HomeMy WebLinkAboutPC_2024-10-01_AgendaPacket
CITY OF ATASCADERO
PLANNING COMMISSION
HOW TO OBSERVE THE MEETING:
Interested individuals may attend the meeting in-person at Atascadero City Hall. To observe
remotely, the meeting may be livestreamed on Zoom. The video recording of the meeting will be
available through the City’s website and on the City’s YouTube Channel. To observe remotely
using the Zoom platform please visit:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81712225756
HOW TO SUBMIT PUBLIC COMMENT:
Public comment may be provided in-person.
Written public comments are accepted at pc-comments@atascadero.org . Comments should identify the
Agenda Item Number in the subject line of the email. Such comments will be forwarded to the Planning
Commission and made a part of the administrative record. To ensure distribution to the Planning
Commission 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 Planning Commission, 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 Planning Commission 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.
AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES 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.
Planning Commission 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 Community Development Department 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 Planning Commission. The Minutes of this
meeting will reflect these numbers. All documents submitted by the public during Planning
Commission meetings that are either read into the record or referred to in their statement will be
noted in the Minutes and available for review by contacting the Community Development
Department. All documents are available for public inspection by appointment during City Hall
business hours.
WEBSITE: www.atascadero.org
http://www.facebook.com/planningatascadero
@atownplanning
Scan this QR Code
with your smartphone
to view the Planning
Commission Website.
CITY OF ATASCADERO
PLANNING COMMISSION AGENDA
REGULAR MEETING
Tuesday, October 1, 2024
6:00 P.M.
City Hall Council Chambers
6500 Palma Avenue, 4th Floor
Atascadero, California 93422
CALL TO ORDER
Pledge of Allegiance
ROLL CALL: Chairperson Tori Keen
Vice Chairperson Jeff van den Eikhof
Commissioner Jason Anderson
Commissioner Victoria Carranza
Commissioner Greg Heath
Commissioner Randy Hughes
Commissioner Dennis Schmidt
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
PUBLIC COMMENT (This portion of the meeting is reserved for persons wishing to
address the Commission on any matter not on this agenda and over which the
Commission has jurisdiction. Speakers are limited to three minutes. Please state your
name for the record before making your presentation. The Commission may take action
to direct the staff to place a matter of business on a future agenda.)
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 Commission or public wishes to comment or ask questions.)
1. APPROVAL OF THE DRAFT MINUTES OF AUGUST 6, 2024
• Recommendation: Commission approve the August 6, 2024 Minutes.
PLANNING COMMISSION BUSINESS
City of Atascadero Planning Commission Agenda Regular Meeting October 1, 2024
Page 2 of 4
WEBSITE: www.atascadero.org
http://www.facebook.com/planningatascadero
@atownplanning
Scan this QR Code with
your smartphone to
view the Planning
Commission Website.
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT STAFF REPORTS
None
PUBLIC HEARINGS
(For each of the following items, the public will be given an opportunity to speak. After a staff report, the
Chair will open the public hearing and invite the a pplicant or applicant’s representative to make any
comments. Members of the public will be invited to provide testimony to the Commission following the
applicant. Speakers should state their name for the record and can address the Commission for three
minutes. After all public comments have been received, the public hearing will be closed, and the
Commission will discuss the item and take appropriate action(s).
DISCLOSURE OF EX PARTE COMMUNICATIONS:
Prior to a project hearing, Planning Commission Members must disclose any communications they have had on any
quasi-judicial agenda items. This includes, but is not limited to, Tentative Subdivision Maps, Parcel Maps, Variances,
Conditional Use Permits and Planned Development Permits. This does not d isqualify the Planning Commission
Member from participating and voting on the matter, but gives the public and applicant an opportunity to comment on
the ex parte communication.
2. 6370 ATASCADERO AVE, EL CAMINO HOMELESS ORGANIZATION (ECHO)
The project is a request for an Amendment to the Emergency Shelter Overlay Zone
text, the ECHO Operations and Management Plan, and the Conditiona l Use Permit
(PLN 2014-1492) to increase the number of client serving beds from 60 to 90, increase
the number of meal program participants from 80 to 100, and increase the shower
program operation to 15 hours per week on APN 030-341-013. This Amendment
would facilitate the construction of a 7,600 SF 2 -story addition to the existing shelter
facility. (AMND24-0060)
• CEQA: The project is covered by the general rule exemption (CEQA Section
15061(3)(b)) and categorical exemption Class 1 (CEQA Section 15301(c)(2)).
• Recommendation: Staff’s recommendation is for the Planning Commission to
adopt the Draft Resolution recommending that the City Council take the
following actions:
i. Introduce an ordinance for first reading, by title only, that would approve
amendments to the Atascadero Municipal Code Title 9 Chapter 3 Article
23 ES (Emergency Shelter) Overlay Zone text;
ii. Approve amendments to Conditional Use Permit (PLN 2014 -1492);
iii. Amend the Operations and Management Plan for the El Camino
Homeless Organization (ECHO) to allow for an expansion of an existing
shelter and programs located at 6370 Atascadero Avenue; and take such
additional, related, action that may be desirable.
COMMISSIONER COMMENTS AND REPORTS
City of Atascadero Planning Commission Agenda Regular Meeting October 1, 2024
Page 3 of 4
WEBSITE: www.atascadero.org
http://www.facebook.com/planningatascadero
@atownplanning
Scan this QR Code with
your smartphone to
view the Planning
Commission Website.
DIRECTOR’S REPORT
ADJOURNMENT
The next regular meeting will be on October 15, 2024 at City Hall, Council Chambers,
6500 Palma Ave., Atascadero, CA.
Please note: Should anyone challenge in court any proposed development entitlement listed on this Agenda, that person
may be limited to raising those issues addressed at the public hearing described in this notice or in written correspondence
delivered to the Planning Commission at, or prior to, this public hearing.
City of Atascadero Planning Commission Agenda Regular Meeting October 1, 2024
Page 4 of 4
WEBSITE: www.atascadero.org
http://www.facebook.com/planningatascadero
@atownplanning
Scan this QR Code with
your smartphone to
view the Planning
Commission Website.
City of Atascadero
WELCOME TO THE ATASCADERO PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING
The Planning Commission meets in regular session on the first and third Tuesday of each month at 6:00 p.m. at City Hall, Council
Chambers, 6500 Palma Avenue, Atascadero. Matters are considered by the Commission in the order of the printed Agenda. Copies
of the staff reports or other documentation relating to each item of business referred to on the Agenda are on file in the of fice of the
Community Development Department and are available for public inspection during City Hall business hours at the Front Counter of
City Hall, 6500 Palma Avenue, Atascadero, and on our website, www.atascadero.org. All documents submitted by the public during
Commission meetings that are either read into the record or referred to in their statement will be noted in the minutes and a vailable
for review in the Community Development Department. Commission meetings are audio recorded, and may be reviewed by the
public. Copies of meeting recordings are available for a fee. Contact the City Clerk for more information at (805) 470-3400.
