2000 AGN MAR 21 I03_Appeal of PC Decision_DC-69-99

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Planning Commission Meeting Minutes of February 8, 2000 Page 4 of 8 surplus of vacant buildings. He distributed a package to the Commission with petitions from local businesses and surrounding RV dealers expressing opposition to the proposed project. He stated that the proposed use is not consistent with the plan for the area. Bob Barouti, Giant RV. 1300 East Santo Antonio Drive, Colton Mr. Barouti stated that recreational vehicles are difficult to drive. He expressed concern with the possible traffic hazards that the proposed business would cause to the children in the area. Mr. Barouti stated that he believed that if the City waits that an appropriate use would want to open in the vacant building due to the recent cost reduction for the building. Mr. Zane stated that property values in the area were reduced due to the recession and that he believed the homeowner's property would be more valuable if it weren't across the street from an abandoned building with graffiti on it. He discussed some of the improvements to the site that would be completed. He stated that America has free enterprise and that the other local dealers were asking for exclusive rights to sell recreational vehicles in the City. He discussed the benefits of approving the proposed project. Mr. DeGelas stated that he believes in free enterprise and that he welcomes La Mesa in the mall where his business is located and paying their share of the advertising. He indicated he does not welcome them parking on the street before his business. Mr. Taylor stated that the homeowners recognize that there has been a recession. He asked the Commission to think about whether they would like a RV dealership next to their homes. Mr. Deieriing read the petition that was signed by the surrounding businesses opposing the proposed project. Public Hearing Closed Commissioner Suchil stated that he disagrees with Staffs analysis that the use is compatible with the surrounding businesses. He stated that the proposed project is planning on replacing the decorative parking lot lights with brighter, lantern type lights and placing a wrought iron fence around the project. He stated that he did not believe the easement rights had been secured for the property yet. Commissioner Suchil expressed concern about what the area would look like with the non -decorative lights and wrought iron fencing if the business failed. He stated that he believed that the City could find something more appropriate for that location. Commissioner Prieto stated that he agreed with Commissioner Suchil. He indicated that he would like Staff to provide the Commissioners with the Specific Plan for the area before they take action on the proposed project. He stated that the area has been overdeveloped.