HomeMy WebLinkAboutCC_2020-01-14_Minutesn
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CITY OF ATASCADERO
CITY COUNCIL
MINUTES
Tuesday, January 14, 2020
City Hall Council Chambers, 4th floor
6500 Palma Avenue, Atascadero, California
(Entrance on Lewis Ave.)
City Council Closed Session:
City Council Regular Session:
Successor Agency to the Community
Redevelopment Agency of Atascadero:
Public Financing Authority:
CITY COUNCIL CLOSED SESSION: 5:00 P.M.
5:00 P.M.
6:00 P.M.
Immediately following
conclusion of the City
Council Regular Session
Immediately following
conclusion of the Successor
to the Community
Redevelopment Agency of
Atascadero Session
Mayor Moreno announced at 5:00 p.m. that the Council was going into Closed Session.
1. CLOSED SESSION -- PUBLIC COMMENT - None
2. COUNCIL LEAVES CHAMBERS TO BEGIN CLOSED SESSION
3. CLOSED SESSION -- CALL TO ORDER
a. Conference With Legal Counsel—Anticipated Litigation
Initiation of litigation pursuant to Government Code
Section 54956.9(d)(4); Number of Cases: One
b. Conference With Legal Counsel—Anticipated Litigation
Significant exposure to litigation pursuant to Govt. Code
Section 54956.9(d)(2): One potential case
Atascadero City Council
January 14, 2020
Page 1 of 6
4. CLOSED SESSION —ADJOURNMENT
5. COUNCIL RETURNS TO CHAMBERS n
6. CLOSED SESSION — REPORT Il
The City Attorney reported that there was no reportable action in Closed Session.
REGULAR SESSION —CALL TO ORDER: 6:00 P.M.
Mayor Moreno called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. and Mayor Pro Tem Bourbeau led
the Pledge of Allegiance.
ROLL CALL:
Present: Council Members Fonzi, Funk, Newsom, Mayor Pro Tem Bourbeau and
Mayor Moreno
Absent: None
Others Present: City Treasurer Sibbach
Staff Present: City Manager Rachelle Rickard, Public Works Director Nick DeBar,
Police Chief Jerel Haley, Community Development Director Phil
Dunsmore, Fire Chief Casey Bryson, City Attorney Brian Pierik, Deputy
City Manager/City Clerk Lara Christensen, Senior Planner Kelly
Gleason and Assistant Planner Mariah Gasch
APPROVAL OF AGENDA:
MOTION: By Mayor Pro Tem Bourbeau and seconded by Council Member
Fonzi to:
1. Approve this agenda; and,
2. Waive the reading in full of all ordinances appearing on this
agenda, and 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.
Motion passed 5:0 by a roll -call vote.
PRESENTATIONS: None.
A. CONSENT CALENDAR:
1. City Council Draft Action Minutes — December 10, 2019
■ Recommendation: Council approve the December 10, 2019 Draft City Council
Special Meeting and Regular Meeting Minutes. [City Clerk]
2. November 2019 Accounts Payable and Pavroll n
■ Fiscal Impact: $2,806,846.55
■ Recommendation: Council approve certified City accounts payable, payroll
and payroll vendor checks for November 2019. [Administrative Services]
Atascadero City Council
January 14, 2020
Page 2 of 6
3. 2019 Municipal Code Updates - Title 4, Title 8, Title 9 and Title 11 (CPP19-0080)
■ Fiscal Impact: Staff expects minimal fiscal impact to the City from the adoption
n of the new building codes and proposed code text amendments.
■ Recommendations: Council:
1. Adopt on second reading, by title only, Draft Ordinance A repealing and
replacing Title 4, Public Safety, Chapter 7, Fire Code, for consistency with the
2019 California Building and Fire Codes.
2. Adopt on second reading, by title only, Draft Ordinance B repealing and
replacing Title 8, Building Code, of the Atascadero Municipal Code for
consistency with the 2019 California Building Code. -
3. Adopt on second reading, by title only, Draft Ordinance C approving
amendments to Title 11, Subdivisions, Section 11-4.23 for minor text
corrections. [Community Development]
4. 4 Unit Planned Development— 7900 Curbaril Avenue (DEV18-0124)
■ Fiscal Impact: If the project is approved for processing, it should be required to be
fiscally neutral so the added residential units fund their own on-site improvements
and maintenance, as well as their fair share of off-site improvements and impacts
to City emergency services.
■ Recommendation: Council adopt on second reading, by title only, Draft Ordinance
amending Title 9, Chapter 3 of the Atascadero Municipal Code approving a zoning
text change to establish Planned Development Overlay Zone No. 36 and amending
the official zoning district designation for APN 031-231-003 from Residential Multi-
family — 10 (RMF -10) to Residential Multi -family — 10 / Planned Development
n Overlay No. 36 (RMF-10/PD36). [Community Development]
MOTION: By Council Member Fonzi and seconded by Council Member
Newsom to approve the Consent Calendar. (#A-3: Ordinance Nos.
631, 632, and 633)(#A-4: Ordinance No. 634).
Motion passed 5:0 by a roll -call vote.
UPDATES FROM THE CITY MANAGER:
City Manager Rachelle Rickard gave an update on projects and issues within the City.
Police Chief Haley gave a brief update on the changes the City has seen since the
implementation of the Smoking Ordinance.
COMMUNITY FORUM:
The following citizens spoke during Community Forum: Frances Romero (Exhibit B),
Scott Newton and Geoff Auslen
Mayor Moreno closed the COMMUNITY FORUM period.
B. PUBLIC HEARINGS:
1. Appeal of Planning Commission Decision - USE19-0061 7835 EI Camino
Real "Human Bean Coffee" (Moss Lane Ventures/ Pamela Jardini)
■ Fiscal Impact: Slight positive fiscal impact is expected from the operation of
Human Bean coffee shop.
Atascadero City Council
January 14, 2020
Page 3 Of 6
Recommendation: Council:
1. Adopt Draft Resolution A, granting the appeal and affirming in part Planning
Commission's action thereby approving Conditional Use Permit
(USE19-0061) to allow a drive-through coffee shop in the Commercial ` JI
Professional (CP) district subject to revised conditions of approval.
OR
2. Adopt Draft Resolution B to deny the appeal and affirm Planning Commission's
approval of the Conditional Use Permit (USE 19-0061) with no modifications to
the project or conditions of approval. [Community Development]
Ex Parte Communications:
All Council Members reported receiving communications from the applicant's representative. Council
Members Fonzi and Newsom reported serving on the DRC and reviewing the project in that capacity.