TO SPEAK ON SUBJECTS NOT LISTED ON THE AGENDA
Under Agenda item, “PUBLIC COMMENT”, the Chairperson will call for anyone from the audience having business with the
Commission to approach the lectern and be recognized.
1. Give your name for the record (not required).
2. State the nature of your business.
3. All comments are limited to 3 minutes.
4. All comments should be made to the Chairperson and Commission.
5. No person shall be permitted to make slanderous, profane or negative personal remarks concerning any other individual,
absent or present.
This is when items not on the Agenda may be brought to the Commission’s attention. A maximum of 30 minutes will be allowed for
Public Comment Portion (unless changed by the Commission).
TO SPEAK ON AGENDA ITEMS (from Title 2, Chapter 1 of the Atascadero Municipal Code)
Members of the audience may speak on any item on the agenda. The Chairperson will identify the subject, staff will give their report,
and the Commission will ask questions of staff. The Chairperson will announce when the public comment period is open and will
request anyone interested to address the Commission regarding the matter being considered to step up to the lectern. If you wish to
speak for, against or comment in any way:
1. You must approach the lectern and be recognized by the Chairperson.
2. Give your name (not required).
3. Make your statement.
4. All comments should be made to the Chairperson and Commission.
5. No person shall be permitted to make slanderous, profane or negative personal remarks concerning any other individual,
absent or present.
6. All comments limited to 3 minutes.
If you wish to use a computer presentation to support your comments, you must notify the Community Development Department at
(805) 461-5035 at least 24 hours prior to the meeting. Digital presentations brought to the meeting should be on a USB drive or CD.
You are required to submit to the Recording Secretary a printed copy of your presentation for the record. Please check in with the
Recording Secretary before the meeting begins to announce your presence and turn in the printed copy.
The Chairperson will announce when the public comment period is closed, and thereafter, no further public comments will be heard
by the Commission.
HOW TO SUBMIT PUBLIC COMMENT:
If you wish to comment, please email public comments to:
pc-comments@atascadero.org by 12:00 pm on the day of the meeting. Such email comments must identify the Agenda Item
Number in the subject line of the email. The comments will be forwarded to the Planning Commission and made a part of the
administrative record. If a comment is received after the deadline for submission but before the close of the meeting, the comment will
still be included as a part of the administrative record of the meeting but will be forwarded to the Planning Commission the next business
day. Please note, email comments will not be read into the record.
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.
Planning Commission agendas and minutes may be viewed on the City's website: www.atascadero.org.
Copies of the staff reports or other documentation relating to each item of business referred to on the Agenda are on file in the
Community Development Department 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 Planning Commission. The Minutes of this
meeting will reflect these numbers. All documents submitted by the public during Planning Commission meetings that are either read
into the record or referred to in their statement will be noted in the Minutes and available for review by contacting the Com munity
Development Department. All documents are available for public inspection during City Hall business hours by appointment.
Item 1
PC Draft Minutes of 8/6/2024
Page 1 of 3
CITY OF ATASCADERO
PLANNING COMMISSION
DRAFT MINUTES
Regular Meeting – Tuesday, August 6, 2024 – 6:00 P.M.
City Hall
6500 Palma Avenue, Atascadero, California
CALL TO ORDER - 6:00 p.m.
Chairperson Keen called the meeting to order at 6:01 p.m. and Commissioner Carranza
led the pledge of allegiance
ROLL CALL
Present: Commissioners Anderson, Heath, Schmidt, Carranza, Vice
Chairperson van den Eikhof, and Chairperson Keen
Absent: Commissioner Hughes
Vacant: None
Others Present: Jessica Applegate, Recording Secretary
Staff Present: Phil Dunsmore, Community Development Director
Taylor Foland, City Attorney
Sam Mountain, Assistant Planner
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
MOTION: By Commissioner Schmidt and
seconded by Commissioner Anderson to approve
the Agenda.
Motion passed 6:0 by a roll-call vote.
(Hughes absent)
PUBLIC COMMENT
None.
Chairperson Keen closed the Public Comment period.
CONSENT CALENDAR
1. APPROVAL OF THE DRAFT MINUTES OF June 18, 2024
1
Item 1
PC Draft Minutes of 8/6/2024
Page 2 of 3
• Recommendation: Commission approve the June 18, 2024 Minutes.
2. TIME EXTENSION FOR EMPIRE APARTMENTS AT 5880 ARDILLA RD.
• Recommendation: Commission adopt Draft Resolution to approve the Time
Extension. (TEX24-0055)
MOTION: By Commissioner Schmidt and seconded by
Commissioner Anderson to approve the
Consent Calendar.
Motion passed 6:0 by a roll-call vote.
(Hughes absent)
PLANNING COMMISSION BUSINESS
None
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT STAFF REPORTS
None
PUBLIC HEARINGS
3. 9575 VISTA BONITA AVE
The project includes a request for an Amendment to Conditional Use Permit 98001 to
allow the construction of an additional 20-foot monopine and appurtenant
infrastructure at an existing telecommunications site on APN 030-441-023.
• CEQA: The project is consistent with the previously certified Mitigated Negative
Declaration 2004-0026 the project (AMND24-0047).
i. Recommendation: Planning Commission adopt Draft Resolution approving an
Amendment to Conditional Use Permit 98001, allowing a new monopine
telecommunications tower at the existing telecommunications facility, based on findings
and subject to conditions of approval.
DISCLOSURE OF EX PARTE COMMUNICATIONS:
Chairperson Keen stated that a neighbor reached out to her to ask if the applicant is
following the previous conditional use permit; she has had some discussion with staff and
is looking into getting more information during discussion at the meeting.
Assistant Planner Mountain presented the staff report and answered questions from the
Commission.
2
Item 1
PC Draft Minutes of 8/6/2024
Page 3 of 3
PUBLIC COMMENT
The following members of the public spoke:
None
Chairperson Keen closed the Public Comment period.
MOTION: By Commissioner Anderson and seconded
by Commissioner Carranza to continue the
item to date uncertain.
Motion passed 6:0 by a roll-call vote.
(Hughes absent)
COMMISSIONER COMMENTS AND REPORTS
Chairperson Keen commented positive feedback regarding the Traffic Way road paving
project.
Commissioner Carranza gave a report on stakeholder feedback requesting to include
water elements with the DIR update and GP open house. Commissioner Caranza
reported on the Mural project committee and public art process.
Commissioner Schmidt commented on Commissioner Caranza’s report to possibly
including utilities with water elements with the DIR.
DIRECTOR’S REPORT
Director Dunsmore reported on the GP update and that the recent open house had a
good turnout and feedback. Director Dunsmore reported that there will be a re-write for
some of the zoning regulations coming up in the future and that the City was currently
working with consultant proposals. Director Dunsmore commented that the Council will
be working on giving direction regarding vacation rentals.
