HomeMy WebLinkAboutCC_2024_02_13_Amended Agenda PacketPUBLIC NOTICE
AMENDMENT TO THE ATASCADERO
CITY COUNCIL CLOSED SESSION AND
REGULAR SESSION MEETING AGENDA
Tuesday, February 13, 2024
Closed Session: 5:30 P.M.
Regular Session: 6:00 P.M.
The meeting location detail is updated to include a note that, based on
necessary repairs to the City Hall elevator, the City Council meeting
may be held either in the Council Chambers on the Fourth Floor or in
Room 106 on the First Floor, and that if the meeting must be relocated
to Room 106, signage will be posted to direct the public.
The following item is also hereby added to the agenda:
A. CONSENT CALENDAR:
2. Proclamation of Existence of a Local Emergency Related to the
Early February 2024 Storms
▪ Fiscal Impact: Proclaiming the existence of a local emergency due
to the Early February 2024 Storms allows the City to pursue FHWA
funding for the San Marcos landslide, which is estimated to cost
between $500,000 and $1,000,000 to repair.
▪ Recommendation: Council adopt Draft Resolution proclaiming the
existence of a local emergency related to the Early February 2024
Storms. [City Manager & Public Works]
STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
COUNTY OF SAN LUIS OBISPO )
CITY OF ATASCADERO )
I, Dillon Dean James, Deputy City Clerk of the City of Atascadero, declare under the penalty of perjury that the foregoing
amendment to the February 13, 2024, Closed Session and Regular Session Meeting of the Atascadero City Council
was posted on February 9, 2024, at the Atascadero City Hall, 6500 Palma Avenue, Atascadero, CA 93422 and was
available for public review in the Customer Service Center at that location.
Signed this 9th day of February, 2024, at Atascadero, California.
______________________________
Dillon Dean James, Deputy City Clerk
City of Atascadero
Page 1 of 94
CITY OF ATASCADERO CITY COUNCIL AMENDED AGENDA
HYBRID MEETING INFORMATION:
The City Council meeting will be available via teleconference for those who wish to participate remotely. The
City Council meeting will also be held in the City Council Chambers and in-person attendance will be available
at that location.
HOW TO OBSERVE THE MEETING REMOTELY:
To participate remotely, residents can livestream the meeting on Zoom, SLO-SPAN.org, on Spectrum cable Channel
20 in Atascadero, and listen live on KPRL Radio 1230AM and 99.3FM. The video recording of the meeting will repeat
daily on Channel 20 at 1:00 am, 9:00 am, and 6:00 pm and will be available through the City’s website and on the
City’s YouTube Channel. To participate remotely using the Zoom platform please visit:
https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_ZwJ7a031S3KXauEym9ehaA
HOW TO SUBMIT PUBLIC COMMENT:
Public comment may be provided in-person or remotely. Call (669) 900-6833 (Meeting ID: 889 2347 9018) to
listen and provide public comment via phone or via the Zoom platform using the link above.
Note that the Zoom participation option is provided to the public as a courtesy in order to facilitate participation.
The City does not, however, guarantee that meeting participation will be available via Zoom. If Zoom
participation is not enabled, or turned off, the meeting will continue with public attendance in-person only.
Written public comments are accepted at cityclerk@atascadero.org. Comments should identify the Agenda Item
Number in the subject line of the email. Such comments will be forwarded to the City Council and made a part of the
administrative record. To ensure distribution to the City Council before consideration of an item, please submit
comments not later than 12:00 p.m. the day of the meeting. All correspondence will be distributed to the City Council,
posted on the City’s website, and be made part of the official public record of the meeting. Please note, comments will not
be read into the record. Please be aware that communications sent to the City Council are public records and are subject
to disclosure pursuant to the California Public Records Act and Brown Act unless exempt from disclosure under applicable
law. Communications will not be edited for redactions and will be printed/posted as submitted.
AMERICAN DISABILITY ACT ACCOMMODATIONS:
Any member of the public who needs accommodations should contact the City Clerk’s Office at
cityclerk@atascadero.org or by calling 805-470-3400 at least 48 hours prior to the meeting or time when
services are needed. The City will use their best efforts to provide reasonable accommodations to afford as
much accessibility as possible while also maintaining public safety in accordance with the City procedure for
resolving reasonable accommodation requests.
DISCLOSURE OF CAMPAIGN CONTRIBUTIONS:
Pursuant to Government Code § 84308, City Council Members are disqualified and not able to participate in
any agenda item involving contracts (other than competitively bid, labor, or personal employment contracts),
franchises, discretionary land use permits and other entitlements if the City Council Member received more
than $250 in campaign contributions from the applicant or contractor, an agent of the applicant or contractor,
or any financially interested participant who actively supports or opposes the City’s decision on the agenda
item since January 1, 2023. Members of the City Council who have received, and applicants, contractors or
their agents who have made, campaign contributions totaling more than $250 to a City Council Member since
January 1, 2023, are required to disclose that fact for the official record of the subject proceedings. Disclosures
must include the amount of the campaign contribution and identify the recipient City Council Member and may
be made either in writing to the City Clerk before the agenda item or by verbal disclosure during consideration.
City Council agendas and minutes may be viewed on the City's website:
www.atascadero.org/agendas
Copies of the staff reports or other documentation relating to each item of business referred to on the Agenda
are on file in the office of the City Clerk and are available for public inspection on our website,
www.atascadero.org. Contracts, Resolutions and Ordinances will be allocated a number once they are
approved by the City Council. The Minutes of this meeting will reflect these numbers. All documents submitted
by the public during Council meetings that are made a part of the record or referred to in their statement will
be noted in the Minutes and available for review by contacting the City Clerk's office. All documents will be
available for public inspection by appointment during City Hall business hours.
Page 2 of 94
CITY OF ATASCADERO
CITY COUNCIL
AMENDED AGENDA
Tuesday, February 13, 2024
City Hall Council Chambers, Fourth Floor*
*Based on necessary repairs to the City Hall elevator, the City Council meeting may be held either in the
Council Chambers on the Fourth Floor or in Room 106 on the First Floor, and if the meeting must be
relocated to Room 106, signage will be posted to direct the public
6500 Palma Avenue, Atascadero, California
CITY COUNCIL CLOSED SESSION:
1. CLOSED SESSION — PUBLIC COMMENT
2. COUNCIL LEAVES CHAMBERS TO BEGIN CLOSED SESSION
3. CLOSED SESSION — CALL TO ORDER
a. Conference with Legal Counsel – Existing Litigation
Government Code Sec. 54956.9(d)(1)
Name of Case: Newton v. City of Atascadero
San Luis Obispo Superior Court Case No. 20CV-0046
4. CLOSED SESSION — ADJOURNMENT
5. COUNCIL RETURNS
6. CLOSED SESSION — REPORT, if any
Announcement(s) of any reportable action(s) taken in Closed Session that occur(s) after the
recess of Regular Session will be made at the beginning of the next Regular City Council meeting
as Closed Session is not recorded or videotaped.
REGULAR SESSION – CALL TO ORDER: 6:00 P.M.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Mayor Pro Tem Funk
ROLL CALL: Mayor Moreno
Mayor Pro Tem Funk
Council Member Bourbeau
City Council Closed Session: 5:30 P.M.
City Council Regular Session: 6:00 P.M.
Page 3 of 94
Council Member Dariz
Council Member Newsom
APPROVAL OF AGENDA: Roll Call
Recommendation: Council:
1. Approve this agenda.
2. Waive the reading in full of all ordinances appearing on this agenda; the titles of the
ordinances will be read aloud by the City Clerk at the first reading, after the motion
and before the City Council votes.
A. CONSENT CALENDAR: (All items on the consent calendar are considered to be routine
and non-controversial by City staff and will be approved by one motion if no member of
the Council or public wishes to comment or ask questions. If comment or discussion is
desired by anyone, the item will be removed from the Consent Calendar and will be
considered in the listed sequence with an opportunity for any member of the public to
address the Council concerning the item before action is taken.)
1. City Council Draft Minutes – January 23, 2024
▪ Recommendation: Council approve the January 23, 2024, Draft City Council
Regular Meeting Minutes. [City Clerk]
2. Proclamation of Existence of a Local Emergency Related to the Early
February 2024 Storms
▪ Fiscal Impact: Proclaiming the existence of a local emergency due to the Early
February 2024 Storms allows the City to pursue FHWA funding for the San
Marcos landslide, which is estimated to cost between $500,000 and
$1,000,000 to repair.
▪ Recommendation: Council adopt Draft Resolution proclaiming the existence
of a local emergency related to the Early February 2024 Storms.
[City Manager & Public Works]
UPDATES FROM THE CITY MANAGER: (The City Manager will give an oral report on any
current issues of concern to the City Council.)
COMMUNITY FORUM: (This portion of the meeting is reserved for persons wanting to
address the Council on any matter not on this agenda and over which the Council has
jurisdiction. Speakers are limited to three minutes. Please state your name for the record
before making your presentation. Comments made during Community Forum will not be a
subject of discussion. A maximum of 30 minutes will be allowed for Community Forum,
unless changed by the Council. Comments will be allowed for the entire 30-minute period
so if the final speaker has finished before the 30 minute period has ended and a member of
the public wishes to make a comment after the Council has commenced another item, the
member should alert the Clerk within the 30 minute period of their desire to make a comment
and the Council will take up that comment upon completion of the item which was
commenced. Any members of the public who have questions or need information may
contact the City Clerk’s Office, between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. at (805) 470-
3400, or cityclerk@atascadero.org.)
Page 4 of 94
B. PUBLIC HEARINGS:
1. Appeal of ARCO Canopy Signage Use Permit at 9590 El Camino Real
▪ Fiscal Impact: The proposed project is not estimated to have any notable fiscal
impact.
▪ Recommendation: Council:
1. Adopt Draft Resolution A, affirming the Planning Commission’s approval of
an Administrative Use Permit to allow increased signage at 9590 El Camino
Real.
OR
2. Adopt Draft Resolution B, affirming in part the Planning Commission’s
approval of an Administrative Use Permit to allow increased signage at
9590 El Camino Real, with modifications to the conditions of approval.
[Community Development]
C. MANAGEMENT REPORTS: None
D. COUNCIL ANNOUNCEMENTS AND COMMITTEE REPORTS: (On their own
initiative, Council Members may make a brief announcement or a brief report on their
own activities. The following represent standing committees. Informative status
reports will be given, as felt necessary):
Mayor Moreno
1. City Selection Committee
2. County Mayors Round Table
3. Regional Economic Action Coalition (REACH)
4. SLO Council of Governments (SLOCOG)
5. SLO Regional Transit Authority (RTA)
Mayor Pro Tem Funk
1. Atascadero Basin Ground Water Sustainability Agency (GSA)
2. Design Review Committee
3. Homeless Services Oversight Council
Council Member Bourbeau
1. City of Atascadero Finance Committee
2. City / Schools Committee
3. Integrated Waste Management Authority (IWMA)
4. SLO County Water Resources Advisory Committee (WRAC)
Council Member Dariz
1. Air Pollution Control District
2. California Joint Powers Insurance Authority (CJPIA) Board
3. Community Action Partnership of San Luis Obispo (CAPSLO)
4. Design Review Committee
5. Visit SLO CAL Advisory Committee
Council Member Newsom
1. City of Atascadero Finance Committee
2. City / Schools Committee
3. League of California Cities – Council Liaison
Page 5 of 94
E. INDIVIDUAL DETERMINATION AND / OR ACTION: (Council Members may ask a
question for clarification, make a referral to staff or take action to have staff place a
matter of business on a future agenda. The Council may take action on items listed
on the Agenda.)
1. City Council
2. City Clerk
3. City Treasurer
4. City Attorney
5. City Manager
ADJOURNMENT
Page 6 of 94
ITEM NUMBER: A-1
DATE: 02/13/24
CITY OF ATASCADERO
CITY COUNCIL
DRAFT MINUTES
Tuesday, January 23, 2024
City Hall Council Chambers, Fourth Floor
6500 Palma Avenue, Atascadero, California
REGULAR SESSION – CALL TO ORDER: 6:00 P.M.
Mayor Moreno called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. and Mayor Moreno led the Pledge of
Allegiance.
ROLL CALL:
Present: Council Members Dariz, Newsom, Mayor Pro Tem Funk, and Mayor
Moreno
Absent: None
Others Present: City Treasurer Sibbach
Staff Present: City Manager James R. Lewis, Administrative Services Director Jeri
Rangel, Community Development Director Phil Dunsmore, Public Works
Director Nick DeBar, Fire Chief Casey Bryson, Police Chief Dan Suttles,
Community Services & Promotions Director Terrie Banish, Deputy
Administrative Services Director Cindy Chavez, Public Works Analyst
Ryan Betz, City Attorney Dave Fleishman, Deputy City Manager/City
Clerk Lara Christensen, Deputy City Manager – IT Luke Knight, and
Accounting Specialist Dawn Patterson
APPROVAL OF AGENDA:
MOTION BY: Bourbeau
SECOND BY: Funk
City Council Regular Session: 6:00 P.M.
Successor Agency to the Community Immediately following
Redevelopment Agency of Atascadero: conclusion of the City
Council Regular
Session
Page 7 of 94
ITEM NUMBER: A-1
DATE: 02/13/24
1. Approve this agenda.
2. Waive the reading in full of all ordinances appearing on this agenda; titles of the
ordinances will be read aloud by the City Clerk at the first reading, after the motion
and before the City Council votes.
AYES (5): Bourbeau, Dariz, Funk, Newsom, and Moreno
Passed 5-0
A. CONSENT CALENDAR:
1. City Council Draft Minutes – January 9, 2024 Regular Meeting
▪ Recommendation: Council approve the January 9, 2024, Draft City Council
Regular Meeting Minutes. [City Clerk]
2. December 2023 Accounts Payable and Payroll
▪ Fiscal Impact: $5,509,319.81.
▪ Recommendation: Council approve certified City accounts payable, payroll
and payroll vendor checks for December 2023. [Administrative Services]
3. Approval of a Debt Management Policy
▪ Fiscal Impact: None.
▪ Recommendation: Council adopt Draft Resolution, approving a Debt
Management Policy that would apply to the City and its related entities,
including the Successor Agency and Public Financing Authority.
