography and oil paintings including "Fir Piece," “Branch Crossing" and "Date Palm." View Hybl's web site.
Painter Jan Wagstaff exhibits landscapes in oil. View Jan Wagstaff’s Resume including Education, Employment, Professional and Community Activities, Selected Solo Exhibitions, Selected Group Exhibitions, Awards and Selected Public and Private Collections and oil paintings "Celedon Hearts," "Echo," "Rivers of Grass," "Dreaming in Color" and September 2008 Show “Ancestors.”
Opening Reception - Saturday, August 8, from 6:00 to 8:00 P.M.
SPECIAL ANNUAL EVENT "A BRUSH WITH FATE:”
Summer Silent Auction Fundraiser and Barbecue with live radio remote with KIDD radio personalities Kevin Kahl and Mike Cleary.
Saturday, August 22 – Saturday, August 29, 2009
BBQ: Saturday, August 29th, 12:00 P.M. to 2:00 P.M.
Live Auction: Saturday, August 29th, 2:00 P.M.
“Celebrating 81 years of local art”
Voted “Art Gallery of the Year” by the Carmel Business Association three consecutive years.
W/s Dolores St. between 5th Av. & 6th Av.
10:00 A.M. – 5:00 P.M., Daily, except major Holidays.
Open to the Public at No Charge
“Founded in 1927, Carmel's oldest gallery features the work of more than 120 professional local artists, and is dedicated to presenting only the finest work for sale by artists living on the Monterey Peninsula.”
For more information, Online or (831) 624-6176.
Carmel Art Association Presents PARKER’S SOLO SHOW ‘IN THE FIELDS,’ TWO PERSON SHOW ‘LOCAL FIGURES’ FEATURING MARTIN & CROZIER AND GALLERY SHOWCASE FEATURING HYBL & WAGSTAFF
Thursday, August 6 – Tuesday, September 1, 2009
SOLO SHOW “IN THE FIELDS” (Center Room):
Painter Carol Parker exhibits works of local field workers, farmlands and vineyards in oil and watercolor. View Carol Parker’s brief biography and three paintings including “Pear Study I,” “Pear Study II” and “White Orchid.”
TWO-PERSON SHOW “LOCAL FIGURES” (Beardsley Room, South Wall):
Artists Gerard Martin and Christine Crozier exhibit oil paintings inspired by figures on the beaches, in the fields and at play on the Monterey Peninsula.
View Gerard Martin’s paintings from "Agriculture: Revisited" (September 4 - 30, 2008). Also view Gerard Martin Artist web site.
View Crozier’s statement and oil paintings, including "Come to the Fair" and “Padre's Garden." Also view Crozier's web site.
GALLERY SHOWCASE (Segal Room):
Painter Heidi Hybl exhibits Plant Forms Series, abstract oil paintings on canvas incorporating elements of collage. View Heidi Hybl’s brief biography and oil paintings including "Fir Piece," “Branch Crossing" and "Date Palm." View Hybl's web site.
Painter Jan Wagstaff exhibits landscapes in oil. View Jan Wagstaff’s Resume including Education, Employment, Professional and Community Activities, Selected Solo Exhibitions, Selected Group Exhibitions, Awards and Selected Public and Private Collections and oil paintings "Celedon Hearts," "Echo," "Rivers of Grass," "Dreaming in Color" and September 2008 Show “Ancestors.”
Opening Reception - Saturday, August 8, from 6:00 to 8:00 P.M.
SPECIAL ANNUAL EVENT "A BRUSH WITH FATE:”
Summer Silent Auction Fundraiser and Barbecue with live radio remote with KIDD radio personalities Kevin Kahl and Mike Cleary.
Saturday, August 22 – Saturday, August 29, 2009
BBQ: Saturday, August 29th, 12:00 P.M. to 2:00 P.M.
Live Auction: Saturday, August 29th, 2:00 P.M.
Wednesday, August 05, 2009
'MINUTES’ for Three Noteworthy 4 August City Council Agenda Items
“MINUTES”
CITY COUNCIL MEETING
CITY OF CARMEL-BY-THE-SEA
August 4, 2009
VII. Consent Calendar
These matters include routine financial and administrative actions, which are usually approved by a single majority vote. Individual items may be removed from Consent by a member of the Council or the public for discussion and action.
