HomeMy WebLinkAbout01-11-21_Agenda PacketPlanning Commission
Regular Meeting Agenda Packet
January 11, 2021
CITY COUNCIL CHAMBER
MARK McLOUGHLIN
Chair, Citywide Representative
CYNTHIA CONTRERASLEO
Vice Chair, Ward 5
Representative
NORMA GARCIA
Ward 1 Representative
MIGUEL CALDERON
Ward 2 Representative
KENNETH NGUYEN
Ward 3 Representative
VACANT
Ward 4 Representative
THOMAS MORRISSEY
Ward 6 Representative
MinhThai
Executive Director
Lisa E. Storck
Legal Counsel
Vince Fregoso, AICP
Planning Manager
Sarah Bernal
Recording Secretary
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), if you need special assistance to participate in this Meeting,
contact Michael Ortiz, City ADA Program Coordinator, at (714) 6475624. Notification 48 hours prior to the Meeting will enable
the City to make reasonable arrangements to assure accessibility to this meeting. The City Council agenda and supporting
documentation can be found onthe City’s website – www.santaana.org/citymeetings.
ROLL CALL
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
PUBLIC COMMENTS (non agenda items)
CONSENT CALENDAR ITEMS
1. EXCUSED ABSENCES
Recommended Action: Excuse absent commissioners.
2. MINUTES OF THE DECEMBER 14, 2020 REGULAR MEETING
Recommended Action: Approve the Minutes.
3. CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT NO. 202019 AND VARIANCE NO. 202004 TO
ALLOW THE CONSTRUCTION OF AN 80FOOT TALL MAJOR WIRELESS
COMMUNICATIONS FACILITY LOCATED AT 4111 SOUTH MAIN STREET
Recommended Action: Receive and file resolutions approving Conditional Use
Permit No. 202019 and Variance No. 202004 as conditioned.
***END OF CONSENT CALENDAR***
PUBLIC HEARING
4 ZONING ORDINANCE AMENDMENT NO. 202004
Legal notice was published in the Orange County Register on December 30, 2020.
Please note: Staff has requested that this item be continued.
LOCATION: Citywide
REQUEST: The City is requesting adoption of a zoning ordinance amendment to
amend various sections of Article XVIII of the Santa Ana Municipal Code (Chapter
41/Zoning) pertaining to Homeless Shelters. Specifically, the changes proposed include
increasing the separation requirements between a shelter and sensitive land uses;
limiting habitants of homeless services to Santa Ana residents only; and requiring the
recordation of a use covenant by the shelter operator to ensure only Santa Ana
residents are served.
ENVIRONMENTAL DETERMINATION: The Planning Commission will consider a
determination that the project is categorically exempt from the California Environmental
Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Section 15061 (b) (3) of the CEQA Guidelines –
General Rule. Notice of Exemption, Environmental Review No. 2020112 will be filed for
this project.
Recommended Action: Continue the matter to a date uncertain.
***END OF PUBLIC HEARING CALENDAR***
BUSINESS CALENDAR
5.ELECT A REPRESENTATIVE TO SERVE ON THE HISTORIC RESOURCES
COMMISSION FOR A PARTIAL TERM EXPIRING JULY 2021.
***END OF BUSINESS CALENDAR***
COMMISSIONER COMMENTS
STAFF COMMENTS
ADJOURNMENT
The next meeting of the Planning Commission scheduled for January 25, 2021 at 5:30 PM is
canceled. The next regular meeting will be held via teleconference on February 8, 2021 at
5:30 p.m.
Planning Commission 1 1/11/2021
Planning CommissionRegular Meeting Agenda PacketJanuary 11, 2021CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERMARK McLOUGHLINChair, Citywide RepresentativeCYNTHIA CONTRERASLEOVice Chair, Ward 5Representative NORMA GARCIAWard 1 RepresentativeMIGUEL CALDERONWard 2 Representative KENNETH NGUYENWard 3 RepresentativeVACANTWard 4 Representative THOMAS MORRISSEYWard 6 RepresentativeMinhThaiExecutive DirectorLisa E. StorckLegal Counsel Vince Fregoso, AICPPlanning Manager Sarah BernalRecording Secretary
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), if you need special assistance to participate in this Meeting,
contact Michael Ortiz, City ADA Program Coordinator, at (714) 6475624. Notification 48 hours prior to the Meeting will enable
the City to make reasonable arrangements to assure accessibility to this meeting. The City Council agenda and supporting
documentation can be found onthe City’s website – www.santaana.org/citymeetings.
ROLL CALL
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
PUBLIC COMMENTS (non agenda items)
CONSENT CALENDAR ITEMS
1. EXCUSED ABSENCES
Recommended Action: Excuse absent commissioners.
2. MINUTES OF THE DECEMBER 14, 2020 REGULAR MEETING
Recommended Action: Approve the Minutes.
3. CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT NO. 202019 AND VARIANCE NO. 202004 TO
ALLOW THE CONSTRUCTION OF AN 80FOOT TALL MAJOR WIRELESS
COMMUNICATIONS FACILITY LOCATED AT 4111 SOUTH MAIN STREET
Recommended Action: Receive and file resolutions approving Conditional Use
Permit No. 202019 and Variance No. 202004 as conditioned.
***END OF CONSENT CALENDAR***
PUBLIC HEARING
4 ZONING ORDINANCE AMENDMENT NO. 202004
Legal notice was published in the Orange County Register on December 30, 2020.