[Administrative Services]
MOTION BY: Bourbeau
SECOND BY: Funk
1. Approve the consent calendar (#A-3: Resolution No. 2024-001).
AYES (5): Bourbeau, Dariz, Funk, Newsom, and Moreno
Passed 5-0
UPDATES FROM THE CITY MANAGER:
City Manager Lewis gave an update on projects and events within the City.
COMMUNITY FORUM:
The following persons spoke by telephone or through the webinar: Geoff Auslen.
B. PUBLIC HEARINGS: None
C. MANAGEMENT REPORTS
1. Update on Council Goals and Actions
▪ Fiscal Impact: None.
▪ Recommendation: Council review and file a report on the progress being made
relative to the City Council’s goals. [City Manager]
City Manager Lewis and Deputy City Manager Christensen gave the report and answered
questions from the Council.
Page 8 of 94
ITEM NUMBER: A-1
DATE: 02/13/24
PUBLIC COMMENT:
The following citizens spoke on this item: None.
Mayor Moreno closed the Public Comment period.
The Update on Council Goals and Actions was received and filed.
2. Fiscal Year 2022-23 Audit
▪ Fiscal Impact: None.
▪ Recommendation: Council review and accept the financial audit for the period
ended June 30, 2023. [Administrative Services]
Administrative Services Director Rangel gave the report and answered questions from the
Council. The City’s Independent Auditor Adam Guise also answered questions from the
Council.
PUBLIC COMMENT:
The following citizens spoke on this item: None.
Mayor Moreno closed the Public Comment period.
MOTION BY: Bourbeau
SECOND BY: Newsom
1. Accept the financial audit for the period ended June 30, 2023.
AYES (5): Bourbeau, Dariz, Funk, Newsom, and Moreno
Passed 5-0
D. COUNCIL ANNOUNCEMENTS AND COMMITTEE REPORTS:
The following Council Members gave brief update reports on their committees since their
last Council meeting:
Mayor Moreno
4. SLO Council of Governments (SLOCOG)
Mayor Pro Tem Funk
2. Design Review Committee
3. Homeless Services Oversight Council
Council Member Bourbeau
3. Integrated Waste Management Authority (IWMA)
Council Member Dariz
1. Air Pollution Control District
E. INDIVIDUAL DETERMINATION AND / OR ACTION: None
Page 9 of 94
ITEM NUMBER: A-1
DATE: 02/13/24
F. ADJOURNMENT
Mayor Moreno adjourned the meeting at 7:25 p.m. to the Meeting of the Successor Agency.
MINUTES PREPARED BY:
______________________________________
Lara K. Christensen
City Clerk
APPROVED:
Page 10 of 94
ITEM NUMBER: A-2
DATE: 02/13/24
Atascadero City Council
Staff Report - City Manager and Public Works
Proclamation of Existence of a Local Emergency
Related to the Early February 2024 Storms
RECOMMENDATION:
Council adopt Draft Resolution proclaiming the existence of a local emergency related
to the Early February 2024 Storms.
DISCUSSION:
A powerful, slow moving, atmospheric river struck California beginning February 3, 2024
(“Early February 2024 Storms”) and continued for several days threatening life and
safety, public and private property and structures, and other critical infrastructure
throughout the Central Coast and Southern California. On February 4, 2024, Governor
Newsom signed a Proclamation of a State of Emergency in response to these storms
which Proclamation applies to communities in Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San
Bernardino, San Diego, San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, and Ventura Counties.
While the City’s infrastructure and creeks handled the three to five inches of rainfall that
occurred with these storms, high wind gusts caused trees and limbs to fall, some which
caused power outages for large areas of the City and County. During the storms, City
crews remained busy clearing catch basins and roads and no widespread damage of
City infrastructure has been reported. However, there was a large landslide to the
embankment of San Marcos Road between Los Altos Road and the entrance to Oak
Ridge Estates (11800 San Marcos Road). Due to the landslide’s proximity to the road
and steep drop-off, San Marcos Road is currently traffic signed to a one-lane road at
this location. Photos of the landslide are shown below.
The landslide location is on a section of San Marcos Road that is City maintained and a
FHWA designated roadway. City staff, in coordination with Caltrans staff, are working
on the necessary process and paperwork to get funding assistance to make repairs to
the landslide. The City had a FHWA repair from the 2023 winter storms on San Marcos
Road not far from the current landslide. That repair included construction of a soldier
pile wall and earth work and completing something similar at this location is expected to
cost between $500,000 and $1,000,000. To be considered for FHWA funding, the City
must declare the existence of a local emergency within 10 days of the incident.
Page 11 of 94
ITEM NUMBER: A-2
DATE: 02/13/24
The California Emergency Services Act (California Government Code sections 8639,
8550, et. seq.) and Atascadero Municipal Code Title 4, Chapter 4, Emergency
Organization and Functions, Section 4.4-07 empowers the Director of Emergency
Services to request the City Council to proclaim the existence or threatened existence
of a local emergency when the City is affected or likely to be affected by the existence
of conditions of disaster or of extreme peril to the safety of persons and property within
the City and the City Council is in session. The proclamation gives the City certain
powers and immunities that do not exist in the absence of such a declaration and is
required for to obtain State and federal emergency funds or other similar reimbursement
purposes.
As a result of the Early February 2024 Storms, saturated soil conditions in the City of
Atascadero and County of San Luis Obispo increase the likelihood of further damage
from earth slippage events, including the potential for flooding, should there be
additional storms bringing strong winds and more precipitation. Given the current
landslide and these conditions, the public interest and necessity require a Proclamation
of Existence of Local Emergency related to the Early February 2024 Storms. The City
Council Meeting, scheduled for February 13, 2024, is within the ten-day requirement
following the incident for the City Council to proclaim the existence of a local
emergency. Adoption of the Draft Resolution will meet State law requirements to seek
reimbursement from the State to repair damages to San Marcos Road.
Page 12 of 94
ITEM NUMBER: A-2
DATE: 02/13/24
FISCAL IMPACT:
Proclaiming the existence of a local emergency, due to the Early February 2024 Storms,
allows the City to pursue FHWA funding for the San Marcos Road landslide, which is
estimated to cost $500,000 to $1,000,000 to repair.
ATTACHMENT:
1. Draft Resolution
Page 13 of 94
ITEM NUMBER: B-1
DATE: 02/13/24
Atascadero City Council
Staff Report - Community Development Department
Appeal of ARCO Canopy Signage Use Permit at 9590 El Camino Real
RECOMMENDATIONS:
Council:
1. Adopt Draft Resolution A, affirming the Planning Commission’s approval of an
Administrative Use Permit to allow increased signage at 9590 El Camino Real.
OR
2. Adopt Draft Resolution B, affirming in part the Planning Commission’s approval of
an Administrative Use Permit to allow increased signage at 9590 El Camino Real,
with modifications to the conditions of approval.
REPORT-IN-BRIEF:
The applicant for the new ARCO fuel station at 9590 El Camino Real is appealing the
Planning Commission’s use permit conditions that prohibit an LED light strip on the outside
of the canopy over the fuel pumps. The Planning Commission voted 4-1 to approve the use
permit on November 8, 2023 (commissioners Hughes and Carranza were absent), to allow
the applicant to install oversized signage in the form of a colored band on the canopy as
part of the ARCO branding. However, the Commission modified conditions on the use permit
in order to prohibit installation of the LED light strip as part of the color band.
DISCUSSION:
Background
The ARCO station was reviewed by the Design Review Committee via two hearings on
July 19 and September 19, 2019, which included signage and lighting as subjects of
discussion. At both meetings, Planning staff recommended that the proposed canopy
color banding and associated lighting strip be eliminated from the project due to their
inconsistency with the broader Mediterranean style of the project and consistent with past
approvals for similar uses. Staff was concerned that the additional color banding and
lighting would be incompatible with the neighborhood as residential uses look upon the
site from the east. The DRC endorsed the project with staff conditions that the canopy
remain consistent with building architecture. This action included allowances for logos on
the canopy but not the color banding or light strip. A final Notice of Action was sent to the
Page 14 of 94
ITEM NUMBER: B-1
DATE: 02/13/24
applicant after the second meeting which included the removal of these elements as a
condition of approval.
An administrative use permit application was submitted by the applicant in 2022 to add
the color banding and lighting strip. This administrative use permit was denied by the
Hearing Officer on September 7, 2022, with a determination that the project could not
meet any required findings. The applicant did not submit an appeal within the 14-day
window prescribed by Atascadero Municipal Code (AMC) 9-1.111. As a result, the
applicant submitted the same proposal as a second administrative use permit in 2023,
which was elevated by the Community Development Director to the Planning Commission
for review.
The project was heard by the Planning Commission on November 8, 2023, resulting in a
vote of 4-1 in favor of the project as conditioned and modified. Commissioners Hughes
and Carranza were absent. The Planning Commission modified Condition 1 and
Condition 6 of the project to allow the color banding but not the LED lighting. These
conditions, with their addendums shown in italics, read as follows:
Condition 1: “This Administrative Use Permit shall allow for increased signage on
a gas station canopy consisting of color banding and an LED lighting
strip around the perimeter of the gas station canopy at 9590 El
Camino Real (APN 056-071-011), as described in attached Exhibits,
regardless of owner.”
Condition 6: “Color banding shall be consistent with what is shown in Exhibit C,
with the following modifications:
-LED lighting strip is not included in this approval and will not be
permitted unless an appeal or amendment is approved.”
Summary Project Description
The attached staff report to the Planning Commission from the November 8, 2023 hearing
provides a more complete project overview and analysis. However, the following summary
highlights the project components and applicable City policies.
The applicant proposes an adhesive vinyl band in a blue and purple gradient pattern
surrounding the pump island canopy roof in keeping with ARCO’s standard branding. At
the center of this band is a proposed blue LED light strip enclosed in a protruding housing
made of transparent plastic. Per Atascadero Municipal Code, the color banding and light
strip are considered part of the total allowed sign area for the fuel station since they provide
for the colors and brand identity.
The City of Atascadero’s Sign Ordinance limits total signage area on gas station canopies
to 20 square-feet on a maximum of two exterior faces. The Design Review Committee
increased the allowed sign area for this project to 51 square-feet of canopy signage for
the proposed logos. The total area of signage proposed for the canopy is 768 square-
feet, including 717 square-feet of color banding. These dimensions were approved by the
Planning Commission during the November 8, 2023, hearing consistent with AMC 9-
Page 15 of 94
ITEM NUMBER: B-1
DATE: 02/13/24
5.011, which allows modifications to the Sign Ordinance through administrative use
permit approval. The approval did not include the LED light band.
The proposed lighting strip does not follow exterior lighting guidelines within the
Atascadero Municipal Code. AMC 9-4.137 requires that exterior lighting be fully recessed
or shielded such that no glare occurs to neighboring properties and the lighting element
cannot be directly seen from outside the subject property. The proposed lighting strip is
unshielded and housed in semitransparent plastic with the lighting element directly visible
from neighboring properties and streets. During the November 8, 2023, Planning
Commission hearing, staff recommended that, in the event that the lighting strip was
approved, a condition should be added that it be inset and the light directed down to
prevent visibility of the lighting element from adjacent properties and streets.
Findings
In order to support or deny exceptions to the Sign Ordinance, specific findings must be
made. Most importantly, findings must be made to support neighborhood compatibility
and General Plan consistency. Two additional findings must be made to approve an
exception to the Sign Ordinance, the most relevant of which requires that the sign(s) be
consistent with the intent of the Ordinance. The attached resolutions provide a complete
list of findings to support or deny the use permit. The inability to make any one of the
findings is grounds to deny a use permit, while all findings must be made in the affirmative
to approve a use permit.
Administrative Use Permit Findings:
1. FINDING: Modification of the applicable standard will not result in a project that is
inconsistent with the General Plan;
2. FINDING: Modification of the applicable standard will not result in a project that is
inconsistent with the character of the immediate neighborhood or contrary to its
orderly development;
3. FINDING: Modification of the applicable standard will not result in a project that is
not in compliance with any pertinent City policy or criteria adopted by Ordinance
or Resolution of the City Council;
4. FINDING: Modification of the applicable standard will not result in the
authorization of a use not otherwise allowed.
Sign Ordinance Exception Findings:
5. FINDING: The signs are consistent with the purposes set forth in Section 9-15.002;
6. FINDING: The opportunity to combine signs for more than one (1) use on a
single sign structure has been considered.
Conclusion
The applicant is appealing the Planning Commission’s action disallowing an LED light
strip around the canopy at the new ARCO station. The LED light strip is part of the
Page 16 of 94
ITEM NUMBER: B-1
DATE: 02/13/24
standard branding and the applicant is requesting City Council consideration to allow for
the light to be included as part of the signage for the gas station.
ALTERNATIVES:
Council may continue the item for further discussion and direction or may look at
suggesting other modifications to the canopy lighting or signage. Council should provide
clear direction to staff or the project applicant on specific information needed to return for
review.
FISCAL IMPACT:
The proposed project is not estimated to have any notable fiscal impact.
ATTACHMENTS:
1. Draft Resolution A
2. Draft Resolution B
3. Design Review Committee Staff Report and Attachments – 07/10/2019
4. Design Review Committee Staff Report and Attachments – 09/25/2019
5. Administrative Hearing Staff Report and Attachments – 09/07/2022
6. Planning Commission Staff Report and Attachments – 11/08/2023
7. Adopted Planning Commission Resolution No. 2023-0018
Page 17 of 94
ITEM NUMBER: B-1
DATE:
ATTACHMENT:
02/13/24
1
DRAFT RESOLUTION A
RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF ATASCADERO, CALIFORNIA, AFFIRMING THE PLANNING
COMMISSION’S APPROVAL OF AN ADMINISTRATIVE USE PERMIT
(USE23-0067) TO ALLOW INCREASED SIGNAGE AT 9590 EL CAMINO
REAL
ARCO SIGNAGE
A M B ENTERPRISES, INC.