G. Consideration of a Resolution ratifying a Memorandum of Understanding between the City of Carmel-by-the-Sea and the Carmel-by-the-Sea Police Officers Association.
Council Member ROSE moved adoption of Items A and B and D through H, seconded by Council Member SHARP, and carried unanimously.
X. Resolutions
A. Consideration of a Resolution adopting Green Building Checklists and Point Requirements for Residential and Nonresidential projects pursuant to Section 15.54.030 of the Green Building Ordinance.
Sean Conroy, Planning Services Manager, presented the staff report.
Mayor McCloud opened the meeting to public comment.
Kevin Stone, Government and Community Affairs Director, Monterey County Association of Realtors, spoke about potential challenges with the California Coastal Commission, willingness to work with the City and general support of the City’s Green Building Resolution and Ordinance.
Mayor McCloud closed the meeting to public comment.
Council Member ROSE moved to adopt the Green Building Checklist and Point Requirements for Residential and Nonresidential projects as proposed, seconded by Council Member HAZDOVAC and carried by the following roll call:
AYES: COUNCIL MEMBERS: HAZDOVAC, ROSE, SHARP, TALMAGE & McCLOUD
NOES: COUNCIL MEMBERS: NONE
ABSENT: COUNCIL MEMBERS: NONE
ABSTAIN: COUNCIL MEMBERS: NONE
XI. Orders of Council
A. Review report and provide direction on modifications to the City’s Volumetric Standards, as established in CMC Section 17.10.030.
Item Continued.
CITY COUNCIL MEETING
CITY OF CARMEL-BY-THE-SEA
August 4, 2009
VII. Consent Calendar
These matters include routine financial and administrative actions, which are usually approved by a single majority vote. Individual items may be removed from Consent by a member of the Council or the public for discussion and action.
G. Consideration of a Resolution ratifying a Memorandum of Understanding between the City of Carmel-by-the-Sea and the Carmel-by-the-Sea Police Officers Association.
Council Member ROSE moved adoption of Items A and B and D through H, seconded by Council Member SHARP, and carried unanimously.
X. Resolutions
A. Consideration of a Resolution adopting Green Building Checklists and Point Requirements for Residential and Nonresidential projects pursuant to Section 15.54.030 of the Green Building Ordinance.
Sean Conroy, Planning Services Manager, presented the staff report.
Mayor McCloud opened the meeting to public comment.
Kevin Stone, Government and Community Affairs Director, Monterey County Association of Realtors, spoke about potential challenges with the California Coastal Commission, willingness to work with the City and general support of the City’s Green Building Resolution and Ordinance.
Mayor McCloud closed the meeting to public comment.
Council Member ROSE moved to adopt the Green Building Checklist and Point Requirements for Residential and Nonresidential projects as proposed, seconded by Council Member HAZDOVAC and carried by the following roll call:
AYES: COUNCIL MEMBERS: HAZDOVAC, ROSE, SHARP, TALMAGE & McCLOUD
NOES: COUNCIL MEMBERS: NONE
ABSENT: COUNCIL MEMBERS: NONE
ABSTAIN: COUNCIL MEMBERS: NONE
XI. Orders of Council
A. Review report and provide direction on modifications to the City’s Volumetric Standards, as established in CMC Section 17.10.030.
Item Continued.
Sunday, August 02, 2009
Three Noteworthy 4 August 2009 City Council Agenda Items
ABSTRACT: Three noteworthy 4 August 2009 City Council Agenda Items, namely a Resolution ratifying a Memorandum of Understanding between the City of Carmel-by-the-Sea and the Carmel-by-the-Sea Police Officers Association, a Resolution adopting Green Building Checklists and Point Requirements for Residential and Nonresidential projects pursuant to Section 15.54.030 of the Green Building Ordinance and Review report and provide direction on modifications to the City’s Volumetric Standards, as established in CMC Section 17.10.030, are presented. Selected excerpts from Agenda Items Summaries and Staff Reports are presented for Agenda Items. COMMENTS are made on selected Agenda Items.
