HomeMy WebLinkAbout1995-06-13; City Council; 13184; Amend Car Country Specific Plan Sign RegsCl”v OF CARLSBAD - AGEWA BILL
\B # j3, 12-q TITLE:
ATG. b-13-95 AMENDMENT OF CAR COUNTRY SPECIFIC PLAN
IEPT. PLN SIGN REGULATIONS - SP 19(G)
IECOMMENDED ACTION:
CITY MGRiii$?
That the Council ADOPT City Council Resolution No. fis -/5T , APPROVING the
Negative Declaration and direct the City Attorney’s Office to prepare an Ordinance,
APPROVING Specific Plan SP 19(G).
ITEM EXPLANATION
This item is an amendment to the standards and procedures for signs contained in the Car
Country Specific Plan. Staff and the Car Country Dealers Association have met over a
period of time to discuss and work on problems which the dealers have encountered with
the Car Country sign regulations. This process resulted in the following proposed changes
to the Car Country Specific Plan sign regulations:
1.
2.
3.
Consolidation and Reformatting snecific plan sign regulations Car Country Sign
regulations are currently in multiple specific plan documents, making their use
difficult. This amendment proposes to consolidate and reformat the regulations into
one specific plan document.
Procedural Changes These revisions propose that sign permits would be acted on
first by the Planning Director (rather than first by the Planning Commission as now)
with the ability for subsequent appeals to the Planning Commission and City
Council. This would ensure expeditious review of individual signs, while appeals and
amendments would still be reviewed by the Planning Commission and City Council.
This procedure is consistent with sign permit review for the rest of the City.
Sian Area Changes An increase in the amount of signage available to a dealership
site from 1.5 square feet of sign per linear foot of building frontage to 2.0 square
feet of sign per linear feet of building frontage is proposed by this modification.
The Dealers Association has requested that the sign area allowance be increased to
provide adequate signage for franchises. The association claims that the current sign
standard of 1.5 square feet per linear foot of frontage is insufficient for dealers who
want signs for multiple franchises. This is because dealerships with multiple
franchises have special needs caused by stringent controls imposed by the parent
companies. Parent companies have special standards which require franchises to use
signs of standard sizes, but the City’s existing specific plan maximum sign size limit
is too small to accommodate such signs. The dealers are prevented from making
custom signs because of copyright/trademark controls.
Staff has analyzed all sign permits in Car Country, together with the amount of
signage allowed by the specific plan (see Attachment “5”). This analysis shows that
in many cases dealers are close to using up the amount of sign area allocated by the
existing Specific Plan.
The proposed new sign allocation of two square feet of signage per linear foot of
PAGE TWO OF AGENDA BILL NO. 13 /PV
frontage will provide dealers with more sign space to accommodate the special
signage needs of multiple franchises.
4. Directional Signs Directional signs are signs which identify “Car Country” and direct
customers to the various dealerships within the site. Regulations which would
control sign appearance, size and safe placement of such signs were proposed.
Items 1 and 2 above were proposed by staff and items 3 and 4 were proposed by the
dealers association. All items 1-4 above are recommended for approval.
5. Freewav Oriented Signs In addition to the amendments proposed in Items 1-4
above, the dealers association has also requested that the specific plan allow signs
which are oriented to the I-5 Freeway (in addition to the existing “Car Country” pole
sign). Amendment language showing the dealer’s proposal is shown in Attachment
“4”. This special attachment has been provided due to the complexity of the
regulations, to assist in review.
This portion of the amendment is not recommended for approval for the following
reasons:
a) Freeway oriented sign approval would be contrary to the provisions of the
existing specific plan which precludes such signs.
b) The City zoning ordinance allows Freeway oriented signs, but only for
“Freeway Service Facilities”. These are defined as “a restaurant, a motel,
automobile service station” within a given distance of a freeway interchange.
The uses in Car Country do not conform to this definition.
4 Approval would not be consistent with a prior Planning Commission decision.
On May 29, 1991, the City of Carlsbad Planning Commission denied a
freeway oriented sign because it did not comply with the zoning ordinance
definition of “Freeway Service Facility.”
Planning Commission Decision
At the meeting of April 19, 1995, the Planning Commission recommended that the City
Council adopt the amendment as outlined in Items l-4 above (as shown in Exhibit “2”), by
a 7-O vote. This approval recommendation did not include freeway oriented signs (other
than the existing “Car Country” pole sign). Some Commissioners noted that they would like
to see changes to allow freeway oriented signs. Others thought that any existing freeway
oriented, non-conforming signs should be allowed to stay. One Commissioner felt that
CalTrans should be again asked to allow a sign in their right-of-way.
Specific Plan Consolidation
During the course of review of this application it has been determined that portions of the
specific plan have not been processed as a Local Coastal Program amendment (the original
“old” car country predated the 1976 Coastal Act). Staff will return with a subsequent
agenda item to adopt a consolidated version of the specific plan for submission as a single
Local Coastal Program amendment.
. PAGE THREE OF AGENDA BILL NO. 13 /PC4
FISCAL IMPACT
Some administrative costs will arise from processing sign permit applications. These costs
will be o&et by permit fees.
EXHIBIT:
1. City Council Resolution No. 75-/S 5
2. Proposed Amendment dated April 19, 1995
3. Planning Commission Resolution Nos. 3749 and 3750
4. Planning Commission Staff Report dated April 19, 1995
5. Amendment (Dealer Recommended) allowing signs facing I-5
6. Analysis of existing and proposed signage for Car Country
7. Excerpts of Minutes of Planning Commission Meeting of April 19, 1995.
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! RESOLUTION NO. 95 - 15 5
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF CARLSBAD, CALIFORNIA APPROVING A
NEGATIVE DECLARATION FOR A SPECIFIC PLAN
AMENDMENT TO REGULATE SIGNAGE ON PROPERTY
GENERALLY LOCATED BETWEEN CAN-NON ROAD
AND PALOMAR AIRPORT ROAD.
CASE NAME: AMENDMENT OF CAR COUNTRY SPECIFIC
PLAN SIGN REGULATIONS
CASE NO: SP 19(G)
WHEREAS, pursuant to the provisions of the Municipal Code, the Planning
Commission did, on April 19,1995, hold a duly noticed public hearing as prescribed by law
to consider said request; and
WHEREAS, at said public hearing, upon hearing and considering all testimony
and arguments, examining the initial study, analyzing the information submitted by staff, and
considering any written comments received, the Planning Commission considered all factors
relating to the Negative Declaration; and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City
of Carlsbad, California, as follows:
1. That the above recitations are true and correct.
2. That the findings and conditions of the Planning Commission Resolution No.
3695, on file with the City Clerk and incorporated herein by reference constitute the findings
of the City Council in this matter and that the Negative Declaration is hereby approved.
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PASSED, APPROVED, AND ADOPTED at a Regular Meeting of the City
Council of the City of Carlsbad, California, on the 13th day of JUNE , 1995, by the
following vote, to wit:
AyEs: Council Members Lewis, Nygaard, Kulchin, Finnila, Hall
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
AlTEST:
(SEAL)
“EXHIBIT 2”
APRIL 19,1995
IV. SIGN PROGRAM
The purpose of this section is to establish the sign standards necessary to ensure coordinated
exposure and tenant identification within the Car Country Specific Plan area. A primary
consideration is preventing visual blight and traffic safety problems. Carlsbad Municipal Code
Chapter 21.41 (Sign Regulations) shall apply except as specifically stated in the following specific
plan consolidated sign regulations.
A. Sipn Permit Procedures
1. Permit
All signs without Car Country Specific Plan shall be subject to a sign permit
which shall be determined by the Planning Director (or designee) to be in
compliance with the Specific Plan and Chapter 21.41 (CMC).
2. Anpeals
The decision of the Planning Director may be appealed to the Planning
Commission. In a similar manner, the decision of the Planning Commission may
be appealed to the City Council.
The appeal shall be filed with the secretary of the Planning Commission (for
Planning Commission appeals), or the City Clerk (for Council appeals) within ten
(10) calendar days of the decision. Appeals shall be accompanied by a filing fee
as specified in the City fee schedule.
3. Appeals Noticing
All appeals shall be noticed in accordance with Section 21.54.060 of the zoning
ordinance as it may be amended from time to time.
B. Permitted Signage
Signs permitted shall meet the following standards:
1. Each lot will be permitted signage equal to two square feet per lineal foot of
building frontage.