ADJOURNMENT – 6:24 p.m.
The next regular meeting will be on August 20, 2024 at City Hall, 6500 Palma Avenue,
Atascadero, CA.
MINUTES PREPARED BY:
____________________________
Jessica Applegate, Recording Secretary
Permit Technician
3
Item 2
Department: Community
Development
Date: 10/1/2024
Placement: Public Hearing
TO: PHIL DUNSMORE, COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR
FROM: KELLY GLEASON, PLANNING MANAGER
PREPARED BY: XZANDREA FOWLER, SENIOR PLANNER
SUBJECT: Emergency Shelter Overlay Zone Amendment (ECHO expansion)
6370 Atascadero Avenue, Atascadero, CA 93422 (APN: 030-341-013)
RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends that the Planning Commission:
Adopt Draft Resolution A, recommending the City Council:
1. Introduce an Ordinance for first reading, by title only, to approve amendments to the
Atascadero Municipal Code Title 9 Chapter 3 Article 23 ES (Emergency Shelter) Overlay
Zone text;
2. Approve amendments to Conditional Use Permit (PLN 2014-1492); and
3. Amend the Operations and Management Plan for the El Camino Homeless Organization
(ECHO) to allow for an expansion of an existing shelter and programs located at 6370
Atascadero Avenue.
REPORT IN BRIEF:
ECHO currently operates a variety of emergency housing shelter activities at 6370 Atascadero
Avenue. They are seeking amendments to the zoning text along with an amendment to their
Conditional Use Permit, and their Operations and Management Plan to increase their capacity
and construct additions to the existing shelter. The amendments would allow for:
1. An increase in the number of overnight beds from 60 to 90;
2. Increase the number of meal program participants from 80 to 100;
3. Increase the shower program operation hours; and
4. The construction of a new 7,600 square-foot 2-story building at the front of the site.
DISCUSSION:
BACKGROUND
In September 2013, the City Council adopted an Emergency Shelter Ordinance for consistency
with State Law (SB-2) and the City’s adopted Housing Element. As a part of that approval, the City
Council designated a site-specific parcel (APN 030-341-013) as the location for an overnight
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10/1/2024 |Item 2| Staff Report
emergency shelter and zoned the site with an ES (Emergency Shelter) Overlay Zone. At that time,
this site was home to a temporary shelter operated by the El Camino Homeless Organization
(ECHO). With the adoption of the ES overlay zone, the ECHO site became a permanent homeless
shelter within the City.
In May 2014, the City Council approved an on-site Operations Management Plan as required by
the ES overlay zone (AMC 9-3.504). The Operations Agreement allows the City to review rules and
regulations for the emergency shelter and provides some flexibility in changing these rules if the
operations need to be adjusted to address any unforeseen issues without the need for amending
the City’s Emergency Shelter ordinance. The Operations Agreement includes the following:
• List of programs offered
• Operation standards
• A security and safety plan
• Neighborhood relations
• Mechanisms for enforcement of the agreement
With the approval of the ES overlay zone and the operations agreement, a subsequent
Conditional Use Permit (PLN 2014-1492/ CUP 2014-0279) was approved in June 2014 to establish
a meal program on-site. The Conditional Use Permit (CUP) allows a maximum of 80 meal program
participants to be served daily and sets forth screening, staffing, and time limits for meal activities
and participant use of the facility. The CUP also provides enforcement mechanisms should the
operator of the facility fail to comply with any conditions of approval.
On September 10, 2019, the City Council approved text amendments to the Atascadero Municipal
Code Title 9 Chapter 3 Article 23 ES Overlay Zone to increase the number of shelter clients, update
hours of operation, change the text for special activities, and decrease the number of required
neighborhood meetings per year.
Currently, the ECHO shelter is at capacity most nights and has a waiting list of people needing
overnight shelter. In addition, some of ECHO’s existing clients are families with young children
with different service-level needs.
Based on these needs, ECHO began conversations with the City to amend its Operations
Management Plan and Conditional Use Permit to maximize the use of the existing site to better
meet the needs of Atascadero’s homeless population. ECHO is proposing the expansion of its
facility to accommodate additional beds, restrooms, bathing facilities, a laundry room, a multi-
purpose room, small lounge rooms, and additional space for employees. The proposed expansion
will be a 2-story custom modular structure, approximately 7,600 square feet in size with an
enclosed walkway connection to the existing 2-story 9,355 square foot building. While the
construction of the expanded facility is ministerial based on State law, some of the requested
changes require an amendment to the ES Overlay Zone code text, which regulates the number of
overnight beds, the CUP which regulates the number of meal program participants, and the
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10/1/2024 |Item 2| Staff Report
required on-site management plan. These regulations and performance standards remain under
the jurisdiction of the City and are not superseded by State law.
PROPOSED AMENDMENTS
The following is a synopsis of the proposed amendments to the ES Overlay Zone text (Attachment
1a), the CUP (Attachment 1c), and the current ECHO Operations and Management Plan
(Attachment 1b).
ES (Emergency Shelter) Overlay Zone (Section 9-3.504 Operating Standards)
This section includes the standards by which the shelter would operate. Applicant-requested
changes include:
• Increasing the number of overnight beds from 60 to 90 to accommodate heightened
demand.
• Increasing the number of participants in the meal program from 80 to 100 to
accommodate additional overnight clients.
Conditional Use Permit (PLN 2014-1492/CUP 2014-0279)
The previously approved CUP (PLN 2014-1492/CUP 2014-0279) placed a condition of approval on
the operation of the meal program, which limits the number of meal program participants.
Applicant-requested changes include:
• Increasing the maximum number of meal program participants from 80 to 100 to
accommodate the additional overnight clients.
ECHO Shelter Operations and Management Plan
The on-site management plan is required by the Atascadero Municipal Code Section 9-3.504(e)
for the operation of an Emergency Shelter. Applicant-requested changes to the current ECHO
Operations and Management Plan include:
• Increasing the number of overnight beds from 60 to 90 to be consistent with the ES
Overlay Zone text amendment
• Increasing operational hours for the shower program, for non-shelter clients to 15 hours
per week and removing the specific number of days and time frames to allow for greater
flexibility throughout the year, especially to address operational challenges related to bi -
annual time changes.
BUILDING EXPANSION
While State law (AB 2339) allows for the ministerial approval of expanded shelter facilities, the
City retains authority to regulate the maximum number of beds. The proposed amendments to
the overlay zone and operations agreement will allow for the expansion of the current facility.
The emergency shelter expansion will be a 7,600 square-foot 2-story custom modular structure
with an enclosed walkway connection to the existing 2-story building. The proposed structure will
consist of seven prefabricated modules, built off-site and designed to be transported via flatbed
to the project site. The prefabricated modules will be reviewed by the State for building code
compliance. Only site-specific construction activities will be reviewed and inspected by the City.