AGENDA
Regular Meeting
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
4:30 p.m., Open Session
City Hall
East side of Monte Verde Street between Ocean and Seventh Avenues
Live and archived video streaming available
VII. Consent Calendar
These matters include routine financial and administrative actions, which are usually approved by a single majority vote. Individual items may be removed from Consent by a member of the Council or the public for discussion and action.
G. Consideration of a Resolution ratifying a Memorandum of Understanding between the City of Carmel-by-the-Sea and the Carmel-by-the-Sea Police Officers Association.
Description: The Police Officers Association (POA) understands the current financial challenges that the City is facing, including the recent impact of the State budget adoption. Approving this Resolution will provide a three-year contractual agreement for the terms and conditions of employment for members of the Carmel-by-the-Sea Police Officers Association including the POA foregoing a salary increase of 8.75% that was set to take effect on July 1, 2009.
The new Memorandum of Understanding will be effective from July 1, 2009 through June 30, 2011, and will incorporate the following changes to the MOU that includes a 0% cost of living for Fiscal Year 2009/2010, and is to expire on June 30, 2012:
Term Three Years – July 1, 2009 through June 30, 2012
Compensation
Safety positions: 0% (2009/2010) 4.5% (2010/2011) 5.5% (2011/2012)
Non-Safety Positions: 0% (2009/2010) 2.5% (2010/2011) 4.0% (2011/2012)
All other terms and conditions remain status quo.
Overall Cost: City Funds: (Estimated)
FY 2009/2010 $0
FY 2010/2011 $84,413
FY 2011/2012 $103,418
Staff Recommendation: Adopt the Resolution.
COMMENT:
• Between FY 2007/08 and FY 2011/12, the Actual, Revised and Proposed Expenditures for Police have increased each year as a percentage of total expenditures, except for Proposed FY 2011/12, as follows:
2007/08: $ 2,709,932 (19.7%) Total Expenditures $ 13,728,162
2008/09: $ 2,927,223 (20.5%) Total Expenditures $ 14,249,110
2009/10: $ 2,934,581 (21.4%) Total Expenditures $ 13,741,050
2010/11: $ 3,166,036 (22.9%) Total Expenditures $ 13,847,110
2011/12: $ 3,179,827 (21.8%) Total Expenditures $ 14,573,200
(Source: CITY OF CARMEL-BY-THE-SEA CALIFORNIA ADOPTED BUDGET FISCAL YEARS 2009/10 THROUGH 2011/12)
X. Resolutions
A. Consideration of a Resolution adopting Green Building Checklists and Point Requirements for Residential and Nonresidential projects pursuant to Section 15.54.030 of the Green Building Ordinance.
Description: The Green Building Checklists identify various green building techniques that can be incorporated into development projects. The point requirements establish the minimum number of points, based on the checklists, which must be achieved in order to obtain a building permit.
Staff Recommendation: Adopt the Resolution.
Important Considerations: CMC Section 15.54.030 of the Green Building Ordinance indicates that the City Council will adopt the checklists and point requirements by resolution. This will allow the City Council to amend the checklists in the future, without amending the ordinance.
Decision Record: The Planning Commission recommended adoption of a Checklists and Point Requirements on 20 May 2009.
The Residential Checklist is based on the “Build it Green” Checklist. Build it Green is a non-profit organization whose mission is to promote more efficient design in California. The organization has developed a comprehensive residential checklist that addresses all aspects of construction. There is a total of 310 available points.
The Non-Residential Checklist is based on a LEED Checklist. The U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) is a nationwide non-profit organization that was established to promote green building principals throughout the country. The USGBC has established the LEED ratings systems that, like Build it Green, is divided into several sections that award points for incorporating green principles into a project (see attached). LEED has a total of 100 points available.
RECOMMENDATION
Adopt the Resolution.
XI. Orders of Council
A. Review report and provide direction on modifications to the City’s Volumetric Standards, as established in CMC Section 17.10.030.