2. One freestanding sign may be placed on each lot provided the sign area of the
freestanding sign is included within the aggregate sign area permitted as stated
in paragraph Bl above.
3. No portion of such sign shall extend over or into the public right-of-way line, or
be within fifteen feet of any driveway or curb line.
4. Monument signs shall not exceed a height of 8 feet.
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9.
10.
Freestanding signs shall not exceed the height of any building which is
located on the same site, and in no event shall the signs be over thirty
five feet high.
Signs for uses other than motor vehicle dealerships on Lots 2-3 shall conform to
the sign regulations of the Carlsbad Municipal Code as it may be amended from
time to time.
All signs will be reviewed by the Planning Director to ensure compatibility and
to protect the public interest.
All signs shall be oriented so that the primary view is from surface streets.
Interstate 5 shall not be considered a surface street.
Signs oriented to surface streets, but still visible from Interstate 5 shall be
consistent in size, color and illumination with those of the existing auto park.
Only one freestanding sign, advertising the entire car country development, may
be oriented to Interstate 5. This sign shall be a maximum of 35 feet high and
150 square feet in area.
C. Franchise Signs
If more than one franchise is located on one lot, an additional freestanding sign, wall or
monument sign may be allowed. Such signs shall meet the following criteria:
1.
2.
Monument signs, shall not exceed eight feet in height.
The aggregate sign area for the entire development shall not exceed the sign area
allowed for the development according to the provisions of Paragraph Bl above.
3. No portion of such sign shall extend over or into the public right-of-way, or be
within fifteen feet of any driveway or curb line.
4.
5.
The maximum sign area for any such sign shall not exceed fifty-five square feet.
The signs shall be oriented so that the primary view is from surface streets.
Interstate 5 shall not be considered a surface street.
D. Directional Signs
1. The maximum aggregate sign area of all entry/directional signs is 100 square feet
plus 3 square feet per acre of property within the development. The maximum
area for any individual sign is 150 square feet.
2. A sign permit application shall be submitted for these signs.
3. Entry and directional signs shall be combined into one sign.
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4. These signs shall be placed within the boundaries of the Car Country Specific
Plan.
5. A unified design theme which is complimentary to the design of the existing
architecture shall be used.
6. The base of entry/directional signs should be landscaped to provide an attractive
setting, and ground definition of the signs.
7. The appearance of the sign should be unified by a common design. Subdued
sign and lettering colors should be used consistent with the design theme of the
center.
E. All signs shall comply with the requirements of the Coastal Zone.
F. All signs shall be placed so as not to be detrimental to traffic safety to the satisfaction of the City Engineer.
G. Administrative Note
The addendum to Specific Plan 19C dated December 28, 1988, is administrative only.
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EXHBIT 3
/ PLANNING COMMISSION RESOLUTION NO. 3749
A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNIN G COMMISSION OF
THE CITY OF CARLSBAD, CALIFORNIA
RECOMMENDING APPROVAL OF A NEGATIVE
DECLARATION FOR A SPECIFIC PLAN AMENDMENT
TO REGULATE SIGNAGE ON PROPERTY GENERALLY
LOCATED BETWEEN CANNON ROAD AND PALOMAR
AIRPORT ROAD.
CASE NAME: AMENDMENT OF CAR COUNTRY
SPECIFICPLANSIGN REGULATIONS
CASE NO: SP 19(G)
~ WHEREAS, the Planning Commission did on the 19th day of April, 1995,
hold a duly noticed public hearing as prescribed by law to consider said request, and
I WHEREAS, at said public hearing, upon hearing and considering all testimony
and arguments, examining the initial study, analyzing the information submitted by staff, and
considering any written comments received, the Planning Commission considered all factors
relating to the Negative Declaration.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT HEREBY RESOLVED by the Planning
Commission as follows:
4 That the foregoing recitations are true and correct.
B) That based on the evidence presented at the public hearing, the Planning
Commission hereby recommends APPROVAL of the Negative Declaration
according to Exhibit ‘ND”, dated January 4, 1995, and “PII”, dated December
12, 1994, attached hereto and made a part hereof, based on the following
filld&S:
1. The initial study shows that there is no substantial evidence that the project may have
a significant impact on the environment.
2. The site has been previously graded and developed pursuant to an earlier
environmental analysis.
3. The streets are adequate in size to handle traffic generated by the proposed project.
4. There are no sensitive resources located onsite or located so as to be significantly
impacted by this project. 1
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PASSED, APPROVED, AND ADOPTED at a regular meeting of the / !
Planning’Commission of the City of Carlsbad, California, held on the 19th day of April,
1995, by the following vote, to wit:
AYES: Chairperson Welshons; Commissioners Compas, Erwin,
Monroy, Nielsen, Noble and Savary.
NOES: None.
ABSENT: None.
ABSTAIN: None.
ATTEST:
KIM WELSHONS, Chairperson
CARLSBAD PLANNING COMMISSION
PLANNING DIRECTOR
PC RESO NO. 3749 -3-
NEGATIVE DECLARATION
PROJECT ADDRESS/LOCATION:
PROJECT DESCRIPTION: Revisions to the regulations and procedures for signs
governed by the Car Country Specific Plan.
Car Country Carlsbad
Car Country Drive and Paseo De1 Norte
The City of Carlsbad has conducted an environmental review of the above described project
pursuant to the Guidelines for Implementation of the California Environmental Quality Act and the Environmental Protection Ordinance of the City of Carisbad. As a result of said
review, a Negative Declaration (declaration that the project will not have a significant
impact on the environment) is hereby issued for the subject project. Justification for this
action is on file in the Planning Department.
A copy of the Negative Declaration with supportive documents is on file in the Planning
Department, 2075 Las Palmas Drive, Carlsbad, California 92009. Comments from the public
are invited. Please submit comments in writing to the Planning Department within 30 days
of date of issuance. If you have any questions, please call Robert Green in the Planning
Department at (619) 438-1161, extension 4442.
DATED:
CASE NO:
CASE NAME:
PUBLISH ‘DATE:
.
JANUARY 4, 1995
SP 19(G) Planning Director
CAR COUNTRY SPECIFIC PLAN - SIGN CODE AMENDMENT
JANUARY 4, 1995
2075 Las Palmas Drive l Carlsbad, California 92009-l 576 l (619) 438-l 161 aa
. - ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT FORM - PART II
(TO BE COMPLETED BY THE PLANNING DEPARTMENT)
DATE: BACKGROUND
CASE NO. SP 19(G)
December 12. 1994
1. CASE NAME: Car Countrv Specific Plan - Sian Code Amendment
2. APPLICANT: Car Countrv Carlsbad Dealer’s Association
3. ADDRESS AND PHONE NUMBER OF APPLICANT: 5500 Paseo Dei None
Carlsbad. CA 92008
4. DATE EIA FORM PART I SUBMITTED: November 29. 1994
5. PROJECT DESCRIPTION: Revisions to the regulations and nrocedures for sipns Povemed bv Car
Countrv Snecific Plan.
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS
STATE CEQA GUIDELINES, Chapter 3, Article 5, section 15063 requires that the City conduct an Environmental
Impact Assessment to determine if a project may have a significant effect on the environment. The Environmental
Impact Assessment appears in the following pages in the form of a checklist. This checklist identifies any physical,
biological and human factors that might be impacted by the proposed project and provides the City with information
to use as the basis for deciding whether to prepare an Environmental. Impact Report or Negative Declaration.
* A Negative Declaration may be prepared if the City perceives no substantial evidence that the project or any of
its aspects may cause a significant effect on the environment. On the checklist, “NO” will be checked to indicate
this determination.
* An EIR must be prepared if the City determines that there is substantial evidence that any aspect of the project
may cause a sieniftcarg effect on the environment. The project may qualify for a Negative Declaration however,
if adverse impacts are mitigated so that environmental effects can be deemed insignificant. These findings are
shown in the checklist under the headings “YES-sig” and “YES-insig” respectively.
A discussion of potential impacts and the proposed mitigation measures appears at the end of the form under
DISCUSSION OF ENVIRONMENTAL EVALUATION. Particular attention should be given to discussing
mitigation for impacts which would otherwise be determined significant.
PHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT
WILL THE PROPOSAL DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY: YES YES NO
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
Result in unstable earth conditions or
increase the exposure of people or property
to geologic hazards?
Appreciably change the topography or any
unique physical features?