Please note: Staff has requested that this item be continued.
LOCATION: Citywide
REQUEST: The City is requesting adoption of a zoning ordinance amendment to
amend various sections of Article XVIII of the Santa Ana Municipal Code (Chapter
41/Zoning) pertaining to Homeless Shelters. Specifically, the changes proposed include
increasing the separation requirements between a shelter and sensitive land uses;
limiting habitants of homeless services to Santa Ana residents only; and requiring the
recordation of a use covenant by the shelter operator to ensure only Santa Ana
residents are served.
ENVIRONMENTAL DETERMINATION: The Planning Commission will consider a
determination that the project is categorically exempt from the California Environmental
Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Section 15061 (b) (3) of the CEQA Guidelines –
General Rule. Notice of Exemption, Environmental Review No. 2020112 will be filed for
this project.
Recommended Action: Continue the matter to a date uncertain.
***END OF PUBLIC HEARING CALENDAR***
BUSINESS CALENDAR
5.ELECT A REPRESENTATIVE TO SERVE ON THE HISTORIC RESOURCES
COMMISSION FOR A PARTIAL TERM EXPIRING JULY 2021.
***END OF BUSINESS CALENDAR***
COMMISSIONER COMMENTS
STAFF COMMENTS
ADJOURNMENT
The next meeting of the Planning Commission scheduled for January 25, 2021 at 5:30 PM is
canceled. The next regular meeting will be held via teleconference on February 8, 2021 at
5:30 p.m.
Planning Commission 2 1/11/2021
Planning CommissionRegular Meeting Agenda PacketJanuary 11, 2021CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERMARK McLOUGHLINChair, Citywide RepresentativeCYNTHIA CONTRERASLEOVice Chair, Ward 5Representative NORMA GARCIAWard 1 RepresentativeMIGUEL CALDERONWard 2 Representative KENNETH NGUYENWard 3 RepresentativeVACANTWard 4 Representative THOMAS MORRISSEYWard 6 RepresentativeMinhThaiExecutive DirectorLisa E. StorckLegal Counsel Vince Fregoso, AICPPlanning Manager Sarah BernalRecording SecretaryIn compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), if you need special assistance to participate in this Meeting,contact Michael Ortiz, City ADA Program Coordinator, at (714) 6475624. Notification 48 hours prior to the Meeting will enablethe City to make reasonable arrangements to assure accessibility to this meeting. The City Council agenda and supportingdocumentation can be found onthe City’s website – www.santaana.org/citymeetings.ROLL CALLPLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCEPUBLIC COMMENTS (non agenda items)CONSENT CALENDAR ITEMS1. EXCUSED ABSENCESRecommended Action: Excuse absent commissioners. 2. MINUTES OF THE DECEMBER 14, 2020 REGULAR MEETINGRecommended Action: Approve the Minutes. 3. CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT NO. 202019 AND VARIANCE NO. 202004 TOALLOW THE CONSTRUCTION OF AN 80FOOT TALL MAJOR WIRELESSCOMMUNICATIONS FACILITY LOCATED AT 4111 SOUTH MAIN STREETRecommended Action: Receive and file resolutions approving Conditional UsePermit No. 202019 and Variance No. 202004 as conditioned. ***END OF CONSENT CALENDAR***PUBLIC HEARING4ZONING ORDINANCE AMENDMENT NO. 202004Legal notice was published in the Orange County Register on December 30, 2020.Please note: Staff has requested that this item be continued. LOCATION: CitywideREQUEST: The City is requesting adoption of a zoning ordinance amendment toamend various sections of Article XVIII of the Santa Ana Municipal Code (Chapter41/Zoning) pertaining to Homeless Shelters. Specifically, the changes proposed includeincreasing the separation requirements between a shelter and sensitive land uses;
limiting habitants of homeless services to Santa Ana residents only; and requiring the
recordation of a use covenant by the shelter operator to ensure only Santa Ana
residents are served.
ENVIRONMENTAL DETERMINATION: The Planning Commission will consider a
determination that the project is categorically exempt from the California Environmental
Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Section 15061 (b) (3) of the CEQA Guidelines –
General Rule. Notice of Exemption, Environmental Review No. 2020112 will be filed for
this project.
Recommended Action: Continue the matter to a date uncertain.
***END OF PUBLIC HEARING CALENDAR***
BUSINESS CALENDAR
5.ELECT A REPRESENTATIVE TO SERVE ON THE HISTORIC RESOURCES
COMMISSION FOR A PARTIAL TERM EXPIRING JULY 2021.
***END OF BUSINESS CALENDAR***
COMMISSIONER COMMENTS
STAFF COMMENTS
ADJOURNMENT
The next meeting of the Planning Commission scheduled for January 25, 2021 at 5:30 PM is
canceled. The next regular meeting will be held via teleconference on February 8, 2021 at
5:30 p.m.
Planning Commission 3 1/11/2021
1
PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES December 14, 2020
ACTION MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING
OF THE SANTA ANA PLANNING COMMISSION
DECEMBER 14, 2020
CALLED TO ORDER VIRTUAL MEETING
CITY HALL, ROSS ANNEX
20 CIVIC CENTER PLAZA, ROOM 1600
SANTA ANA, CALIFORNIA
5:35 P.M.
