2009-02-24 Kailua Village Design Commission Minutes

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unbelievable. Mr. Adams pointed out that their future car wash is not part of this application, and that he does not believe the proposed convenience store and gas pumps would significantly contribute to the noise level in the area.Mr. Adams also repeated his earlier comment that when they looked at this property two and a half years ago, it looked like a great site for a gas station. Mr. Padavan concluded his testimony saying that they are not against the gas station or the restaurants that are coming in, but are against noise and poor traffic control, which he considers are serious problems. Commission Discussion Commissioners discussed the proposed murals and other ideas on how to provide a visual break-up to the exterior walls. Commissioner Au Hoy expressed her concern about the murals fading over time and becoming unattractive. She also noted that it would be a difficult decision to select a mural since it is artwork and each individual perceives artwork differently. Other possible solutions suggested by the Commissioners included viny plants on lattices, fake shutters and/or windows; it was also pointed out that the proposed landscaping could block the view of the walls. Commissioner Harris-Glade found it unjustifiable to render a decision without knowing the final design of the exterior walls. Although they do not wish to hold up the applicant’s schedule, the Commissioners agreed that they should review the applicant’s final proposal with respect to the walls. Mr. Adams offered that they incorporate their final proposal into their sign application, which could be submitted to the Commission in about 90 days. Ms. Newlon pointed out that a sign permit is effective only for a year from the date of issuance, and so people usually process sign permit applications when buildings have already been built. In response to Commissioner Harris-Glade’s question, Mr. Mark said that the murals cannot be included in their sign application, even if they are submitted at the same time, since murals are not considered as signs. With respect to the noise concern raised by the testifiers, the Commissioners confirmed with the Acting Deputy Planning Director and staff that noise is under the jurisdiction of the Department of Health, and the Commission does not have the authority to regulate businesses on that basis as long as they comply with the Department of Health noise standards. The testifiers were advised to contact the Department of Health with their concerns. Commissioner Harris-Glade questioned the appropriateness of the Commission making decisions, as well as the Planning Department processing plan approvals, in a piece-meal manner for a project of this scale, and said he is concerned about how the entire development will turn out in the end. Mr. Mark responded that a piece-meal method is not preferred by the Department, and it is very unusual to see a commercial project of this size developed that way. Commissioner Ogin remembered, however, that Coconut Grove was developed in the same manner. Mr. Mark added that the Department has a duty to look at the entire property and layout and make sure all elements are consistent with the total plan. Mr. Mark responded to Chair Marone’s questions, saying that no buildings within the subject commercial center have secured plan approval, and that the applicant can proceed to plan approval for the convenience store and gas pumps without deciding on the car wash 4