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Conditional Use Permit No. 2007-05 Variance Nos. 2007-02 and 2007-03 May 14, 2007 Page 3 The property owner intends to develop the site but is constrained from doing so due to the pre-existing subdivision pattern in the area. The proposed project meets the zoning code in all other regards except for lot size and street frontage. The variances from the lot size and street frontage requirements are necessary due to existing legal subdivisions and the unavailability of adjacent properties. The variances will grant the applicant the ability to use the property in a manner that is consistent with similar surrounding commercial and professional uses. One of the goals of the Land Use Element as part of the City's General Plan is to preserve and improve the character and integrity of existing neighborhoods. The project has been designed to preserve the character of the surrounding neighborhood and will contribute to the general well being of the community by providing a well designed office building that will minimize impacts to the adjacent residential uses. Further, the building will enhance the economic stability of the area by converting a vacant lot into a vital, active office development. The applicant is also requesting a conditional use permit to allow parking on the R1-B zoned section of the site. The B-suffix is intended to restrict the future use of the northern portion of the lot to parking only, thereby creating a permanent buffer zone between the office uses facing Eighteenth Street and the residential uses to the north. This action also allowed the City to impose the development standards for the B suffix, which are intended to mitigate noise, light and traffic intrusion into the residential neighborhoods. In 1999, the City modified the SAMC that requires a conditional use permit to allow parking in conjunction with a commercial use on any property with a B suffix in order to allow appropriate conditions specific to new projects which warranted this condition. The proposed project will meet all B suffix development standards. An existing eight-foot high masonry wall exists on the north property line, with a new five-foot landscaped buffer provided to separate the parking from the residential uses. Further, the site lighting will be designed and located to avoid impacts to adjacent residential properties. The new office building will be constructed in its entirety on the portion of the lot that is zoned C5. To prevent the site from becoming an attractive nuisance, the Planning Division is recommending conditions of approval such as maintaining the block wall and prohibiting signage facing the residential uses. These conditions will assist in minimizing impacts to the adjacent residential uses. 31 B-4