ATTENDANCE COMMISSIONERS Present:
MIGUEL CALDERON
CYNTHIA CONTRERAS-LEO, Vice Chair left at 6:45 p.m.
MARK MCLOUGHLIN, Chair
THOMAS MORRISSEY
NORMA GARCIA
KENNETH NGUYEN joined at 5:55 p.m.
COMMISSIONERS Absent: None.
PLANNING & BUILDING AGENCY STAFF Present:
MINH THAI, Executive Director
VINCE FREGOSO, Planning Manager
LISA STORCK, Assistant City Attorney
ALI PEZESHKPOUR, Principal Planner
SELENA KELAHER, Associate Planner
FERNANDA ARIAS, Planning Intern
SARAH BERNAL, Recording Secretary
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
PUBLIC COMMENTS (on non-agenda items): None.
CONSENT CALENDAR ITEMS
*All votes were taken by roll call
1.MINUTES FROM THE NOVEMBER 9, 2020 REGULAR MEETING
MOTION: Approve the minutes.
MOTION: CONTRERAS-
LEO
SECOND: MORRISSEY
VOTE: AYES: Contreras-Leo, Garcia, McLoughlin, Morrissey (4)
NOES: None (0)
ABSTAIN: Calderon(1)
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City Council 2 –1 1/11/2021
2
PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES December 14, 2020
ABSENT: Nguyen (1)
2. EXCUSED ABSENCES
MOTION: Excuse the absence of Commissioner Nguyen (joined meeting at 5:55 p.m.)
MOTION: MORRISSEY SECOND: GARCIA
VOTE: AYES: Calderon, Contreras-Leo, Garcia, McLoughlin, Morrissey (5)
NOES: None (0)
ABSTAIN: None (0)
ABSENT: Nguyen (1)
BUSINESS CALENDAR
PUBLIC HEARING
1. CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT NO. 2020-19 AND VARIANCE NO. 2020-04 – Fernanda
Arias, Case Planner.
Matter continued from the November 9, 2020 meeting by a unanimous vote.
Commissioner Garcia recused herself from the matter due to a conflict of interest; she owns
a townhome in the surrounding area.
LOCATION: 4111 South Main Street located in the General Commercial (C2) zoning district.
REQUEST: The applicant requested approval of (1) a conditional use permit to allow the
construction of a new major wireless communications facility disguised as a mono-pine and
(2) a variance to permit the wireless facility at a height of 80 feet in lieu of a maximum of 60
feet (staff recommended denial of the variance).
Case Planner Arias provided a staff presentation.
Recording Secretary reported no written correspondence was received.
Chair McLoughlin opened the public hearing. The applicant spoke in support in the matter
and advocated for approval of the variance. There were no other speakers and the Public
Hearing was closed.
Further discussion ensued regarding wireless coverage area and mono-pine height.
Commission generally agreed that approval of the variance will provide a benefit to the
community. Assistant City Attorney Storck stated that Findings of Fact must be included in
A-2
City Council 2 –2 1/11/2021
3
PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES December 14, 2020
the resolution. Staff and commissioners discussed points to be added to the Findings of
Fact and additional conditions of approval relating to maintenance and removal of graffiti; a
revised resolution will be drafted to include the points discussed and will be brought back to
the Commission at the next regular meeting as a Receive and File.
MOTION: Adopt a Resolution: A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF
THE CITY OF SANTA ANA APPROVING CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT NO. 2020-19 AS
CONDITIONED TO ALLOW THE CONSTRUCTION OF A NEW 60-FOOT TALL MAJOR
WIRELESS COMMUNICATIONS FACILITY LOCATED AT 4111 SOUTH MAIN STREET
MOTION: MORRISSEY SECOND: CALDERON
VOTE: AYES: Calderon, Contreras-Leo, Nguyen, McLoughlin, Morrissey (5)
NOES: None (0)
ABSTAIN: Garcia (1)
ABSENT: None (0)
Adopt a Resolution as amended: A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF
THE CITY OF SANTA ANA APPROVING VARIANCE NO. 2020-04 FOR THE
CONSTRUCTION OF A NEW 80-FOOT TALL MAJOR WIRELESS COMMUNICATIONS
FACILITY LOCATED AT 4111 SOUTH MAIN STREET
MOTION: NGUYEN SECOND: CONTRERAS-LEO
VOTE: AYES: Calderon, Contreras-Leo, Nguyen, McLoughlin, Morrissey (5)
NOES: None (0)
ABSTAIN: Garcia (1)
ABSENT: None (0)
2. ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW NO. 2020-48, GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT NO. 2020-07
AND AMENDMENT APPLICATION NO. 2020-05 – Selena Kelaher, Case Planner.
LOCATION: 2530 and 2534 West Westminster Avenue located in the General Commercial
(C2) zoning district.
REQUEST: The applicant requested approval of the following land use entitlements to
facilitate the construction of 85 affordable housing units: (1) general plan amendment to
redesignate the property from General Commercial (GC) to Urban Neighborhood (UN) and
(2) an amendment application to rezone the property from General Commercial (C2) to
Specific Development No. 97 (SD-97). In conjunction with the request, the applicant
requested approval of a Mitigated Negative Declaration (MND) and Mitigation Monitoring and
Reporting Program (MMRP), Environmental Review No. 2020-48.
Case Planner Kelaher provided a staff presentation.