(USE23-0067)
WHEREAS, an application has been received from A M B Enterprises, Inc. (6708 Foothill
Blvd., Tujunga, CA 91042), Applicant, to consider Planning Application USE23-0067, for an
Administrative Use Permit to allow increased signage on the ARCO gas station located at
9590 El Camino Real, Atascadero, CA 93422 (APN 056-071-011); and
WHEREAS, the site’s current General Plan Land Use Designation is General Commercial
(GC); and
WHEREAS, the site’s current Zoning District is Commercial Tourist (CT); and
WHEREAS, Atascadero’s Municipal Code allows for the construction of signage in excess
of that allowed by said Code via the Administrative Use Permit process; and
WHEREAS, the project was reviewed by the Design Review Committee at their regularly
scheduled meetings on July 10, 2019 and September 25, 2019; and
WHEREAS, a timely and properly noticed Public Hearing upon the subject
Administrative Use Permit application was held by the Administrative Hearing Officer at which
hearing evidence, oral and documentary, was admitted on behalf of said Use Permit; and
WHEREAS, the Administrative Hearing Officer, at a Public Hearing held on September
9, 2022, studied and considered the proposed use permit for increased signage area; and
WHEREAS, the Administrative Hearing Officer found the proposed increased signage
area to be inconsistent with Atascadero Municipal Code 9-1.112(d)(1)(d)(3) and denied the project
based on those findings; and
WHEREAS, the applicant did not appeal the Administrative Hearing Officer’s decision
within the appeal period prescribed within the Atascadero Municipal Code; and
WHEREAS, the applicant submitted the same application for new consideration on June
29, 2023; and
Page 18 of 94
ITEM NUMBER: B-1
DATE:
ATTACHMENT:
02/13/24
1
WHEREAS, a timely and properly noticed Public Hearing upon the subject
Administrative Use Permit application was held by the City of Atascadero Planning Commission
at which hearing evidence, oral and documentary, was admitted on behalf of said Use Permit; and
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission, at a Public Hearing held on November 8, 2023,
studied and considered the proposed use permit for increased signage area; and
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission approved the project on a 4-1 vote at the
November 8, 2023 hearing; and
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission modified conditions 1 and 6 of the subject Use
Permit to prohibit the installation of a lighting band around the canopy perimeter; and
WHEREAS, the laws and regulations relating to the preparation and public notice of
environmental documents, as set forth in the State and local guidelines for implementation of the
California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) have been adhered to; and
WHEREAS, an appeal was filed on November 21, 2023 for review of the Planning
Commission action by the City Council in accordance with the provisions of Atascadero Municipal
Code Section 9-1.111; and
WHEREAS, the City Council held a duly noticed public hearing to consider the appeal on
February 13, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. in accordance with the provisions of Atascadero Municipal Code
Section 9-1.110 and considered testimony and reports from staff, the applicants, and the public.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, by the City Council of the City of Atascadero:
SECTION 1. Recitals: The above recitals are true and correct.
SECTION 2. Public Hearing. The City Council of the City of Atascadero, in a regular
meeting assembled on February 13, 2024, resolved to affirm the Planning Commission’s action to
approve an Administrative Use Permit for increased gas station canopy signage subject to conditions
of approval as shown in Exhibit A, attached hereto and incorporated herein by this reference.
SECTION 3. Findings. The City Council makes the following findings, determinations
and approvals with respect to the Administrative Use Permit:
A. Findings for Affirming the Planning Commission’s Approval of an Administrative
Use Permit
1. FINDING: Modification of the applicable standard will not result in a project that is
inconsistent with the General Plan.
FACT: A significant portion of policies within the General Plan are dedicated to
attracting and supporting commercial businesses, especially along major vehicular
corridors. The General Plan also aims to expand tourist commercial nodes near freeway
interchanges through Policy 13.3. Allowing ARCO to expand their signage to meet
Page 19 of 94
ITEM NUMBER: B-1
DATE:
ATTACHMENT:
02/13/24
1
corporate standards will provide enhanced wayfinding for those traveling along El
Camino Real and potentially expand the customer base for a tourist-serving use.
2. FINDING: Modification of the applicable standard will not result in a project that is
inconsistent with the character of the immediate neighborhood or contrary to its orderly
development.
FACT: The project will not be inconsistent with the character of the neighborhood or
contrary to its orderly development. The immediate neighborhood of the project is
commercial and tourist-serving in nature and contains a significant number of artificial
light sources already, such as the streetlights on the intersection of Santa Rosa Road
and El Camino Real. The majority of the signage area in the project is color banding
without text and should not cause significant visual impact.
3. FINDING: Modification of the applicable standard will not result in a project that is
not in compliance with any pertinent City policy or criteria adopted by ordinance or
resolution of the City Council.
FACT: The proposed oversized signage can be permitted through the Administrative
Use Permit process as identified in the Municipal Code. The proposed project is
consistent with all applicable provisions with approval of an Administrative Use
Permit.
4. FINDING: Modification of the applicable standard will not result in the authorization
of a use not otherwise allowed.
FACT: This project does not involve a change of use nor a significant expansion of
an existing use. Gas stations are an allowed use in the Commercial Tourist zone.
B. Findings for Signage Design Exception
1. FINDING: The signs are consistent with the purposes set forth in Section 9-15.002.
FACT: The signage, as proposed, meets the purposes set forth in Section 9-15.002. It
does not impede or distract travelers or create visual clutter with excessive text or
animation. Additionally, the signage enhances brand communication and improves
wayfinding by meeting the corporate standards that consumers have come to associate
with ARCO gas stations.
2. FINDING: The opportunity to combine signs for more than one (1) use on a single sign
structure has been considered.
FACT: All signage associated with this project is on a single structure.
SECTION 4. CEQA. The proposed project is Categorically Exempt (Class 1) from the
provisions of the California Environmental Quality Act (California Public Resources Code §§
21000, et seq., “CEQA”) and CEQA Guidelines (Title 14 California Code of Regulations §§
Page 20 of 94
ITEM NUMBER: B-1
DATE:
ATTACHMENT:
02/13/24
1
15000, et seq.) CEQA pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15301, because it is limited to the
application of a vinyl decal and LED light strip to an existing structure.
SECTION 5. Approval. The City Council of the City of Atascadero, in a regular meeting
assembled on February 13, 2024, resolved to affirm the Planning Commission’s action to approve
an Administrative Use Permit to allow for increased signage subject to the following:
EXHIBIT A: Conditions of Approval
EXHIBIT B: Site Plan
EXHIBIT C: Proposed Color Banding
EXHIBIT D: Elevations
PASSED AND ADOPTED at a regular meeting of the City Council held on the 13th day of
February, 2024.
On motion by Council Member _____ and seconded by Council Member _____, the
foregoing Resolution is hereby adopted in its entirety on the following roll call vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
CITY OF ATASCADERO:
________________________________
Heather Moreno, Mayor
ATTEST:
Lara K. Christensen, City Clerk
Page 21 of 94
ITEM NUMBER: B-1
DATE:
ATTACHMENT:
02/13/24
1A
Conditions of Approval / Mitigation Monitoring Program
9590 El Camino Real
USE23-0067
Timing
BL: Business License GP: Grading Permit BP: Building Permit FI: Final Inspection TO: Temporary Occupancy FO: Final Occupancy
Responsibility
/Monitoring
PS: Planning Services
BS: Building Services
FD: Fire Department PD: Police Department CE: City Engineer WW: Wastewater CA: City Attorney
Planning Services Conditions
1. This Conditional Use Permit shall allow for increased signage on a
gas station canopy consisting of color banding and an LED lighting
strip around the perimeter of the gas station canopy at 9590 El
Camino Real (APN 056-071-011), as described in attached Exhibits,
regardless of owner.
Ongoing PS
2. The approval of this use permit shall become final and effective for
the purposes of issuing building permits fourteen (14) days following
the Planning Commission approval, unless an appeal to the decision
is filed as set forth in Section 9-1.111(b) of the Zoning Ordinance.
Ongoing PS
3. The Community Development Department shall have the authority to
approve the following minor changes to the project that (1) modify the
site plan project by less than 10%, and/or (2) result in a superior site
design or appearance.
BP PS, BS, CE
4. Approval of this Administrative Use Permit shall be valid for twenty-
four (24) months after its effective date. At the end of the period, the
approval shall expire and become null and void unless the project
has received a building permit. If the signage is removed for a period
of greater than 6 months, any new signage shall be done in
accordance with the City’s non-conforming use code.
BP/Ongoing PS
5. The applicant shall defend, indemnify, and hold harmless the City of
Atascadero or its agents, officers, and employees against any claim
or action brought to challenge an approval by the City, or any of its
entities, concerning this conditional use permit.
Ongoing CA
6. Color banding and lighting shall be consistent with what is shown in
Exhibit C, with the following modifications:
- LED lighting strip shall be shielded in a way which directs the
light downward as opposed to being located within a protruding
housing.
BP PS
Page 22 of 94
ITEM NUMBER: B-1
DATE:
ATTACHMENT:
02/13/24
2B
Page 23 of 94
ITEM NUMBER: B-1
DATE:
ATTACHMENT:
02/13/24
1C
Page 24 of 94
ITEM NUMBER: B-1
DATE:
ATTACHMENT:
02/13/24
1D
Page 25 of 94
ITEM NUMBER: B-1
DATE:
ATTACHMENT:
02/13/24
2
DRAFT RESOLUTION B
RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF ATASCADERO, CALIFORNIA, AFFIRMING IN PART THE
PLANNING COMMISSION’S APPROVAL OF AN ADMINISTRATIVE
USE PERMIT TO ALLOW INCREASED SIGNAGE AT 9590 EL CAMINO
REAL WITH MODIFICATIONS TO THE CONDITION OF APPROVAL
ARCO SIGNAGE
A M B ENTERPRISES, INC.
(USE23-0067)
WHEREAS, an application has been received from A M B Enterprises, Inc. (6708 Foothill
Blvd., Tujunga, CA 91042), Applicant, to consider Planning Application USE23-0067, for an
Administrative Use Permit to allow increased signage on the ARCO gas station located at
9590 El Camino Real, Atascadero, CA 93422 (APN 056-071-011); and
WHEREAS, the site’s current General Plan Land Use Designation is General Commercial
(GC); and
WHEREAS, the site’s current Zoning District is Commercial Tourist (CT); and
WHEREAS, Atascadero’s Municipal Code allows for the construction of signage in excess
of that allowed by said Code via the Administrative Use Permit process; and
WHEREAS, the project was reviewed by the Design Review Committee at their regularly
scheduled meetings on July 10, 2019 and September 25, 2019; and
WHEREAS, a timely and properly noticed Public Hearing upon the subject
Administrative Use Permit application was held by the Administrative Hearing Officer at which
hearing evidence, oral and documentary, was admitted on behalf of said Use Permit; and
WHEREAS, the Administrative Hearing Officer, at a Public Hearing held on September
9, 2022, studied and considered the proposed use permit for increased signage area; and
WHEREAS, the Administrative Hearing Officer found the proposed increased signage
area to be inconsistent with Atascadero Municipal Code 9-1.112(d)(1)(d)(3) and denied the project
based on those findings; and
WHEREAS, the applicant did not appeal the Administrative Hearing Officer’s decision
within the appeal period prescribed within the Atascadero Municipal Code; and
WHEREAS, the applicant submitted the same application for new consideration on June
29, 2023; and
Page 26 of 94
ITEM NUMBER: B-1
DATE:
ATTACHMENT:
02/13/24
2
WHEREAS, a timely and properly noticed Public Hearing upon the subject
Administrative Use Permit application was held by the City of Atascadero Planning Commission
at which hearing evidence, oral and documentary, was admitted on behalf of said Use Permit; and
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission, at a Public Hearing held on November 8, 2023,
studied and considered the proposed use permit for increased signage area; and
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission approved the project on a 4-1 vote at the
November 8, 2023 hearing; and
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission modified conditions 1 and 6 of the subject Use
Permit to prohibit the installation of a lighting band around the canopy perimeter; and
WHEREAS, the laws and regulations relating to the preparation and public notice of
environmental documents, as set forth in the State and local guidelines for implementation of the
California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) have been adhered to; and
WHEREAS, an appeal was filed on November 21, 2023 for review of the Planning
Commission action by the City Council in accordance with the provisions of Atascadero Municipal
Code Section 9-1.111; and
WHEREAS, the City Council held a duly noticed public hearing to consider the appeal on
February 13, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. in accordance with the provisions of Atascadero Municipal Code
Section 9-1.110 and considered testimony and reports from staff, the applicants, and the public.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, by the City Council of the City of Atascadero:
SECTION 1. Recitals: The above recitals are true and correct.
SECTION 2. Public Hearing. The City Council of the City of Atascadero, in a regular
session assembled on February 13, 2024, resolved to modify the Planning Commission’s action,
thereby allowing for a light strip at the fuel island canopy. The attached conditions of approval are
modified to allow the installation of a lighting band as described in the submittal materials in Exhibit
B.
SECTION 3. Findings. The City Council makes the following findings, determinations
and approvals with respect to the Administrative Use Permit:
A. Findings for Affirming the Planning Commission’s Approval of an Administrative
Use Permit
1. FINDING: Modification of the applicable standard will not result in a project that is
inconsistent with the General Plan;
Page 27 of 94
ITEM NUMBER: B-1
DATE:
ATTACHMENT:
02/13/24
2
FACT: A significant portion of policies within the General Plan are dedicated to
attracting and supporting commercial businesses, especially along major vehicular
corridors. The General Plan also aims to expand tourist commercial nodes near freeway
interchanges through Policy 13.3. Allowing ARCO to expand their signage to meet
corporate standards will provide enhanced wayfinding for those traveling along El
Camino Real and potentially expand the customer base for a tourist-serving use.
2. FINDING: Modification of the applicable standard will not result in a project that is
inconsistent with the character of the immediate neighborhood or contrary to its orderly
development;
FACT: The project will not be inconsistent with the character of the neighborhood or
contrary to its orderly development. The immediate neighborhood of the project is
commercial and tourist-serving in nature and contains a significant number of artificial
light sources already, such as the streetlights on the intersection of Santa Rosa Road
and El Camino Real. The majority of the signage area in the project is color banding
without text and should not cause significant visual impact.
3. FINDING: Modification of the applicable standard will not result in a project that is
not in compliance with any pertinent City policy or criteria adopted by ordinance or
resolution of the City Council; and
FACT: The proposed oversized signage can be permitted through the Administrative
Use Permit process as identified in the Municipal Code. The proposed project is
consistent with all applicable provisions with approval of an Administrative Use
Permit.
4. FINDING: Modification of the applicable standard will not result in the authorization
of a use not otherwise allowed.
FACT: This project does not involve a change of use nor a significant expansion of
an existing use. Gas stations are an allowed use in the Commercial Tourist zone.
