HomeMy WebLinkAboutASRSS20201124 5.1
STUDY SESSION STAFF REPORT 5.1
TO: Chair and Planning Commission November 24, 2020
SUBJECT: Review and provide preliminary comments and direction regarding the
proposed redevelopment of the .96-acre site located at 344 Diablo Road. The
proposed project includes the demolition of the existing 13,760 square foot
building and the construction of a new 17,000 two-story self-storage
building limited to the storage of office equipment, furniture, and related
supplies
BACKGROUND/DESCRIPTION
The existing office building was built in 1969 and has been vacant for approximately five
years. Previously, the building was used as an assisted living facility. The building is in
poor condition, with extensive deterioration and mold in the interior.
The preliminary plans include a 17,000 square foot two-story building, with a 2,260
square foot third-floor residential manager’s apartment.
The building is located adjacent to Green Valley Creek and is screened from Diablo Road
by existing office buildings.
EVALUATION/DISCUSSION
Land Use
The site’s General Plan Land Use Designation is Downtown Master Plan, and the zoning
is Downtown Business District (DBD) Area 6; Offices. DBD Area 6 allows a wide range
of offices uses and lists a number of uses and conditionally allowed uses, such as
restaurants and health clubs.
Storage facilities are not listed as an allowed or conditionally allowed use. However, the
Ordinance allows that “other uses not specifically permitted in Area 6, or allowed via
subsection 32-45.10, may be authorized by the Chief of Planning or referred to the
Planning Commission on a case-by-case basis where a finding is made that the proposed
use is consistent with the intent and purpose of this chapter. Such case-by-case review
shall take into consideration the location, size and design of the building.”
Planning Commission Study Session 2 November 24, 2020
344 Diablo Road
The applicant believes that there is a demand for storage space for overflow office
supplies and equipment, and that the proposed use would be compatible and
complimentary to the other uses and intent of the zoning district.
Parking
The DBD Ordinance lists the parking demand for storage facilities to be one space per
1,000 square feet. As a result, the building would have a parking demand of 17 spaces
while the development includes 23 parking spaces. The Town may determine the need
for a more use specific parking study as part of the project review.
Height
DBD Area 6 limits building height to two stories or 35 feet, whichever is less. The
proposed building has a maximum height of 35 feet but includes a third story manager’s
apartment. The third story would require the approval of variance, including a finding
of hardship or special circumstances.
Setbacks
The project appears to meet the required minimum setbacks, including 20 feet from a
public right-of-way, five-foot side yard, and twenty-foot rear yard setbacks.
Floor Area Ratio
DBD Area 6 establishes a maximum floor area ratio (FAR) of 65 percent. The proposed
development would have a FAR of 41 percent.
PUBLIC CONTACT
Public notice of the November 24, 2020 study session was mailed to 52 property owners
within 750 feet of the site. Posting of the meeting agenda serves as notice to the general
public.
RECOMMENDATION
Review and provide preliminary comments and direction regarding the proposed
redevelopment of the .96-acre site located at 344 Diablo Road. The proposed project
includes the demolition of the existing 13,760 square foot building and the construction
of a new 17,000 two-story self-storage building limited to the storage of office equipment,
furniture, and related supplies.
Planning Commission Study Session 3 November 24, 2020
344 Diablo Road
Prepared by:
David Crompton
Chief of Planning
Attachments: A - Public Notification, Notification Map and Notification List
B - Preliminary Project Plans
ATTACHMENT A
ATTACHMENT B