A-3
City Council 2 –3 1/11/2021
4
PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES December 14, 2020
Commission discussion ensued regarding parking permit areas, parking management plan,
and project design.
Recording Secretary provided a summary report of written communication received.
Chair McLoughlin opened the Public Hearing. The applicant spoke in support of the matter
and answered questions about parking, open space, environmentally-friendly design
features, architectural elements, on-site services, and funding timeline.
The following individuals spoke on the matter:
• Tony Chong made general comment regarding permit parking.
• Chris Jacobson made general comment regarding parking, setback/fencing and
potential consequences of the project on the surrounding neighborhood.
• Kimberly Adams, representing United Way, spoke in support.
• Benjamin (no last name) spoke in opposition.
The applicant was provided the opportunity to address comments regarding traffic. There
were no other callers and the Public Hearing was closed.
Commission discussion ensued regarding concern with traffic, parking, traffic control
measures, site access, and open space.
Commissioner Morrissey motioned to approve the matter with the added conditions: (1)
conduct a warrant analyses for traffic control measures at Hurron and 16th and Fairview and
16th and (2) the applicant shall work with staff to improve the project’s architectural design
along Westminster Avenue. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Nguyen.
MOTION:
Recommend that the City Council:
a) Adopt a Resolution: A RESOLUTION OF CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SANTA
ANA ADOPTING A MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION AND MITIGATION
MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM, ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW NO.
2020-48, RELATIVE TO GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT NO. 2020-07 AND
AMENDMENT APPLICATION NO. 2020-05 FOR THE PROJECT LOCATED AT 2530
AND 2534 WESTMINSTER AVENUE
b) Adopt a Resolution: A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
SANTA ANA APPROVING GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT NO. 2020-07 TO
CHANGE THE GENERAL PLAN LAND USE DESIGNATIONS FOR THE
PROPERTIES LOCATED AT 2530 AND 2534 WESTMINSTER AVENUE FROM
GENERAL COMMERCIAL (GC) TO URBAN NEIGHBORHOOD (UN)
c) Adopt an Ordinance: AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
SANTA ANA APPROVING AMENDMENT APPLICATION NO. 2020-05 REZONING
THE PROPERTIES LOCATED AT 2530 AND 2534 WESTMINSTER AVENUE FROM
A-4
City Council 2 –4 1/11/2021
5
PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES December 14, 2020
GENERAL COMMERCIAL (C2) TO SPECIFIC DEVELOPMENT NO. 97 (SD-97) AND
ADOPTING SD-97 FOR SAID PROPERTY
MOTION: MORRISSEY SECOND: NGUYEN
VOTE: AYES: Calderon, Garcia, McLoughlin, Morrissey, Nguyen (5)
NOES: None (0)
ABSTAIN: None (0)
ABSENT: Contreras-Leo (1)
ADMINISTRATIVE MATTERS
3. ELECT A REPRESENTATIVE TO THE HISTORIC RESOURCES COMMISSION
RECOMMENDED ACTION: Continue the matter to the next regular meeting.
MOTION: MCLOUGHLIN SECOND: MORRISSEY
VOTE: AYES: Calderon, Garcia, McLoughlin, Morrissey, Nguyen (5)
NOES: None (0)
ABSTAIN: None (0)
ABSENT: Contreras-Leo (1)
***END OF BUSINESS CALENDAR***
COMMENTS
3. STAFF COMMENTS:
Minh Thai
• Thanked Vince Fregoso and Lisa Storck for their service.
• Wished everyone Happy Holidays.
• Announced that the next Planning Commission will be on January 11, 2021.
Vince Fregoso and Lisa Storck
• Expressed appreciation and thanked the Commission for their contributions to the
city.
4. COMMISSION MEMBER COMMENTS:
All commissioners welcomed new Commissioner Calderon.
A-5
City Council 2 –5 1/11/2021
6
PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES December 14, 2020
Commission Calderon
•Thanked Commissioners for their warm welcome; encouraged everyone to stay
safe.
Commissioner Garcia
•Encouraged everyone to stay safe.
Commissioner Nguyen
•Announced that this may be his last meeting; thanked commissioners and
expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve on the Commission.
Chair McLouhglin
•Thanked Commissioner Nguyen for his service; thanked Vince Fregoso and Lisa
Storck for their service; encouraged everyone to stay safe.
ADJOURNED AT 8: 34 P.M. – The meeting scheduled for Monday, December 28, 2020 is
canceled. The next regular meeting will be held via teleconference on Monday, January 11, 2021
at 5:30 p.m.
Sarah Bernal
Recording Secretary
A-6
City Council 2 –6 1/11/2021
Planning and Building Agency
https://www.santa-ana.org/pb
Item # 3
City of Santa Ana
20 Civic Center Plaza, Santa Ana, CA 92701
Planning Commission Staff Report
January 11, 2021
TOPIC: CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT NO. 2020-19 AND VARIANCE NO. 2020-04 TO
ALLOW THE CONSTRUCTION OF AN 80-FOOT TALL MAJOR WIRELESS
COMMUNICATIONS FACILITY LOCATED AT 4111 SOUTH MAIN STREET
RECOMMENDED ACTION
Receive and file resolutions approving Conditional Use Permit No. 2020-19 and Variance
No. 2020-04 as conditioned.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Receive and File amended resolutions.