B. Findings for Signage Design Exception
1. FINDING: The signs are consistent with the purposes set forth in Section 9-15.002;
and
FACT: The signage, as proposed, meets the purposes set forth in Section 9-15.002. It
does not impede or distract travelers or create visual clutter with excessive text or
animation. Additionally, the signage enhances brand communication and improves
wayfinding by meeting the corporate standards that consumers have come to associate
with ARCO gas stations.
2. FINDING: The opportunity to combine signs for more than one (1) use on a single sign
Page 28 of 94
ITEM NUMBER: B-1
DATE:
ATTACHMENT:
02/13/24
2
structure has been considered; and
FACT: All signage associated with this project is on a single structure.
SECTION 4. CEQA. The proposed project is Categorically Exempt (Class 1) from the
provisions of the California Environmental Quality Act (California Public Resources Code §§
21000, et seq., “CEQA”) and CEQA Guidelines (Title 14 California Code of Regulations §§
15000, et seq.) CEQA pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15301, because it is limited to the
application of a vinyl decal and LED light strip to an existing structure.
SECTION 5. Approval. The City Council of the City of Atascadero, in a regular session
assembled on February 13, 2024, resolved to affirm in part the Planning Commission’s action to
approve an Administrative Use Permit to allow for increased signage subject to the following:
EXHIBIT A: Conditions of Approval
EXHIBIT B: Site Plan
EXHIBIT C: Proposed Color Banding
EXHIBIT D: Elevations
PASSED AND ADOPTED at a regular meeting of the City Council held on the __th day of
___, 2024.
On motion by Council Member _____ and seconded by Council Member _____, the
foregoing Resolution is hereby adopted in its entirety on the following roll call vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
CITY OF ATASCADERO:
________________________________
Heather Moreno, Mayor
ATTEST:
Lara K. Christensen, City Clerk
Page 29 of 94
ITEM NUMBER: B-1
DATE:
ATTACHMENT:
02/13/24
2A
Conditions of Approval / Mitigation Monitoring Program
9590 El Camino Real
USE23-0067
Timing
BL: Business License GP: Grading Permit BP: Building Permit
FI: Final Inspection
TO: Temporary Occupancy
FO: Final Occupancy
Responsibility
/Monitoring
PS: Planning Services BS: Building Services FD: Fire Department PD: Police Department CE: City Engineer WW: Wastewater
CA: City Attorney
Planning Services Conditions
1. This Administrative Use Permit shall allow for increased signage on a
gas station canopy consisting of color banding and lighting strip
around the perimeter of the gas station canopy at 9590 El Camino
Real (APN 056-071-011), as described in attached Exhibits,
regardless of owner.
Ongoing PS
2. The approval of this use permit shall become final and effective for
the purposes of issuing building permits fourteen (14) days following
the Planning Commission approval, unless an appeal to the decision
is filed as set forth in Section 9-1.111(b) of the Zoning Ordinance.
Ongoing PS
3. The Community Development Department shall have the authority to
approve the following minor changes to the project that (1) modify the
site plan project by less than 10%, and/or (2) result in a superior site
design or appearance.
BP PS, BS, CE
4. Approval of this Administrative Use Permit shall be valid for twenty-
four (24) months after its effective date. At the end of the period, the
approval shall expire and become null and void unless the project
has received a building permit. If the signage is removed for a period
of greater than 6 months, any new signage shall be done in
accordance with the City’s non-conforming use code.
BP/Ongoing PS
5. The applicant shall defend, indemnify, and hold harmless the City of
Atascadero or its agents, officers, and employees against any claim
or action brought to challenge an approval by the City, or any of its
entities, concerning this conditional use permit.
Ongoing CA
6. Color banding and lighting strip shall be consistent with what is
shown in Exhibit C.
BP PS
Page 30 of 94
ITEM NUMBER: B-1
DATE:
ATTACHMENT:
02/13/24
2B
Page 31 of 94
ITEM NUMBER: B-1
DATE:
ATTACHMENT:
02/13/24
2C
Page 32 of 94
ITEM NUMBER: B-1
DATE:
ATTACHMENT:
02/13/24
2D
Page 33 of 94
ITEM 3
Fueling Station
PRE19-0034 / Arco
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION MAY BE OBTAINED BY CONTACTING THE ATASCADERO
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT AT
http://www.atascadero.org
6500 PALMA AVENUE | ATASCADERO, CA 93422 | (805) 461-5000
Atascadero Design Review Committee
Staff Report – Community Development Department
Fueling Station
MEETING
DATE PROJECT PLANNER APPLICANT CONTACT PLN NO.
7/10/2019 Kelly Gleason Arco / Jeannette Verdugo PRE19-0034
PROJECT
ADDRESS
GENERAL PLAN
DESIGNATION ZONING DISTRICT
ASSESOR
PARCEL
NUMBER(S)
SITE
AREA
9550 El Camino
Real
General
Commercial
(GC)
Commercial
Tourist (CT) 056-071-011 Approximately
1.4 acres
RECOMMENDATION
Staff Requests the Design Review Committee:
1. Review the proposed design for a service station and direct the applicant to make any
modifications to the site or building design as necessary.
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
The proposed project consists of a gas station, 3,000 square foot convenience store, and 1,400
square foot restaurant at the corner of El Camino Real and Montecito Ave. The project
proposed access from Montecito Ave and shared access using an existing commercial center
driveway off El Camino Real. The project site is 1.38 acres.
ENVIRONMENTAL DETERMINATION
The City of Atascadero’s environmental review process incorporates the requirements in implementing
the California Environmental Quality Act. Persons, agencies, or organizations interested in obtaining
more information regarding the environmental should contact the Community Development Department.
☐ EIR / MND / ND /
Statutory Exemption
to be circulated
☐ Prior CEQA Review:
☐ Categorical
Exemption
☒ No Project - § 15268
Ministerial Project
ITEM NUMBER: B-1
DATE: 02/13/24
ATTACHMENT: 3
Page 34 of 94
ITEM 3
Arco Gas Station
PRE 19-0034
Design Review Committee | City of Atascadero | www.atascadero.org | fb.me/planningatascadero
DISCUSSION:
Project History
The subject parcel is located at the
intersection of Montecito Avenue and El
Camino Real. The site is the current location
of a restaurant (Garcia’s) that faces El
Camino Real as well as a single family
residence at the rear of the property.
Project Description / Summary
The property is zoned Commercial Tourist
(CT) and is approximately 1.5 acres. The
front of the parcel faces El Camino Real.
Montecito Avenue runs adjacent to the
southern property line. An access easement
for the project is recorded over the driveway
off EL Camino Real that serves the adjacent
commercial center.
The applicant is proposing the construction
of a fueling station with eight pumps, electric
vehicle charging spaces, and an approximately 4,600 square foot indoor store and
restaurant space. The restaurant will have an outdoor eating area covered by a trellis
facing Montecito Avenue.
ANALYSIS:
Site Design and Access.
The development area will occupy approximately 0.9 acres, or 60%, of the site. The
project area will include a new convenience store and restaurant, fuel dispenser
canopy, and parking. The project is accessed from 3 driveways: two approaches along
the northern property line from the adjacent commercial access easement; and one
along the southern property line off of Montecito Avenue. Since the site is a former fuel
station site, there are former underground fuel tanks and potential underground soil
contamination at this site. The applicant will need to work with the County
Environmental Health Division to remediate the site and obtain a site clearance letter
prior to issuance of construction permits from the City.
Existing Restaurant
Existing Residence
ITEM NUMBER: B-1
DATE: 02/13/24
ATTACHMENT: 3
Page 35 of 94
ITEM 3
Arco Gas Station
PRE 19-0034
Design Review Committee | City of Atascadero | www.atascadero.org | fb.me/planningatascadero
Site Plan
Parking
The applicant proposes 35 parking spaces for the project, including two electric vehicle
spaces, one handicap space, and 16 spaces at the fueling station. The municipal code
requires a total 37 spaces for the two uses on the property; 26 spaces for the restaurant
and 12 spaces for the convenience store. Staff recommends that the applicant
include two additional bike racks to reduce the total number of required parking
spaces to 35 in order to comply with AMC parking standards.
Architectural Design
Building Design
The overall design of the building is a generic, corporate design, common to Arco fuel
stations nationwide. Staff is encouraging a design that is custom to our vicinity and
reflects Atascadero. The proposed building façade will use a combination of stacked
stone, wood-appearance panels, and stucco. The main color theme consists of white
and tan with medium toned wood accents. Tile roofs are proposed on tower elements.
Shared Driveway with
adjacent commercial
development
Healy tank
location
Outdoor
dining area
Monument
Sign location
ITEM NUMBER: B-1
DATE: 02/13/24
ATTACHMENT: 3
Page 36 of 94
ITEM 3
Arco Gas Station
PRE 19-0034
Design Review Committee | City of Atascadero | www.atascadero.org | fb.me/planningatascadero
The primary façade facing El Camino Real includes white stucco exterior walls with 2
wood-look tower features and 2 stucco tower with a darker tan. Storefront windows face
El Camino Real and Montecito Ave. Contemporary steel awnings are proposed which
will be accented in orange, consistent with corporate colors for AMPM. An
approximately 3-4 foot stacked stone base is proposed wrapping the entire building.
The proposed rear façade and easement-facing facade have minimal design features
with no windows or entrances.
Side Elevations
Front Elevation – facing El Camino Real
Rear Elevation – Facing K-man and Tastee Freeze
Staff recommends the following modifications:
1. Consider the use of brick veneer instead of stacked stone, and increase the
height of the brick or stacked stone base in areas without windows
Facing entry access easement Facing entry Montecito
ITEM NUMBER: B-1
DATE: 02/13/24
ATTACHMENT: 3
Page 37 of 94
ITEM 3
Arco Gas Station
PRE 19-0034
Design Review Committee | City of Atascadero | www.atascadero.org | fb.me/planningatascadero
2. Eliminate white from the stucco color palate and choose varying earth
toned colors.
3. Widen the wrapped parapet tower feature on the rear of the building and
add a trellis/awning feature with landscaping.
4. The color of the service door on the rear of the building should be a dark
brown color to match the wood-grain wall paneling.
5. Steel awnings should be black or dark grey in color. (color banding counts
toward sign area – see sign discussion below)
6. Eliminate cornice and replace with a minimal wall cap.
7. Add a wall trellis to the side elevation facing the adjacent commercial
development and as an appropriate landscape area for vines.
Gas Pump Canopy
The pump canopoy is designed to be compatible witht the building architecture including a tile
roof and stucco columns with a stacked stone base. Signage is porposed on the facia of the
canopy as discussed below.
Landscaping
The applicant has presented a landscape concept plan that shows areas for
landscaping but does not call out specific plant species. Once design review has been
completed and the site plan is determined to be in conformance with city codes and
appearance review standards, a more detailed site landscape plan will be provided for
staff review. The concept plan shows an approximately 20-foot landscape buffer
between El Camino real and the drive aisle for the gas pumps. The current plan shows
a meandering walk with trellises within this landscape area, adjacent to the public
sidewalk. An approximately 15-foot landscape planter is provided along the Montecito
Ave frontage in addition to a covered outdoor dining patio with decorative pavement.
Landscaping is included through the parking lot within landscape fingers allowing for
shade tree planting. A new sidewalk is proposed between the project site and the
existing adjacent commercial development to facilitate connectivity between the sites.
The site is approximately 1.4 acres and only 0.9 acres of the site is proposed for
development. The existing non-conforming residence is required to be demolished once
the site is developed with conforming uses. The Atascadero Municipal Code (AMC 9-
4.125(b)(2)) requires that all areas of the site not shown for development be
landscaped. The applicant is currently proposing hydroseed with native grasses or a
similar groundcover creating the long term appearance of a vacant site.
ITEM NUMBER: B-1
DATE: 02/13/24
ATTACHMENT: 3
Page 38 of 94
ITEM 3
Arco Gas Station
PRE 19-0034
Design Review Committee | City of Atascadero | www.atascadero.org | fb.me/planningatascadero
Staff recommends the following modification/conditions for the project
landscaping:
1. Eliminate the meandering path adjacent to the public sidewalk. Frontage
landscaping should include medium shrubs and grasses such as deer
grass, manzanita, ceanothus, sage, etc.
2. Provide vines where wall trellises are conditioned.
3. Street trees shall be planted at 30-feet on center along the Montecito and El
Camino real frontages. Trees shall be London Plane Sycamore trees.
4. Shade trees shall be included in all parking lot landscape fingers.
5. The Healy tank shall be relocated to an area of the site where additional
landscaping can be provided OR the landscape planter surrounding the
proposed tank shall be increased in size to allow for adequate screening.
6. All landscaping shall be drought tolerant and comply with State and local
regulations.
7. Taller shrubs shall be used adjacent to the trash enclosure to provide
adequate screening.
8. Areas not proposed for development shall include an interim landscape
plan. The interim landscape plan shall be installed prior to occupancy of
the Arco station.
Signage
The design proposal includes wall mounted signage for both tenant spaces. The AMPM
sign is designed at approximately 23 square feet square-feet, which complies with the
sign ordinance maximum allowable area. The restaurant space includes a wall sign
facing El Camino Real. Staff expects that any future tenant may also request signage
facing Montecito Ave. Per the Atascadero municipal Code, 150 square-footage is
permitted for the total area of all tenant signage and signage can be located on the 2
street facing facades. The proposed signage meets these standards. No internally
illuminated cabinet signs will be permitted. All signage types must conform to the
municipal code standards.
The design team is showing externally illuminated changeable advertising signage on
the façade facing El Camino real. This type of signage is not permitted by code.
The canopy includes the ARCO name and logo on the sides facing El Camino Real and
Montecito Ave. The logo hangs over, and protrudes above, the edge of the fascia. The
canopy also includes color banding specific to the corporate colors. The banding is
illuminated by a blue light.
A monument sign is proposed at the corner of Montecito and El Camino Real. The
Atascadero Municipal Code allows for monument signs. The sign is located within a
landscape planter, as required by code. Size and height will need to conform to code
standards. A condition has been included that the monument sign design be consistent
with the building architecture.
ITEM NUMBER: B-1
DATE: 02/13/24
ATTACHMENT: 3
Page 39 of 94
ITEM 3
Arco Gas Station
PRE 19-0034
Design Review Committee | City of Atascadero | www.atascadero.org | fb.me/planningatascadero
Staff recommends the following modifications related to signage:
1. Color banding on the canopy does not provide enhancement or
consistency with the Mediterranean architectural style. Color banding and
associated lighting strip should be eliminated.
