CC/RDA/CUA REG MIN AUG 16 - Laserfiche WebLink

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The Mayor declared the public hearing "open" City Clerk Barrera announced that the affidavit of publication was on file in the City Clerk's office and no protests or objections have been received. Community Development Planning Manager Soto presented an overview of the agenda report for Council consideration and requested approval of staff's recommendation and/or alternatives as outlined in the agenda report. PUBLIC COMMENT Kurt Haynes, Ashley Furniture representative, provided a power point presentation entitled, "Why the Tower for Colton" and provided justification for the proposed Ashley Retail Warehouse with a 70'foot signage instead of a 60 1 signage as recommended by the Planning Commission. David Crandall, General Manager of Fiesta Village, spoke in support of the 70' business tower and requested that Council support the request of Ashley Furniture. Jim Port, La Crosse Business Park, spoke in support of the 70' business tower. Paul Bracci, of Al's Garden Art, spoke in support of the 70' business tower. Motion/second by CM Hernandez/Suchil to close public hearing. Unanimous vote. Discussion continued with CM Mitchell stating he understood the importance signage is to a business. Unfortunately, there is not enough information to support a 70' signage, therefore, would support the Planning Commission decision. CM De La Rosa expressed his concerns with the financial impact and the numbers as outlined by Mr. Haynes in his PowerPoint presentation. Inquired of the Finance Director de Alwis and City Manager Parrish as to the economic benefit and financial impact of this project to the City. City Manager Parrish explained the philosophy of the services provided for this project and reiterated that a large part of the city budget is from the sales tax of businesses. The sales tax estimate for this project is approximately $400,000 a year. This would enable the city to provide services to the community. The Cooley Ranch is a business oriented area and is in need of additional retail businesses. What the revenue producing change that would occur if the tower is 70' or 60' would be up to the applicant to provide as well as an explanation why a 70' sign would enhance the business. The Finance Director de Alwis concurred with the City Manager Parrish that we have to look at the additional sales tax revenue. The RV business industry is a large part of the sales tax income to the general budget and to expand into other areas is a smart thing to do in case that industry (RV) should decrease in sales. CM De La Rosa explained that each project development in the City has different existing conditions and circumstances that require reconsideration. The Cooley Ranch and Mt. Vernon business area need improvements to bring it to the level of the type of environment that is found on Hospitality Lane in the City of San Bernardino. The city must be open-minded to other businesses that bring in additional revenues that will assist in providing services needed in the City of Colton. 2005 AUGUST 16 REG CC/RDA/CUA MEETING -4-