DISCUSSION
At the December 14, 2020 public hearing, the Planning Commission approved
Conditional Use Permit No. 2020-19 and directed staff to prepare a resolution approving
Variance No. 2020-04 for construction of a new 80-foot tall major wireless
communications facility stealthed as a mono-eucalyptus tree, citing the facility’s location,
stealth design, existing site conditions, and to fill a gap in service coverage as reasons to
support the project. The resolutions have been revised to address Planning Commission’s
actions and are attached for receive and file.
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT
The Planning Commission will consider a determination that the project is categorically
exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Section 15303
of the CEQA Guidelines – New Construction. Notice of Exemption, Environmental Review
No. 2018-117 will be filed for this project.
EXHIBIT(S)
1. Resolution for Conditional Use Permit No. 2020-19
2. Resolution for Variance No. 2020-04
Submitted By:
Fernanda Arias
City Council 3 –1 1/11/2021
CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT NO. 2020-19 AND VARIANCE NO. 2020-04 TO ALLOW
THE CONSTRUCTION OF AN 80-FOOT TALL MAJOR WIRELESS
COMMUNICATIONS FACILITY LOCATED AT 4111 SOUTH MAIN STREET
January 11, 2021
Page 2
2
2
0
Approved By: Kristine Ridge, City Manager
City Council 3 –2 1/11/2021
Resolution No. 2020-XXX
Page 1 of 7
RESOLUTION NO. 2020-XXX
A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF
THE CITY OF SANTA ANA APPROVING CONDITIONAL
USE PERMIT NO. 2020-19 AS CONDITIONED TO ALLOW
THE CONSTRUCTION OF A NEW 80-FOOT TALL MAJOR
WIRELESS COMMUNICATIONS FACILITY LOCATED AT
4111 SOUTH MAIN STREET
BE IT RESOLVED BY THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF
SANTA ANA AS FOLLOWS:
Section 1. The Planning Commission of the City of Santa Ana hereby finds,
determines and declares as follows:
A. Tyler Kent with Smartlink LLC, representing AT&T (“Applicant”), is
requesting approval of Conditional Use Permit (“CUP”) No. 2020-19 to
allow the construction of a new 80-foot tall major wireless (“mono-
eucalyptus”) communications facility at 4111 South Main Street.
B. Pursuant to Santa Ana Municipal Code (“SAMC”) Section 41-198.9, no
major wireless communication facility shall exceed sixty (60) feet in height
from ground level as measured from the nearest street curb.
C. On December 14, 2020, the Planning Commission held a duly noticed
public hearing for CUP No. 2020-19.
D. Applicant is also requesting concurrent approval of Variance No. 2020-04
to allow relief from the maximum 60-foot height requirement. Due to the
extended coverage the wireless facility will provide, staff is recommending
separate approval of said application.
E. The Planning Commission of the City of Santa Ana has considered the
information and determines that the following findings, which must be
established in order to grant CUP No. 2020-19 to allow the construction of
an 80-foot tall major wireless communications facility, have been
established as required per SAMC Section 41-638:
1. That the proposed use will provide a service or facility which will
contribute to the general well-being of the neighborhood or the
community.
The project will provide a service that will contribute to the
community. The proposed mono-eucalyptus will provide a
needed service to Santa Ana residents, businesses, and
City Council 3 –3 1/11/2021
Resolution No. 2020-XXX
Page 2 of 7
motorists who subscribe to AT&T wireless services by
reducing the gaps in cellular service and providing additional
calling capacity for its users in Santa Ana.
2. That the proposed use under the circumstances of the particular
case will not be detrimental to the health, safety, or general welfare
of persons residing or working in the vicinity.
The proposed wireless communications facility at this
location will not be detrimental to persons residing or
working in the area as the proposed facility will be in
compliance with Federal laws that govern health related
issues for wireless facilities, including safety regulations from
the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and Federal
Aviation Administration (FAA). Moreover, the nearest
residential use is located over 580 linear feet from the site,
further reducing any potential for impacts.
3. That the proposed use will not adversely affect the present
economic stability or future economic development of properties
surrounding the area.
The proposed 80-foot tall wireless communications facility will
be compatible with the surrounding area and will not
adversely affect the economic viability in the area. The stealth
appearance and site enhancements will maintain and
increase the economic stability for this commercial corridor by
providing an additional service for business owners, workers
and residents in the area. Further, the stealth appearance and
the chosen location of the facility will help blend in with
existing mature trees found on adjacent properties. Finally,
the facility has been designed to allow future co-location for
additional carriers, which minimizes the need for additional
towers in the area in the future.
4. That the proposed use shall comply with the regulations and
conditions specified in Chapter 41 for such use.
The use will comply with all provisions pertaining to the
construction and installation of wireless facilities identified in
Chapter 41 (Zoning Code) of the Santa Ana Municipal Code.
In addition, the proposed facility will be built with an
Importance Factor of 1.5 in an effort to remain operational in
the event of a large earthquake. The proposed facility will be
stealthed as a eucalyptus tree, will provide an equipment
City Council 3 –4 1/11/2021
Resolution No. 2020-XXX
Page 3 of 7
enclosure and will comply with other standards outlined in
the SAMC.
5. That the proposed use will not adversely affect the General Plan or
any specific plan of the City.