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10/1/2024 |Item 2| Staff Report
The building will appear as normal “stick-built” construction from the exterior perspective. The
new building is 26 feet in height to match the existing facility.
A hip-roof is proposed to screen roof-mounted equipment behind a parapet. The exterior building
articulation will be limited to exterior paint and finishes since the structure will be pre-fabricated.
The applicant will work with the manufacturer to explore options for recessed windows,
incorporating several siding treatments, extending the roof overhang, and adding an enhanced
entry porch feature along the street frontage.
Conceptual Exterior Rendering
The proposed site improvements will include new flatwork to connect the new building to the
existing sidewalk along the Atascadero Avenue. The existing parking lot may require restriping to
ensure the configuration complies with ADA requirements. The conceptual landscaping includes
a variety of trees, shrubs, grasses, etc., consistent and complimentary to the existing mix of
landscaping materials and design.
The first floor of the building will accommodate additional overnight clients while the second
floor will be dedicated to ECHO staff and site operations. The complete expansion design package
is included as Attachment 2.
ENVIRONMENTAL DETERMINATION:
The California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) (Section 15061(3)(b) exempts activities that are
covered by the general rule that CEQA applies only to projects that have the potential to cause a
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10/1/2024 |Item 2| Staff Report
significant effect on the environment. The proposed amendments to the ES Overlay Zone text,
modification of the previously approved CUP 2014-0279 COA#8, and updates to the required on-
site management plan for consistency will not have any significant adverse environmental
impacts.
Additionally, CEQA (Section 15301(c)(2)) exempts additions to existing structures provided that
the addition will not result in an increase of more than 10,000 square feet when the project is in
an area where all public services and facilities are available to allow for maximum development
permissible in the General Plan and the area in which the project is located is not environmentally
sensitive. While the expansion of the facility is ministerial under State law, the proposed
amendments to the ES Overlay Zone and operation plan will result in allowances for facility
expansion. The proposed expansion of the existing shelter and program activities would result in
an addition that is less than 10,000 square feet in an area where all public services and facilities
are available to support the expansion of the existing shelter and on a site that has been
previously developed and is not designated as an environmentally sensitive area.
CONCLUSION:
The proposed amendments have been analyzed by staff to ensure revisions are consistent with
the Atascadero Municipal Code. The proposed amendments will facilitate minor expansion of the
shelter and on-site programs and will not have a significant impact on the surrounding
neighborhood. Staff is recommending that the Planning Commission adopt Draft Resolution A
recommending approval of the amendments to the City Council.
ALTERNATIVES TO THE STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
1. The Planning Commission may recommend modifications of the text amendments to the
City Council. Any proposed modifications should be 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 th at
is required. A motion, and approval of that motion, to continue the item to a future date.
3. The Planning Commission may recommend the City Council deny the proposed text
amendments. The Commission must specify the reason for the denial of the proposed text
amendments, and provide a brief oral statement, based on the Staff Report, oral
testimony, site visit, correspondence, or any other rationale introduced and deliberated
by the Planning Commission.
FISCAL IMPACT:
None.
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10/1/2024 |Item 2| Staff Report
ATTACHMENT(S):
1. Draft Resolution A
a. ES (Emergency Shelter) Overlay Zone Text
b. ECHO Operations and Management Plan
c. Conditions of Approval
2. Conceptual Design Package
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10/1/2024 |Item 2| Staff Report
ATTACHMENT 1: Draft Resolution
AMND24-0060 & ZCH24-0061
DRAFT PC RESOLUTION A
RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION
OF THE CITY OF ATASCADERO, CALIFORNIA, RECOMMENDING
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL APPROVE TEXT AMENDMENTS TO THE
ES (EMERGENCY SHELTER) OVERLAY ZONE (AMC 9-3.504),
CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT (PLN 2014-1492), AND THE EL CAMINO
HOMELESS ORGANIZATION (ECHO) OPERATIONS AND
MANAGEMENT PLAN FOR THE EXPANSION OF AN EXISTING
SHELTER AND PROGRAMS WITHIN THE EMERGENCY SHELTER
(ES) OVERLAY ZONE (APN: 030-341-013)
6370 ATASCADERO AVENUE
EL CAMINO HOMELESS ORGANIZATION
(AMND24-0060 & ZCH24-0061)
WHEREAS, an application was received from the El Camino Homeless Organization, PO
Box 2077, Atascadero, CA 93423, (Owner/Applicant) for amendments to the Emergency Shelter
(ES) Overlay Zone, Conditional Use Permit (PLN 2014-1492), and the El Camino Homeless
Organization (ECHO) Operations and Management Plan to allow for an expansion of an existing
shelter and programs located at 6370 Atascadero Avenue; and
WHEREAS, the ES (Emergency Shelter) Overlay Zone site has a General Plan
Designation of High Density Residential (HDR) and is in conformance with the Land Use Element
of the General Plan and all other applicable General Plan policies; and
WHEREAS, the site is located in the Residential Multi-Family Zone (RMF-24) zoning
district and is located within an ES overlay zone, as established by the Atascadero Municipal Code
section 9-3.502(a); and
WHEREAS, a Conditional Use Permit is required for any additional services or programs,
including daytime service programs beyond those described in the Atascadero Municipal Code
Section 9-3.504(d)(1); and
WHEREAS, all operators of a shelter are required to prepare an on-site management plan
per Atascadero Municipal Code section 9-3.504(e); and
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10/1/2024 |Item 2| Staff Report
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
CEQA have been adhered to; and
WHEREAS, a timely and properly noticed Public Hearing upon the subject Amendment
to ES (Emergency Shelter) Overlay Zone text 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 Amendment; and
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 amendments:
SECTION 1. Recitals. The above recitals are true and correct.
SECTION 2. Public Hearing. the Planning Commission held a duly noticed public hearing to
consider the proposed on-site management plan amendments on October 1, 2024, at 6:00 p.m. and
considered testimony and reports from staff, the applicants, and the public.
SECTION 3. CEQA. The Planning Commission makes the following environmental
determinations:
1. The proposed amendments to the ES Overlay zoning text, to the conditions of approval
for Conditional Use Permit (PLN 2014-1492), and the ECHO Operations and
Management Plan are exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA),
Public Resources Code Section 21000 et seq., because it can be seen with certainty that
there is no possibility that the enactment of proposed amendments will have any
significant adverse environmental impacts.