Result in or be affected by erosion of soils either on or off the site?
Result in changes in the deposition of beach
sands, or modification of the channel of a
river or stream or the bed of the ocean or
any bay, inlet or lake?
Result in substantial adverse effects on
ambient air quality?
Result in substantial changes in air
movement, odor, moisture, or temperature?
Substantially change the course or flow of
water (marine, fresh or flood waters)?
Affect the quantity or quality of surface
water, ground water or public water supply?
Substantially increase usage or cause
depletion of any natural resources?
Use substantial amounts of fuel or energy?
Alter a significant archeological,
paleontological or historical site,
structure or object?
X
x
x
x
X
x
x
x
x
x
X
BIOLOGICAL ENVIRONMENT
WILL THE PROPOSAL DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY: YES
CM
12.
13.
14.
15.
16.
Affect the diversity of species, habitat
or numbers of any species of plants (including
trees, shrubs, grass, microflora and aquatic
plants)?
Introduce new species of plants into an area,
or a barrier to the normal replenishment of
existing species?
Reduce the amount of acreage of any
agricultural crop or affect prime, unique
or other farmland of state or local
importance?
Affect the diversity of species, habitat
or numbers of any species of animals (birds,
land animals, all water dwelling organisms
and insects?
Introduce new species of animals into an
area, or result in a barrier to the
migration or movement of animals?
HUMAN ENVIRONMENT
WILL THE PROPOSAL DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY: YES
W
17. Alter the present or planned land use
of an area?
18. Substantially affect public utilities,
schools, police, fire, emergency or other
public services?
YES NO
WW
x
x
X
x
x
YES
(i=b.)
NO
x
x
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, - HUMAN ENVIRONMENT
WILL THE PROPOSAL DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY: YES YES
19.
20.
21.
22.
23.
24.
25.
26.
27.
28.
29.
30.
31.
32.
Result in the need for new or modified sewer
systems, solid waste or hazardous waste
control systems?
Increase existing noise levels?
Produce new light or glare?
Involve a significant risk of an explosion
or the release of hazardous substances
(including, but not limited to, oil,
pesticides, chemicals or radiation)?
NO
Substantially alter the density of the
human population of an area?
Affect existing housing, or create a demand
for additional housing?
Generate substantial additional traffic?
Affect existing parking facilities, or
create a large demand for new parking?
x
x
X
x
x
. Impact existing transportation systems or
alter present patterns of circulation or
movement of people and/or goods?
Alter waterborne, rail or air traffic?
Increase traffic hazards to motor
vehicles, bicyclists or pedestrians?
Interfere with emergency response plans or
emergency evacuation plans?
Obstruct any scenic vista or create an
aesthetically offensive public view?
Affect the quality or quantity of
existing recreational opportunities?
x
x
x
X
X
x
:/ \’
MANDATORY FINDINGS OF SIGNIFICANCE
WILL THE PROPOSAL DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY: YES YES (siti (ins@
33. Does the project have the potential
to substantially degrade the quality
of the environment, substantially
reduce the habitat of a fish or wild-
life species, cause a fish or wildlife
population to drop below self-sustaining
levels, threaten to eliminate a plant or
animal community, reduce the number or
restrict the range of a rare or en-
dangered plant or animal, or eliminate
important examples of the major periods
of California history or prehistory.
34. Does the project have the potential
to achieve short-term, to the dis-
advantage of long-term, environmental
goals? (A short-term impact on the
environment is one which occurs in a
relatively brief, definitive period of
time while long-term impacts will
endure well into the future.)
35. Does the project have the possible
environmental effects which are in-
dividually limited but cumulatively
considerable? (“Cumulatively con-
siderable” means that the incremental
effects of an individual project are
considerable when viewed in connection
with the effects of past projects, the
effects of other current projects, and
the effects of probable future projects.)
36. Does the project have environmental
effects which will cause substantial
adverse effects on human beings, either directly or indirectly?
NO
x
x
x
x
- DISCUSSION OF ENVIRONMENTAL EVALUATION
(Including items 21 and 29 from the checklist).
This proposal would allow an incremental increase in the amount of signage allowed in an existing car
dealership complex and a change to sign review procedures. Currently the project is governed by multiple sign regulations contained in specific plans.
This amendment proposes to combine these multiple regulations into one conformed set of standards and
procedures.
A minor increase in the sign area permitted is proposed (sign area would be increased from 1.5 sq. ft. to 2
sq. ft. per linear foot of building frontage) however, the signs will be subject to size, locational and aesthetic
review. Sign standards and procedures have also been included to ensure that traffic sight lines will not be
interfered with, and the signs would not be a traffic hazard.
These standards and procedures will ensure that the proposed signage will not have a significant effect on the
environment.
A-NALYSIS OF VIABLE ALTERNATIVES TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT SUCH AS:
a) Phased development of the project,
b) alternate site designs,
c) alternate scale of development,
d) alternate uses for the site,
e) development at some future time rather than now,
f) alternate sites for the proposed project, and
g) no project alternative.
-7-
DETERMINATION (TO Be Completed By The Planning Department)
On the basis of this initial evaluation:
x I find the proposed project COULD NOT have a significant effect on the environment, and a NEGATIVE
DECLARATION will be prepared.
- I find that the proposed project COULD NOT have a significant effect on the environment, because the
environmental effects of the proposed project have already been considered in conjunction with previously
certified environmental documents and no additional environmental review is required. Therefore, a Notice
of Determination has been prepared.
- I 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 the mitigation measures described on an attached sheet have been
added to the project. A Conditional Negative Declaration will be proposed.
- I find the proposed project MAY have a significant effect on the environment, and an ENVIRONMENTAL
IMPACT REPORT is required.
Da& Signature
Date Planning Director
LIST MITIGATMG MEASURES (IF APPLICABLE)
ATTACH MITIGATION MONITORING PROGRAM (IF APPLICABLE1
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- h
PLANNING COMMISSION RESOLUTION NO. 3750
A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF
THE CITY OF CARLSBAD, CALIFORNIA,
RECOMMENDING APPROVAL OF SPECIFIC PLAN NO.
SP 19(G), FOR AN AMENDMENT TO THE EXISTING
SPECIFIC PLAN TO REGULATE SIGNING ON
PROPERTY GENERALLY LOCATED BETWEEN
CANNON ROAD AND PALOMAR AIRPORT ROAD
CASE NAME: AMENDMENT OF CAR COUNTRY
SPECIFIC PLAN SIGN REGULATIONS
CASE NO: SP 19(G)
WHEREAS, a verified application has been filed with the City of Carlsbad
and referred to the Planning Commission; and
WHEREAS, said verified application constitutes a request as provided by Title
21 of the Carlsbad Municipal Code; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to the provisions of the Municipal Code, the Planning
Commission did, on the 19th day of April, 1995, consider said request on property described
as: Lots l-11, Carlsbad Tract No. 72-03, Map 7492, and a portion
of Lot H of the Ranch0 Agua Hedionda, Map No. 823.
WHEREAS, at said public hearing, upon hearing and considering all testimony
and arguments, if any, of all persons desiring to be heard, said Commission considered all
factors relating to SP 19(G).
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT HEREBY RESOLVED by the Planning
Commission of the City of Carlsbad as follows:
A)
B)
That the foregoing recitations are true and correct.
That based on the evidence presented at the public hearing, the Commission
recommends APPROVAL of SP 19(G), according to Exhibit “X”, dated April
19, 1995, attached hereto, based on the following findings:
Findings:
1. The Specific Plan is consistent with the Carlsbad General Plan, and with Sections
65450, 65451 and 65452 of the Government Code which regulate specific plans.
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2. The site is physically suitable in size and shape to accommodate the permitted uses
identified in the Specific Plan.
3. The amendment to SP 19 is consistent with the intent and guidelines of the existing specific plan.
4. This project will not cause any significant environmental impacts and a Negative
Declaration has been issued by the Planning Director on January 4, 1995, and
recommended for approval by the Planning Commission on April 19, 1995.’
PASSED, APPROVED, AND ADOPTED at a regular meeting of the
Planning Commission of the City of Carlsbad, California, held on the 19th day of April,
1995, by the following vote, to wit:
AYES: Chairperson Welshons; Commissioners Compas, Erwin,
Monroy, Nielsen, Noble and Savary.
NOES: None.
ABSENT: None.
ABSTAIN: None.