Description: The City’s volumetric standards establish the maximum amount of exterior volume that can be built on sites located in the Single-Family Residential (R-1) District. The Planning Commission recommended modifications to the volumetric standards.
Staff Recommendation: Provide direction on this issue.
Important Considerations: The City adopted standards several years ago, limiting the amount of exterior volume that could be constructed as part of new development in the Residential (R-1) District. The standards were designed to address concerns regarding the size of new homes and their impact on the character of the City.
Decision Record: The Planning Commission recommended some modifications to the City Council on 8 July 2009.
The Committee included:
􀂉 John Thodos, Architect
􀂉 Bill Strid, former Planning Commission Chair
􀂉 Sean Conroy, Planning & Building Services Manager
The Committee determined that the volume requirements are effective, but recommended some modifications. The Planning Commission reviewed these recommendations on 8 July 2009. The following summarizes the Committee’s recommendations followed by a response from staff and the recommendation from the Planning Commission.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATIONS
1) Revise the volume factors as shown below.
Staff Response: The Committee recommended reducing the volume factors by one to further reduce the mass and scale of new projects in the Residential District. This would reduce the allowed volume for a standard 1,800-square-foot residence by 1,800 cubic feet. This recommendation also grants flat-roof structures the same volume factor as pitched-roof structures.
One criticism of the volumetric standards is that they can limit design creativity. Many of the City’s older, character-defining homes could not be built under today’s volume standards, much less if the standards became more stringent. The City’s current height, setback, volume and floor area requirements, along with the Design Guidelines and the design review process, provide sufficient opportunities to limit mass and bulk. Staff does not support a reduction in the allowed volume factors, as proposed.
Staff could support the recommendation to allow flat-roof structures the same volume factor as pitched-roof structures, but prefers that the other volume factors remain unchanged.
PC Review: The Planning Commission concurred with the Committee’s recommendation to reduce the volume factors by one and to grant flat-roofed structures the same volume factor as pitched roof structures.
2) Discourage subterranean parking garages on sites that require a sloped driveway that create a “ramp” effect. Specify in the code that subterranean parking should not qualify as basement space and should always be counted as above-ground floor area.
Staff Comments: This recommendation is consistent with the Design Guidelines, which discourage subterranean garages that create a ramped driveway. Staff concurs with this recommendation since ramped driveways typically add to the visual mass of a structure. Currently, subterranean garages can qualify for basement bonus floor area. Staff could support modifying the code to indicate that garage space always counts as above-grade floor area, thus removing the incentive to place a garage underground.
PC Review: The Planning Commission concurred with the Committee’s recommendation regarding subterranean garages.
3) If a volume consultant submits a project for design review, require the volume calculations to be prepared by another consultant.
Staff Comments: The City has three consultants who perform volume verifications. All three also work as architects in the City. The recommendation of the committee is that the City ensure that if a consultant submits a project for design review, a separate consultant perform the volume study. Staff concurs with this recommendation. Since this is an administrative matter, no action is required by the Council.
PC Review: The Planning Commission concurred with the Committee’s recommendation regarding consultant reviews.
The Planning Commission made an additional recommendation that was not discussed by the Committee, to appoint a study group to analyze if volumetric standards should be also implemented in the Commercial District.
LOCAL COASTAL PROGRAM (LCP)
Any proposed changes to the zoning ordinance constitute an amendment to the LCP and would require Coastal Commission.
OPTIONS
The Council may wish to discuss at least the following options:
1) Make no changes to the City’s Volumetric Standards.
2) Direct staff to prepare an ordinance to address all of the recommendations of the Volume Committee and the Planning Commission.
3) Direct staff to prepare an ordinance to address some of the recommendations of the Volume Committee and the Planning Commission.