2. Additionally, CEQA (Section 15301(c)(2)) exempts additions to existing structures
provided that the addition will not result in an increase of more than 10,000 square feet
when the project is in an area where all public services and facilities are available to
allow for maximum development permissible in the General Plan and the area in which
the project is located is not environmentally sensitive. While the expansion of the
facility is ministerial under State law, the proposed amendments to the ES Overlay
Zone and operation plan will result in allowances for facility expansion. The proposed
expansion of the existing shelter and program activities would result in an addition that
is less than 10,000 square feet in an area where all public services and facilities are
available to support the expansion of the existing shelter and on a site that has been
previously developed and is not designated as an environmentally sensitive area.
SECTION 4. Findings and Facts. The Planning Commission makes the following findings,
determinations, and approvals with respect to the following:
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Findings of Approval of a Zone Text Amendment:
1. FINDING: The ES (Emergency Shelter) Overlay Zone text amendment is consistent
with General Plan policies and all other applicable ordinances and policies of the City.
FACT: The proposed zone text amendments align the code requirements with the
vision, intent, and policies of the adopted General Plan.
2. FINDING: The Amendment of the Zoning Ordinance will provide for the orderly and
efficient use of lands where such development standards are applicable.
FACT: The proposed text amendment provides for orderly development within the ES
Overlay Zone in accordance with the adopted General Plan for the compatible use of
the property based on neighborhood characteristics.
3. FINDING: The text change will not, in itself, result in significant environmental
impacts.
FACT: The proposed text changes are minor and do not trigger any environmental
impacts.
Findings of Approval of a Conditional Use Permit Amendment:
4. FINDING: The proposed project or use is consistent with the General Plan.
FACT: The proposed use permit amendment is consistent with the vision, intent, and
policies of the adopted General Plan.
5. FINDING: The proposed project or use satisfies all applicable provisions of the Title
(Zoning Ordinance).
FACT: The proposed use permit amendment is consistent with the provisions of the
ES Overlay Zone and the underlying zoning district.
6. FINDING: The establishment and operation or conduct of the use will not, because of
the circumstances and conditions applied in the particular case, be detrimental to the
health, safety, or welfare of the general public or persons residing or working in the
neighborhood of the use, or be detrimental or injurious to property or improvements in
the vicinity of the use.
FACT: The proposed use permit amendment will increase the operational hours for an
existing daytime program at an existing shelter location. The proposed increase in
operational hours for the shower program services can be accommodated within the
existing facility and conditions of approval and existing ES code text will ensure that
the daytime use of the site will not be detrimental to the surrounding neighborhood or
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general public.
7. FINDING: That the use will not be inconsistent with the character or the immediate
neighborhood or contrary to its orderly development.
FACT: The proposed use permit amendment will increase the operational hours for an
existing daytime program at an existing shelter location. The proposed increase in
operational hours for the shower program services can be accommodated within the
existing facility and conditions of approval and existing ES Overlay Zone code text
will ensure that the services remain compatible with the surrounding neighborhood.
8. FINDING: That the proposed use will not generate a volume of traffic beyond the safe
capacity of all roads providing access to the project, either existing or to be improved
in conjunction with the project, or beyond the normal traffic volume of the surrounding
neighborhood that would result from full development in accordance with the Land
Use Element.
FACT: The proposed use permit amendment to increase the operational hours of the
shower program services will not generate an increase in traffic beyond the safe
capacity of surrounding roads.
9. FINDING: That the proposed project is in compliance with any pertinent City policy
or criteria adopted by ordinance or resolution of the City Council.
FACT: The proposed use permit amendment to increase the operational hours of the
shower program services at an existing shelter is compliant with all applicable City
policies.
SECTION 5. Approval. The Planning Commission of the City of Atascadero, in a regular session
assembled on October 1, 2024, resolved to recommend approval of amendments to the ES
(Emergency Shelter) Overlay Zone text, Conditional Use Permit establishing the meal program,
and the El Camino Homeless Organization (ECHO) Operations and Management Plan for the
existing shelter located at 6370 Atascadero Avenue (AMND24-0060 & ZCH24-0061) subject to
the following:
EXHIBIT A: Emergency Shelter Overlay Zone Text
EXHIBIT B: ECHO Operations and Management Plan
EXHIBIT C: Conditions of Approval
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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
_________________________________________
Tori Keen
Planning Commission Chairperson
ATTEST:
___________________________________
Phil Dunsmore
Planning Commission Secretary
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Exhibit A: Emergency Shelter Overlay Zone Text Amendment
AMND24-0060 & ZCH24-0061
Article 23. ES (Emergency Shelter) Overlay Zone
9-3.504 Operating standards.
The following operating standards apply to emergency shelters:
(a) Emergency Shelter Operator. Each shelter shall be operated by an agency or
organization with experience in managing or providing social services.
(b) Maximum Number of Beds. An emergency shelter shall have a maximum number of
beds for overnight clients served by the facility. This limitation on client beds does not include
accommodations for management, employees, or volunteers. The following is the maximum
number of client beds for approved shelter(s):
(1) Assessor Parcel Number (APN) 030-341-013: sixty (60) beds ninety (90) beds.
(c) On-Site Management and Supervision.
(1) Assessor Parcel Number (APN) 030-341-013. There shall be a minimum of one (1) on
duty supervisor for every thirty (30) overnight shelter clients during the operating hours.
(d) Operating Hours.
(1) Assessor Parcel Number (APN) 030-341-013. Shelter hours of operation are limited to
between 4:00 p.m. and 9:00 a.m. daily. Shelter clients and the general public are not permitted
on the premises outside these hours unless otherwise permitted by the approval of a
Conditional Use Permit per section (h).
Exceptions:
(i) Temporary shelter clients are permitted on the premises during hours of operation.
(ii) Operator staff, board members, and contractors are not subject to any time
restrictions.
(iii) Special Activities. Up to one special function per month is allowed for Non-Shelter
Clients by appointment and under the supervision of ECHO Staff. ECHO may hold additional
special functions (in excess of one per month) with City staff approval in writing. These
functions may include but are not limited to:
a. Fundraisers (not involving shelter clients);
b. Neighborhood open houses (not involving shelter clients);
c. Neighborhood meetings (not involving shelter clients);
d. Holiday events for shelter clients; and
e. Official government enumeration surveys involving shelter clients.
(e) On-site Management Plan Contents. The operator must prepare and follow an on-site
management plan that must include the following:
(1) Rules. A list of rules and regulations for overnight clients.
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(2) Logs. Provide a methodology for tracking the number of overnight clients.
(3) Security and safety plan that will address security and safety of occupants, loitering
control and management of outdoor areas.
(4) Types and descriptions of programs offered on-site.
(5) Required On-Site Signage:
(i) No loitering signs
(ii) No trespassing sign
(iii) No camping signs
(6) Identify a neighborhood liaison and provide the contact information for the liaison.
(7) Hold at least one (1) neighborhood meeting each calendar year.
(8) A dispute resolution process for any neighborhood issues that may arise.
(9) Mechanisms for enforcement.
(f) Management Plan Submittal—Approval and Review.