Council Member Newsom also reported speaking with the applicant's representative
Mayor Pro Tem Bourbeau reported meeting with the applicant's representative on site, speaking with
Planning Commissioners, and reviewing the Planning Commission materials for the December 3,
2019 Meeting.
Mayor Moreno reported meeting with the applicant's representative on site, speaking with a neighbor
of the proposed project site, and reviewing the Planning Commission materials for the December 3,
2019 Meeting.
Council Member Funk reported visiting the proposed project site as well as making site visits to n
comparative sites for measuring distance from the speaker to the property line on abutting residential
properties.
Council Member Fonzi reported that she resides within 500 feet of the proposed project which creates
a potential conflict of interest. She stepped down from the dais, recusing herself from the discussion
and vote for this item.
Community Development Director Dunsmore gave the staff report and answered questions from the
Council.
PUBLIC COMMENT:
The following citizens spoke on this item: Pamela Jardini, Dr. David Lord, Pat Mitchell,
Al Fonzi, Geoff Auslen, and Nick McClure
Mayor Moreno closed the Public Comment period.
Mayor Moreno recessed the meeting at 8:00 p.m.
Mayor Moreno reconvened the meeting at 8:12 p.m. with all present.
MOTION: By Mayor Pro Tem Bourbeau and seconded by Council Member
Newsom to adopt Resolution No. 2020-001 granting the appeal and n
affirming in part Planning Commission's action thereby approving I JI
Conditional Use Permit (USE19-0061) to allow a drive-through coffee
shop in the Commercial Professional (CP) district subject to revised
conditions of approval:
Atascadero City Council
January 14, 2020
Page 4 of 6
o Delete Condition No. 17 in its entirety
o Amend Condition No. 20 to limit the hours of operation for
outdoor amplified sound from 5am to 9pm.
o Add Condition No. 21 to read: Site design shall be in general
conformance with the modified preliminary grading plan dated
January 28, 2020, to the satisfaction of the City Engineer.
o Add Condition No. 22 to read: The Use Permit shall be subject
to additional review upon receipt of noise or operational
complaints. Additional mitigation may be warranted upon
verification of recurring noise or operational disturbances that
impact residential properties.
Motion passed 4:0 by a roll -call vote.
Council Member Fonzi returned to the dais.
C. MANAGEMENT REPORTS:
Mayor Moreno announced that Item C-2 would be presented prior to Item C-1.
2. Fiscal Year 2019 Annual Road Report
■ Fiscal Impact: Distribution of the 2019 Community Road Report is estimated
to cost $4,000-$5,000 in budgeted General Funds.
• Recommendations: Council:
1. Approve the Fiscal Year 2019 Annual Road Report.
n 2. Approve the 2019 Community Road Report. [Public Works]
Public Works Director DeBar gave the staff report and answered questions from the Council.
PUBLIC COMMENT:
The following citizens spoke on this item: None.
Mayor Moreno closed the Public Comment period.
MOTION: By Council Member Newsom and seconded by Council Member
Funk to:
1. Approve the Fiscal Year 2019 Annual Road Report.
2. Approve the 2019 Community Road Report with the
modification to the 2020 Garba Road Rehabilitation Project
description as suggested by the Public Works Director.
Motion passed 5:0 by a roll -call vote.
1. Fiscal Year 2018-2019 Audit
■ Fiscal Impact: None.
• Recommendation: Council review and accept the financial audit for the period
ended June 30, 2019. [Administrative Services]
(� Administrative Services Director Rangel gave the staff report and answered questions from
the Council. Adam Guise, with Moss, Levy & Hartzheim, LLP, also addressed the Council
and answered questions.
Atascadero City Council
January 14, 2020
Page 5 of 6
PUBLIC COMMENT:
The following citizens spoke on this item: None.
Mayor Moreno closed the Public Comment period.
MOTION: By Council Member Fonzi and seconded by Council Member Funk
to review and accept the financial audit for the period ending
June 30, 2019.
Motion passed 5:0 by a roll -call vote.
D. COUNCIL ANNOUNCEMENTS AND COMMITTEE REPORTS:
The following Council Members made brief announcements and gave brief update reports
on their committees since their last Council meeting:
Mayor Moreno
1. SLO Council of Governments (SLOCOG)
2. SLO Regional Transit Authority (RTA)
Mayor Pro Tem Bourbeau
1. Integrated Waste Management Authority (IWMA)
Council Member Fonzi
1. City of Atascadero Design Review Committee
Council Member Funk
1. Homeless Services Oversight Council
Council Member Newsom
1. City 1 Schools Committee
2. City of Atascadero Design Review Committee
E. INDIVIDUAL DETERMINATION AND I OR ACTION: None.
F. ADJOURN TO MEETING OF THE SUCCESSOR AGENCY
Mayor Moreno adjourned the meeting at 9:23 p.m. to the Meeting of the Successor Agency.
MIKES PREPA
7112
City Manager 1 City Clerk
The following exhibits are available for review in the City Clerk's office:
• Exhibit A — Item B-1, letter from Pamela Jardini received after agenda printed and distributed
• Exhibit B — Letter from Frances Romero, FORMA Companies
APPROVED: January 28, 2020
Atascadero City Council
January 14, 2020
Page 6 of 6
City Council Minutes Exhibit A
Date:
January 8, 2020
Mayor Moreno and Council Members
City of Atascadero
6500 Palma Avenue
Atascadero, CA 93422
Via: email
Planning Solutions
—
plan ningsolutions(a_�charter.net
805-801-0453
R E C E I V
CITY OF - ATA SCAD ERO
CITY CLL -I'RK'S OFFICE
RE: Appeal of the Human Bean drive-through Coffee Shop; API. 19-019
7835 EI Camino Real; Conditional Use Permit USE 19-0061
Dear Mayor Moreno and Council Members,
The project being appealed is a Human Bean drive-through coffee shop located on EI
Camino Real on property zoned Commercial Professional and within the City's
redevelopment area. The Human Beans' coffee shops provide convenient quality
coffee, espresso, smoothies and hot chocolate. All Human Bean coffee shops are
drive-through facilities; no tables or seating areas are provided. The site plan for the
Human Bean drive-through coffee shop provides a single -sided drive -up design with a
menu board and order station conveniently located in the landscaped area. The building
is 600 sq. ft. and the drive-through lane may accommodate up to 5 stacked cars. Five
on-site parking spaces and one loading space are provided for Human Bean's
employees and the wholesale/distribution building.
The project was approved by the Planning Commission; the Planning Commission did
not adopt hours of operation for the project and they did not limit the hours of operation
of the speaker mounted on the menu ordering board.
Hours of Operation
The proposed hours of operation are from 5 am to 9 pm daily. It is important for the
Human Bean to open at 5 am to serve beverages to employees of local businesses,
construction workers, and commuters. Limiting the Human Bean's hours would deprive
the business of servicing customers during prime revenue time. Human Bean's main
competitor opens for business at 4:30 am or at 5:00 am depending on their location
within the City.