RECOMMENDATION
Provide direction on potential modifications to the City’s Volumetric Standard
LETTER submitted to City by Contractor Chris Tescher
Planning Commissioners:
Back in the 80’s when Planning Commission was looking at approving design review Olaf Dahlstrand, who was Chairperson of the Commission, declared he would vote for design review. However, he offered one caveat. He said that “design review would get rid of the worst houses, but it would also eliminate the best houses.” The unexpected outcome of design review is that houses become looking more alike and the diversification of architecture that was once Carmel’s history becomes more and more a thing of the past. During the last twenty years a number of modifications were made to the building ordinances, each with the intent to further rectify what seen as flaws to the original codes. The size of house was reduced from 2800 square feet to 1800 square feet. Ridge heights were lowered as well as plate lines. Site coverage was reduced and an expensive consultant was hired to direct us with new design guidelines that would launch us into the future. Finally volumetric was added to the list. And now we are looking at further reduction in the maximum volume of houses. All this is being done with the apparent intent of producing houses that better fit our lots and return us to the days of Comstock and M.J. Murphy. Ironically we can no longer build Comstock or Murphy style houses because volumetric has eliminated steep roofs and long overhands-trade marks of Comstock and Murphy. When will we learn that the more we tweak the rules the more frustrated we become.
I offer this observation. We have more than enough ordinances on the books to produce good simple designs, if that is what we are after. The trick is to use these tools to demand and challenge Designers and Architects to come up with compatible designs. And even though “beauty rests in the eye of the beholder” the Commissioners are the judges of what meets our guidelines and what does not.
Finally, if reducing the size of houses from 2800 square feet to 1800 square feet did not produce a satisfactory response from architects, than chopping 1800 cubic feet off volume is laughable. You are making the cookie cutter smaller, you are not making it better!
Sincerely,
Chris Tescher
COMMENT:
• Contractor Chris Tescher writes, as follows:
“The unexpected outcome of design review is that houses become looking more alike and the diversification of architecture that was once Carmel’s history becomes more and more a thing of the past.”
Unfortunately, the history of design review in Carmel-by-the-Sea is that with each new and additional design regulation approved by the City, the regulations have not appreciably reduced scale, mass and bulk, as intended, but limited architects and designers in creating innovative, creative and diversified residences. To wit, the City should be repealing some of the City’s design review regulations, not adding more stringent regulations to design review.
Note: Volumetrics was not part of the Design Traditions Project as crafted by Consultant Nore Winter of Winter and Company.
AGENDA
Regular Meeting
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
4:30 p.m., Open Session
City Hall
East side of Monte Verde Street between Ocean and Seventh Avenues
Live and archived video streaming available
VII. Consent Calendar
These matters include routine financial and administrative actions, which are usually approved by a single majority vote. Individual items may be removed from Consent by a member of the Council or the public for discussion and action.
G. Consideration of a Resolution ratifying a Memorandum of Understanding between the City of Carmel-by-the-Sea and the Carmel-by-the-Sea Police Officers Association.
Description: The Police Officers Association (POA) understands the current financial challenges that the City is facing, including the recent impact of the State budget adoption. Approving this Resolution will provide a three-year contractual agreement for the terms and conditions of employment for members of the Carmel-by-the-Sea Police Officers Association including the POA foregoing a salary increase of 8.75% that was set to take effect on July 1, 2009.
The new Memorandum of Understanding will be effective from July 1, 2009 through June 30, 2011, and will incorporate the following changes to the MOU that includes a 0% cost of living for Fiscal Year 2009/2010, and is to expire on June 30, 2012:
Term Three Years – July 1, 2009 through June 30, 2012
Compensation
Safety positions: 0% (2009/2010) 4.5% (2010/2011) 5.5% (2011/2012)
Non-Safety Positions: 0% (2009/2010) 2.5% (2010/2011) 4.0% (2011/2012)
All other terms and conditions remain status quo.
Overall Cost: City Funds: (Estimated)
FY 2009/2010 $0
FY 2010/2011 $84,413
FY 2011/2012 $103,418
Staff Recommendation: Adopt the Resolution.