(1) The initial management plan must be submitted within sixty (60) days of approval of
the overlay zone change and thereafter must be submitted for review by the City annually on
February 1st of every year.
(2) The initial management plan must be approved by the City Council.
(3) Annual Review. The management plan will be reviewed annually by staff. Updates to
the Operation Management Plan will be forwarded to the City Council for review at a public
hearing.
(g) Meal Program CUP Requirement and Operating Standards (Assessor Parcel Number
(APN) 030-341-013). Any on-site meal program that is open to the general public (Open Meal
Program) is an ancillary use subject to the approval of a conditional use permit under Section 9-
2.110 of this code. Any such approved Open Meal Program shall abide by the following
operating standards:
(1) Hours of Operation. Open Meal Program service operating hours shall be between
4:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m., daily. Non-Shelter Client participants shall vacate the site no later than
6:15 p.m.
(2) The operator shall take reasonable steps to prevent meal recipients from congregating
in and around the site at all times to minimize adverse impacts on adjacent properties.
(3) Employees and Volunteers. In addition to the required staffing listed in 9 -3.504(c)(1),
the Open Meal Program shall operate with a staffing ratio of one (1) employee or trained
volunteer for every ten (10) meal program participants. The operator shall provide training to all
volunteers and employees.
(4) Outdoor Monitors. From 4:00 p.m. to 6:15 p.m. daily, the Open Meal Program shall
include a minimum of one (1) outdoor monitor to supervise participants in the rear of the
property and one (1) outdoor monitor to supervise participants in the front of the property.
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Outdoor monitors shall be considered employees or volunteers for the staffing ratio purposes
listed in 9-3.504(h)(3).
(5) Number of Participants Served. The maximum number of participants in the meal
program shall not exceed eighty (80) one hundred (100) persons served in one (1) day. This
includes both temporary overnight shelter clients, and non-shelter client participants (general
public).
(6) Participant Screening. All Open Meal Program participants must be screened by the
operator prior to admission for meal service.
(7) Log of Participants. A log of Open Meal Program participants is required to be kept
daily. The operator must make reasonable efforts to collect the following information:
(i) Legal name
(ii) Date of birth
(iii) Housing status
(8) Review of Open Meal Program Participants. The operator must make available a log of
Open Meal Program participants for periodic review by the City.
(9) Neighborhood Dispute Resolution Process. If the operator fails to follow these
operating standards or any other conditions of approval, disputes regarding such alleged
violations or other impacts on the neighborhood will be addressed as set forth in this
subsection.
(i) Any complaints shall first be reported to the neighborhood liaison.
(ii) If a resolution does not occur, any complaint may be submitted as a code violation
complaint to the City.
(iii) Repeated violations to these operating standards or the conditions of approval may
result in a review of the operation of the shelter or the Open Meal Program by the City Council.
Following such review, the City Council may amend these provisions to further regulate the
shelter and Open Meal Program, including the possible suspension or revocation of the Open
Meal Program.
(h) Optional Conditional Use Permit (CUP). The shelter operator may apply for a CUP to
provide additional services or programs, including daytime service programs beyond those
described in subsection (d)(1).
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Exhibit B: ECHO Operations and Management Plan
AMND24-0060 & ZCH24-0061
El Camino Homeless Organization (ECHO)
Operations and Management Plan
The El Camino Homeless Organization (ECHO) is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that
operates a 60-bed 90-bed transitional and emergency homeless shelter at 6370
Atascadero Avenue in Atascadero, CA. ECHO currently provides emergency shelter for
families and individuals who do not have permanent housing. The following is the updated
management plan as required by the City of Atascadero for operation of an Emergency
Shelter, consistent with Section 9-3.504 (e) of the Atascadero Municipal Code.
1.0 Definitions
For the purposes of this agreement, unless otherwise apparent from the context,
certain words and phrases used in the agreement are defined as follows:
A. Case Managers: Shall mean trained ECHO staff and/or volunteers that work
one-on-one with Shelter Clients. They assist with a wide range of issues on a
case-by-case basis that includes, but not limited to finding permanent housing,
health care, financial assistance, or job training.
B. Dinner Guests: Dinner Guests shall mean all non-shelter clients participating
in the ECHO Meal Program.
C. Non-Shelter Clients: Non-Shelter clients shall mean those clients that are
receiving services outside of the shelter program and shall include dinner
guests and shower guests.
D. Potential Shelter Applicant: Potential Shelter Applicant shall mean a person
that has come to ECHO seeking to learn about and potentially apply for the
Shelter Program.
E. Shelter Clients: Shelter Clients shall mean clients that have been accepted
into the Shelter Program and are currently residing at ECHO, along with those
clients that have graduated in good standing from the ECHO Shelter Program,
but are continuing to receive support services from ECHO during the day time
hours.
F. Shelter Program: Transitional and emergency shelter program for accepted
and screened clients. Clients participating in the shelter program stay overnight
and may participate and be present during day time hours at the ECHO
homeless shelter at 6370 Atascadero Avenue.
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G. Shower Guests: Shower Guests shall mean all non-shelter clients participating
in the ECHO Shower Program.
2.0 Programs Offered
A. Shelter Program: Transitional and emergency shelter for accepted and
screened clients. Shelter Clients participating in the Shelter Program may
also receive meals and food as a part of the Shelter Program.
B. Case Management: Shelter Clients that are accepted to the shelter are
required to enter case management after a five -day assessment period. Case
managers work with clients to create a plan to assist with job training and
placement, financial literacy, behavioral health referrals, housing,
transportation assistance, educational goals, and other supportive services.
Shelter Clients are required to meet with their case managers at least once a
week to ensure progress.
C. Supportive Services and Resources:
1. Children’s programs that include but are not limited to tutoring, nutrition
education, art and music appreciation, and literacy to foster the well -
being and development of the children ECHO serves.
2. Parent education classes that help parents acquire skills to improve
their parenting of and communication with their children in order to
reduce the risk of child maltreatment and/or reduce children's disruptive
behaviors.
3. Health and wellness programs assist clients in embracing a healthy
lifestyle. Nutrition education classes, and practical instruction with
ECHO’s garden program. Programs to break the cycle of addiction to
tobacco and other substances. Other wellness programs may include
emotional, environmental, financial, intellectual, physical, occupational
and social wellness support.
D. Dinner Program: An open meal program that provides an evening meal to
Shelter Clients and Dinner Guests. The Open Meal Program is subject to
Conditional Use Permit (CUP) approval. Rules and regulations of the meal
program are contained in the CUP as conditions of approval. In the event that
a CUP is denied or a CUP is revoked, the Open Meal Program will no longer
be a program that is offered.
E. Shower Program: On a scheduled and managed basis, non-shelter clients are
allowed to use ECHO’s shower facilities to promote good hygiene and the
prevention of illness. The shower program, for non-shelter clients, will operate
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no more than 10 15 hours per week, up to 5 days a week, from 4:00 – 6:00pm.