Speaker at Menu Ordering Board
At the Planning Commission hearing, a neighbor raised concerns regarding the hours of
operation and the volume of the speaker. The Commissioners discussed the issue but
did not adopt restrictive hours for the use of the speaker.
To address the neighbor's concerns, 45 dB Acoustics completed an acoustical report 1
noise analysis (Report). Per their report, the three properties flanking the project site
could be impacted from the noise emanating from the speaker. A summary of the
results are discussed below and a copy of their report is attached for your reference.
Planning Solutions 1360 New Wine Place Templeton, CA 93465
Planning Solutions
plan ni ngsolutions(@,cha iter. net
805-801-6453
The project will use a speaker model that is equipped with an Automatic Volume Control
System which automatically limits the volume of the speaker to a volume that is 15 dB
above the ambient noise level measured one foot from the speaker.
The use of the Automatic Volume Control System assures that the sound from the
speaker
• will beat or below the ambient noise level just 10 meters from the speaker,
• will be below the ambient noise level at the property boundaries, and
• will not be audible at the three locations that could be impacted by the speaker noise
- adjacent properties lying to the north (R1), east (R2), and south (R3).
n SFRwH��
t �.Occupatior
ti' s SFR
WarP-ase r' t
Ij AD
1\1 Ilk V
y ` tilfTra f'•;♦♦'4,}��� � it ► �• �l
1. •`l` •1� .'` ,� _" NO '.lf.i.� `. ,1i `•\ Y^ti r li Y -c e
y5k.• ,\ +L I,'• '�� '� r a✓."i ''ice
IR
V. } ;k . �� �.. t.; , - �r � ✓ •fie � .ems '+ .�,
11 /e.' ..... •ii's./'',/ /—�. 017Iq@'"
Figure 7: 45d6 Acoustics acoustical report dated January 7, 2020
Both the Noise Element of the General Plan and the ordinance allow up to 50 dB for
daytime and up to 45 dB for nighttime. In the case of the Human Bean project, Section
9-14.05 (b) of the ordinance allows a higher level because the ambient noise level at the
property boundary of the receiving site pre -project exceeds the level permitted by the
ordinance at two of the three locations during daytime hours and at one of the three
locations during nighttime hours.
Planning Solutions 1360 New Wine Place Templeton, CA 93465
Planning Solutions
pLanr-Cingsolutions@charter.net
805-801-6453
Table 1 below provides data for the maximum pre and post -project daytime noise levels
and maximum pre and post project nightime noise levels at each of the three adjacent
properties. As stated above, the maximum pre and post project daytime noise level for
R1 and R3 exceed the ordinance requirement of 50 dB during the daytime. The 45 dB
nightime level is exceeded at R1. Since the level of the noise at the property line does
not increase post project, there is no impact to the adjacent parcels.
Table 1: Ana lvsis of Before- aucl After -Project HoaL-1-v Day tiine and ligliWine 5ouud
LeN,els, dBA
Address
R1 7765 El Canmio Bell
(South property lille)
R2 7880 Sinaloa A., eine
(V C st prop -: 't5, 11110)
R3 7865 El Cainllicl Real
(1,crTli propel*ry line1
NOTES:
Ma—iinuru llaaium-at ll.iaimum lI.laiuiuln Curnpllr4
Pre-
Pntit-
Pre-
Pw51-
1,0111 Noise
Project
Project
Project
Project
Element?
Dayffine
Dn►-titne
-Nighttime
Nighttime
NNOhe
01sc
�Nokc
INoisC
Level [Ld)
_ .
Level (Ld)
Level (Lu)
Level (Lu)
56
56
50
50
Yes
•1.1
'1'1
38
3S
Yes
5'
S'
45
45
Yes
1, utilizes _.Ll -c f.kulolnRtic 1'oluine control) speaker &■'stem
Table 145 dB Acoustics acoustical report dated January 7, 2020
The report provided by 45dB Acoustics demonstrates that the project complies with the
Noise Element of the General Plan and the Ordinance. The concern expressed by the
neighbor and discussed by the Planning Commissioners was addressed and the report
determined that their concerns have no factual basis. Even in the unlikely event that the
speaker could be heard, it would be below the standard established by the Noise
Element.
In order for the Human Bean to be a viable addition to the City's businesses, the hours
of operation must be similar to their competitors and the conditions placed on the
project must be based on factual data. We respectfully request that you uphold the
Planning Commission's approval of this project, deny the appeal, and adopt appropriate
conditions of approval.
If you have any questions, please contact me at 845-801-0453 or at
planningsolutionsa,charter.net. Thank you for your time and service to the community.
Regards,
Pamela Jardini
cc: Mariah Gasch, project planner
Phil Dunsmore, Community Development Director
Attachment: 45 dB Acoustics' report dated January 7, 2020
Planning Solutions 1360 New Wine Place Templeton, CA 93465
David Lord, PhD dl�,]a45dB.com
Sarah Taubitz, MSME st@45dB.com
45 d B Acoustics California I Colorado
CONS!ltrAN75 M SOUND AND 02RATMH
www.450.com
Acoustics Assessment: Requested by:
Owner -
January 7, 2020
Project 19471
Drive -Through Coffee Shop
Pam Jardini, J.D.
Mr. Pat Mitchell
APN 030-I32-049 & -050
Planning Solutions
c/o Moss Ventures, LLC
7835 El Camino Real
planningsolutions a,chartennet
P.O. Box 3067
805 801-0453
Atascadero, CA
Stockton, CA 95213
I ExeCUt1VC SLlInniary
This project was analyzed for compliance with the City of Atascadero's General Plan Noise
Element. Operational hours for the drive-through are 5am to 9pm.
Traffic counts from the City's 2015 published levels were conservatively adusted to 6,000
AADT which more than accounts for I% per year growth factor. This AADT was then parsed
into day, evening, and nighttime traffic count per hour for present-day traffic noise for EI
Camino Real—this becomes 382 cars/hour for the twelve daytime hours of 7 am to 7 pm, 200
cars/hour within the three evening hours from 7 pm to 10 pm, and 91 cars/hour for the nine
nighttime hours from to 10 pm to 7 am. A 5 -car queue of idling vehicles was included as an
incremental noise source for all operational hours of the business.
An order -speaker stand system utilizing dynamic background/ambient noise level adjustment to
within 15 dB over the current background level was modeled. This system provides an obvious
benefit over other conventional systems without this technology. Regardless of the ambient
background noise level, the speaker's sound level will adapt to existing hourly daytime and
nighttime noise levels.
Under the above conditions and assumptions, the drive-through coffee shop is anticipated to fully
comply with the Noise Element requirements for the City of Atascadero.
45dB Acoustics, LLC Atascadero Drive-Throu h Coffee Sha
3 Introduction
This sound level assessment is intended to determine the potential impact of on-site noise
associated with operations and patrons at the proposed drive-through order coffee shop. The
project was analyzed assuming operational drive-through hours for the business of 5 am to 9 pm.