The proposed 80-foot high wireless communications facility
will not adversely affect the General Plan because it is
designed to be compatible with the surrounding environment
consistent with the following goal and policy of the General
Plan: Land Use Element Goal 1 (promote a balance of land
uses to address community needs) and Policy 2.2 (support
community land uses to accommodate the City’s needs for
goods and services). Cellular and data services will be
enhanced and improved for surrounding businesses and
residents. The facility is proposed in the least obtrusive
location to fill a gap in services coverage.
Section 2. In accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA)
and the CEQA Guidelines, the project is categorically exempt from further review per
Section 15303 (Class 3 – New Construction or Conversion of Small Structures). The
Class 3 exemption consists of construction and location of limited numbers of new, small
facilities or structures. In urbanized areas, this exemption applies to apartments, duplexes
and similar structures designed for not more than six dwelling units. In addition, this
exemption also applies to up to four such commercial buildings not exceeding 10,000
square feet in floor area on sites zoned for such use if not involving the use of significant
amounts of hazardous substances where all necessary public services and facilities are
available and the surrounding area is not environmentally sensitive. The project consists
of the construction of a major wireless communications facility and site improvements, all
necessary public services and facilities are available, and it is not being built in an
environmentally sensitive area. Based on this analysis, a Notice of Exemption for
Environmental Review No. 2018-117 will be filed for this project.
Section 3. The Applicant shall indemnify, protect, defend and hold the City
and/or any of its officials, officers, employees, agents, departments, agencies,
authorized volunteers, and instrumentalities thereof, harmless from any and all claims,
demands, lawsuits, writs of mandamus, referendum, and other proceedings (whether
legal, equitable, declaratory, administrative or adjudicatory in nature), and alternative
dispute resolution procedures (including, but not limited to arbitrations, mediations, and
such other procedures), judgments, orders, and decisions (collec tively “Actions”),
brought against the City and/or any of its officials, officers, employees, agents,
departments, agencies, and instrumentalities thereof, that challenge, attack, or seek to
modify, set aside, void, or annul, any action of, or any permit o r approval issued by the
City and/or any of its officials, officers, employees, agents, departments, agencies, and
instrumentalities thereof (including actions approved by the voters of the City) for or
concerning the project, whether such Actions are brou ght under the Ralph M. Brown
City Council 3 –5 1/11/2021
Resolution No. 2020-XXX
Page 4 of 7
Act, California Environmental Quality Act, the Planning and Zoning Law, the Subdivision
Map Act, Code of Civil Procedure sections 1085 or 1094.5, or any other federal, state or
local constitution, statute, law, ordinance, charter, rule, regulation, or any decision of a
court of competent jurisdiction. It is expressly agreed that the City shall have the right to
approve, which approval will not be unreasonably withheld, the legal counsel providing
the City’s defense, and that Applicant shall reimburse the City for any costs and
expenses directly and necessarily incurred by the City in the course of the defense.
City shall promptly notify the Applicant of any Action brought and City shall cooperate
with Applicant in the defense of the Action.
Section 4. The Planning Commission of the City of Santa Ana, after
conducting the public hearing hereby approves Conditional Use Permit No. 2020-19, as
conditioned in Exhibit A, attached hereto and incorporated herein. This decision is
based upon the evidence submitted at the above said hearing, which includes, but is not
limited to: the Request for Planning Commission Action dated December 14, 2020, and
exhibits attached thereto; and the public testimony, all of which are incorporated herein
by this reference.
ADOPTED this 14th day of December, 2020 by the following vote:
AYES: Commissioners:
NOES: Commissioners:
ABSENT: Commissioners:
ABSTENTIONS: Commissioners:
_______________________
Mark McLoughlin
Chairperson
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
Sonia R. Carvalho, City Attorney
By:________________________
John M. Funk
Sr. Assistant City Attorney
City Council 3 –6 1/11/2021
Resolution No. 2020-XXX
Page 5 of 7
CERTIFICATE OF ATTESTATION AND ORIGINALITY
I, SARAH BERNAL, Recording Secretary, do hereby attest to and cer tify the attached
Resolution No. 2020-XXX to be the original resolution adopted by the Planning
Commission of the City of Santa Ana on December 14, 2020.
Date: ________________ ____________________________________
Recording Secretary
City of Santa Ana
City Council 3 –7 1/11/2021
Resolution No. 2020-XXX
Page 6 of 7
EXHIBIT A
Conditions of Approval for Conditional Use Permit No. 2020-19
Conditional Use Permit No. 2020-19 is approved subject to compliance, to the
reasonable satisfaction of the Planning Manager, with all applicable sections of the
Santa Ana Municipal Code, the California Administrative Code, the California Building
Standards Code and all other applicable regulations.
The Applicant must comply in full with each and every condition listed below prior to
exercising the rights conferred by this conditional use permit.
The Applicant must remain in compliance with all conditions listed below throughout the
life of the conditional use permit. Failure to comply with each and every condition may
result in the revocation of the conditional use permit.
1. The Applicant must comply with all conditions and requirements of the
Development Review Committee for the Development Project No. 2018-43.
2. Conditional Use Permit No. 2020-19 shall not become effective unless Variance
No. 2020-04 is approved and in full effect.
3. Any amendment to this conditional use permit must be submitted to the Planning
Division for review. At that time, staff will determine if administrative relief is
available or if the conditional use permit must be amended.