COMMENT:
• Between FY 2007/08 and FY 2011/12, the Actual, Revised and Proposed Expenditures for Police have increased each year as a percentage of total expenditures, except for Proposed FY 2011/12, as follows:
2007/08: $ 2,709,932 (19.7%) Total Expenditures $ 13,728,162
2008/09: $ 2,927,223 (20.5%) Total Expenditures $ 14,249,110
2009/10: $ 2,934,581 (21.4%) Total Expenditures $ 13,741,050
2010/11: $ 3,166,036 (22.9%) Total Expenditures $ 13,847,110
2011/12: $ 3,179,827 (21.8%) Total Expenditures $ 14,573,200
(Source: CITY OF CARMEL-BY-THE-SEA CALIFORNIA ADOPTED BUDGET FISCAL YEARS 2009/10 THROUGH 2011/12)
X. Resolutions
A. Consideration of a Resolution adopting Green Building Checklists and Point Requirements for Residential and Nonresidential projects pursuant to Section 15.54.030 of the Green Building Ordinance.
Description: The Green Building Checklists identify various green building techniques that can be incorporated into development projects. The point requirements establish the minimum number of points, based on the checklists, which must be achieved in order to obtain a building permit.
Staff Recommendation: Adopt the Resolution.
Important Considerations: CMC Section 15.54.030 of the Green Building Ordinance indicates that the City Council will adopt the checklists and point requirements by resolution. This will allow the City Council to amend the checklists in the future, without amending the ordinance.
Decision Record: The Planning Commission recommended adoption of a Checklists and Point Requirements on 20 May 2009.
The Residential Checklist is based on the “Build it Green” Checklist. Build it Green is a non-profit organization whose mission is to promote more efficient design in California. The organization has developed a comprehensive residential checklist that addresses all aspects of construction. There is a total of 310 available points.
The Non-Residential Checklist is based on a LEED Checklist. The U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) is a nationwide non-profit organization that was established to promote green building principals throughout the country. The USGBC has established the LEED ratings systems that, like Build it Green, is divided into several sections that award points for incorporating green principles into a project (see attached). LEED has a total of 100 points available.
RECOMMENDATION
Adopt the Resolution.
XI. Orders of Council
A. Review report and provide direction on modifications to the City’s Volumetric Standards, as established in CMC Section 17.10.030.
Description: The City’s volumetric standards establish the maximum amount of exterior volume that can be built on sites located in the Single-Family Residential (R-1) District. The Planning Commission recommended modifications to the volumetric standards.
Staff Recommendation: Provide direction on this issue.
Important Considerations: The City adopted standards several years ago, limiting the amount of exterior volume that could be constructed as part of new development in the Residential (R-1) District. The standards were designed to address concerns regarding the size of new homes and their impact on the character of the City.
Decision Record: The Planning Commission recommended some modifications to the City Council on 8 July 2009.
The Committee included:
􀂉 John Thodos, Architect
􀂉 Bill Strid, former Planning Commission Chair
􀂉 Sean Conroy, Planning & Building Services Manager
The Committee determined that the volume requirements are effective, but recommended some modifications. The Planning Commission reviewed these recommendations on 8 July 2009. The following summarizes the Committee’s recommendations followed by a response from staff and the recommendation from the Planning Commission.
COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATIONS
1) Revise the volume factors as shown below.
Staff Response: The Committee recommended reducing the volume factors by one to further reduce the mass and scale of new projects in the Residential District. This would reduce the allowed volume for a standard 1,800-square-foot residence by 1,800 cubic feet. This recommendation also grants flat-roof structures the same volume factor as pitched-roof structures.
One criticism of the volumetric standards is that they can limit design creativity. Many of the City’s older, character-defining homes could not be built under today’s volume standards, much less if the standards became more stringent. The City’s current height, setback, volume and floor area requirements, along with the Design Guidelines and the design review process, provide sufficient opportunities to limit mass and bulk. Staff does not support a reduction in the allowed volume factors, as proposed.
Staff could support the recommendation to allow flat-roof structures the same volume factor as pitched-roof structures, but prefers that the other volume factors remain unchanged.
PC Review: The Planning Commission concurred with the Committee’s recommendation to reduce the volume factors by one and to grant flat-roofed structures the same volume factor as pitched roof structures.
2) Discourage subterranean parking garages on sites that require a sloped driveway that create a “ramp” effect. Specify in the code that subterranean parking should not qualify as basement space and should always be counted as above-ground floor area.