The following topics are presented:
• The topographical relationship of on-site and off-site transportation noise sources in
relation to the single -story residences opposite the proposed project.
• Identification of noise sources and their characteristics, including predicted noise
levels at the exterior of the potentially sensitive residential land use to the south.
• Determination of ambient sound levels and mapping of sound level contours for
various scenarios, including speaker -post drive-through ordering.
• Basis for the sound level prediction which is obtained from published data, the noise
attenuation measures to be applied, and an analysis of speaker board sound level
scenarios.
• Information on fundamentals of noise and vibration to aid in interpreting the report.
4 Project Location
The proposed project is located at 7835 El Camino Real, this street being the priinary
transportation noise source for the area.
page 2 of 15 noise nianagenient : room acoustics : environmental impact www.45dB.com
45dB Acoustics, LLC Atascadero Drive -Through Coffee Shop
Figure 1: Vicinity Map of Project Location with plan overlaid
5 Regulatory Setting
Noise regulations are addressed by federal, state, and local government agencies. Local policies
are generally adaptations of federal and state guidelines, adjusted to prevailing local condition.
5.1 Local Regulation
The City of Atascadero General Plan, Noise Element provides regulation and guidelines
regarding noise. The Noise Element provides the conclusions, recommendations, and strategies
necessary to ensure an appropriately quiet and pleasurable interior environment for all. Since the
regulation of transportation noise sources such as roadway and train traffic primarily fall under
either State or Federal jurisdiction, the local jurisdiction generally uses land use and planning
decisions to limit locations or volumes of such transportation noise sources, to avoid
development within noise impact zones, or to shield impacted receivers or sensitive receptors.
The maximum allowable noise exposure to assess new stationary noise sources at the nearest
receiving land use property line, are the applicable noise limits (Figure 2). In this report we have
evaluated the entire propertly boundary for each adjacent neighboring property.
page 3 of 15 noise management : room acoustics : environmental impact www.45dB.eom
45dB Acoustics, LLQ'
Atascadero Drive-Throuah Coffee 5h
Figure 2: Maximum Allowable Noise Exposure, City of Atascadero
Table n--4. Aiaximunl Allowable Noise Exposure - Stationary Noise Sources
MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE NOISE EX330SURE-STATIONARY NOISE 50l1F;0ES'
Daytime Nighttime
0 a.m. two 9 P.m,) (9 p.m. to 7 a.m.)
Hourly L., dSa 5o 45
Haxi.M= level, del 70 65
max! -num level, dn—Impulsive Weiaa! 55 60
'Il. daterale.d.t Lh. paapeecy SLne of the regt•las LadJ use. Where d.t.sxinLlq ch. e!1'.c:LY.n+e+ og ea -a+
asltlg.tlae aa+a. az. a, LT+ .k+bdard,a Tray be applied on the :. 41pt+r aLE. of "La. bar Lot or ocher property It
A01.e "tlgarloa a.aevrae.
`sound Level s• +hall bs nada with Almy abler reponse.
'sound level a.+.urnmats ■haLl he Made rlth last aur rupcnae.
6 Sound Leel Analysis
El Camino Real is the primary and dominant transportation noise source for this project.
6.1 Existing outdoor Sound Level
The SoundPLAN@ noise model utilizes ADT traffic volume and the FHWA's Traffic Noise
Model (TNM) to calculate 1 predict day ("Ld"), evening ("Le"), and nighttime ("Ln"), and
Community Noise Equivalent (CNEL) noise levels across the site as desired. The results are
mapped as sound level contours on the following pages. In this case, the City of Atascadero has
published traffic counts for this location of El Camino Real (Figure 3) from June of 2015, which
we conservatively adjust upward to 6,000 AADT.
Figure 3: Traffic volume data used for noise model input
lion No
Fuad tianlc
Ncartsl Cross Slreel
Dale
ADT Alli Peak
AINI Pcak Volume
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W
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5200
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367
171111
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4972
Existing sound level contours for the area are shown in Figure 4 for daytime hourly periods, and
in Figure 5 for nighttime hourly periods. The buildings to the north and south of the project site
have elevations exposed to El Camino Real reaching 60dBA during daytime hours.
page 4 of 15 noise inanagenienl : room acoustics : environnienlal inipacl www.45dB.com
45dB }acoustics, LLC Atascadero Drive -Through Coffee Shop
Figure 4: Existing nighttime sound level contours for the project site
Figure 5: Existing nighttime sound level contours for the project
page 5 of 15 noise managenrent : room acoustics : environmental impact www.45dB.com
r'+ t
48
Figure 5: Existing nighttime sound level contours for the project
page 5 of 15 noise managenrent : room acoustics : environmental impact www.45dB.com
45dBAcoustics, LLC Atascadero Drive -Through Coffee Shop
6.2 Predicted Sound Levels with Project
In the drive-through ordering sequence, the source of sound is each vehicle and the drive-through
speaker system. Mounted on the speaker post, the speaker sound power level includes the order
taker's voice. The speaker audio output must be loud enough to be clearly heard by the customer
over the noise of the customer's vehicle, any local traffic and other ambient background noise in
the area.
However, if it is too loud, the sound may be objectionable to neighbors or even violate specific
regulations.
The base station speaker used in this project is equipped with a feature known as Automatic
Volume Control or "AVC" which can be used to reduce the outbound sound pressure level based
on ambient noise. When AVC is active, the speaker output sound level is reduced to a level that
is 15 dB above the ambient noise level at the speaker post microphone, and never increases in
level above what would be heard with AVC turned off. This feature considerably reduces the
Sound Pressure Level (SPL) during quiet periods and may help in satisfying local requirements.
Documentation of such a system, made by HCL, is included in the appendix.
Sound levels are measured in units of dB SPL and include a frequency variable weight referred
to as "A Weighting", referred to as dBA. The sound pressure level from a speaker decreases
(attenuates) as the distance away increases. However, it can be difficult to predict how much
reduction will actually occur in a real-world setting. For a single point sound source, the SPL
drops approximately d dB for every doubling of the distance from the source. Thus, starting at
one foot away from the speaker, the level will be 36 dB lower at 64 feet away.
Buildings, automobiles, walls and street traffic will all affect the sound's direction and
attenuation rate.
The speaker output sound level is never more than 15 dB above the ambient noise level at one
foot distance from the speaker. This is particularly beneficial at night when there is less traffic on
surrounding streets and fewer cars in the drive-through. Because the speaker is adjusting sound
level continuously, it ensures that the output level is high enough to be heard by the customer
whatever the surrounding sound level may be.