KIM WELSHONS, Chairperson CARLSBADPLkNINdCOMMISSION
ATTEST
MI~I~~ELJ.H~L%IILLER PLANNINGDIRECT'OR
PC RESO NO. 3750 -2-
DATE: APRIL 19, 1995
-
EXHBlT 4 APPLICATION COMPLETE DATE: MARCH 3. 1995
STAFF PLANNER: ROBERT GREEN &Q
STAFF ENGINEER: BOB WOJCIK
0 5
TO: PLANNING COMMISSION
FROM: PLANNING DEPARTMENT
SUBJECT: SP 19(G) - AMENDMENT OF CAR COUNTRY SPECIFIC PLAN SIGN
REGULATIONS - Reformatting and amendment regulations.
I. RECOMMENDATION
That the Planning Commission ADOPT Planning Commission Resolution No. 3749,
RECOMMENDING APPROVAL of the Negative Declaration and ADOPT Planning
Commission Resolution No. 3750, RECOMMENDING APPROVAL of Specific Plan SP
19(G) as proposed to be modified by staff.
II. PROJECT DESCRIPTION AND BACKGROUND
City staff has met with members of the Dealer’s Association over a period of time to discuss
problems which the dealers have encountered with the Car Country sign regulations. During
this period staff worked with the dealers to devise regulations which address issues which
they had raised.
The amendment includes new sign regulations for the entire Car Country Specific Plan area.
The revisions are as follows:
1. Reformatting to consolidate the sign regulations for Car Country Specific Plan
so that they are placed in one document.
2. Procedural changes which allow sign permit review by the Planning Director
(and then on appeal to the Planning Commission and City Council.)
3. An increase in the sign area allowance (to accommodate franchise signs
peculiar to the requirements of car dealerships).
4. New regulations for directional signs.
SP 19(G)
AMENDMENT OF CAR COUNTRY SP SIGN REGULATIONS
APRIL 19,199s
PAGE 2
Items 1 and 2 were included by sta& to improve the functioning of the regulations. Items
3 and 4 were issues which the dealers association specifically requested staff to address.
Additionally the dealer’s association has requested that the specific plan allow signs on
buildings facing the I-5 freeway. For reasons further discussed in the report, staff does not
concur with this and recommends that the amendment be approved precluding signs on
buildings oriented towards I-S. (To assist in understanding the differences between the two
proposals attachments have been prepared to clarity the requested changes. The “Sign
Program” language which is a part of the Ordinance attached to Resolution No. 3750 shows
the city supported amendment which precluded signage oriented to I-5. Attachment 3 shows
the amendment language which would allow signs on buildings facing I-5 which is not
recommended for approval by staff.)
III. ANALYSIS
1. Reformatting and Consolidation of Procedures
Regulations which govern signs in Car Country are currently in multiple locations.
Independent sign regulations are contained in two separate Car Country Specific Plans
(“old” and “new” Car Country) and sign code requirements are also contained in several
resolutions and the zoning ordinance. This makes sign code regulation in Car Country
difficult to use for both applicants and the City.
Just one set of sign regulations is proposed for the whole of Car Country in the amendment.
2. Procedural Changes
Proposed procedural changes would also mean that sign permits are acted on first by the
Planning Director (rather than first by the Planning Commission as now) with the ability for
subsequent appeals to the Planning Commission and City Council. This wiII ensure
expeditious review of individual signs, while appeals and amendments wilI still be reviewed
by the Planning Commission and City Council.
3. Sipn Area Changes
This proposed modification would increase the amount of signage available to a dealership
site from 1.5 square feet of sign per linear foot of building frontage to 2.0 square feet of
sign per linear feet of building frontage.
Car Country Dealers Association has requested that the area of sign alhnvance be increased
to provide adequate signage for franchises. The association claims that the current standard
of 1.5 square feet per linear foot of frontage does not allow enough signage for dealers who
have multiple franchises. The association maintains that dealerships with multiple franchises
have special needs due to stringent controls imposed by the parent companies. Parent
al
-
, SP 19(G) AMENDMENT OF CAR COUNTRY SP SIGN REGULATIONS APRIL 19, 1995
companies have standards which constrain custom sign production, by copyright and
trademark controls and signs which are leased by franchisees from parent companies have
predetermined sizes.
Because of the restrictions made by parent companies the association points out that dealers
with multiple franchises are forced to provide signs of a certain size and appearance, but the
city’s existing specific plan maximum sign size limit is too small to accommodate such signs.
Staff has analyzed all signs with permits in Car Country, together with the amount of signage
allowed by the specific plan (see Attachment “4”). This analysis shows that in many cases
dealers are close to using up the amount of signage allocated by the existing Specific Plan
(7 of 18 dealerships are within 50 square feet of the allocation).
The proposed new sign allocation of two square feet of signage per linear foot of frontage
will provide these dealers with more sign space to accommodate the special signage needs
of multiple franchises.
4. Directional Signs
Directional signs are signs which identify “Car Country” and direct customers to the various
dealerships within the site.
The proposed regulations would control sign appearance, size and safe placement. Design
standards are provided by the amendment which will guide the development of detailed
plans. These detailed plans would be submitted and reviewed for conformance with the
standards of the specific plan by staff.
Such signs will be placed within the boundaries of the Car Country Specific Plan outside
traffic sight lines.
Freewav Oriented Signs
The dealers association also requested the allowance of signs on building elevations which
face the I-5 freeway. The existing Car Country Specific Plan precludes such signs.
Furthermore, Section 21.41.030 of the City zoning ordinance contains regulations which limit
freeway oriented signs to “Freeway Service Facilities” located within 600 feet of the apex of
a freeway interchange quadrant (or 1500 feet when two or more lots or parcels are covered
by a specific plan).
A “freeway service facility” is defined by the zoning ordinance as “a lot or parcel located at
the apex of a freeway interchange quadrant which contains one or more of the following
uses: a restaurant, a motel, or an automobile service station”.
SP 19(G) AMENDMENT OF CAR COUNTRY SP SIGN REGULATIONS APRIL 19,199s
The uses within Car Country do not conform to the zoning ordinance definition of “freeway
service facility”.
Additionally on May 29, 1991, the City of Carlsbad Planning Commission denied a freeway
oriented sign because it did not comply with the above provisions.
Staff therefore, recommends that in order to be consistent with the City zoning ordinance,
and prior Planning Commission actions the amendment proposed by the dealer’s association
which would allow freeway oriented signs should not be approved. Amendment language
is proposed by staff which would preclude signs on buildings oriented to the I-5 Freeway
(Exhibit “Y”). The sentence “Interstate 5 shall not be considered a surface street” in
Sections IV.B.8 and IV.C.5 is included in the proposed Specific Plan for this purpose. (This
language is also included in the existing specific plan.)
Iv. ENVIRONMENTAL
The proposed amendment both changes procedures and regulations governing signs within
the Car Country Specific Plan. Although the amendment would allow a minor increase to
the permitted sign area, standards and procedures have been included to ensure that no
significant environmental impacts will occur. Consequently, the Planning Director
determined that no significant adverse impacts will result from this proposal and has,
therefore, issued a Negative Declaration on January 4, 1995.
V. SUMMARY
The proposed Specific Plan Amendment will reformat and consolidate sign regulations thus
facilitating the use and understanding of those regulations. It will also establish new and
modified regulations regarding multiple fknchises and directional signage that would
address the special needs of car dealers. Finally, the amendment would expedite the
processing of sign permits by making such permits administrative rather than discretionary,
requiring Planning Commission approval. With the exception of the request for freeway
oriented signage, staff believes that the proposed changes are beneficial and therefore,
recommends approval of SP-19(G).
A’ITACHMENTS
1. Planning Commission Resolution No. 3749
2. Planning Commission Resolution No. 3750
3. Amendment (Dealer recommended) allowing signs on buildings facing I-5
4. Analysis of existing and proposed signage allowance for Car Country.
EXHIBIT 5
AMENDMENT SHOWING LANGUAGE REOUESTED BY THE DEALER’S ASSOCIATION TO PERMIT SIGNS ON BUILDINGS FACING I-5.
Iv. SIGN PROGRAM
The purpose of this section is to establish the sign standards necessary to insure
coordinated exposure and tenant identification within the Car Country Specific Plan area.
A primary consideration is preventing visual blight and traffic safety problems.
