ATTACHMENT 2
Planning Commission
Agenda Report
October 11, 2023
TO: Planning Commission
FROM: John P. Ramirez, AICP, Director of Community Development BY: Andrew Arellano, Assistant Planner
SUBJECT: Zoning Text Amendment No. 2023-02 / To amend various sections of Title 17 of the Norwalk Municipal Code (NMC) to streamline the Precise Development Plan (PDP) process. Environmental: Consider and find the project exempt from CEQA pursuant to Section 15061(b)(3).
RECOMMENDATION
That the Planning Commission:
1. Adopt Resolution No. 23-30 to recommend approval to City Council for Zoning Text Amendment No. 2023-02; and
2. Consider and find that the project is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3).
AUTHORITY
Section 65855 of the California Government Code states that the Planning Commission shall make a written recommendation on the adoption or amendment of the Zoning Ordinance. 6 1
8 Section 17.02.260.D of the NMC stipulates that the Planning Commission render its recommendation on a Zoning Text Amendment, including the reasons for the recommendation, to the City Council.
INTRODUCTION/BACKGROUND
The Precise Development Plan (PDP) requirement was adopted by Ordinance No. 757 in 1972 and intended to achieve a reasonable level of quality in harmony with precise plans and community objectives for social, economic and physical well-being, and to protect existing and potential developments and uses on adjacent and surrounding properties. A precise development plan involves a set of plans conforming to the zoning code that is subject to review and approval by the Planning Commission. It does not grant provisions to deny any use already permitted by the NMC nor grant an unpermitted use in any zone. The application is prompted with new construction or the relocation of structures in any zone other than single-family residences and accessory buildings in residential zones.
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
The request consists of Zoning Text Amendment No. 2023-02 to amend various sections of Title 17 of the NMC to streamline the PDP process. It will serve as a proactive approach of enhancing economic development and encouraging a positive image of the City.
ANALYSIS
The project will expedite the PDP application by reducing the associated processing time and changing the reviewing authority to the Community Development Director. With PDPs, the review primarily involves checking site plans, floor plans, and elevations in conformance with development standards in the NMC and ensuring compatibility with the neighborhood. In converting to an administrative process, the PDP will encourage the redevelopment of vacant properties, create more opportunities for employment and goods and services, and promote a positive image of the development process in Norwalk. Even with a streamlined process, the proposed amendment will allow the Community Development Director to refer a project to the Planning Commission for discretionary action. Additionally, if a PDP were submitted concurrently with a discretionary application, such as a conditional use permit, both applications would be subject to review and approval by the Planning Commission. Review by the Director will apply to projects that are permitted in the zone, conform to development standards in the NMC, and solely require a PDP.
6 1
8 Public Notification
Notice of this public hearing was published in The Norwalk Patriot and posted at the City’s three designated posting sites and the City website on September 28, 2022.
ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT
Pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), this project is exempt pursuant to CEQA Guidelines 15061(b)(3). The project will not involve any construction nor have a significant effect on the environment.
SUMMARY
The ZTA involves streamlining the PDP process by authorizing the Director of Community Development to take action on the review of development plans that comply with the Norwalk Municipal Code. Opportunities to expedite the development process are consistent with the City’s Strategic Plan Goal 1 in providing high quality customer service to the community.
General Plan goals and policies will ensure that new development is compatible with existing neighborhoods and serve the various needs of all the residents of the city.
ATTACHMENTS
A. Resolution No. 23-30 (Zoning Text Amendment No. 2023-02), including Exhibit “A” Draft Ordinance
B. Zoning Text Amendment No. 2023-02 – Legislative Draft