As an example, if the ambient noise level is 47 dBA, the speaker adjusts output sound level to
approximately 62 dBA at a position about 1 ft from the speaker. Given this condition, the SPL
will be below the ambient noise level less than 20 ft away from the speaker post. The front
elevation of the nearest residence at 7765 El Camino Real is approximately 65 feet from the
speaker post. Even with the menu board acting as a solid noise barrier wall located directly
behind the speaker, the noise level of the speaker falls to the ambient level, i.e., 15dB
attenuation, at approximately 10m distance. The customer's vehicle acts to further block that
sound propagation in the opposite direction. Speaker sound levels will fall well below ambient
sound level in all directions within the project property boundaries. This is demonstrated in the
project -only sound level contours from the speaker and cars in Figure 6, and the scenario with
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the project in place in addition to traffic in Figure 7. The worst-case, or highest, noise level
locations for each propertly line are identified in Figure 7, as R1, R2, and R3 as shown.
Since the speaker self -adjusts to the noise level measured at the speaker post, a noisy vehicle will
drive the output sound level up. Thus, the use of automatic volume control speakers will not
guarantee that the SPL is below any particular level for all vehicles or conditions. However, it
will keep the speaker output level from becoming excessively loud in relation to existing ambient
sound levels.
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Figure 6: Project -only sound level contours for daytime (no traffic noise)
32
26
n 4., k.f i 1�Y ti 4a f'• 1111',';
2SJ hs31
Q Bn
AN.
air I ti ',�• •�f• y •
Figure 7: Total sound level contours for nighttime (with traffic noise)
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Table i below provides a summary of the existing daytime ("Ld') and nighttime ("Ln") levels
for the highest noise levels due to the project at the worst-case propertly line noise levels for the
three closest neighbors, Table 1 shows that there is a negligible, or less -than -significant impact
for all receivers.
Table 1: Analysis of Before- and After -Project Hourly Daytime and Nighttime Sound
Levels, dBA
Address Maximum
Maximum
Maximum
Pre-
Post-
Pre -
Project
Project
Project
Daytime
Daytime
Nighttime
Noise
Noise
Noise
Level (Ld)
Level (Ld)
Level (Ln)
R1 7765 El Camino Real 56 56 50
(south property line)
R2 7880 Sinaloa Avenue 44 44 38
(west property line)
R3 7855 El Camino Real 52 52 45
(north property line)
NOTES:
1. Utilizes AVC (Automatic Volume Control) speaker system
6.3 Future Outdoor Noise Levels
Maximum Complies
Post- with Noise
Project Element?
Nighttime
Noise
Level (Ln)
50 Yes
38 Yes
45 Yes
The future CNEL sound pressure level (year 2044) across the site in all the previous scenarios
may increase approximately 1 dBA above existing sound levels modeled here, assuming that
continued future combustion -engine traffic growth of approximately one percent per year for El
Camino Real shall continue.
7 Conclusion
Adusting for the elevated overall ambient noise level surrounding this site, the project is in
compliance with Atascadero's Noise Element of the General Plan. The drive-through Automatic
Volume Control speaker system means that the ordering board and queue for drive-thru will not
be audible at any of the neighboring addresses.
for 45dB Acoustics, LLC
A California Limited Liability Company
K2
by Sarah Taubitz, MSME, Member INCE-USA
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S Appendix
8.1 Terminology/Glossary
A -Weighted Sound LeveI (dBA)
The sound pressure level in decibels as measured on a sound level meter using the internationally
standardized A -weighting filter or as computed from sound spectral data to which A -weighting
adjustments have been made. A -weighting de-emphasizes the low and very high frequency
components of the sound in a manner similar to the response of the average human ear. A -
weighted sound levels correlate well with subjective reactions of people to noise and are
universally used for community noise evaluations,
Air -borne Sound
Sound that travels through the air, differentiated from structure -borne sound.
Ambient Sound Level
The prevailing general sound level existing at a location or in a space, which usually consists of a
composite of sounds from many sources near and far. The ambient level is typically defined by
the Leq level.
Background Sound Level
The underlying, ever-present lower level noise that remains in the absence of intrusive or
intermittent sounds. Distant sources, such as Traffic, typically make up the background. The
background level is generally defined by the L90 percentile noise level.
Community Noise Equivalent Level (CNEL)
The Leq of the A -weighted noise level over a 24-hour period with a 5 dB penalty applied to
noise levels between 7 p.m. and 10 p.m. and a 10 dB penalty applied to noise levels between 10
p.m. and 7 a.m. CNEL is similar to Ldn.
Day -Night Sound Level (Ldn)
The Leq of the A -weighted noise level over a 24-hour period with a 10 dB penalty applied to
noise levels between 10 p.m. and 7 a.m. Ldn is similar to CNEL.
Decibel (dB)
The decibel is a measure on a logarithmic scale of the magnitude of a particular quantity (such as
sound pressure, sound power, sound intensity) with respect to a reference quantity.
DBA or dB(A)
A -weighted sound level. The ear does not respond equally to all frequencies, but is less sensitive
at low and high frequencies than it is at medium or speech range frequencies. Thus, to obtain a
single number representing the sound level of a noise containing a wide range of frequencies in a
manner representative of the ear's response, it is necessary to reduce the effects of the low and
high frequencies with respect to the medium frequencies. The resultant sound level is said to be
A -weighted, and the units are dBA. The A -weighted sound level is also called the noise level.
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Energy Equivalent Level (Leq)
Because sound levels can vary markedly in intensity over a short period of time, some method
for describing either the average character of the sound or the statistical behavior of the
variations must be utilized. Most commonly, one describes ambient sounds in terms of an
average level that has the same acoustical energy as the summation of all the time -varying
events. This energy -equivalent sound/noise descriptor is called Leq. In this report, an hourly
period is used.
Field Sound Transmission Class (FSTC)
A single number rating similar to STC, except that the transmission Ioss values used to derive the
FSTC are measured in the field. All sound transmitted from the source room to the receiving
room is assumed to be through the separating wall or floor -ceiling assembly.
Outdoor -Indoor Transmission Class (RITC)
A single number classification, specified by the American Society for Testing and Materials
(ASTM E 1332 issued 1994), that establishes the A -weighted sound level reduction provided by
building facade components (walls, doors, windows, and combinations thereof), based upon a
reference sound spectra that is an average of typical air, road, and rail transportation sources. The
❑ITC is the preferred rating when exterior facade components are exposed to a noise
environment dominated by transportation sources.
Percentile Sound Level, Ln
The noise level exceeded during n percent of the measurement period, where n is a number
between 0 and 100 (e.g., L 10 or L90)
Sound Transmission Class (STC)
STC is a single number rating, specified by the American Society for Testing and Materials,
which can be used to measure the sound insulation properties for comparing the sound
transmission capability, in decibels, of interior building partitions for noise sources such as
speech, radio, and television. It is used extensively for rating sound insulation characteristics of
building materials and products.
Structure -Borne Sound
Sound propagating through building structure. Rapidly fluctuating elastic waves in gypsum
board, joists, studs, etc.