2. The canopy logo should be decreased to fit entirely on the fascia.
3. Changeable copy wall signage should be eliminated, consistent with code
standards.
4. Signage shall be permitted facing Montecito Ave for the restaurant tenant
provided that the total area for all tenant signage does not exceed 150
square-feet.
DRC DISCUSSION ITEMS:
1. Architectural Design – General Recommendations
2. Landscape Design – General recommendations
3. Signage – recommendation to Hearing Officer for increased AMPM signage
4. Signage – General Recommendations
ATTACHMENTS:
1. Notice of Action
2. Aerial Image
3. Site / Landscape Plan
4. Elevations
ITEM NUMBER: B-1
DATE: 02/13/24
ATTACHMENT: 3
Page 40 of 94
ITEM 3
Arco Gas Station
PRE 19-0034
Design Review Committee | City of Atascadero | www.atascadero.org | fb.me/planningatascadero
Attachment 1: Notice of Action
PRE 19-0034
DRC NOTICE OF ACTION
Proposed Conditions of Approval:
1. Increase the height of the stacked stone base in areas without windows. Replace
stacked stone with a brick veneer.
2. Eliminate white from the stucco color palate and choose varying earth toned colors.
3. Widen the wrapped parapet tower feature on the rear of the building and add a
trellis/awning feature with landscaping.
4. The color of the service door on the rear of the building should be a dark brown color to
match the wood-grain wall paneling.
5. Steel awnings should be black or dark grey in color. (color banding counts toward sign
area – see sign discussion below)
6. Eliminate cornice and replace with a minimal wall cap.
7. Add a wall trellis to the side elevation facing the adjacent commercial development as
appropriate landscape area for vines.
8. Eliminate the meandering path adjacent to the public sidewalk. Frontage landscaping
should include medium shrubs and grasses such as deer grass, manzanita, ceanothus,
sage, etc.
9. Provide vines where wall trellises are conditioned.
10. Street trees shall be planted at 30-feet on center along the Montecito and El Camino
Real frontages. Trees shall be London Plane trees.
11. Shade trees shall be included in all parking lot landscape fingers.
12. The Healy tank shall be relocated to an area of the site where additional landscaping
can be provided OR the landscape planter surrounding the proposed tank shall be
increased in size to allow for adequate screening.
13. All landscaping shall be drought tolerant and comply with State and local regulations.
14. Taller shrubs shall be used adjacent to the trash enclosure to provide adequate
screening.
15. Areas not proposed for development shall include an interim landscape plan. The interim
landscape plan shall be installed prior to occupancy of the Arco station.
16. Color banding on the canopy does not provide enhancement or consistency with the
Mediterranean architectural style. Color banding and associated lighting strip should be
eliminated.
17. The canopy logo should be decreased to fit entirely on the fascia.
18. Changeable copy wall signage should be eliminated, consistent with code standards.
19. Signage shall be permitted Facing Montecito Ave for the restaurant tenant provided that
the total area for all tenant signage does not exceed 150 square-feet.
Action/ Decision Summary: To be recorded at meeting conclusion
Meeting Date: July 10, 2019
Project Planner: Kelly Gleason
Senior Planner
ITEM NUMBER: B-1
DATE: 02/13/24
ATTACHMENT: 3
Page 41 of 94
ITEM 3
Arco Gas Station
PRE 19-0034
Design Review Committee | City of Atascadero | www.atascadero.org | fb.me/planningatascadero
Attachment 2: Site Plan
PRE 19-0034
ITEM NUMBER: B-1
DATE: 02/13/24
ATTACHMENT: 3
Page 42 of 94
ITEM 3
Arco Gas Station
PRE 19-0034
Design Review Committee | City of Atascadero | www.atascadero.org | fb.me/planningatascadero
Attachment 3: Site / Landscape Plan
PRE 19-0034
ITEM NUMBER: B-1
DATE: 02/13/24
ATTACHMENT: 3
Page 43 of 94
ITEM 3
Arco Gas Station
PRE 19-0034
Design Review Committee | City of Atascadero | www.atascadero.org | fb.me/planningatascadero
Attachment 3: Elevations
PRE 19-0034
ITEM NUMBER: B-1
DATE: 02/13/24
ATTACHMENT: 3
Page 44 of 94
ITEM 3
Arco Gas Station
PRE 19-0034
Design Review Committee | City of Atascadero | www.atascadero.org | fb.me/planningatascadero
Attachment 4: Elevations
PRE 19-0034
ITEM NUMBER: B-1
DATE: 02/13/24
ATTACHMENT: 3
Page 45 of 94
ITEM 2
Fueling Station
PRE19-0034 / Arco
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION MAY BE OBTAINED BY CONTACTING THE ATASCADERO
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT AT
http://www.atascadero.org
6500 PALMA AVENUE | ATASCADERO, CA 93422 | (805) 461-5000
Atascadero Design Review Committee
Staff Report – Community Development Department
Fueling Station
MEETING
DATE PROJECT PLANNER APPLICANT CONTACT PLN NO.
9/25/2019 Kelly Gleason Arco / Jeannette Verdugo PRE19-0034
PROJECT
ADDRESS
GENERAL PLAN
DESIGNATION ZONING DISTRICT
ASSESOR
PARCEL
NUMBER(S)
SITE
AREA
9550,9590 El
Camino Real
General
Commercial
(GC)
Commercial
Tourist (CT) 056-071-011 Approximately
1.4 acres
RECOMMENDATION
Staff Requests the Design Review Committee:
1. Review the proposed design for a service station and direct the applicant to make any
modifications to the site or building design as necessary.
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
The proposed project consists of a gas station, 3,000 square foot convenience store, and 1,400
square foot restaurant at the corner of El Camino Real and Montecito Ave. The project
proposed access from Montecito Ave and shared access using an existing commercial center
driveway off El Camino Real. The project site is 1.38 acres.
ENVIRONMENTAL DETERMINATION
The City of Atascadero’s environmental review process incorporates the requirements in implementing
the California Environmental Quality Act. Persons, agencies, or organizations interested in obtaining
more information regarding the environmental should contact the Community Development Department.
☐ EIR / MND / ND /
Statutory Exemption
to be circulated
☐ Prior CEQA Review:
☐ Categorical
Exemption
☒ No Project - § 15268
Ministerial Project
ITEM NUMBER: B-1
DATE: 02/13/24
ATTACHMENT: 4
Page 46 of 94
ITEM 2
Arco Gas Station
PRE19-0034
Design Review Committee | City of Atascadero | www.atascadero.org | fb.me/planningatascadero
Existing Restaurant
Existing Residence
DISCUSSION:
Project Description / Summary
The property is zoned Commercial Tourist
(CT) and is approximately 1.5 acres. The
front of the parcel faces El Camino Real.
Montecito Avenue runs adjacent to the
southern property line.
The applicant is proposing the construction
of a fueling station with eight pumps, electric
vehicle charging spaces, and an
approximately 4,600 square foot indoor
store and restaurant space. The restaurant
will have an outdoor eating area covered by
a trellis facing Montecito Avenue.
Project History
The subject parcel is located at the
intersection of Montecito Avenue and El
Camino Real. The site is the current location
of a restaurant (Garcia’s) that faces El
Camino Real as well as a single family residence at the rear of the property.
The project initially went to DRC in July of 2019. The DRC recommended modifications
to project architecture and landscaping. In addition, it was brought to our attention that
the applicant did not have access rights over the driveway and parking area adjacent to
the project site. DRC proposed conditions and revisions to improve the project prior to
returning for a second meeting. The applicant has implemented some of the requested
changes including:
• Modified site access to be separate from existing driveways.
• Increase in the height of the veneer base in areas without windows. Replace
stacked stone with a brick veneer.
• A callout on the north elevations for metal wall trellises.
• Shade trees included in all parking lot landscape fingers.
• An interim landscape plan for the vacant portion of the lot.
• Modifications to building architecture including replacement of foam cornice and
color changes to the rear service door
• Elimination of changeable copy wall signage
ITEM NUMBER: B-1
DATE: 02/13/24
ATTACHMENT: 4
Page 47 of 94
ITEM 2
Arco Gas Station
PRE19-0034
Design Review Committee | City of Atascadero | www.atascadero.org | fb.me/planningatascadero
ANALYSIS:
Site Design and Access.
The development area will occupy approximately 0.9 acres, or 60%, of the site. The
project area will include a new convenience store and restaurant, fuel dispenser
canopy, and parking. The applicant has modified the site access to eliminate using the
adjacent property improvements. The project is now accessed from 2 driveways: one
approach along the eastern property line from El Camino Real; and one along the
southern property line off of Montecito Avenue. The rear of the building is oriented to a
portion of the site that is proposed to remain undeveloped. The building orientation does
not activate this portion of the site and limits future integrated development.
Site Plan
In summary the building and parking area are inefficiently laid out on the site and leave
a large portion of the site undeveloped at the back of the building. This strip of land will
Healy tank
location
Monument
Sign location
Outdoor
dining area
ITEM NUMBER: B-1
DATE: 02/13/24
ATTACHMENT: 4
Page 48 of 94
ITEM 2
Arco Gas Station
PRE19-0034
Design Review Committee | City of Atascadero | www.atascadero.org | fb.me/planningatascadero
be an ideal site for harboring transients, unauthorized storage, or simply a lack of
maintenance. Staff suggests that the building be re-oriented to the corner, taking
advantage of the entire site. The outdoor dining area for the restaurant could be
expanded, or the site could have a more substantial landscape area or expanded retail
store opportunity. The issue of the unplanned vacant area is the most substantial
item for the DRC to provide input on.
Parking
The applicant proposes 35 parking spaces for the project, including two electric vehicle
spaces, one handicap space, and 16 spaces at the fueling station. The municipal code
requires a total 37 spaces for the two uses on the property; 26 spaces for the restaurant
and 12 spaces for the convenience store. Staff recommends that the applicant
include two additional bike racks to reduce the total number of required parking
spaces to 35 in order to comply with AMC parking standards.
Architectural Design
Building Design
The overall design of the building remains a generic, corporate design, common to Arco
fuel stations nationwide. In addition to wood-appearance panels and stucco, the
applicant has included brick veneer consistent with local historic architectural materials.
The main color theme consists of white and tan with medium toned wood accents. Tile
roofs are proposed on tower elements. The primary façade facing El Camino Real
includes white stucco exterior walls with 2 wood-look tower features and 2 stucco tower
features with a darker tan. Storefront windows face El Camino Real and Montecito Ave.
Contemporary steel awnings are proposed which will be accented in bright orange,
consistent with corporate colors for AMPM. The brick veneer base is proposed to wrap
the entire building and has been raised in height consistent with DRC’s previous
direction. The base is approximately 3 feet high under windows and increases to 8 feet
in areas without windows. Two metal vine wall trellises are called out on the elevations
facing the existing adjacent commercial center to the north. The proposed rear façade
has minimal design features with no windows or public entrances.
ITEM NUMBER: B-1
DATE: 02/13/24
ATTACHMENT: 4
Page 49 of 94
ITEM 2
Arco Gas Station
PRE19-0034
Design Review Committee | City of Atascadero | www.atascadero.org | fb.me/planningatascadero
Side Elevations
Front Elevation – facing El Camino Real
Rear Elevation – Facing K-man and Tastee Freeze
Staff recommends the following modifications:
1. Eliminate white from the stucco color palate and choose varying earth
toned colors that are compatible with the Atascadero blend brick veneer.
2. Widen the wrapped parapet tower feature on the rear of the building and
add a trellis/awning feature with landscaping.
3. Steel awnings should be black or dark grey in color.
Facing entry access easement Facing entry Montecito
ITEM NUMBER: B-1
DATE: 02/13/24
ATTACHMENT: 4
Page 50 of 94
ITEM 2
Arco Gas Station
PRE19-0034
Design Review Committee | City of Atascadero | www.atascadero.org | fb.me/planningatascadero
Gas Pump Canopy
The pump canopy is designed to be compatible with the building architecture including a
tile roof and stucco columns with a veneer base. Signage is proposed on the facia of the
canopy as discussed below. Staff is recommending that brick veneer be used for
the column bases to match the base style of the proposed store and restaurant
and be raised to 8-feet in height consistent with the building design.
Landscaping
The applicant has prepared a revised landscape concept plan that shows areas for
landscaping as well as specific plant species. The specific trees proposed include the
chanticleer pear, Chinese pistache, chitalpa, majestic beauty magnolia, and sweet bay.
Due to the ample planter area required to buffer the gas pumps from El Camino Real,
staff is recommending that oaks be planted along the street frontages with compatible
smaller accent trees such as western redbuds intermixed.
The landscape plan shows an approximately 20-foot landscape buffer between El
Camino Real and the drive aisle for the gas pumps. The current plan shows trellises
within this landscape area, adjacent to the public sidewalk. An approximately 15-foot
landscape planter is provided along the Montecito Ave frontage in addition to a covered
outdoor dining patio with decorative pavement. Landscaping is included through the
parking lot within landscape fingers allowing for shade tree planting. The applicant is
also proposing installing two small, rectangular metal vine trellises to the easement
facing facade of the store building as an architectural feature. Landscape areas for
these trellises are not shown in the proposed landscape plan. Staff is recommending
that either above ground or in ground planters be provided to accommodate vine
plantings for the trellis features.
The site is approximately 1.4 acres and only 0.9 acres of the site is proposed for
development. The existing non-conforming residence is required to be demolished once
the site is developed with conforming uses. The Atascadero Municipal Code (AMC 9-
4.125(b)(2)) requires that all areas of the site not shown for development be
landscaped. The applicant is currently proposing planting eight trees alternating with
patches of deer grass across the undeveloped rear area of the site. The current
proposal creates an attractive nuisance and a potential safety risk. Site design factors
related to this area have been discussed above in the “site design” section.
ITEM NUMBER: B-1
DATE: 02/13/24
ATTACHMENT: 4
Page 51 of 94
ITEM 2
Arco Gas Station
PRE19-0034
Design Review Committee | City of Atascadero | www.atascadero.org | fb.me/planningatascadero
The gas station will also have a healy tank located along the northern property line. The
current plan shows minimal landscape screening opportunities surrounding the tank.
Staff is recommending that the tank be located in a planter that provides a minimum of
3-feet of landscaping surrounding the three sides of the tank not adjacent to the gas
station parking/drive aisle.