A. Sign Permit Procedures
1. Permit
All signs within car country specific plan shall be subject to a sign permit
which shall be determined by the Planning Director (or designee).
2. &peals
The decision of the Planning Director may be appealed to the Planning Commission. In a similar manner, the decision of the Planning
Commission may be appealed to the City Council.
The appeal shall be filed with the secretary of the planning commission
(for planning commission appeals), or the city clerk (for council appeals)
within ten (10) calendar days of the decision. Appeals shall be
accompanied by a filing fee as specified in the City fee schedule.
3. Am&s Noticing
All appeals shall be noticed in accordance with Section 21.54.060 of the
zoning ordinance as it may be amended from time to time.
B. Permitted Sienarre
Signs permitted shall meet the following standards:
1. Each lot will be permitted signage equal to two square feet per lineal foot
of building frontage. More specific conditions may be added under the ~ .~. ‘.~ .~, .~ ~.., .., . ,~., Specific Site Development Plans. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ . . . ..:::~~:~~:.::~:~~,.. y$$.. p.<:m,. . . . ..v.. .<.x<. . . . . . . . . . . . . . z...,:~~.:~.:.;r~::~~~~,.,~,~~~::..~~~~:,. ..yy.< ‘.r .., .A ..q.~.:.:.:.),.:.: _..... :~ .:.:.: &.+>&..,. .,...,. ;~‘,.r;:~~~.~,.~~~~~:~.~.~
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ . ..*..> 2.. > . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ..__. .., .., .., I.. . . . . . . . . . . . >a .,.. % .,.....,. :...A. . . . . . 2 . . . . . . . \ .,.,...A.: . . . . . ..A...> A,.....,.....,...,.. A.. .., . . . . . ..A.. > A.... . . . . , . . . . . . . . . . ..A....... > . . . . > . . ..n . . . . . . . . . . . ...”
2. One freestanding sign may be placed on each lot provided the sign area of
the freestanding sign is included within the aggregate sign arca permitted as stated in paragraph Bl above.
D-l
C.
3. No portion of such sign shall extend over or into the public right-of-way-
line, or be within fifteen feet of any driveway or curb line.
4. Monument signs shall not exceed a height of 8 feet.
5. Freestanding signs shall not exceed the height of any building which is
located on the same site, and in no event shah the signs be over thirty
five feet high.
6. Signs for uses other than motor vehicle dealerships on Lots 2-3 shall
conform to the sign regulations of the Carl&ad Municipal Code as it may
be amended from time to time.
7. All signs will be reviewed by the Planning Director to ensure compatibility
and to protect the public interest.
8. All signs shall be oriented so that the primary view is from surface streets.
9. Signs oriented to surface streets, but still visible from Interstate 5 shall be consistent in size, color and illumination with those of the existing auto
park.
10. Only one freestanding sign, advertising the entire Car Country
development, may be oriented to Interstate 5. This sign shall be a
maxim= of 35 feet high and 150 square feet in area.
Franchise Sia
If more than one fkanchise is located on one lot, an additional freestanding sign,
wall or monument sign may be allowed. Such signs shall meet the following
criteria:
1. Monument signs, shall not exceed eight feet in height.
2. The aggregate sign area for the entire development shall not exceed the
sign area allowed for the development according to the provisions of
Paragraph Bl above.
3. No portion of such sign shall extend over or into the public right-of-way,
or be within fItken feet of any driveway or curb line.
4. The maximum sign area for any such sign shall not exceed fifty-five
square feet.
5. The signs shall be oriented so that the primary view is from surface streets.
. Directional Siq
1. The maximum aggregate sign area of all entry/directional signs is 100
square feet plus 3 square feet per acre of property within the development.
The maximum area for any individual sign is 150 square feet.
2. A sign permit application shall be submitted for these signs.
3. Entry and directional signs shall be combined into one sign.
4. These signs shall be placed within the boundaries of the Car Country
specific Plan.
5. A unit&d design theme which is complimentary to the design of the
existing architecture shall be used.
6. The base of entry/directional signs should be landscaped to provide an
attractive setting, and ground definition of the signs.
7. The appearance of the sign should be unified by a common design.
Subdued sign and lettering colors should be used consistent with the
design theme of the center.
E. All signs shall comply with the requirements of the Coastal Zone.
F. All signs shall be placed so as not to be detrimental to traffic safety to the
satkfaction of the City Engineer.
D- 3
EXHBIT 6 - , 1 I I
8
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8 ui if
8
%
? 3 8
2 m
-
h -
EXHBIT 7
PLANNING COMMISSION April 19, 1995 PAGE 16
ABSTAIN: None
RECESS
5. SP 19(G) - AMENDMENT OF CAR COUNTRY SPECIFIC PLAN SIGN REGULATIONS - Request for approval of a Negative Declaration and reformatting and amendment regulations.
Chairman Welshons advised the gallery that if this item is approved by the Planning Commission, it will be
forwarded to the City Council for their consideration.
Robert Green, Principal Planner, reviewed the background of the request and stated that staff has received a letter dated April 14, 1995 (with photographs) from the Car Country Car&ad Dealers Association which has been distributed to Commissioners. No other correspondence has been received by staff. Mr. Green
stated that the applicant has met with staff to discuss problems the dealers have encountered with the Car
Country sign regulations. During this period, staff worked with the dealers to devise regulations which
address issues they had raised. This amendment includes new sign regulations for the entire Car Country Specific Plan area as follows:
* Reformatting and consolidation of procedures;
* Procedural changes;
* Sign area changes; and . Directional signs.
He reviewed each of the pmposed changes using an overhead pro@tion. This analysis was also
contained in the written staff report. Mr. Green concluded his staff report by stating that staff and the
dealers association has agreed on all items except for freeway oriented signs. Staff cannot support
freeway signs for Car Country, except for the existing pole sign.
Commissioner Erwin inquired about the possibility of putting signage in the Cattrans right-of-way. Mr.
Green replied that Caltrans has been reluctant to allow signs in me right-of-way. Staff and the applicant
did try to work w@lh them earlier for signs but the discussions were discontinued.
Commissiow IUbIaen inquired if the existing freeway signs are illegal. Mr. Green replied that freeway wall
signs were approved in the 1970s as part of the original Specific Plan, and they became non-conforming signs to amortized.
Commissioner Nielsen noted mat the Lincoln Mercury dealership does not conform. Mr. Green replied that some of the signs at that dealership don’t have permits.
Commissioner Nielsen inquired if this proposal is passed, will Car Country dealerships have to change their signage. Mr. Green replied that staff will review the situation with signs depending on the City Council decision.
Chairman Wekhons invited the applicant to speak.
MINUTES
PLANNING COMMISSION April 19, 1995 PAGE 17
Bill Kornkk, President, Car Country Dealers Association, addressed the Commission and stated that they
have worked closely with staff and have come to an agreement with everything except the freeway oriented
signs. The Association is requesting that the freeway be treated the same as any surface street. There are
three dealerships which face l-5 and they have been there over 20 years. If these dealerships were constructed today, the architects would deal with this issue. But that is not the case. He referred to the
before and after photographs included with his letter of April 14th. There is currently a provision for
freeway oriented signs for freeway service facilities. This includes hotels, restaurants, and service stations.
Mr. Kornick stated that most service stations today only provide gasoline. Auto service is performed
primarily by automobile dealers. He believes the definition of automobile dealers should be revised to
include automobile service, and eligible for freeway oriented signage. He noted that most other cities work
closely with car dealerships to encourage customers since the City receives significant sales tax revenue
from the dealerships. Many cities have even named streets which compliment the automobile dealerships.
He hopes the Commission will consider their need for this directional signage to assist customers in
locating Car Country since there are no signs of this nature.
Commissioner Noble inquired about the revenues in 1994. Mr. Kornkk repl$d that 1994 sales were $380
million because the economy was pulling out of a recession. However, 1995 revenues have dropped since
last year at this time.
Commissioner Noble stated that he lives in Terramar and he has personally spoken to Mr. Hoehn about eliminating all of the test drives that go on every day through his neighborhood, to no avail.
Commissioner Erwin stated that he has seen 4’ x 8’ green signs in the freeway right-of-way in other areas. He inquired if the Association has discussed with possibility with Caltrans. Mr. Kornick replied that they have discussed signage with Caltrans but somewhere along the line it got bogged down.
Commissioner Erwin inquired if the Association agrees with everything except the freeway signs. Mr.
