Architectural Review Commission Meeting Update
Regular Meeting

February 2, 2009                       Monday                                5:00 p.m.

 ROLL CALL:      Commrs. Jim Duffy, Steven Hopkins, Zeljka Howard, Anthony Palazzo, Chris Weber, Vice-Chair Greg Wilhelm, and Chairperson Allen Root 

Commr. Duffy was absent. 

ACCEPTANCE OF AGENDA:   

The agenda was accepted as submitted. 

PUBLIC COMMENT:   

There was no public comment on items not on the agenda. 

PUBLIC HEARINGS: 

1.   Buena Vista at Monterey Improvements.  ARCPA 140-07; Review of a proposed public art project and landscaping associated with adjacent street improvements; City of San Luis Obispo – Public Works Department, applicant.  (Pam Ricci) 

On a 6:0 vote, the ARC recommended approval of the “Option B” landscape plan based on findings and subject to conditions of approval.  Two members of the public spoke on the project and voiced concerns over landscaping blocking the view of La Cuesta Inn and potential loitering in the improved area shown in the staff recommended “Option A” plan.  The ARC agreed that the “Option B” landscape plan was the preferred alternative for both cost reasons and as a superior setting for the art.  The ARC also included in the motion direction to enhance the landscaping with border shrubs similar to those shown in “Option A.”  

2.   1957 - 1993 Santa Barbara Avenue.  ARC 118-08; Review of a proposed mixed-use project located in the Railroad Historic District; C-S-H zone; Quaglino Properties LLC, applicant.  (Brian Leveille)

On a 6:0 vote, the ARC granted final approval of the project based on findings and subject to conditions of approval.  One member of the public spoke noting concerns over the location of the trash and recycling enclosure right behind his property.  The ARC discussed architectural details with the applicant’s representative. The applicant discussed his experience operating multi-use projects and that proper management is the critical aspect in making these projects work on a long-term basis.  The ARC added several conditions of approval including minor modifications to the façade and site improvement changes such as adding more pedestrian access points.  

COMMENT & DISCUSSION: 

1.         Staff: 

a.  Agenda Forecast – Brian Leveille provided an agenda forecast for upcoming hearing items.  

b.  The ARC discussed the boardwalk-style sidewalks and requested a future report from staff on options for durability and alternative designs.   

2.         Commission: 

a.  Minutes:  December 15, 2008 – approved, and January 21, 2009 – approved as amended.  

b.   Recent project review – Lessons Learned 

ADJOURNMENT 

The meeting adjourned at 7:20 p.m.