Sound Exposure Level (SEL)
SEL is the sound exposure level, defined as a single number rating indicating the total energy of
a discrete noise -generating event (e.g., an aircraft flyover) compressed into a 1 -second time
duration. This level is handy as a consistent rating method that may be combined with other SEL
and Leq readings to provide a complete noise scenario for measurements and predictions.
However, care must be taken in the use of these values since they may be misleading because
their numeric value is higher than any sound level which existed during the measurement period.
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Subjective Loudness Level
In addition to precision measurement of sound level changes, there is a subjective characteristic
which describes how most people respond to sound:
A change in sound level of 3 dBA is barely perceptible by most listeners.
A change in level of b dBA is clearly perceptible.
A change of 10 dBA is subjectively perceived as being twice {or half} as loud.
8.2 Calculating CN)L
Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), Part 51
Environmental Criteria and Standards, along with Federal Highway Administration (FHWA)
guidelines are used for estimating CNEL values based on "design hour" traffic flow
measurement.
Highway projects receiving Federal aid are subject to noise analyses under the procedures of the
FHWA. Where such analyses are available they may be used to assess sites subject to the
requirements of this standard. The Federal Highway Administration employs two alternate sound
level descriptors (23 CFR 772.12):
(i) The A -weighted sound level not exceeded more than 10 percent of the time for the
highway design hour traffic flow, symbolized as L10; or
(ii) The equivalent sound level for the design hour, symbolized as Leq. The day -night
average sound level may be estimated from the design hour L10 or Leq values by the
following relationships, provided heavy trucks do not exceed 10 percent of the total
traffic flow in vehicles per 24 hours and the traffic flow between 10 p.m. and 7 a.m. does
not exceed 15 percent of the average daily traffic flow in vehicles per 24 hours:
(a) CNEL - L10 (design hour) - 3 decibels
(b) CNEL Leq (design hour) decibels
Existing highway traffic noise measurements are made to represent an hourly equivalent sound
level, Leq. Statistical accuracy requires a minimum measurement of approximately eight
minutes. Most highway agencies have automated measurement equipment and typically measure
15 -minute time periods to represent the Leq. This is acceptable if unusual events do not occur
during the noisiest hour.
Measurements along low-volume highways may require longer measurement periods (e.g., 30-60
minutes) to attain desirable statistical accuracy. If information is not available to identify the
noisiest hour of the day or if there is pub] is controversy at a specific location, 24-hour
measurements may be necessary.
The FHWA stipulates the use of noise meters with sufficient accuracy to yield valid data for the
particular project (ANSI S 1.4-1983, TYPE II or better). The measurement procedure shall ensure
measurements have consistent and supportable validity. Traffic conditions, climatic conditions,
and land uses at the time of measurement shall be noted.
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8.3 Traffic Noise Model (TNM)
The Federal Highway Administration Traffic Noise Model (TNM) used for the sound level
analysis in this study, contains the following components:
1. Modeling of five standard vehicle types, including automobiles, medium trucks, heavy
trucks, buses, and motorcycles, as well as user -defined vehicles.
2. Modeling both constant- and interrupted -flow traffic using a field -measured data base.
3. Modeling effects of different pavement types, as well as the effects of graded
roadways.
4. Sound level computations based on a one-third octave -band data base and algorithms.
5. Graphically -interactive noise barrier design and optimization.
6. Attenuation over/through rows of buildings and dense vegetation.
7. Multiple diffraction analysis.
8. Parallel barrier analysis.
9. Contour analysis, including sound level contours, barrier insertion loss contours, and
sound -level difference contours.
These components are supported by a scientifically founded and experimentally calibrated
acoustic computation methodology, as well as a flexible data base, made up of over 6040
individual pass -by events measured at forty sites across the country.
8.4 SoundPLAN Acoustics Software
SoundPLAN, the software used for this acoustic analysis, is an acoustic ray -tracing program
dedicated to the prediction of noise in the environment. Noise emitted by various sources
propagates and disperses over a given terrain in accordance with the laws of physics. Worldwide,
governments and engineering associations have created algorithms to calculate acoustical
phenomena to standardize the assessment of physical scenarios. Accuracy has been validated to
be + 1- 2.7 dBA with an 85% confidence level. SoundPLAN is compliant with TNM standards
described above.
The software calculates sound attenuation of environmental noise, even over complex terrain,
uneven ground conditions, and with complex obstacles. The modeling software calculates the
sound field in accordance with ISO 9613-2 "Acoustics - Attenuation of sound during
propagation outdoors, Part 2: General Method of Calculation." This standard states that "this part
of ISO 9613 specifies an engineering method for calculating the attenuation of sound during
propagation outdoors, in order to predict the levels of environmental noise at a distance from a
variety of sources. The method predicts the equivalent continuous A -weighted sound pressure
level under meteorological conditions favorable to propagation from sources of known sound
emissions. These conditions are for downwind propagation under a well-developed moderate
ground-based temperature inversion, such as commonly occurs at night."
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8.5 Characteristics of Sound
When an object vibrates, it radiates part of its energy as acoustical pressure in the form of a
sound wave. Sound can be described in terms of amplitude (loudness), frequency (pitch), or
duration (time). The human hearing system is not equally sensitive to sound at all frequencies.
Therefore, to approximate this human, frequency -dependent response, the A -weighted filter
system is used to adjust measured sound levels. The normal range of human hearing extends
from approximately 0 to 140 dBA. Unlike linear units such as inches or pounds, decibels are
measured on a logarithmic scale, representing points on a sharply rising curve. Because of the
physical characteristics of noise transmission and of noise perception, the relative loudness of
sound does not closely match the actual amounts of sound energy. Table 2 below presents the
subjective effect of changes in sound pressure levels.
Table 2. Sound Level Change Relative Loudness/Acoustic Energy Loss
0 dBA Reference 0%
-3 dBA Barely Perceptible Chane 50%
-5 dBA Readily Perceptible Change 67%
-10 dBA Half as Loud 90%
-20 dBA 114 as Loud 99%
-30 dBA 118 as Loud 99.9%
Source: Highway Traffic Noise Analysis and Abalement Policy and Guidance,
U.S. Department of Transportalion, Federal Highway Administralion, Office of
Environment and Planning, Noise and Air QualitBranch, June 1995.
Sound levels are generated from a source and their decibel level decreases as the distance from
that source increases. Sound dissipates exponentially with distance from the noise source. This
phenomenon is known as spreading loss. Generally, sound levels from a point source will
decrease by 6 dBA for each doubling of distance. Sound levels for a highway line source vary
differently with distance because sound pressure waves propagate along the line and overlap at
the point of measurement. A closely spaced, continuous fine of vehicles along a roadway
becomes a line source and produces a 3 dBA decrease in sound level for each doubling of
distance. However, experimental evidence has shown that where sound from a highway
propagates close to "soft" ground (e.g., plowed farmland, grass, crops, etc.), a more suitable
drop-off rate to use is not 3.0 dBA but rather 4.5 dBA per distance doubling (FHWA 2010).
