Item 28 - Public Hearing - ZOA No. 20204-01 South Coast Technology Center

Home Browse Search

ZOA No. 2024-01 for South Coast Technology Center at 3100 West Lake Center Drive July 8, 2024 Page 9 permissible range of 0.72, as outlined in Table LU-3 of the Land Use Element, which provides a specific exception for the Lake Center Development, defined by Specific Development Plan Number 58 (SD-58). The proposed project, following the amendment of the specific development document, would also feature reduced mass and scale, aligning with Policy LU-3.4. Additionally, it would result in long-term off -site improvements that enhance the existing community and provide amenities for public enjoyment. The proposed project is consistent with Goal LU-2, which seeks to provide a balance of land uses that meets Santa Ana's diverse needs, as the current allowable uses are not meeting the community's needs. Office space demand has declined and with this request, the ownership proposes to diversify and adapt to these needs by establishing additional land uses within the specific development area. The request is also consistent with Goal LU-3, which aims to preserve and improve the character and integrity of neighborhoods and districts. The goal for the site is to develop high -quality industrial buildings that would revitalize the area and make off -site improvements to enhance the character of the surrounding neighborhood, which would also be consistent with Policy UD-1.1 and Urban Design (UD) Element. Policy UD-1.1 ensures that all developments feature high quality design, materials, finishes, and construction. Furthermore, the proposed project aligns with Goal LU-4 and Policy LU-4.2, which support sustainable improvements to the built environment, maintain, and improve public spaces through quality architecture, street trees, landscaping, and other pedestrian -friendly amenities. As described, the ownership of the properties would redevelop the site, providing high -quality development and extensive landscaping along West Lake Center Drive, culminating in a passive park for the community and visitors to the nearby field or church, which would also be consistent with Policy UD-1.5. Policy UD- 1.5 encourages community interaction through the development and enhancement of plazas, open space, people places, and pedestrian connections with the public realm. The proposed project would also be consistent with several goals and policies of the Economic Prosperity Element (EP). Specifically, it the project supports Goal EP-1, which seeks to foster a dynamic local economy that creates employment opportunities for all residents in the city. The request would allow the ownership to transition from a land use that is not attracting businesses or jobs to one that would, thereby benefiting the city's economic prosperity. Additionally, the proposed redevelopment of Lake Center Business Park aligns with Policy EP-1.2, which aims to strengthen and expand citywide business attraction, supporting the achievement of the city's full employment potential. It also aligns with Policy EP-1.1, which seeks to protect industrial uses that provide quality job opportunities. Consistent with this policy, the request would reintroduce industrial land uses to a site previously rezoned to accommodate only office or commercial uses.