Staff recommends the following modification/conditions for the project
landscaping:
1. Eliminate the free-standing trellises along the El Camino Real frontage.
Frontage landscaping should include medium shrubs and grasses such as
deer grass, manzanita, ceanothus, sage, etc.
2. Provide vines where wall trellises are called out. Trellises and vine species
should be reflected on the landscape plan.
3. Street trees shall be planted at 30-feet on center along the Montecito and El
Camino real frontages. Trees shall be Native Oak trees. Complimentary
trees shall be interspersed along the frontage for variety and color.
4. The Healy tank shall be located in a planter that provides a minimum of 3-
feet of landscaping surrounding the three sides of the tank not adjacent to
the gas station parking/drive aisle.
5. All landscaping shall be drought tolerant and comply with State and local
regulations.
6. Taller shrubs shall be used adjacent to the trash enclosure to provide
adequate screening.
7. Modification of the site design to eliminate the attractive nuisance caused
by orienting the rear of the building to a large undeveloped portion of the
site.
Fencing
There is currently a wooden fence that runs along the northern, eastern, and part of the
southern property lines which is associated with the existing residence. This fence is in
poor condition with large sections of it having fallen over into the vacant area of the
property. The proposed project does not reflect any new fencing along the property and
provides a landscape buffer or strip around most of the developed area of the site. Staff
recommends the use of a split rail fence to enclose the project site to provide a
clear separation from the adjacent properties but retain visibility for safety.
Signage
The design proposal includes wall mounted signage for both tenant spaces. The AMPM
sign is designed at approximately 23 square-feet, which complies with the sign
ordinance maximum allowable area. The restaurant space includes a wall sign facing El
Camino Real. Staff expects that any future tenant may also request signage facing
Montecito Ave. In accordance with the Atascadero municipal Code, 150 square-feet is
permitted for the total area of all tenant signage and signage can be located on the 2
street-facing facades. The proposed signage meets these standards. No internally
illuminated cabinet signs will be permitted. All signage types must conform to the
municipal code standards.
ITEM NUMBER: B-1
DATE: 02/13/24
ATTACHMENT: 4
Page 52 of 94
ITEM 2
Arco Gas Station
PRE19-0034
Design Review Committee | City of Atascadero | www.atascadero.org | fb.me/planningatascadero
The canopy includes the ARCO name and logo on the sides facing El Camino Real and
Montecito Ave. The logo hangs over, and protrudes above, the edge of the fascia. The
canopy also includes color banding specific to the corporate colors. The banding is
illuminated by a blue light.
A monument sign is proposed at the corner of Montecito and El Camino Real. The
Atascadero Municipal Code allows for monument signs. The sign is located within a
landscape planter, as required by code. Size and height will need to conform to code
standards. A condition has been included that the monument sign design be consistent
with the building architecture.
Staff recommends the following modifications related to signage:
1. Color banding on the canopy does not provide enhancement or
consistency with the Mediterranean architectural style. Color banding and
associated lighting strip should be eliminated.
2. The canopy logo should be decreased to fit entirely on the fascia.
3. Signage shall be permitted facing Montecito Ave for the restaurant tenant,
provided that the total area for all tenant signage does not exceed 150
square-feet.
DRC DISCUSSION ITEMS:
1. Architectural Design – General Recommendations
2. Landscape Design – General recommendations
3. Signage – recommendation to Hearing Officer for increased AMPM signage
4. Signage – General Recommendations
ATTACHMENTS:
1. Notice of Action
2. Aerial Image
3. Site Plan
4. Landscape Plan
5. Elevations
ITEM NUMBER: B-1
DATE: 02/13/24
ATTACHMENT: 4
Page 53 of 94
ITEM 2
Arco Gas Station
PRE19-0034
Design Review Committee | City of Atascadero | www.atascadero.org | fb.me/planningatascadero
Attachment 1: Notice of Action
PRE 19-0034
DRC NOTICE OF ACTION
Proposed Conditions of Approval:
1. The site shall comply with minimum parking standards set forth in the Atascadero
Municipal Code. Bike racks can be used to count toward parking requirements in
accordance with municipal code standards.
2. Eliminate white from the stucco color palate and choose varying earth toned colors.
3. Widen the wrapped parapet tower feature on the rear of the building and add a
trellis/awning feature with landscaping.
4. Steel awnings should be black or dark grey in color.
5. Veneer on the canopy shall be consistent with the building material and shall be 8-feet in
height consistent with the proposed building design.
6. Frontage landscaping should include medium shrubs and grasses such as deer grass,
manzanita, ceanothus, sage, etc.
7. The freestanding trellises shall be eliminated along the street frontages.
8. Provide above ground or in ground planters for vines where wall trellises are provided.
9. Street trees shall be planted at 30-feet on center along the Montecito and El Camino
Real frontages. Trees shall be native oak trees with accent trees intermixed.
10. The Healy tank shall be located in a planter that provides a minimum of 3-feet of
landscaping surrounding the three sides of the tank not adjacent to the gas station
parking/drive aisle.
11. All landscaping shall be drought tolerant and comply with State and local regulations.
12. Taller shrubs shall be used adjacent to the trash enclosure to provide adequate
screening.
13. Color banding on the canopy does not provide enhancement or consistency with the
Mediterranean architectural style. Color banding and associated lighting strip shall be
eliminated.
14. The canopy logo shall be decreased to fit entirely on the fascia.
15. Signage shall be permitted facing Montecito Ave for the restaurant tenant provided that
the total area for all tenant signage does not exceed 150 square-feet.
16. Modification of the site design to eliminate the attractive nuisance caused by orienting
the rear of the building to a large undeveloped portion of the site
Action/ Decision Summary: To be recorded at meeting conclusion
Meeting Date: September 25, 2019
Project Planner: Kelly Gleason
Senior Planner
ITEM NUMBER: B-1
DATE: 02/13/24
ATTACHMENT: 4
Page 54 of 94
ITEM 2
Arco Gas Station
PRE19-0034
Design Review Committee | City of Atascadero | www.atascadero.org | fb.me/planningatascadero
Attachment 2: Site Plan
PRE 19-0034
ITEM NUMBER: B-1
DATE: 02/13/24
ATTACHMENT: 4
Page 55 of 94
ITEM 2
Arco Gas Station
PRE19-0034
Design Review Committee | City of Atascadero | www.atascadero.org | fb.me/planningatascadero
Attachment 3: Site Plan
PRE 19-0034
ITEM NUMBER: B-1
DATE: 02/13/24
ATTACHMENT: 4
Page 56 of 94
ITEM 2
Arco Gas Station
PRE19-0034
Design Review Committee | City of Atascadero | www.atascadero.org | fb.me/planningatascadero
Attachment 4: Landscape Plan
PRE 19-0034
ITEM NUMBER: B-1
DATE: 02/13/24
ATTACHMENT: 4
Page 57 of 94
ITEM 2
Arco Gas Station
PRE19-0034
Design Review Committee | City of Atascadero | www.atascadero.org | fb.me/planningatascadero
Attachment 5: Elevations
PRE 19-0034
ITEM NUMBER: B-1
DATE: 02/13/24
ATTACHMENT: 4
Page 58 of 94
ITEM 2
Arco Gas Station
PRE19-0034
Design Review Committee | City of Atascadero | www.atascadero.org | fb.me/planningatascadero
Attachment 5: Elevations
PRE 19-0034
ITEM NUMBER: B-1
DATE: 02/13/24
ATTACHMENT: 4
Page 59 of 94
CITY OF ATASCADERO
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
Administrative Hearing Agenda Report ITEM # 1
FROM: Bailey Sullivan MEETING DATE: 9/07/2022 FILE NUMBER: USE22-0063 PROJECT ADDRESS: 9590 El Camino Real
The applicant, AMB Enterprises Inc., requests a modification to the area of signage
permitted on the recently constructed ARCO gas station pump island canopy at 9590 El
Camino Real. The applicant proposes to add 768 square feet of color banding on all four
(4) sides of the canopy in ARCO’s corporate blue color with an associated exposed LED
lighting strip. The applicant also proposes to add LED illumination to the previously
approved 21.18 square-foot logo and the 20 square-foot ARCO letter sign.
The ARCO Gas Station is located in the Commercial Tourist (CT) zoning district and has
a general plan designation of General Commercial (GC). The property is approximately
1.5 acres. The front of the parcel faces El Camino Real. Montecito Avenue runs adjacent
to the southern property line. New signage proposed on the canopy exceeds what has
previously been approved for the site by DRC and requires approval of an Administrative
Use Permit.
EVALUATION:
The Atascadero Sign Ordinance has specific limitations regarding the amount of signage
and color banding that may be displayed on gas station canopies. The sign ordinance
allows up to 20 square feet of signage, including logos and color banding, on a maximum
of two (2) sides of a canopy structure. The existing approved pump island canopy does
not comply with the ordinance requirements and is painted a tan color on all four sides
with a logo on the South, North and East elevations. The total new signage proposed is
768 square feet, which would exceed the maximum allowed. Any new signage or
replacement of signage (as proposed with the addition of signage, chroma color banding,
and increase logo size) must comply with the current code and DRC approval unless an
exception is granted.
9-15.005 Allowed signs
(a)(7) Gas Station Canopies. In addition to the signs allowed above, a maximum of twenty (20)
square feet signs, logos and or color banding shall be permitted on no more than two (2) sides of
a pump island canopy structure. The remainder of the pump canopy fascia shall be of an
architectural treatment consistent with site architecture.
9-15.004 Sign design standards.
(i) Color banding. The installation or painting of high chroma color banding on buildings and
structures shall be defined as a sign and shall be subject to the same size restrictions as other
signs. (Ord. 400 § 1 (part), 2002
ITEM NUMBER: B-1
DATE: 02/13/24
ATTACHMENT: 5
Page 60 of 94
Page 2
The color banding is proposed on all four sides of the existing canopy and exceeds the
20-sf allowed by code, with a combined total square footage of 768.The LED lighting strip
also does not meet the Atascadero Municipal Code Exterior Lighting guidelines (AMC 9-
4.137). The code requires that any exterior lighting be fully shielded and directed in such
a way that no glare occurs to neighboring properties. The proposed LED lighting would
be fully exposed and, as designed, does not include a channel that would create a halo
effect, which would comply with the municipal code.
Exceptions to the Sign Standards
AMC Section 9-15.006 allows the sign area or other limitations of the Sign Ordinance to
be modified through approval of an Administrative Use Permit, subject to findings and
appearance review. The gas station canopy is 4,388 square-feet and accommodates 8
pump islands, making it one of the larger canopies in the City. All recent permits issued
for gas stations and canopy amendments have adhered to the allowed maximum signage
requirements set forth in the Municipal Code and no exceptions have been granted in
recent years. In addition, the Arco station is directly adjacent to El Camino Real and
Montecito Ave making it very visible from the adjacent roadways and, thus, extra signage
is not needed for identification. The site is approved to have one monument sign and
building signage over each tenant space in addition to the approved canopy logos.
Modification of the sign standards must be consistent with the purposes of the Sign
Ordinance, which include protecting the economy and aesthetics of the community,
implementing quality sign design standards, and minimizing possible adverse impacts of
signs on other properties. Staff analysis indicates the proposed project does not uphold
these purposes. Gas canopies tend to be tall structures placed near public streets. The
high chroma colors typically used are not compatible with the rural character of the
community and are distracting in these gateway locations often placed at freeway exits.
While the increased signage may increase traffic to an individual business, they generally
detract from the attractiveness of a downtown community.
Staff recommends denying the sign as proposed because it does not provide
enhancement or consistency with the Mediterranean architectural style previously
approved by the DRC, nor does it adhere to the lighting shielding requirements.
The City has not approved an increase in canopy color banding in recent history.
Approving increased signage here would set a precedent for future gas stations and
tenants. If the operator of this station changes and additional color banding and lighting
is approved, any future tenant or brand will be able to replace Arco’s colors with their own
corporate colors without additional review or approval.
RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends the Administrative Hearing Officer deny
USE22-0063 thereby not allowing increased signage on the perimeter of the gas station
canopy from what was approved by DRC.
ITEM NUMBER: B-1
DATE: 02/13/24
ATTACHMENT: 5
Page 61 of 94
Page 3
ENVIRONMENTAL DETERMINATION
☒ Categorical Exemption CEQA – Guidelines Section 15311
☐ Statutory Exemption §§ 21000, et seq & ________________________
☐ No Project – Ministerial Project
Findings
AMC 9-1.112 requires the Hearing Officer to make one of the following findings for denial:
1. Modification of the applicable standard will not result in a project that is inconsistent
with the General Plan;
Staff comment: One of the General Plan Framework Principles is to improve the
appearance of the community, including the quality and visual impact of signs.
The proposed signage does not support this principle as the color banding on the
canopy has too large an impact on its immediate neighborhood. The proposed
amount of signage is not an appropriate expression of the desired appearance
for the gateways of Atascadero.
2. Modification of the applicable standard will not result in a project that is inconsistent
with the character of the immediate neighborhood or contrary to its orderly
development;
Staff comment: The immediate neighborhood on El Camino Real is generally
commercial businesses catering to tourists to the City. High chroma colors are
typically not used in building architecture and the canopy was previously approved
by the DRC to remain consistent with the building architecture and surrounding
existing development.
3. Modification of the applicable standard will not result in a project that is not in
compliance with any pertinent City policy or criteria adopted by ordinance or
resolution of the City Council; and
Staff comment: The proposed sign is inconsistent with the Design Review
Manual which recommends signs that use restrained colors and are proportional
in size to the associated building.