When sound is measured for distinct time intervals, the statistical distribution of the overall
sound level during that period can be obtained. The Leq is the most common parameter
associated with such measurements. The Leq metric is a single -number noise descriptor that
represents the average sound level over a given period of time. For example, the L50 noise level
is the level that is exceeded 50 percent of the time. This level is also the level that is exceeded 30
minutes in an hour. Similarly, the L02, L08 and L25 values are the noise levels that are exceeded
2, 8, and 25 percent of the time or 1, 5, and 15 minutes per hour. Other values typically noted
during a noise survey are the Lmin and Lmax. These values represent the minimum and
maximum root -mean -square noise levels obtained over the measurement period.
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Because community receptors are more sensitive to unwanted noise intrusion during the evening
and at night, State law requires that, for planning purposes, an artificial dB increment be added to
quiet -time noise levels in a 24-hour noise descriptor called the CNEL or Ldn. This increment is
incorporated in the calculation of CNEL or Ldn, described earlier.
8.6 Evidence of Compliance
Evidence of compliance shall consist of submittal of an acoustical analysis report, prepared
under the supervision of a person experienced in the field of acoustical engineering, with the
application for building permit. The report shall show topographical relationship of noise
sources and dwelling site, identification of noise sources and their characteristics, predicted noise
spectra at the exterior of the proposed dwelling structure considering present and future land
usage, basis for the prediction (measured or obtained from published data), noise attenuation
measures to be applied, and an analysis of the noise insulation effectiveness of the proposed
construction showing that the prescribed interior noise level requirements are met. If interior
allowable noise levels are met by requiring that windows be unopenable or closed, the design for
the structure must also specify the means that will be employed to provide ventilation and
cooling, if necessary, to provide a habitable interior environment.
1.. References
1. City of Atascadero, California. General Plan Noise Element. Available online:
htt s://www.ataseadero.or /files/CD/General%20PIan/AtasGP-CH4-Safte .Noise, df
2. American National Standards Institute, Inc. 2004. ANSI 1994 American National
Standard A coustical Terininology. ANSI 5.1.-1994, (R2004), New York, NY.
3. American Society for Testing and Materials. 2004. ASTM E 1014 - 84 (Reapproved
2000) Standard Guide for Measurement of Outdoor A -Weighted Sound Levels.
4. Bolt, Beranek and Newman. 1973. Fundamentals andAhatement of Highway Traffic
Noise, Report No. PB -222-703. Prepared for Federal Highway Administration.
5. California Department of Transportation (Caltrans). 1982. Caltrans Transportation
Laboratory Manual.
6. . 1998. Caltrans Traffic Noise Analysis Protocol for New Highway Construction
and Highway Reconstruction Projects
7. California Resources Agency. 2007. Title 14. California Code of Regulations Chapter 3:
Guidelines for Implementation of the California Environmental Quality Act Article 5.
Preliminary Review of Projects and Conduct of Initial Study Sections, 15060 to 15065.
8. FHWA Roadway Construction Noise Model User's Guide Final Report. FHWA-HEP-05-
054 DOT-VNTSC-FHWA-05-01
9. Harris, Cyril M., editor. 1979 Handbook of Noise Control.
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ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT WHITE PAPER
Customer Driven
Drive-Thru Sound Levels
Some municipalities have adopted regulations aimed at controlling the acoustic noise levels in residential
and (or) commercial areas. These regulations are of particular importance to drive-thru operators because
the drive-thru is viewed as a source of noise. The noise originates both from the vehicles themselves and
from the drive-thru communications system. This white paper addresses common questions related to
sound from the communications system.
Note: Because every site is different and each municipality has its own regulations, HMI; is unable
to make specific recommendations for compliance or give any assurance that any particular
system configuration will comply with any given regulations. Statements made in this paper
should be taken as general guidelines, but to ensure compliance, the site planner should
retain the services of a qualified acoustic consultant equipped to make the necessary
measurements.
In the drive-thru, the primary source of sound other than the vehicles is often the drive-thru
communications system. Outbound audio includes the order taker's voice and any sound provided by
the message repeater. The outbound audio is delivered by the speaker and must be loud enough to be
clearly heard by the customer over the noise of the customer's vehicle, any local traffic and other ambient
background noises in the area, However, if it is too loud, the sound can be objectionable to neighbors or
even violate specific regulations.
HME base stations are equipped with a feature known as Automatic Volume Control or "AVC" which
can be used to reduce the outbound sound pressure level based on ambient noise. When AVC is active,
the outbound level is reduced to a level that is 15 dB above the ambient noise level at the speaker post
microphone, but it never increases the level above what would be heard with AVC turned off. This
feature can considerably reduce the SPL during quiet periods and may help in satisfying local
requirements.
Sound levels are measured in units of dB SPL and usually include a frequency variable weight referred to
as "A Weighting". For this reason, the units are frequently written as "dBA SPL" and that notation will be
used throughout this paper. The sound pressure level from a speaker decreases as the distance away
increases. However, it can be difficult to predict how much reduction will actually occur. For a single
point sound source like an alarm bell hanging in air, the SPL drops approximately 6 dB every time the
distance from the source doubles. Thus if one starts one foot away, the level will be 36 dB lower when one
is 64 feet away. Unfortunately, speakers are neither single point sources nor are they hanging in air.
Rather, speakers are mounted in a variety of different type enclosures. Further, the building, the ground
and even other cars in proximity all effect the sound's direction and decay rate. All of this tends to make
the sound more directional and the decay rate less predictable.
This paper provides some "typical" measurements taken outdoors under specific circumstances. These
measurements can be used as a guide for what levels might occur in a drive-through installation. These
measurements were taken using "pink noise', a type of noise frequently used for acoustic testing, at
levels simulating the loudest speech expected from an order taker.
All typical measurements provided here were taken using the following equipment:
• Base station: HME ION IQ set to factory default levels
■ Communicator: HME COM6000
■ Speaker: HME SP10
• Speaker post: Texas Digital model 107150
DCO 5124/2010 Rev. 1.0
Drive-Thru Sound Levels
The measurement environment was as follows:
• Asphalt parking lot 50 ft from any building
• Ambient background noise level: --47 dBA SPL
• Nearest vehicle not part of measurement: 15 ft
Initial measurements were taken with AVC off, no vehicle in front of the speaker post, and no other
obstructions within at least 100 ft of the speaker. These are not "normal" conditions for a drive-thru, but
they do yield one worst-case measurement. Under these conditions, the sound pressure level 1 foot in
front of the speaker is 90 dBA SPL. At 17 feet, it drops down to a normal conversational level of 66 dBA
SPL, but does not drop to 60 dBA until a distance of 55 feet. Figure 1 shows the loudness contours for
both 60 dBA and 66 dBA levels. Since the primary concern is noise abatement at a distance, higher level
contours are not shown.