Rules relating to the shower program are included in the shelter’s Policies and
Procedures Manual.
3.0 Operating Standards
A. Hours of Operation:
1. Shelter Program: Hours of operation for Shelter Clients will be based
on the availability of supervision and capacity to offer programs, but may
be up to 24 hours per day.
2. Dinner Program: Dinner guests are not permitted on-campus until 4:00
pm daily and must leave the ECHO campus by 6:00 p.m.
3. Shower guests are permitted on campus only during those times
outlined in the Shelter Policies and Procedures Manual.
4. Potential Shelter Applicants may only be on the premises for the time
needed to obtain necessary information and to complete the intake
process (generally expected to be under 2 hours).
5. The general public, volunteers, and maintenance personnel are
permitted on the premises under supervision of ECHO staff.
6. Special Functions: Up to two special functions per month is allowed for
Non-Shelter Clients by appointment and under supervision of ECHO
staff. These functions may include but are not limited to: fund raisers,
neighborhood meetings, open houses, holiday gatherings, special client
services (e.g., wedding or memorial service) or government sponsored
enumeration surveys. ECHO may hold additional special functions (in
excess of the one per month) with City staff approval in writing. The
request for additional functions should be made to the Community
Development Director and should include a description of the function,
expected dates and times of the function, and any rules or procedures
in place for the function. Additional information may be requested by the
Community Development Director, prior to City approval.
B. Number of Beds: The dorm facility has a maximum of sixty (60) ninety (90)
beds.
C. Staffing:
1. President/CEO: The President/CEO is the liaison with the Board of
Directors and is directly responsible for overseeing and guiding the
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organization’s operations. The President/CEO is directly responsible to
ECHO’s Board of Directors.
2. Shelter Manager: The President/CEO shall appoint an individual
responsible for overseeing and coordinating the activities of shelter
clients, non-shelter clients and volunteers during the hours of shelter
operation (Shelter Manager). The Shelter Manager ensures that the
facility is ready and safe for shelter operations.
3. Volunteers: Volunteers fill positions and perform tasks related to the
operation of the shelter. Volunteers shall complete an application and
screening process prior to being matched with appropriate roles and
responsibilities. Volunteers shall be trained and supervised by ECHO
paid staff and senior volunteer team leaders.
4. Overnight Staffing: Overnight staffing will include one (1) staff person or
trained volunteer per thirty (30) Shelter Clients.
5. Outdoor Monitors. At least two (2) outdoor monitors are to be on-site
from the hours of 4:00 p.m. to 6:15 p.m. daily.
6. Executive Council: The Executive Council includes the Chair, Vice-
Chair, Secretary, and CFO of ECHO’s Board of Directors.
D. Admission to shelter: Prior to admission to ECHO, the following screening
methods will be used for clients and or guests:
1. Screening for alcohol and/or drug use.
2. Screened for listing on the State of California Department of Justice
designated registered sex offender list (Megan’s Law).
3. Review for any outstanding warrants as determined by the Atascadero
Police Department.
4. Drug and Alcohol Testing: Shelter Clients may be randomly tested for
drug and alcohol use at the discretion of ECHO trained staff.
5. Shelter Clients / Non-Shelter Client Logs: ECHO shall maintain daily
logs of Shelter Clients, dinner guests, and all individuals who have been
suspended from services. The logs are available for review to the City
of Atascadero upon request and shall remain confidential between the
City and ECHO.
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4.0 Operational Procedures:
A. The ECHO Board of Directors adopts a set of Policies and Procedures that
govern the operations of the programs that are provided by ECHO. These
Policies and Procedures are periodically updated by the ECHO Board of
Directors to remain current with laws, regulations, grants, and operational
efficiency. To ensure compliance with this Agreement, a copy of the most
current adopted Policies and Procedures Manual shall be given to City staff.
The ECHO Board has the right to adopt those rules, regulations and
procedures that they feel are necessary to operate the Shelter, but at a
minimum the Policies and Procedures must include the following:
1. The use or storage of drugs, alcohol or tobacco while on the premises
is strictly prohibited with the exception of prescribed medications, which
shall be reported and a list maintained by ECHO staff.
2. Shelter Clients and Non-Shelter Clients agree to any drug testing or
search and comply in a timely manner per staff instructions.
3. Theft or use of other’s belongings without their permission, including
ECHO property is prohibited.
4. The display of inappropriate sexual behavior including possession of
sexually explicit material is prohibited.
5. Shelter Clients and Non-Shelter Clients agree to dress modestly and
appropriately at all times, including shirt and footwear.
6. The display of any form of threatening behavior including profanity or
violence toward themselves or others is prohibited.
7. Possession of any weapons or other devices that could be used to cause
harm to persons or property is prohibited.
8. Shelter Clients and Non-Shelter Clients agree to monitor children’s
behavior at all times.
9. Failure to stay overnight at the shelter without prior permission of the
shelter manager may result in a suspension from ECHO services.
10. Any behavior deemed by Shelter Management to be threatening to the
ongoing health, safety or domestic tranquility of the shelter environment
may result in the immediate and permanent termination of ECHO
services.
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B. Minor infractions: The Policies and Procedures Manual shall at a minimum
contain disciplinary procedures for minor infractions. Minor infractions could
include:
1. Verbal abuse of volunteers, chaperones, staff, visitors or other clients.
2. Smoking or chewing tobacco anywhere on the grounds (including the
parking lot).
3. Failing to get prior permission from the shelter manager to arrive late or
leave early including leaving the campus after being admitted to the
dormitory.
4. Disruptive behavior or creating a negative environment.
5. Wearing inappropriate or suggestive clothing, including no shirt or
footwear.
6. Failing to directly supervise children, or allowing children to be overly
disruptive.
7. Disturbing others with unnecessary noise between 10:00 p m and 6:00
a m.
8. Changing beds or using an unauthorized sleeping location.
9. Failing to respond reasonably to ECHO staff requests.
10. Failing to complete assigned chores.
11. Returning to a car without an escort, between the hours of 7:00pm and
6:00am, after being admitted to the dorm.
12. Loitering on shelter grounds without ECHO supervision between the
hours of 7:00pm and 6:00am.
13. Extended working on or sleeping in vehicle on ECHO property.
The Policies and Procedures Manual adopted by ECHO shall include discipline
for all minor infractions up to and including expulsion from the program for
continued infraction of the rules.
C. Major Infractions. The Policies and Procedures Manual shall at a minimum
contain rules addressing the following. Each of the following are infractions
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that could result in immediate expulsion from services. The duration of
expulsion will be at the discretion of the ECHO Staff.