Staff Comments: This recommendation is consistent with the Design Guidelines, which discourage subterranean garages that create a ramped driveway. Staff concurs with this recommendation since ramped driveways typically add to the visual mass of a structure. Currently, subterranean garages can qualify for basement bonus floor area. Staff could support modifying the code to indicate that garage space always counts as above-grade floor area, thus removing the incentive to place a garage underground.
PC Review: The Planning Commission concurred with the Committee’s recommendation regarding subterranean garages.
3) If a volume consultant submits a project for design review, require the volume calculations to be prepared by another consultant.
Staff Comments: The City has three consultants who perform volume verifications. All three also work as architects in the City. The recommendation of the committee is that the City ensure that if a consultant submits a project for design review, a separate consultant perform the volume study. Staff concurs with this recommendation. Since this is an administrative matter, no action is required by the Council.
PC Review: The Planning Commission concurred with the Committee’s recommendation regarding consultant reviews.
The Planning Commission made an additional recommendation that was not discussed by the Committee, to appoint a study group to analyze if volumetric standards should be also implemented in the Commercial District.
LOCAL COASTAL PROGRAM (LCP)
Any proposed changes to the zoning ordinance constitute an amendment to the LCP and would require Coastal Commission.
OPTIONS
The Council may wish to discuss at least the following options:
1) Make no changes to the City’s Volumetric Standards.
2) Direct staff to prepare an ordinance to address all of the recommendations of the Volume Committee and the Planning Commission.
3) Direct staff to prepare an ordinance to address some of the recommendations of the Volume Committee and the Planning Commission.
RECOMMENDATION
Provide direction on potential modifications to the City’s Volumetric Standard
LETTER submitted to City by Contractor Chris Tescher
Planning Commissioners:
Back in the 80’s when Planning Commission was looking at approving design review Olaf Dahlstrand, who was Chairperson of the Commission, declared he would vote for design review. However, he offered one caveat. He said that “design review would get rid of the worst houses, but it would also eliminate the best houses.” The unexpected outcome of design review is that houses become looking more alike and the diversification of architecture that was once Carmel’s history becomes more and more a thing of the past. During the last twenty years a number of modifications were made to the building ordinances, each with the intent to further rectify what seen as flaws to the original codes. The size of house was reduced from 2800 square feet to 1800 square feet. Ridge heights were lowered as well as plate lines. Site coverage was reduced and an expensive consultant was hired to direct us with new design guidelines that would launch us into the future. Finally volumetric was added to the list. And now we are looking at further reduction in the maximum volume of houses. All this is being done with the apparent intent of producing houses that better fit our lots and return us to the days of Comstock and M.J. Murphy. Ironically we can no longer build Comstock or Murphy style houses because volumetric has eliminated steep roofs and long overhands-trade marks of Comstock and Murphy. When will we learn that the more we tweak the rules the more frustrated we become.
I offer this observation. We have more than enough ordinances on the books to produce good simple designs, if that is what we are after. The trick is to use these tools to demand and challenge Designers and Architects to come up with compatible designs. And even though “beauty rests in the eye of the beholder” the Commissioners are the judges of what meets our guidelines and what does not.
Finally, if reducing the size of houses from 2800 square feet to 1800 square feet did not produce a satisfactory response from architects, than chopping 1800 cubic feet off volume is laughable. You are making the cookie cutter smaller, you are not making it better!
Sincerely,
Chris Tescher
COMMENT:
• Contractor Chris Tescher writes, as follows:
“The unexpected outcome of design review is that houses become looking more alike and the diversification of architecture that was once Carmel’s history becomes more and more a thing of the past.”
Unfortunately, the history of design review in Carmel-by-the-Sea is that with each new and additional design regulation approved by the City, the regulations have not appreciably reduced scale, mass and bulk, as intended, but limited architects and designers in creating innovative, creative and diversified residences. To wit, the City should be repealing some of the City’s design review regulations, not adding more stringent regulations to design review.
Note: Volumetrics was not part of the Design Traditions Project as crafted by Consultant Nore Winter of Winter and Company.
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