Kornick replied yes, but he feels the freeway sign issue needs to be addressed. He doesn’t think it is fair to
ask the dealers to take down their signs since they have been there for so many years.
Commissioner Nielsen inquired if the photos which were submitted use all the same ratios. He thinks the Jim Finney signs look more obtrusive. Mr. Green replied that the proposed Finney sign is 400 s.f. and the proposed Dixon sign is 493 s.f.
Commissioner Compas asked Mr. Komkk what staff said wf~en you talked to them about revising the definition of car dealers. Mr. Kornkk replied that it all came down to the definition of freeway service facilities.
Commissioner Comp#@ inquired if he feels that staff has no plans to address this issue. Mr. KOrnkk replied that was his imprsssion. Mr. Green responded that at the present time the zoning ordinance defines
freeway sen&a tzrdlities as motels, service stations, and restaurants only. The City does not plan at this time to requesl that the existing freeway oriented wall signs be taken down. Staff reacts to signs which are a pubtic nuisance.
Chairman Welshons opened the public testimony and issued the invitation to speak.
There being no persons desiring to address the Commission on this topk, Chairman Welshons declared the public testimony closed ;ind opened the item for discussion among the Commission members.
Commissioner Nielsen inquired if the definition of a car dealership can be changed. Rkh Rudolf, Assistant
City Attorney, replied that it can’t be done tonight. The Planning Commission can only take action on the
item which staff has recommended. If the Commission wants to consider the dealers recommendation, it
PLANNING COMMISSION April 19, 1995 PAGE 18
would have to be done at another time. Another method would be to approve it with a contingency.
Chairman Wekhons stated that the Commission’s action tonight will be forwarded to the City Council. Mr.
Wayne replied that is correct.
Commissioner Erwin inquired if any of the three existing freeway signs are out of conformance. Mr. Green
replied that they were approved under the original Specific Plan regulations. The specific plan regulations were changed subsequent to that approval and they are now non-conforming.
Commissioner Erwin inquired if the City could request that the signs be removed. Mr. Green replied yes
However, it is not City policy to go after signs unless they are a public nuisance.
Gary Wayne, Assistant Planning Director, commented that the signs are non-conforming signs. They were legal at one time. The codes changed and now they are non-conforming. Our code contains an abatement period and that abatement period has expired. However, the City has never gone out and
enforced an abatement. In all likelihood, the City will not go out and enforce the issue unless we abate
through the entire City.
Commissioner Erwin thinks the Commission should approve the staff recommendation and let the dealers take their request on to the City Council. He would also like to see if we can put up a sign in the Caftrans
right-of-way. He thinks it coufd be justified and would be very tasteful.
Commissioner Savary thinks some consideration shoufd be given to changing the sign ordinance with very specific details about these signs.
Commissioner Nielsen agrees with Commissioner Savary but he thinks it is a policy issue which the City Council needs to address.
ACTION: Motion was made by Commissioner Erwin, and duly seconded, to adopt Planning Commission Resolution No. 3749, recommending approval of the Negative Declaration and adopt Planning Commission Resolution No. 3750, recommending approval of
Specifk Plan SP 19(G) as proposed to be modified by staff. VOTE: 7-o
AYES: Compas, Erwin, Monroy, Nielsen, Nobfe, Savary, Wekhons
NOES: None
ABSTAIN: None
Commissioner Nobb would like td see these signs which were approved in the original Specific Plan
grandfathered end bt them stay there.
Feartin WE stated that no more discussion could take place since the vote had been taken and .
in Planning Area “D.”
e applicant that the Planning Commission
Council within ten calendar days.
UINUTES
h
'a CARCOUNTRY CARLSBAD la- 0 P ---E%!@
DEALERS ASSOCIATION
BOB BAKER CADILLAC
5215 Car Country Drive Culsbad. California 92008 (619) 431-3150
FAX 431-9819
BOB BAKER CHRYSLER/ PLYMOUTH/VOLKSWAGEN
5500 Pasro Dcl Nortc
Carlrbad. California 92008 (619) 4j6.2200 FAX ~jl-0972
BOB BAKER INFINITI
5245 Car Country Drive Carlsbad. California 92008 (619) ijl-3100
FAX 431-3120
BOB BAKER JEEP EAGLEiHYUNDAI
5555 Car Country Drive Carlsbrd. California 92008
(619) .tjl-3151
FAX 431-3170
CARLSBAD MITSUBISHI 5515 Car Country Drive
Culsbad. California 92008
(6191.?j-l-j050 FAX 431.3165
DIXON FORD/ISUZU
5555 Pax0 Del Norle Cxlsbad. California 92008
(619) 438-9171
FAX (619) 438.9574
HOEHN ACURA 5556 Pass De1 Nom Culsbad. California 92008
(619) 438-9599
FAX 438-8094
HOEHN OLDYSUZUKI
5566 Paxo De1 Nortc
Carlsbad. California 92008 (619) 4 38-3900 FAX Ext 31
HOEHN *MERCEDES BENZ/
PORSCHE/AUDI 5454 Pasco Dcl None Carlshad. Californra 92008
(619) JjB-4454
FAX 438-0568
LEXUS WRLSBAD
5444 Pax0 Dcl Nom
Carlsbad. California 92008 (619) 438.2300 FAX 438-8090
NORTH COUNTY
LINCOLN/MERCURY 5434 Pasco Dcl None Carlsbad. California 92008
(619) ? 38-54 34 FAX \( j8-0049
RORICK BUICK 533i PlKO Dcl NOltC Carlshad. California 92008 (619) ijS-5jl I
FAX ijH-995’
TOYOTA CARLSBAD 542.4 Pax” Dcl xurrc
Carlsbad. California 92008 (619) 438.200,)
FAX 338-1419
WESELOH CHEVROLET 5335 Pasco Dcl None Carlsbad. Czlifomn 92008
(6191 i38.1001 FAX 438.Vi88
WORTHINGTON DODGE CARLSBAD 5548 Paso Dcl Norle Carlsbad. Califomn 92008
(619) 431.1222
FAX 431-1399
JIM FINNEY MAZDA/PONTIA”GMC
5445 Paxa Del None Carlsbad. California 92008 (619) 438-1021
FAX 438.1368
June 1,1995
Honorable Mayor and Members of the City Council
City of Carlsbad
Carlsbad, California
Re: SP-19(G) - CAR COUNTRY SPECIFIC PLAN AMENDMENT
Dear Mayor and Members of the City Council,
The Car Country Carlsbad Dealers Association will be before you June 13,
1995 to amend the Car Country Specific Plan. We believe that the amendment
as proposed by the Association will help us to retain our competitive edge in
very competitive regional market while ensuring that the character of Carlsbad
remains the same.
By way of introduction, Car Country Carlsbad was started 23 years ago by a
few new car dealers. Since then it has grown to 16 separate businesses
representing 26 new car and truck franchises. More than half the deaJerships
are still owned and operated by the original dealers. On average, these
businesses have had the same ownership for 11 years, supporting the local
community by contributing both to the economy and charities, some of which
are listed in the attachment. Clearly we are committed to Carlsbad.
While our story is not only important because of our civic contributions, no
one can escape the fact that we provide a significant amount ofjobs and
property and sales tax revenues for the City of Carlsbad. Sales tax revenues
alone for 1993, the year for which we have the most current data, was almost
three million dollars, or about one third of the City’s total sales tax
revenues. In 1994 we sold over $380,000,000 worth of cars and services. We
also directly employ almost 1,000 people, 80% of whom live within 5 miles
of Carlsbad, and our combined annual payroll exceeds 32 million dollars.
The competition among car dealers has always been fierce. So fierce in fact
that their numbers have declined by 10% within the last 10 years, and the
number of dealer principals dropping even more dramatically. This fierce
competition though is no longer just between car dealers, it is also between
municipalities. That is why Jrvine has installed a huge electronic board, why
Tustin, which originally built a wall between the fieeway and their car dealers,
has now installed signs representing every make in the landscape adjacent to
the freeway. Competition is why Escondido renamed 9th Avenue to Auto
Park Way and installed t&way signs, or why San Diego changed the Mission
Center Road off-ramp to Mission Auto Circle Drive, or why National City
installed three electronic sign boards, and closer to home, why Vista Ford is
not only freeway adjacent and a redevelopment project, but is to receive a 60
foot high electronic sign board. The bottom line is that with the average price
of new car about $20,000, for every person that buys somewhere else,
Carlsbad loses $200 to another municipality, day after day, and year after
Yf=-
-
Honorable Mayor and Members of the City Council
June 1, 1995
Page 2 of 3
We are not asking for anything so grandiose as those other municipalities have implemented, but
we are asking that you carefully consider our amendment as a mechanism to increase the
competitive edge of a 23 year old auto park. Please remember that Car Country, and most of the
buildings, were designed and built under legislation and market conditions of that generation, and
that both the business and the legislation have changed dramatically. All that we are requesting is
that the Specific Plan be updated to reflect those changes.