Code Requirements
1. AMC 9-15 (Sign Ordinance)
2. AMC 9-1.112 Administrative Use Permit
Attachments
ITEM NUMBER: B-1
DATE: 02/13/24
ATTACHMENT: 5
Page 62 of 94
Page 4
Attachment 1 - Location and Zoning Map
Attachment 2 - Elevations and Site Plan
Attachment 3 - Proposed Signs
Action:
Approve
Approve as modified
Deny
Continue to: _______________ to allow _________________________________
____________________________________________________________________
Continue indefinitely to allow: __________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________
___________________________________
Phil Dunsmore, Hearing Officer
ITEM NUMBER: B-1
DATE: 02/13/24
ATTACHMENT: 5
Page 63 of 94
Attachment 1: Location Map and Zoning
USE22-0063
ITEM NUMBER: B-1
DATE: 02/13/24
ATTACHMENT: 5
Page 64 of 94
Attachment 2: Elevations and Site Plan
USE22-0063
ITEM NUMBER: B-1
DATE: 02/13/24
ATTACHMENT: 5
Page 65 of 94
Attachment 3: Proposed Signage
USE22-0063
ITEM NUMBER: B-1
DATE: 02/13/24
ATTACHMENT: 5
Page 66 of 94
ITEM 2
Gas Station Canopy Signage
USE23-0067 / AMB Enterprises, Inc.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION MAY BE OBTAINED BY CONTACTING THE ATASCADERO
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT AT
http://www.atascadero.org
6500 PALMA AVENUE | ATASCADERO, CA 93422 | (805) 461-5000
Atascadero Planning Commission
Staff Report – Community Development Department
USE23-0067
9550/9590 El Camino Real
RECOMMENDATION(S):
Planning Commission:
1. Adopt Draft PC Resolution A, denying an Administrative Use Permit (USE23-0067)
for oversized signage at 9590 El Camino Real, based on finding(s).
OR
2. Adopt Draft PC Resolution B, approving an Administrative Use Permit (USE23-
0067) to allow oversized signage at 9590 El Camino Real, based on finding(s) and
subject to conditions of approval.
DISCUSSION:
Existing Surrounding Uses / Parcel Configurations:
Existing Zoning Existing Aerial / Surrounding
ITEM NUMBER: B-1
DATE: 02/13/24
ATTACHMENT: 6
Page 67 of 94
ITEM 2
Gas Station Canopy Signage
USE23-0067 / AMB Enterprises, Inc.
Planning Commission | City of Atascadero | www.atascadero.org | fb.me/planningatascadero
North: South: East: West:
CT (Commercial
Tourism), CR
(Commercial Retail)
CT (Commercial
Tourism)
CR (Commercial Retail) Highway 101,
R.O.W. (East Front
Road)
Background
The applicant, AMB Enterprises Inc., is resubmitting a request to modify to the area of
signage permitted on the recently constructed ARCO gas station pump island canopy at
9590 El Camino Real. The proposal for this signage is identical to a prior proposal
submitted for an Administrative Use Permit under file number USE22-0063. This
Administrative Use Permit was denied and the applicant failed to appeal within the 14-
day appeal period per Atascadero Municipal Code 9-1.111. As a result, the applicant is
resubmitting the same proposal for consideration. Based on this circumstance, this
application is being forwarded directly to the Planning commission for review and action.
The ARCO Gas Station is located in the Commercial Tourist (CT) zoning district and has
a general plan designation of General Commercial (GC). The property is approximately
1.5 acres. The front of the parcel faces El Camino Real. Montecito Avenue runs adjacent
to the southern property line. New signage proposed on the canopy exceeds what has
previously been approved for the site by DRC and requires approval of an Administrative
Use Permit.
Project Description / Summary
The applicant proposes to add a total of 768 square feet of color banding on all four (4)
sides of the canopy in ARCO’s corporate blue color with an associated exposed LED
lighting strip. The applicant also proposes to add LED illumination to the previously
approved 21.18 square-foot canopy logo and the 20 square-foot canopy ARCO letter
sign.
Analysis
The Atascadero Sign Ordinance has specific limitations regarding the amount of signage
and color banding that may be displayed on gas station canopies. The sign ordinance
allows up to 20 square feet of signage, including logos and color banding, on a maximum
of two (2) sides of a canopy structure.
9-15.008 Types of signs and standards
(b)(1) Gas Station Canopies: “…a maximum of twenty (20) square feet of signs, logos
and or color banding shall be permitted on no more than two (2) sides of a pump island
canopy structure. The remainder of the pump canopy fascia shall be of an architectural
treatment consistent with site architecture.”
The existing approved pump island canopy is painted a tan color on all four sides with a
logo on the south, north and east elevations and has 51 total square feet of canopy
signage that was approved by the Design Review Committee. The total new signage
proposed, which includes the area of color banding, is 768 square feet, which would
ITEM NUMBER: B-1
DATE: 02/13/24
ATTACHMENT: 6
Page 68 of 94
ITEM 2
Gas Station Canopy Signage
USE23-0067 / AMB Enterprises, Inc.
Planning Commission | City of Atascadero | www.atascadero.org | fb.me/planningatascadero
exceed the maximum allowed by Atascadero Municipal Code and exceeds the signage
originally approved by the DRC.
The color banding is proposed on all four sides of the existing canopy. The banding is a
vinyl decal element that is adhered to the existing canopy fascia. An LED lighting strip is
proposed in the center of the color banding and will be enclosed in a clear plastic
protruding housing. This light strip does not meet the Atascadero Municipal Code Exterior
Lighting guidelines (AMC 9-4.137). These guidelines require that any exterior lighting be
fully shielded and directed in such a way that no glare occurs to neighboring properties.
While the light strip is narrow and does not have a wide lens, the proposed LED lighting
would be unshielded and would thus cause glare visible from other properties.
9-4.137 Exterior lighting
(b) Nondecorative Exterior Lighting Shielded: “All nondecorative exterior lighting shall
be shielded to direct light toward buildings or the ground. Light sources shall be
designed and adjusted to direct light away from any road or street and away from any
property or buildings outside the ownership of the applicant.”
(d) Decorative Exterior Lighting Shielded: “Where lights are used for the purpose of
illuminating or accenting building walls, signs, flags, architectural features, or
landscaping, the light source is to be shielded so as not to be directly visible from off-
site.”
If the Planning Commission approves the proposed lighting strip, staff recommends
including a condition that the LED strip be shielded in a way which directs the illumination
downward.
Exceptions to the Sign Standards
AMC Section 9-15.011 allows the sign area or other limitations of the Sign Ordinance to
be modified through approval of an Administrative Use Permit, subject to findings and
appearance review. The gas station canopy coverage area is 4,388 square-feet and
accommodates 8 pump islands, making it one of the larger canopies in the City. All recent
permits issued for gas stations and canopy amendments have adhered to the allowed
maximum signage requirements set forth in the Municipal Code and no exceptions have
been granted in recent years. The ARCO station is directly adjacent to El Camino Real
and Montecito Ave., making it very visible from the adjacent roadways and, thus, extra
signage is not needed for visibility or identification. The site is approved to have one
monument sign and building signage over each tenant space in addition to the approved
canopy logos and “ARCO” signs.
Modification of the sign standards must be consistent with the purposes of the Sign
Ordinance, which include protecting the economy and aesthetics of the community,
implementing quality sign design standards, and minimizing possible adverse impacts of
signs on other properties.
ITEM NUMBER: B-1
DATE: 02/13/24
ATTACHMENT: 6
Page 69 of 94
ITEM 2
Gas Station Canopy Signage
USE23-0067 / AMB Enterprises, Inc.
Planning Commission | City of Atascadero | www.atascadero.org | fb.me/planningatascadero
At the previous AUP hearing, the Planning Director found that the proposed signage
increase was inconsistent with the required findings. Staff’s findings for denial are
repeated in the draft denial resolution listed under Attachment 1. If the Planning
Commission denies the application, only one finding needs to be identified.
FINDINGS:
In order the approve this request for additional signage, the Planning Commission must
make all of the following findings, including specific findings for signage exceptions:
Administrative Use Permit (AMC Section 9-1.112(d))
1. Modification of the applicable standard will not result in a project that is inconsistent
with the General Plan;
2. Modification of the applicable standard will not result in a project that is inconsistent
with the character of the immediate neighborhood or contrary to its orderly
development;
3. Modification of the applicable standard will not result in a project that is not in
compliance with any pertinent City policy or criteria adopted by Ordinance or
Resolution of the City Council;
4. Modification of the applicable standard will not result in the authorization of a use
not otherwise allowed.
Signage Design Exception Findings:
1. The signs are consistent with the purposes set forth in Section 9-15.002; and
2. The opportunity to combine signs for more than one (1) use on a single sign
structure has been considered.
If the Planning Commission cannot make any one of the findings listed above, the project
must be denied. If a finding cannot be made, the Planning Commission must clearly state
the finding that cannot be made and provide facts to support that conclusion for the
record.
CONCLUSION:
The City has not approved an increase in canopy color banding in recent history.
Approving increased signage here would set a precedent for future gas stations and
tenants. If the operator of this station changes and additional color banding and lighting
is approved, any future tenant or brand will be able to replace ARCO’s colors with their
own corporate colors without additional review or approval. The previous application was
reviewed and denied by the Administrative Hearing Officer. If the Planning Commission
can make the required findings for approval, a resolution and proposed conditions are
ITEM NUMBER: B-1
DATE: 02/13/24
ATTACHMENT: 6
Page 70 of 94
ITEM 2
Gas Station Canopy Signage
USE23-0067 / AMB Enterprises, Inc.
Planning Commission | City of Atascadero | www.atascadero.org | fb.me/planningatascadero
included as Attachment 2.
ENVIRONMENTAL DETERMINATION:
The proposed project is Categorically Exempt (Class 1) from the provisions of the
California Environmental Quality Act (California Public Resources Code §§ 21000, et
seq., “CEQA”) and CEQA Guidelines (Title 14 California Code of Regulations §§ 15000,
et seq.) CEQA pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15301, because its scope is limited
to on-premise signs and electrical conveyances which do not expand or alter the existing
use.
ALTERNATIVES:
1. The Planning Commission may include modifications to the project and/or
conditions of approval for the project. Any proposed modifications, including
conditions of approval, should be clearly re-stated in any vote on any of the
attached resolutions.
2. The Planning Commission may determine that more information is needed on
some aspect of the project and may refer the item back to the applicant and staff
to develop the additional information. The Commission should clearly state the
type of information that is required. A motion, and approval of that motion, is
required to continue the item to a future date.
3. The Planning Commission may approve the project. The Commission must make
all of the findings in the affirmative, based on the Staff Report, oral testimony, site
visit, correspondence, or any other rationale introduced and deliberated by the
Planning Commission.
ATTACHMENTS:
1. Draft PC Resolution A – Denial
2. Draft PC Resolution B - Approval
3. Elevations
4. Site Plan
5. Site Photos
ITEM NUMBER: B-1
DATE: 02/13/24
ATTACHMENT: 6
Page 71 of 94
ITEM 2
Gas Station Canopy Signage
USE23-0067 / AMB Enterprises, Inc.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION MAY BE OBTAINED BY CONTACTING THE ATASCADERO
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT AT
http://www.atascadero.org
6500 PALMA AVENUE | ATASCADERO, CA 93422 | (805) 461-5000
ATTACHMENT 1: Draft Denial Resolution A
USE23-0067
DRAFT PC RESOLUTION A
RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION
OF THE CITY OF ATASCADERO, CALIFORNIA, DENYING AN
ADMINISTRATIVE USE PERMIT (USE23-0067) FOR INCREASED
SIGNAGE AT 9590 EL CAMINO REAL
APN 056-071-011
(AMB Enterprises, Inc.)
WHEREAS, an application has been received from an Applicant, AMB Enterprises, Inc.,
(6708 Foothill Blvd., Tujunga, CA 91042), and owner Dinesh Sharda, Pardin Enterprises Inc.,
(9590 El Camino Real Atascadero, CA 93422) to consider an Administrative Use Permit (USE
23-0067) to allow oversized signage at the ARCO service station at 9590 El Camino Real; and
WHEREAS, the site’s General Plan Designation is General Commercial (GC); and
WHEREAS, the site’s Zoning is Commercial Tourism (CT); and
WHEREAS, a previous application for the proposed signage was heard by the
Administrative Hearing Officer in a public hearing held on September 7, 2022; and
WHEREAS, The Administrative Officer found the proposed increased signage area to be
inconsistent with Atascadero Municipal Code 9-1.112(d)(1)(d)(3) and denied the project based on
those findings; and
WHEREAS, the applicant failed to appeal the Administrative Hearing Officer’s decision
within the established appeal period; and
WHEREAS, the applicant submitted the same application for new consideration on June
29, 2023; and
WHEREAS, due to the previous denial by the Administrative Hearing Officer, this
application has been elevated to the Planning Commission by the Community Development
Director; and
WHEREAS, the proposed project qualifies for a Categorical Exemption consistent with
CEQA section 15301: existing facilities; and
ITEM NUMBER: B-1
DATE: 02/13/24
ATTACHMENT: 6
Page 72 of 94
ITEM 2
Gas Station Canopy Signage
USE23-0067 / AMB Enterprises, Inc.
Planning Commission | City of Atascadero | www.atascadero.org | fb.me/planningatascadero
WHEREAS, the laws and regulations relating to the preparation and public notice of
environmental documents, as set forth in the State and local guidelines for implementation of the
California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) have been adhered to; and
WHEREAS, a timely and properly noticed Public Hearing upon the subject
Administrative Use Permit application was held by the Planning Commission of the City of
Atascadero at which hearing evidence, oral and documentary, was admitted on behalf of said
Administrative Use Permit; and
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission of the City of Atascadero, at a duly noticed Public
Hearing held on November 8, 2023, studied and considered the Administrative Use Permit USE23-
0067.
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Planning Commission of the City of
Atascadero, California, makes the following findings, determinations, and recommendations with
respect to the proposed Administrative Use Permit:
SECTION 1. Recitals: The above recitals are true and correct.
SECTION 2. Public Hearing. The Planning Commission of the City of Atascadero, at a duly
noticed public hearing assembled on November 8, 2023, studied and considered the Administrative
Use Permit USE23-0067.
SECTION 3. Findings. The Planning Commission finds as follows:
Administrative Use Permit:
1. Modification of the applicable standard will not result in a project that is inconsistent
with the General Plan;
Fact: One of the General Plan Framework Principles is to improve the appearance of
the community, including the quality and visual impact of signs. The proposed signage
does not support this principle as the color banding on the canopy has too large an
impact on its immediate neighborhood. The proposed amount of signage is not an
appropriate expression of the desired appearance for the gateways of Atascadero.
2. Modification of the applicable standard will not result in a project that is inconsistent
with the character of the immediate neighborhood or contrary to its orderly
development;
Fact: The immediate neighborhood on El Camino Real is generally commercial
businesses catering to tourists to the City. High chroma colors are typically not used in
building architecture and the canopy was previously approved by the DRC to remain
consistent with the building architecture and surrounding existing development.
ITEM NUMBER: B-1
DATE: 02/13/24
ATTACHMENT: 6
Page 73 of 94
ITEM 2
Gas Station Canopy Signage
USE23-0067 / AMB Enterprises, Inc.