1. Lying or failing to disclose complete information.
2. Testing positive for or possessing alcohol or drugs.
3. Refusing drug testing or search.
4. Inappropriate sexual behavior or possessing sexually explicit material.
5. Willful destruction of shelter property.
6. Violence or threats of violence to self or others.
7. Theft of ECHO or client property.
8. Possessing weapons or other devices capable of harming persons or
property.
9. Staying out of the shelter overnight without permission of the Shelter
Manager.
10. Any behavior deemed by ECHO Staff to threaten the ongoing health,
safety or domestic tranquility of the shelter environment.
D. Each Shelter Client must sign an agreement acknowledging the receipt and
understanding of the Rules and Regulations and agreeing to abide by the Rules
and Regulations. The agreement must indicate that violation of the Rules and
Regulations may be cause for immediate and permanent termination of ECHO
services at the discretion of the Shelter Manager.
E. ECHO staff must enforce and cultivate a culture of compliance with its adopted
Rules and Regulations from the Policies and Procedures Manual. The City
may periodically inspect ECHO and/or talk to Shelter Clients, Non -Shelter
Clients, and volunteers to determine if ECHO’s Policies and Procedures are
being followed.
5.0 Security and Safety.
A. Occupant Safety.
1. Evacuation Plan. An evacuation plan to safely exit occupants from the
shelter is posted.
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2. Monitors. Shelter volunteers are trained to follow emergency protocols
in a variety of situations including medical, threats of violence, fire and
natural disasters.
3. Children’s Play Areas. Children’s play areas are to remain fenced for
controlled access.
B. Loitering Control
1. Site Signage. “No loitering, no trespassing and no camping” signage will
remain in locations as shown in Exhibit A of this agreement. Signage is
to be consistent with the California Penal Code.
2. Landscaping and Fencing. Landscaping and fencing will remain in good
repair consistent with Site Plan (Exhibit A) of this agreement.
3. Designated Assembly Area. The designated assembly areas will be
utilized as shown in Exhibit A.
4. Playground Location. Playground areas are to be managed
appropriately to reduce noise impacts on neighboring residents. Exhibit
A shows acceptable playground locations. All playground improvements
must be consistent with City and State regulations.
C. Outdoor Management and Security
1. Lighting. Exterior lighting must include:
i. Parking lot LED lighting consistent with City and State regulations.
ii. Building perimeter LED lighting consistent with the California
Building Code. City of Atascadero will ensure no light spillage into
neighboring properties.
2. Video Surveillance. A video surveillance system will be maintained and
monitored by ECHO staff along the building perimeter.
3. Outdoor Monitors. At least two (2) outdoor monitors will patrol the ECHO
campus from 4:00 p.m. until 6:15 p.m. to ensure ECHO Policies and
Procedures are being followed. Outdoor Monitors are only responsible
for monitoring property owned by ECHO.
6.0 Neighborhood Relations
A. Community Liaison.
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1. Community Liaison. The ECHO President/CEO (or their designee) is the
designated community liaison to address any issue or complaint raised
by a neighbor or community member that involves a shelter client(s) or
shelter operations.
2. Complaints Received. All community complaints must be directed to the
Community Liaison for proper action. The ECHO President/CEO (or
their designee) must respond to the complaint with in five (5) working
days from the date the complaint was received.
3. Contact. The Community Liaison contact information is posted at the
shelter and on ECHO’s website.
B. Neighborhood Meetings. ECHO will host a minimum of one (1) noticed
neighborhood meeting per year. The purpose of the meeting is to maintain
open dialog with neighbors, educate the community about ECHO, and address
any questions or concerns about shelter operations.
1. Meeting Notices. Meeting notices will be mailed directly to ECHO’s
neighbors, placed in local media and on ECHO’s website. ECHO will
obtain the latest mailing list from the City of Atascadero. (Mailing Radius
provided by City)
2. ECHO does not need to hold an additional neighborhood meeting unless
5 or more neighbors request a meeting in writing. ECHO will try to
accommodate meetings requested by neighbors.
C. Neighborhood Dispute Resolution
1. First Action. Any violation of ECHO Policies and Procedures or other
concerns about shelter operations can be reported by contacting the
Community Liaison and filing a complaint. The complaint is to be acted
upon as described above (Section 6.0.A.2.).
2. Second Action. Any issues not resolved by the ECHO CEO/President
will be forwarded to the ECHO Board Chair for further action. The Board
Chair (or the Executive Council) must act on the complaint within ten
(10) working days of the unresolved complaint. If action by the Board
Chair or the Executive Council does not resolve the complaint then the
complaint can be brought to a Third Action.
3. Third Action. Issues or complaints not adequately resolved by the ECHO
Board Chair or Executive Council may be submitted to the City of
Atascadero as a code violation complaint.
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4. Code Violation Compliant. A dispute that results in a submitted code
violation to the City of Atascadero will be investigated by City Staff based
on the adopted municipal code, adopted building code or any other
regulation that ECHO operations fall under and that the City has
jurisdiction over. This process will be consistent with the City’s Code
Enforcement process.
7.0 Enforcement Mechanisms
This Agreement is between ECHO and the Atascadero City Council for the
operation of the transitional and emergency shelter. Both entities will act in good
faith to implement this Operations and Management Plan. Any operational issues
that cannot be resolved by ECHO and City staff will be forwarded to the Atascadero
Planning Commission for consideration.
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Exhibit C: Conditions of Approval
AMND24-0060
Conditions of Approval
6370 Atascadero Avenue (APN: 030-341-013)
AMND24-0060
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 approval is for an amendment AMND24-0060 to Condition of
Approval (specifically Condition #8) of Conditional Use Permit (PLN
2014-1492), for 6370 Atascadero Avenue (APN: 030-341-013). All
other Conditions of Approval remain in effect, except as added or
modified below.
Ongoing PS
2. The approval of this entitlement shall become final and effective for
issuing building permits fourteen (14) days after the City Council
hearing.
BP PS, BS
3. 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 PS
4. All site design, landscaping, fencing, exterior elevations, finish
materials, and signage shall be consistent with the Master Plan of
Development as adopted or as superseded by State Law.
Ongoing PS
5. All fencing and landscaping shall be maintained in substantial
conformity in perpetuity unless otherwise approved by the Community
Development Department. All trees planted as part of the project,
whether on-site or within the public right of way, shall be maintained
in a manner that allows the tree to grow to its full natural height and
natural canopy. No growth suppressants shall be permitted that
result in stunting or modifying the natural growth pattern of the tree.
Should such trees be maintained contrary to this condition, the
owner shall be responsible for replacement.
Ongoing PS
6. The maximum number of meal program participants shall be eighty (80)
persons one hundred (100) persons. This shall include shelter clients.
Maximum shelter clients shall be consistent with the adopted
Emergency Shelter Overlay Zone ordinance for APN 030-341-013.
PS PS
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10/1/2024 |Item 2| Staff Report
Attachment 2: Conceptual Design Package
AMND24-0060 & ZCH24-0061
See Following
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