The first change requested is an increase in allowable signage for multi-franchise dealerships.
Twenty years ago most manufacturers prohibited a dealer from owning multiple franchises, even if
the other franchises were located in a diRerent city. Now it is not unusual for a dealer to locate 3
or 4 franchises within the same building. However, one thing the manufacturers have not deviated
on, and in fact have become more restrictive in, is their representation with their specific sign
requirements. The additional signage requested is necessary to meet these multi-franchise
requirements.
The second change requested is to allow Car Country Carlsbad to include three directional signs
within the auto park. These signs will alleviate the confusion of customers who literally do not
know whether a particular franchise is located within the park, a problem that is exacerbated by
having a lower original section and the upper expansion area.
The third change requested concerns freeway exposure and sign allowance for the three
dealerships located adjacent to the Geeway (please refer to the attached photographs). We ask
that the f&way be treated as a surface street for the purposes of both calculating the sign area
allowed and the exposure of fascia signs to the freeway. These three adjacent dealerships have had
signs facing the freeway for over twenty years. The Specific Plan as amended 10 years ago
prohibits these signs because the “primary view must be from a surface street. Interstate 5 shall
not be considered a surface street.” If these dealerships were designed today, as opposed to over
twenty years ago, they would incorporate some architectural element that was perpendicular to
the Geeway and upon which they would attach their signs, just like most f&way adjacent users in
Carlsbad are doing today. However, the expense associated with doing this is prohibitive, and
even the best efforts would result in a design that would appear as an architectural afterthought.
Interestingly, Car&ad does make exceptions to freeway exposure for “Freeway Service
Facilit[ies]” that “are covered under a specific plan” and are “within one thousand five hundred
feet from the apex of the freeway interchange quadrant” and which include “automobile service
station[s].” Here is where another dramatic shift in the market has occurred, for when was the last
time any of you had your car serviced at a gas station? Service stations now sell gas and
groceries, while dealerships now provide the majority of service to the motoring public, especially
as more and more automobiles are covered by longer and more comprehensive warranties. In
1994, Car Country Carlsbad Dealers provided service to 20,000 customers each month. So here
we have a specific plan that is within 1500 feet of a freeway interchange and whose uses cater to
the motoring public. Doesn’t it seem reasonable that we allow at least the f%eway adjacent
dealerships in this specific plan to present themselves to the motoring public?
Honorable Mayor and Members of the City Council
June 1,199s
Page 2 of 3
We’re not legislative experts, but we do know how to sell cars, and that is why we’re here.
Marketeers like to talk about brand identification, the importance of the product logo, and the
impact of repetitive representation, while sign experts and planning staEdiscuss the importance of
scale, compatibility, and conformance. We just know that ifwe can’t get the customer’s attention,
we’ll never get their interest.. .
Thank you for your support.
Sincerely, .
Bill Kornik
President-Car Country Carlsbad Dealers Association
-
CAR COUNTRY CARLSBAD
CHARITIES AND ORGANIZATIONS SUPPORTED
Boys Club of Carlsbad, Oceanside and San Marcos
Carlsbad Youth Baseball
Carlsbad Bobby Sox Baseball
Carlsbad High School, Baseball, Football and Band
Valley Jr. High P.T.A
Carlsbad Christmas Bureau
United Way
Buena Vista Lagoon Foundation
Carlsbad Youth Soccer
Pop Warner Football
Carlsbad Cares (Leg0 Land)
M.A.D.D.
Jaycees
Santa Margarita YMCA
Magdalena Ecke YMCA
San Diegito Surf Club
Community Hospice
Oceanside Historical Society
Womens Resource Center
Carlsbad Chamber of Commerce
Armed Services YMCA
Colombian Foundation for Retarded Children
Soccer Club of Oceanside
Coast Volleyball League
American Cancer Society
Trauma Intervention Society
Vista Girls Club
Carlsbad Junior Womens Chub
Palomar Jr. College
American Diabetes Association
Sisters of the Precious Blood
March of Dimes
Daughters of St. Paul
Oceanside Rotary
Lancer Football
Oceanside Historical Society
North County Concert Association
Carlsbad High School Basketball
Civitan
.:
&
t ‘f * IP . . ~. .
. ..-z.. I .-..
PROOF OF PUBLICATION
(2015.5 C.C.P.)
STATE OF CALIFORNIA County of San Diego
I am a citizen of the United States and a resident of the
County aforesaid: I am over the age of eighteen years,
and not a party to or interested in the above-entitled matter. I am the principal clerk of the printer of
Blade-Citizen
a newspaper of general circulation, printed and
published daily in the City of Oceanside and qualified for
the City of Oceanside and the North County Judicial district with substantial circulation in Bonsall, Fallbrook, Leucadia, Encinitas, Cardiff, Vista and Carlsbad, County of San Diego, and which newspaper has been adjudged a newspaper of general circulation by the Superior
Court of the County of San Diego, State of California, under the date of June 30,1989, case number 171349; that the notice, of which the annexed is a printed copy (set in type not smaller than nonpareil), has been published in each regular and entire issue of said
newspaper and not in any supplement thereof 6n the following dates, to-wit:
May 31, 1995
I certify (or declare) under penalty of perjury that the
foregoing is true and correct.
Dated at Oceanside,Califomia, this 2 1 of day
May, 1995
Signature
BLADE-CITIZEN
Legal Advertising 1722 South Hill Street
P.O. Box 90 Oceanside, CA 92054
(619) 433-7333
This space is for the County Clerk’s Filing Stamp
Proof of Publication of
Notice of Public Hearing
-------------------------------------------------------
Paste Clipping of Notice SECURELY
In This Space.
+ ,, ) _‘I & h 1.t * _I .r:* a:* ,I’
,
NOTE@ IS HFBEIbY OIVBJ tha+eCity Cm&l of the Qity, of Carl&ad will hold a public hearing at the Ciiy Cmncil Chambem; 12QO Ca&badAWige Dfiw; Clulsbad, ‘blifomia, at 600 PA& on Tbe&y, Juneld&.E?95~So~c~~ appqwql of a Negative, De&ration and application fbr ab am&d&& t&~S@ebifk Pmperty Plan 19 (Cti :
Country) to refimuat and amend regulatiw for paopeaty generally located east of I-5, between Cannon Road and Palanlat Airport Rordi andmore particularly dkcribed as:
Lots1~11;CqrWadTractNo.72-5,tip7492;a&portionoflotHofthe Ran&o Agua He&on& Map No. 823.
Carl&ad DealemhipiAsmciatim
-
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
SP-19(G) - CAR COUNTRY SPECIFIC PLAN AMENDMENT
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City Council of the City of Carlsbad will hold a public hearing at the City Council Chambers, 1200 Carlsbad Village Drive, Carlsbad, California, at 6:00 P.M., on Tuesday, June 13, 1995, to consider approval of a Negative Declaration and application for an amendment to Specific Plan 19 (Car Country) to reformat and amend regulations for property generally located east of I-5, between Cannon Road and Palomar Airport Road, and more particularly described as:
Lots l-11, Carlsbad Tract No. 72-3, Map 7492, and a portion of Lot H of the Ranch0 Agua Hedionda, Map No. 823.
If you have any questions regarding this matter, please call Robert Green in the Planning Department, at 438-1161, ext. 4442.
If you challenge the Negative Declaration and/or Specific Plan Amendment in court, you may be limited to raising only those issues raised by you or someone else at the public hearing described in this notice, or in written correspondence delivered to the City of Carlsbad City Clerk's Office at, or prior to, the public hearing.
