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Variance Nos. 2007-16 and 2007-17 February 11, 2008 Page 4 Although the project will only have three feet of a landscape buffer between the site and the residences to the north, the alley effectively serves as an additional buffer between the two uses and will help keep the on-site vehicles from disturbing the residences. The three foot landscape setback will be planted with shrubs and will help to keep the rear parking area visually attractive. Lastly, a six-foot tall fence is proposed along the rear and will help the residences from being disturbed by the automobiles associated with the commercial development. Although the proposed development does not meet the lot size and street frontage requirement for commercial developments, the project will result in the reuse of a site that is currently unoccupied. Policy 2.8 of the Land Use Element encourages the rehabilitation of commercial properties and capital investment within the City. The project involves the demolition of the existing bar and the construction of a new office building. Policy 2.7 of the Land Use Element emphasizes supporting developments that create a business environment that is safe and attractive. As the project site abuts residential properties to the north, a five-foot landscape setback is required. Due to the site's size and width, the development provides only a three feet wide landscape planter. The reduction of the landscape setback allows the site to accommodate the required drive-aisle widths and use the alley for access. Policy 2.7 of the Circulation Element encourages designs that incorporate the use of on-site circulation in order to maintain a safe project site. Lastly, Policy 5.1 of the Land Use Element encourages developments that have a net community benefit and enhance the quality of life. Based on the analysis of the project and the project's compatibility with the City's General Plan and applicable development standards, staff recommends approval of Variance No. 2007-16 and Variance No. 2007-17 as conditioned. CEQA Compliance In accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act, the recommended action is exempt from further review per Section 15332. This Class 32 exemption allows for in-fill projects in urban areas on project sites of no more than five acres. Categorical Exemption Environmental Review No. 2007-59 will be filed for this project. G~-~- k. Carlos Rodriguez Assistant Planner II Vince Fregoso, AYCP Senior PlaiTner CR j m cr\reports\va07-16&17.ROwen Square.pc 31 D-5