Planning Commission | City of Atascadero | www.atascadero.org | fb.me/planningatascadero
3. Modification of the applicable standard will not result in a project that is not in
compliance with any pertinent City policy or criteria adopted by ordinance or resolution
of the City Council; and
Fact: The proposed sign is inconsistent with the Design Review Manual which
recommends signs that use restrained colors and are proportional in size to the
associated building.
SECTION 4. CEQA. The proposed project is Categorically Exempt (Class 1) from the provisions
of the California Environmental Quality Act (California Public Resources Code §§ 21000, et seq.,
“CEQA”) and CEQA Guidelines (Title 14 California Code of Regulations §§ 15000, et seq.)
CEQA pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15301, because it is limited to the application of a
vinyl decal and LED light strip to an existing structure.
SECTION 5. Denial. The Planning Commission of the City of Atascadero, in a regular session
assembled on November 8, 2023, resolved to deny Administrative Use Permit USE23-0067.
On motion by Commissioner ____________________, and seconded by Commissioner
_________________________, the foregoing resolution is hereby adopted in its entirety by the
following roll call vote:
AYES: ( )
NOES: ( )
ABSENT: ( )
ABSTAINED: ( )
ADOPTED:
CITY OF ATASCADERO, CA
_________________________________________
Jeff van den Eikhof
Planning Commission Chairperson
ATTEST:
___________________________________
Phil Dunsmore
Planning Commission Secretary
ITEM NUMBER: B-1
DATE: 02/13/24
ATTACHMENT: 6
Page 74 of 94
ITEM 2
Gas Station Canopy Signage
USE23-0067 / AMB Enterprises, Inc.
Planning Commission | City of Atascadero | www.atascadero.org | fb.me/planningatascadero
ATTACHMENT 2: Draft Approval Resolution
USE 23-0067
DRAFT PC RESOLUTION B
RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION
OF THE CITY OF ATASCADERO, CALIFORNIA, APPROVING AN
ADMINISTRATIVE USE PERMIT (USE23-0067) TO ALLOW
INCREASED SIGNAGE AT 9590 EL CAMINO REAL
APN 056-071-011
(AMB Enterprises, Inc.)
WHEREAS, an application has been received from the Applicant, AMB Enterprises, Inc.,
(6708 Foothill Blvd., Tujunga, CA 91042), and owner Dinesh Sharda, Pardin Enterprises Inc.,
(9590 El Camino Real Atascadero, CA 93422) to consider an Administrative Use Permit (USE23-
0067) to allow increased signage at the ARCO service station at 9590 El Camino Real; and
WHEREAS, the site’s General Plan Designation is General Commercial (GC); and
WHEREAS, the site’s Zoning is Commercial Tourism (CT); and
WHEREAS, a previous application for the proposed signage was heard by the
Administrative Hearing Officer in a public hearing held on September 7, 2022; and
WHEREAS, The Administrative Officer found the proposed increased signage area to be
inconsistent with Atascadero Municipal Code 9-1.112(d)(1)-(d)(3) and denied the project based
on those findings; and
WHEREAS, the applicant failed to appeal the Administrative Hearing Officer’s decision
within the established appeal period; and
WHEREAS, the applicant submitted the same application for new consideration on June
29, 2023; and
WHEREAS, due to the previous denial by the Administrative Hearing Officer, this
application has been elevated to the Planning Commission by the Community Development
Director; and
WHEREAS, the proposed project qualifies for a Categorical Exemption consistent with
CEQA section 15301: existing facilities; and
WHEREAS, the laws and regulations relating to the preparation and public notice of
environmental documents, as set forth in the State and local guidelines for implementation of the
California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) have been adhered to; and
ITEM NUMBER: B-1
DATE: 02/13/24
ATTACHMENT: 6
Page 75 of 94
ITEM 2
Gas Station Canopy Signage
USE23-0067 / AMB Enterprises, Inc.
Planning Commission | City of Atascadero | www.atascadero.org | fb.me/planningatascadero
WHEREAS, a timely and properly noticed Public Hearing upon the subject
Administrative Use Permit application was held by the Planning Commission of the City of
Atascadero at which hearing evidence, oral and documentary, was admitted on behalf of said
Administrative Use Permit; and
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission of the City of Atascadero, at a duly noticed Public
Hearing held on November 8, 2023, studied and considered the Administrative Use Permit USE
23-0067.
NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the Planning Commission of the City of
Atascadero, California, makes the following findings, determinations and recommendations with
respect to the proposed Administrative Use Permit:
SECTION 1. Recitals: The above recitals are true and correct.
SECTION 2. Public Hearing. The Planning Commission of the City of Atascadero, at a duly
noticed public hearing assembled on November 8, 2023, studied and considered the Administrative
Use Permit USE23-0067.
SECTION 3. Findings. The Planning Commission finds as follows:
Administrative Use Permit:
1. Modification of the applicable standard will not result in a project that is inconsistent
with the General Plan;
Fact: A significant portion of policies within the General Plan are dedicated to
attracting and supporting commercial businesses, especially along major vehicular
corridors. The General Plan also aims to expand tourist commercial nodes near freeway
interchanges through Policy 13.3. Allowing ARCO to expand their signage to meet
corporate standards will provide enhanced wayfinding for those traveling along El
Camino Real and potentially expand the customer base for a tourist-serving use.
2. Modification of the applicable standard will not result in a project that is inconsistent
with the character of the immediate neighborhood or contrary to its orderly
development;
Fact: The project will not be inconsistent with the character of the neighborhood or
contrary to its orderly development. The immediate neighborhood of the project is
commercial and tourist-serving in nature and contains a significant number of artificial
light sources already, such as the streetlights on the intersection of Santa Rosa Road
and El Camino Real. The majority of the signage area in the project is color banding
without text and should not cause significant visual impact.
ITEM NUMBER: B-1
DATE: 02/13/24
ATTACHMENT: 6
Page 76 of 94
ITEM 2
Gas Station Canopy Signage
USE23-0067 / AMB Enterprises, Inc.
Planning Commission | City of Atascadero | www.atascadero.org | fb.me/planningatascadero
3. Modification of the applicable standard will not result in a project that is not in
compliance with any pertinent City policy or criteria adopted by ordinance or resolution
of the City Council; and
Fact: The proposed oversized signage can be permitted through the Administrative Use
Permit process as identified in the Municipal Code. The proposed project is consistent
with all applicable provisions with approval of an Administrative Use Permit.
4. Modification of the applicable standard will not result in the authorization of a use not
otherwise allowed.
Fact: This project does not involve a change of use nor a significant expansion of an
existing use. Gas stations are an allowed use in the Commercial Tourist zone.
Signage Design Exception:
3. The signs are consistent with the purposes set forth in Section 9-15.002; and
Fact: The signage, as proposed, meets the purposes set forth in Section 9-15.002. It
does not impede or distract travelers or create visual clutter with excessive text or
animation. Additionally, the signage enhances brand communication and improves
wayfinding by meeting the corporate standards that consumers have come to associate
with ARCO gas stations.
4. The opportunity to combine signs for more than one (1) use on a single sign structure
has been considered; and
Fact: All signage associated with this project is on a single structure.
SECTION 4. CEQA. The proposed project is Categorically Exempt (Class 1) from the
provisions of the California Environmental Quality Act (California Public Resources Code §§
21000, et seq., “CEQA”) and CEQA Guidelines (Title 14 California Code of Regulations §§
15000, et seq.) CEQA pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15301, because it is limited to the
application of a vinyl decal and LED light strip to an existing structure.
SECTION 5. Approval. The Planning Commission of the City of Atascadero, in a regular session
assembled on November 8, 2023, resolved to approve Administrative Use Permit USE23-0067
subject to the following:
EXHIBIT A: Conditions of Approval
EXHIBIT B: Site Plan
EXHIBIT C: Proposed Color Banding
EXHIBIT D: Elevations
ITEM NUMBER: B-1
DATE: 02/13/24
ATTACHMENT: 6
Page 77 of 94
ITEM 2
Gas Station Canopy Signage
USE23-0067 / AMB Enterprises, Inc.
Planning Commission | City of Atascadero | www.atascadero.org | fb.me/planningatascadero
On motion by Commissioner ____________________, and seconded by Commissioner
_________________________, the foregoing resolution is hereby adopted in its entirety by the
following roll call vote:
AYES: ( )
NOES: ( )
ABSENT: ( )
ABSTAINED: ( )
ADOPTED:
CITY OF ATASCADERO, CA
_________________________________________
Jeff van den Eikhof
Planning Commission Chairperson
ATTEST:
___________________________________
Phil Dunsmore
Planning Commission Secretary
ITEM NUMBER: B-1
DATE: 02/13/24
ATTACHMENT: 6
Page 78 of 94
ITEM 2
Gas Station Canopy Signage
USE23-0067 / AMB Enterprises, Inc.
Planning Commission | City of Atascadero | www.atascadero.org | fb.me/planningatascadero
Exhibit A: Conditions of Approval
USE23-0067
Conditions of Approval / Mitigation Monitoring Program
9590 El Camino Real
USE23-0067
Timing
BL: Business License GP: Grading Permit BP: Building Permit FI: Final Inspection TO: Temporary Occupancy FO: Final Occupancy
Responsibility
/Monitoring
PS: Planning Services BS: Building Services FD: Fire Department PD: Police Department CE: City Engineer WW: Wastewater
CA: City Attorney
Planning Services Conditions
1. This Conditional Use Permit shall allow for increased signage on a
gas station canopy consisting of color banding and an LED lighting
strip around the perimeter of the gas station canopy at 9590 El
Camino Real (APN 056-071-011), as described in attached Exhibits,
regardless of owner.
Ongoing PS
2. The approval of this use permit shall become final and effective for
the purposes of issuing building permits fourteen (14) days following
the Planning Commission approval, unless an appeal to the decision
is filed as set forth in Section 9-1.111(b) of the Zoning Ordinance.
Ongoing PS
3. The Community Development Department shall have the authority to
approve the following minor changes to the project that (1) modify the
site plan project by less than 10%, and/or (2) result in a superior site
design or appearance.
BP PS, BS, CE
4. Approval of this Administrative Use Permit shall be valid for twenty-
four (24) months after its effective date. At the end of the period, the
approval shall expire and become null and void unless the project
has received a building permit. If the signage is removed for a period of greater than 6 months, any new signage shall be done in
accordance with the City’s non-conforming use code.
BP/Ongoing PS
5. The applicant shall defend, indemnify, and hold harmless the City of
Atascadero or its agents, officers, and employees against any claim or action brought to challenge an approval by the City, or any of its
entities, concerning this conditional use permit.
Ongoing CA
6. Color banding and lighting shall be consistent with what is shown in
Exhibit C, with the following modifications:
- LED lighting strip shall be shielded in a way which directs the light downward as opposed to being located within a protruding
housing.
BP PS
ITEM NUMBER: B-1
DATE: 02/13/24
ATTACHMENT: 6
Page 79 of 94
ITEM 2
Gas Station Canopy Signage
USE23-0067 / AMB Enterprises, Inc.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION MAY BE OBTAINED BY CONTACTING THE ATASCADERO
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT AT
http://www.atascadero.org
6500 PALMA AVENUE | ATASCADERO, CA 93422 | (805) 461-5000
Exhibit B: Site Plan
USE23-0067
ITEM NUMBER: B-1
DATE: 02/13/24
ATTACHMENT: 6
Page 80 of 94
ITEM 2
Gas Station Canopy Signage
USE23-0067 / AMB Enterprises, Inc.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION MAY BE OBTAINED BY CONTACTING THE ATASCADERO COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT AT
http://www.atascadero.org
6500 PALMA AVENUE | ATASCADERO, CA 93422 | (805) 461-5000
Exhibit C: Proposed Color Banding
USE23-0067
ITEM NUMBER: B-1
DATE: 02/13/24
ATTACHMENT: 6
Page 81 of 94
ITEM 2
Gas Station Canopy Signage
USE23-0067 / AMB Enterprises, Inc.
Planning Commission | City of Atascadero | www.atascadero.org | fb.me/planningatascadero
Exhibit D: Elevations
USE 23-0067
ITEM NUMBER: B-1
DATE: 02/13/24
ATTACHMENT: 6
Page 82 of 94
ITEM 2
Gas Station Canopy Signage
USE23-0067 / AMB Enterprises, Inc.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION MAY BE OBTAINED BY CONTACTING THE ATASCADERO COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT AT
http://www.atascadero.org
6500 PALMA AVENUE | ATASCADERO, CA 93422 | (805) 461-5000
ATTACHMENT 5: Site Photos
USE 23-0067
ITEM NUMBER: B-1
DATE: 02/13/24
ATTACHMENT: 6
Page 83 of 94
ITEM 2
Gas Station Canopy Signage
USE23-0067 / AMB Enterprises, Inc.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION MAY BE OBTAINED BY CONTACTING THE ATASCADERO
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT AT
http://www.atascadero.org
6500 PALMA AVENUE | ATASCADERO, CA 93422 | (805) 461-5000
ATTACHMENT 6: Examples of proposed lighting and color banding
USE 23-0067
ITEM NUMBER: B-1
DATE: 02/13/24
ATTACHMENT: 6
Page 84 of 94
ITEM NUMBER: B-1
DATE: 02/13/24
ATTACHMENT: 7
Page 85 of 94
ITEM NUMBER: B-1
DATE: 02/13/24
ATTACHMENT: 7
Page 86 of 94
ITEM NUMBER: B-1
DATE: 02/13/24
ATTACHMENT: 7
Page 87 of 94
ITEM NUMBER: B-1
DATE: 02/13/24
ATTACHMENT: 7
Page 88 of 94
ITEM NUMBER: B-1
DATE: 02/13/24
ATTACHMENT: 7
Page 89 of 94
ITEM NUMBER: B-1
DATE: 02/13/24
ATTACHMENT: 7
Page 90 of 94
ITEM NUMBER: B-1 DATE: 02/13/24ATTACHMENT: 7 Page 91 of 94
ITEM NUMBER: B-1 DATE: 02/13/24ATTACHMENT: 7 Page 92 of 94
ITEM NUMBER: B-1 DATE: 02/13/24ATTACHMENT: 7 Page 93 of 94
ITEM NUMBER: B-1
DATE: 02/13/24
ATTACHMENT: 7
Page 94 of 94