APPLICANT: Car Country Carlsbad Dealership Association PUBLISH: May 31, 1995
CARLSBAD CITY COUNCIL
CAR COUNTRY SPECIFIC
PLAN SIGN AMENDMENT
SP W(Q)
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Planning Commission of the City of Carisbad will hold a public
hearing at the Council Chambers, 1200 CL&bad Village Drive, Carisbad, California, at 6:OO p.m. on
Wednesday, April 19, 1995, to consider recommendation of approval of a Negative Declaration and an
amendment to Specific Ran 19 reformatting and amending regulations on property generally located
between Cannon Road and Palomar Airport Road and more particularly described as:
Iots l- 11, Carlsbad Tact No. 72-03, Map 7492, and a portion of Lot H of the Ranch0
Agua Hedionda, Map No. 823.
Those penons wishing to speak on this proposal am cordially invited to attend the public hearing. Copies
of the staff mport will be available on and after April 13, 1995. If you have any questions, please call
Robert Green in the Planning Department at (619) 4381161, ext. 4442.
If you challenge the Negative De&ration and/or Specific Plan Amendment in court, you may be limited
to raising only those issues you or someone else raised at the public heating described in this notice or
in w-&ten correspondence delivered to the City of Carlsbad at or prior to the public hearing.
CASE FLLE: SP 19(G)
CASE NAME: CAR COUNTRY SPECIFIC PLAN AMENDMENT
PUBLISH: APRIL 7,199s
CITY OF CARLSBAD
PIANNING COMMISSION
-
CAR COUNTRY SPECIFIC
PLAN SIGN AMENDMENT
SP 19(G)
A
RAY W & BARBARA WINTER 1745 N ROCKY RD FULLERTON CA 92631
CHARLES J MCNARY PO BOX 2066 RANCH0 SANTA FE C 92067
NATIONAL ASSN OF MUSIC
5140 AVENIDA ENCINAS
CARLSBAD CA 92008
JACOB BROUWER 5050 AVENIDA ENCINAS 35 CARLSBAD CA 92008
'ALOMAR & CO (850 AVENIDA ENCINAS lARLSBAD CA 92008
CARLSBAD RANCH CO
5600 AVENIDA ENCINAS 100
CARLSBAD CA 92008
COLDWELL BANKER
201 CONTINENTAL
COMMERC
BLVD 20
EL SEGUNDO CA 90245
CARLSBAD ASSOCIATION OF 5120 AVENIDA ENCINAS
CARLSBAD CA 92008
CARLSBAD COMMERCIAL CEN
PO BOX 1111 CARLSBAD CA 92018
SAN-GAL
550 W C ST 1820
SAN DIEGO CA 92101
PAUL S ECKE
5600 AVENIDA ENCINAS 100 CARLSBAD CA 92008
CARLSBAD RANCH CO 5600 AVENIDA ENCINAS 100 CARLSBAD CA 92008
WALDORF
424 ANDREW AVE ENCINITAS CA 92024
JOHN E & MARGARET ORD PO BOX 1789 CARLSBAD CA 92018
CORPORATION OF THE PRES 50 E NORTH TEMPLE SALT LAKE CITY UT 84150
CORPORATION
L P CARLMART 5600 AVENIDA ENCINAS 100 CARLSBAD CA 92008
C B RANCH ENTERPRISES 5600 AVENIDA ENCINAS 100 CARLSBAD CA 92008
CAR COUNTRY DEALERSHIP ASSOC
5030 CAMINO DE LA SIESTA
SAThE; CA 92108
*** 23 Printed ***
L -
‘i
AR0 PARTNERS
PO BOX 4549 CARLSBAD CA 92018
FINNEY JAMES B
5445 PASEO DEL NORTE
CARLSBAD CA 92008
DUANE A RODRIGUEZ-WINTE 1282 CREST DR ENCINITAS CA 92024
JONES
HOEHN ASSOCIATES 5566 PASEO DEL NORTE CARLSBAD CA 92008
TOWNSEND 588 CAMINO DEL RIO SAN DIEGO CA 92108
HOEHN ASSOCIATES II 5566 PASEO DEL NORTE CARLSBAD CA 92008
CARLPLAZ 5600 AVENIDA ENCINAS 10 CARLSBAD CA 92008
DORIS T BROOKING 375 SKYLINE DR VISTA CA 92084
CHARLES B WESELOH 1520 HUNSAKER ST
OCEANSIDE CA 92054
SHARP 5411 AVENIDA ENCINAS 12 CARLSBAD CA 92008
ROBERT E TOWNSEND 588 CAMINO DEL RIO SAN DIEGO CA 92108
HOEHN GROUP THE 5454 PASEO DEL NORTE CARLSBAD CA 92008
VINCENT R DIXON 5555 PASEO DEL NORTE CARLSBAD CA 92008
JONES 5424 PASEO DEL NORTE
CARLSBAD CA 92008
JONES
5444 PASEO DEL NORTE
CARLSBAD CA 92008
DIRTTA INVESTMENTS
PO BOX 94303
PASADENA CA 91109
CHRYSLER REALTY CORP 12000 CHRYSLER DR
DETROIT MI 48288
*** 22 Printed ***
- h , - .a
FACILITIES FOR CITY CLERK SAN DIEGO COUNTY PLANNING
5201 RUFFIN RD STE “B”
SAN DIEGO CA 92123
EjlLZ&iCES &%SBf#&AL WATER
CALIF DEPT OF FISH & GAME i
330 GOLDENSHORE #50
LONG BEACH CA 90802
CITY OF CAR&SBAD---
EyIEERIfiG DEI’T
CITY OF CARLSBAD
PLANNING DEPARTMENT
PROJECT PLANNER
ROBERT GREEN
/ i
A
l
(Form A)
TO: CITY CLERK’S OFFICE
FROM: PLANNING DEPARTMENT
RE: PUBLIC HEARING REQUEST
Attached are the materials necessary for you to notids
SP 19(G) - Amendment of Car Country Specific Plan Sign Regulations
for a publfc hearing before the iity Council.
Please notice the item for the council meeting of
Thank you.
PUBLIC NOTICE
Assistant City Man--
,
May l., 1995 Date
e_MAY-24-95 WED 09:22 CITWF CANSBAD COMM DE FAX NO. 438W4 P. 01
_L_ ,-,
L
DATE: , c5? 4 / 9 y3- NfJMBER OF PAGES BEING TRANSMITTED: <?
CItKLUDmG FAX TRANSMITWIL)
TIME SENT:
TO:
COMPANY:
FROM:
DEPT: I-CANNING
PI-iONE #: (619) 438-1161 ext. &&$’
FAX X: (619 433-0894
-
1 .,
2075 Las Palmess brivc * c%rtsbad, Californi& 92oc)Q48&3 l ~bzqnt a-- - * - ’
P. 02
MAY-24-95 WED 09:23 CITY OF CARLSBAD COMM DE FAX NO. 4380894 h - -
~~?‘IC’E OF PUBLIC! HUG
NcmCE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the w -kg Cwmlission of Ihc: City of Carisbd will hold a pubIic he+ d th f3~1d chmbcr~, 1200 Cdbad Village Drive, ChrIsbad, Cdifornia, at 6:OO pm. on Wednesday, Apcil 19, 1995, to Mnnidcr rcconuncndaLion of approval of a Negative &&ration md an anendment to Spcdfrc F%n 19 reformatting and men&g rquktiona on prc~pcrty generally kxattd
bctwcen Cannon F&d md P&mar Airport Road and mofol particularly desctibed as:
?i& I-1 4 Cdsbd Tract NO. 72-03, Map 7492, ad a portion of Lot H of the Ran&o Agua Hedionda, Map No. 823.
Those persons wishing co speak on this proposal arc wdidly kited to attend the pubiic heting, Copies d the stgff rep-~ will be available on and &er April 13, 1995. If you have any questions, picase call
Robert Green in the Planning Ilqmiment at (619) 338-1161, ext. 44-42.
If you challenge the Negrttive D&on audior Specific Ph knendment in COW, you may be limited
to tising only those issues you or someone else raised at the public heting described iu this notice or
in written mrrespondcncc: dvlivcred to the City of C&bad at or prior to the public he&n&
CASE 57LE SP19p)
CASE NW: CAR COUNTRY SPECIFIC: PLAN AMENDMENT
PUBUSW: APRIL 7,1Y95
CITY OF CARISBAD
PLANNING COMMISSION
MAY-24-95 WED 09:23 CITY OF CARLSBAD COMM DE FAX NO. 4380894 P.03
- -
CAR COUNTRY SPECIFIC
PLAN SIGN AMENDMENT
SP 19(G)