4. Prior to the issuance of a building permit to construct the facility, a full landscape
and irrigation plan shall be submitted for review and app roval by the Planning
Division. Plans must include:
a. A six (6) foot tall solid block wall with vines to surround the facility and
its related equipment on all sides;
b. Installation of additional 36-inch box trees where missing from existing
planter areas along Main Street and the south property line to screen
the proposed facility and its related equipment; and
c. A 36-inch box tree replacement at a 1:1 ratio for any removed trees.
5. The applicant shall be responsible for maintaining the subject site free from
debris, overgrown vegetation, and graffiti. Any graffiti must be removed within 24
hours.
6. The Applicant shall provide a 24-hour phone number to which interference
problems may be reported. This condition will also apply to all existing facilities in
the City of Santa Ana.
City Council 3 –8 1/11/2021
Resolution No. 2020-XXX
Page 7 of 7
7. The Applicant will provide a “single point of contact” in its Engineering and
Maintenance Departments to insure continuity on all interference issues. The
name, telephone number, fax number and e-mail address of that person shall be
provided to the City’s designated representative after approval of the CUP.
8. The Applicant shall ensure that lessee or other user(s) shall comply with the
terms and conditions of this permit, and shall be responsible for the failure of any
lessee or other users under the control of permit Applicant to comply.
9. The major wireless facility shall be subject to any applicable Californi a Building
Code or federal requirements for seismic safety, retrofit, and/or upgrades as
deemed necessary by the Building Division and shall be constructed with an
Importance Factor of 1.5.
10. Conditional Use Permit No. 2020-19 expires 10 years from the date of Planning
Commission approval.
City Council 3 –9 1/11/2021
Resolution No. 2020-XXX
Page 1 of 6
RESOLUTION NO. 2020-XXX
A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF
THE CITY OF SANTA ANA APPROVING VARIANCE NO.
2020-04 AS CONDITIONED TO EXCEED THE MAXIMUM
HEIGHT OF 60 FEET TO 80 FEET FOR A MAJOR
WIRELESS COMMUNICATIONS FACILITY LOCATED AT
4111 SOUTH MAIN STREET
BE IT RESOLVED BY THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF
SANTA ANA AS FOLLOWS:
Section 1. The Planning Commission of the City of Santa Ana hereby finds,
determines and declares as follows:
A. Tyler Kent with Smartlink LLC, representing AT&T (“Applicant”), is
requesting approval of Variance No. 2020-04 as conditioned to allow a
maximum height of 80 feet for a major wireless (“mono-eucalyptus”)
communications facility at 4111 South Main Street.
B. Santa Ana Municipal Code (“SAMC”) Section 41-198.9 requires a
maximum height of 60 feet for all wireless communication facilities.
C. Applicant is also requesting concurrent approval of Conditional Use Permit
No. 2020-19 to allow construction of the subject major wireless facility.
Due to the extended coverage the wireless facility will provide, staff is
recommending separate approval of said application.
D. On December 14, 2020, the Planning Commission held a duly noticed
public hearing for Variance No. 2020-04.
E. The Planning Commission of the City of Santa Ana has considered the
information and determines that the following findings, which must be
established in order to grant Variance No. 2020-04, to exceed the
maximum height of 60 feet to 80 feet for a major wireless communications
facility, have been established as required per SAMC Section 41-638:
1. That because of special circumstances applicable to the subject
property, including size, shape, topography, location or
surroundings, the strict application of the zoning ordinance is found
to deprive the subject property of privileges not otherwise at
variance with the intent and purpose of the provisions of this
chapter.
The subject property is located adjacent to the Costa Mesa
(SR-55) Freeway and an existing Southern California Edison
City Council 3 –10 1/11/2021
Resolution No. 2020-XXX
Page 2 of 6
Substation. It is visually isolated and separated from
residential uses and the increased height allows it to
adequately serve the surrounding area. Due to existing
conditions of the Southern California Edison Substation,
proposed antennas and equipment are unable to locate on
existing utility transmission poles on the subject site and take
advantage of the existing height of such structures. The
additional 20 feet of height will allow better service for the
residential and commercial sites in the vicinity, and will allow
the facility to compensate for the tall freeway overpasses
adjacent to the site. The proposed facility is designed to be
stealthed as a eucalyptus tree and blend in with existing
trees.
2. That the granting of a variance or minor exception is necessary for
the preservation and enjoyment of one or more substantial property
rights.
The new 80-foot tall wireless communication facility will
provide adequate service for residents and businesses in the
vicinity of the subject site. It will fill an existing coverage gap
in service in the least obtrusive location within the area and
blend in with its surroundings.
3. That the granting of a variance or minor exception will not be
materially detrimental to the public welfare or injurious to
surrounding property.
The proposed 80-foot high wireless communication facility is
located in a predominantly commercial area and will not
visually impact the surrounding uses. The stealth design will
blend with existing tress and conditions.
4. That the granting of a variance or minor exception will not adversely
affect the general plan of the city.
The proposed 80-foot high wireless communications facility
will not adversely affect the General Plan because it is
designed to be compatible with the surrounding environment
and is consistent with the following goal and policy of the
General Plan: Land Use Element Goal 1 (promote a balance
of land uses to address community needs) and Policy 2.2
(support community land uses to accommodate the City’s
needs for goods and services). Cellular and data services
will be enhanced and improved for surrounding businesses
City Council 3 –11 1/11/2021
Resolution No. 2020-XXX
Page 3 of 6
and residents. The facility is proposed in the least obtrusive
location to fill a gap in services coverage.