Loudness Contours
o°
60
315` sem`
40
a
27a` go`
122z-5-t1`s5`
18Q= 55 dB
60 d6
Figure 1 — 5P10 SPL Contours
With a vehicle parked in front of the speaker, the shape of the contour changes dramatically and depends
on many factors including the height, size, shape, and angle of the vehicle. Because of the tremendous
differences in vehicles, positioning, and lane construction, HMB cannot predict with any certainty the
shape of the resulting SPL contours. However, generally, the shape flattens and the loudest sounds are
found at angles to the front and rear of the vehicle with the front being louder.
DCO 5/24/2010 Rev. 1.0 2
Drive-ihru Sound Levels
AVC Operation
AVC measures the ambient noise level in the drive-thru and adjusts the outbound level down so that it is
never more than 15 dB above the ambient noise level. This is particularly useful at night when there is
less traffic on surrounding streets and fewer cars in the drive-thru. It may also be useful in situations
where the regulations do not specify specific sound pressure levels, but use terms like "reasonable" or
"sufficient". Because AVC adjusts continuously, it ensures that the outbound level is high enough to be
heard by the customer whatever the conditions may be.
As an example, if the ambient noise level is 47 dBA, AVC will adjust the outbound level to approximately
62 dBA at a position about 1 ft from the speaker. Given this condition, the SPL will be below the ambient
noise level less than 20 ft away from the post.
Since AVC adjusts based on the noise level measured at the speaker post, a noisy vehicle will drive the
outbound level up. Thus, the use of AVC will not guarantee that the SPL is below any particular level for
all vehicles or conditions. However, it will keep the outbound level from becoming excessively loud.
Guidelines
HME cannot make specific recommendations, but here are some general things that can be done to
minimize issues:
• Place the speaker post where vehicles can get close to it. This allows the outbound level to be kept
to a minimum.
• Use brick or concrete walls to isolate the installation from adjacent residences. These walls make
good barriers, but must be high enough that sounds do not easily go over them.
• Adjust the outbound level to the minimum necessary to be clearly heard by customers
• Use AVC in situations where noise abatement is an issue to further reduce outbound levels
during quiet periods.
Don't
• Face the speaker post toward busy streets. This increases the ambient noise level and makes it
necessary to use higher outbound levels.
• Place the speaker post on a curve in the lane. Curves force vehicles to be further away from the
post, which results in higher outbound level requirements and makes it difficult for order takers
to hear customers.
• Face the speaker post or the drive-thru lane at adjacent residences. Remember that the highest
sound levels are likely to be directly opposite the post and off the front of vehicles:
• Turn the outbound level up higher than necessary.
■ Rely on vegetation to reduce sounds. Plants have rather limited impact on sound levels.
DCO 5/24/2010 Rev. 1.0
Customer Driven
Memo
Re: Drive-Thru Sound Pressure Levels From the Menu Board or Speaker Post
The sound pressure levels from the menu board or speaker post are as follows:
1. Sound pressure level (SPL) contours (A weighted) were measured on a typical HME SPP2
speaker post, The test condition was for pink noise set to 84 dBA at 1 foot in front of the
speaker. All measurements were conducted outside with the speaker post placed 8 feet from a
non -absorbing building wall and at an oblique angle to the wall. These measurements should
not be construed to guarantee performance with any particular speaker post in any particular
environment. They are typical results obtained under the conditions described above.
2. The SPL levels are presented for different distances from the speaker post,-
Distance
ost;
Distance from the Speaker (Feet)
SPL (dBA)
I foot
84 dBA
2 feet
78 dBA
4 feet
72 dBA
8 feet
66 dBA
16 feet
60 dBA
32 feet
54 dBA
3. The above levels are based on factory recommended operating levels, which are preset for
HME components and represent the optimum level for drive-thru operations in the majority of
the installations.
Also, HME incorporates automatic volume control (AVC) into many of our Systems. AVC will adjust the
outbound volume based on the outdoor, ambient noise level. When ambient noise levels naturally decrease
at night, AVC will reduce the outbound volume on the system. See below for example:
Distance from Outside Speaker
Decibel Level or standard
system with 45 dB of outside
noise without AVC
Decibel level of standard system
with 45 dB of outside noise with
AVC active
1 foot
84 dBA
6o dBA
2 feet
78 dBA
54 dBA
4 feet
72 dBA
48 dBA
8 feet
66 dBA
42 dBA
16 feet
60 dBA
36 dBA
If there are any further questions regarding this issue please contact HME customer service at 1-800-848-4468.
Thank you for your interest in HME's products.
HM Electronics, Inc. 1 14110 Stowe Drive Poway. CA 92064
phone: 800.848.4468 1 fax: 858.452.7207 www.hme.com
City Council Minutes Exhibit B
Date:
1/14/2020
TO: Mayor Moreno, City of Atascadero
FROM: Frances Romero, FORMA Companies
RE: Public Comment Non -Age ndized Item: Revisions to "Public Use" Zone Designation
We want to say thank you for delaying action on the revision to the P zoned parcels so that all
impacted landowners have an opportunity to comment on the change.
Yes, Mr. Newton is frustrated & feels like there is a lot of focus on his two parcels, it feels like
he's been singled out. His consultant team has over 125 years of experience & none of us have
seen this level of focus on specific parcel either.
While it is no secret that Mr. Newton would like to permit mini -storage on his site, he has also
discussed other permitted uses with staff, but has found no support for any of those uses
either. In addition, Mr. Newton has been told that he cannot rezone his parcel due to the
"pending" General Plan Update which is creating an inability for him to exercise his property
rights.
Mr. Newton bought his parcels based on the zoning. He wanted to develop them into a source
of income. We need your help. You are smart people, certainly you see the dilemma. All Mr.
Newton wants to know is "what is the right use"? This site is home to other failed proposals
that did not meet the City's expectations either, so it begs the question that no one seems to be
able to answer, what can be approved on this site? Despite numerous meetings, we only hear
statements like "partner with developers who know haw to get a project approved" or sell the
parcel, no actual input that could result in an approvable project.
We'd like to request that rather than make a revision now that might not even matter after the
General Plan Amendment, that you just wait on taking any action for zoning on the P zoned
parcels for now. Maybe Mr. Newton's parcels won't even be P zoned after the General Plan
Amendment. The timing for this zone revision just feels forced; certainly, there is no imminent
threat to the City that would make this change necessary.
In the meantime, Mr. Newton has been keeping communication open with the City in hopes
that he can deliver a project that is a win for him & the community.
Could you hit the pause button on any action & wait until the General Plan Update
occurs? Thank you for your consideration.