Section 2. The Applicant shall indemnify, protect, defend and hold the City
and/or any of its officials, officers, employees, agents, departments, agencies,
authorized volunteers, and instrumentalities thereof, harmless from any and all claims,
demands, lawsuits, writs of mandamus, referendum, and other proceedings (whether
legal, equitable, declaratory, administrative or adjudicatory in nature), and alternative
dispute resolution procedures (including, but not limited to arbitrations, mediations, and
such other procedures), judgments, orders, and decisions (collectively “Action s”),
brought against the City and/or any of its officials, officers, employees, agents,
departments, agencies, and instrumentalities thereof, that challenge, attack, or seek to
modify, set aside, void, or annul, any action of, or any permit or approval iss ued by the
City and/or any of its officials, officers, employees, agents, departments, agencies, and
instrumentalities thereof (including actions approved by the voters of the City) for or
concerning the project, whether such Actions are brought under the Ralph M. Brown
Act, California Environmental Quality Act, the Planning and Zoning Law, the Subdivision
Map Act, Code of Civil Procedure sections 1085 or 1094.5, or any other federal, state or
local constitution, statute, law, ordinance, charter, rule, regu lation, or any decision of a
court of competent jurisdiction. It is expressly agreed that the City shall have the right to
approve, which approval will not be unreasonably withheld, the legal counsel providing
the City’s defense, and that Applicant shall reimburse the City for any costs and
expenses directly and necessarily incurred by the City in the course of the defense.
City shall promptly notify the Applicant of any Action brought and City shall cooperate
with Applicant in the defense of the Action.
Section 3. The Planning Commission of the City of Santa Ana after conducting
the public hearing, hereby approves Variance No. 2020-04, as conditioned in Exhibit A,
attached hereto and incorporated herein. This decision is based upon the evidence
submitted at the above said hearing, which includes, but is not limited to: the Request
for Planning Commission Action dated December 14, 2020, and exhibits attached
thereto; and the public testimony, all of which are incorporated herein by this reference.
ADOPTED this 14th day of December, 2020 by the following vote:
AYES: Commissioners:
NOES: Commissioners:
ABSENT: Commissioners:
ABSTENTIONS: Commissioners:
_______________________
Mark McLoughlin
Chairperson
City Council 3 –12 1/11/2021
Resolution No. 2020-XXX
Page 4 of 6
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
Sonia R. Carvalho, City Attorney
By:________________________
John M. Funk
Sr. Assistant City Attorney
CERTIFICATE OF ATTESTATION AND ORIGINALITY
I, SARAH BERNAL, Recording Secretary, do hereby attest to and certify the attached
Resolution No. 2020-XXX to be the original resolution adopted by the Planning
Commission of the City of Santa Ana on December 14, 2020.
Date: ________________ ____________________________________
Recording Secretary
City of Santa Ana
City Council 3 –13 1/11/2021
Resolution No. 2020-XXX
Page 5 of 6
EXHIBIT A
Conditions of Approval for Variance No. 2020-04
Variance Number 2020-04 is approved subject to compliance, to the reasonable
satisfaction of the Planning Manager, with all applicable sections of the Santa Ana
Municipal Code, the California Administrative Code, the California Building Standards
Code and all other applicable regulations.
The Applicant must comply in full with each and every condition listed below prior to
exercising the rights conferred by this conditional use permit.
The Applicant must remain in compliance with all conditions listed below throughout the
life of the conditional use permit. Failure to comply with each and every condition may
result in the revocation of the conditional use permit.
1. All proposed site improvements must conform to the Site Plan Review (DP No.
2018-43) and the staff report exhibits.
2. Variance No. 2020-04 shall not become effective unless Conditional Use Permit
No. 2020-19 is approved and in full effect.
3. Any amendment to this variance must be submitted to the Planning Division for
review. At that time, staff will determine if administrative relief is available or if the
variance must be amended.
4. Prior to the issuance of a building permit to construct the facility, a full landscape
and irrigation plan shall be submitted for review and app roval by the Planning
Division. Plans must include:
a. A six (6) foot tall solid block wall with vines to surround the facility and
its related equipment on all sides;
b. Installation of additional 36-inch box trees where missing from existing
planter areas along Main Street and the south property line to scre en
the proposed facility and its related equipment; and
c. A 36-inch box tree replacement at a 1:1 ratio for any removed trees.
5. The applicant shall be responsible for maintaining the subject site free from
debris, overgrown vegetation, and graffiti. Any gra ffiti must be removed within 24
hours.
6. The Applicant shall provide a 24-hour phone number to which interference
problems may be reported. This condition will also apply to all existing facilities in
the City of Santa Ana.
City Council 3 –14 1/11/2021
Resolution No. 2020-XXX
Page 6 of 6
7. The Applicant will provide a “single point of contact” in its Engineering and
Maintenance Departments to insure continuity on all interference issues. The
name, telephone number, fax number and e-mail address of that person shall be
provided to the City’s designated representative after approval of the CUP.
8. The Applicant shall ensure that lessee or other user(s) shall comply with the
terms and conditions of this permit, and shall be responsible for the failure of any
lessee or other users under the control of permit Applicant to comply.
9. The major wireless facility shall be subject to any applicable California Building
Code or federal requirements for seismic safety, retrofit, and/or upgrades as
deemed necessary by the Building Division and shall be constructed with an
Importance Factor of 1.5.
City Council 3 –15 1/11/2021