Attachment D - PC Memo - Z-SP-6-23-8.pdf
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To: City of Phoenix Planning Commission Date: May 1, 2024 From: Racelle Escolar, AICP Principal Planner Subject: ITEM NO. 7 (Z-SP-6-23-8) – SOUTHEAST CORNER OF 41ST STREET AND BASELINE ROAD The purpose of this is memo is to update a stipulation to reference updated elevations submitted by the applicant on April 26, 2024, and to convey additional updated plans and correspondence that has been received regarding this rezoning request. Rezoning Case No. Z-SP-6-23-8 is a request to rezone 3.84 acres located at the southeast corner of 41st Street and Baseline Road from C-2 (Intermediate Commercial) to C-2 SP (Intermediate Commercial, Special Permit) to allow a self-service storage facility and underlying C-2 uses. The South Mountain VPC heard this request on April 9, 2024, and recommended denial by a vote of 10-0-1. Staff recommends updating Stipulation No. 1, regarding general conformance to the elevations, to reference the updated elevations date stamped April 26, 2024. Enclosed with this memo are updated plans submitted by the applicant, a letter of support, and a petition and letters of opposition received after the publication of the Staff Report. The letters cite concerns with the proposed use, height, limited job creation, building design, property values, crime, number of self-storage uses in already in the area, obstruction of view corridors, compatibility with the surrounding area, and the proposal’s misalignment with the South Mountain Character Plan and the City of Phoenix General Plan. The updated plans submitted by the applicant reflect changes made based on community input. Updates include the following: Notched building design at the northwest corner of the site to improve site view triangles; The center of the building was reduced to one story to preserve view corridors (a basement is proposed to keep the unit count the same); Additional architectural variation and building materials; and Modification of the roof line. Staff recommends approval, per the modified stipulations in bold font below: ATTACHMENT D Z-SP-6-23-8 Planning Commission Backup Memo May 1, 2024 Page 2 of 4 1. The development shall be in general conformance with the elevations date stamped March 15, 2024 APRIL 26, 2024, as approved by the Planning and Development Department. 2. Where pedestrian walkways cross a vehicular path, the pathway shall be constructed of decorative pavers, stamped or colored concrete, or other pavement treatments that visually contrasts parking and drive aisle surfaces, as approved by the Planning and Development Department. 3. A minimum of one green infrastructure (GI) techniques for stormwater management shall be implemented per the Greater Phoenix Metro Green Infrastructure and Low Impact Development Details for Alternative Stormwater Management, as approved or modified by the Planning and Development Department. 4. A minimum of 10% of the required parking spaces shall be EV capable. 5. A minimum of one of the required bicycle parking spaces shall include standard electrical receptacles for electric bicycle charging capabilities, as approved by the Planning and Development Department 6. Four bicycle spaces shall be provided on the site through Inverted U and/or artistic racks located near the building entrances or in a secure location inside the building and installed per the requirements of Section 1307.H. of the Phoenix Zoning Ordinance, as approved by the Planning and Development Department. 7. Bicycle parking spaces shall be shaded by a structure, landscaping, or a combination of the two to provide a minimum of 75% shade, as approved by the Planning and Development Department. 8. All uncovered surface parking lot areas shall be landscaped with minimum 2- inch caliper, drought-tolerant shade trees. Landscaping shall be dispersed throughout the parking area and achieve 25% shade, as approved by Planning and Development Department. 9. All public and private pedestrian pathways including sidewalks shall be shaded to a minimum 75%, as approved by the Planning and Development Department. 10. In addition to the landscape materials listed in the Baseline Area Master Plan Plant List, Cercidium Hybrid (Desert Museum Palo Verde), Quercus Virginiana (Live Oak), and Pistacia X 'Red-Push (Red Push Pistache), may be permitted as approved by Planning and Development Department and shall be utilized, as approved or modified by the Planning and Development Department. Z-SP-6-23-8 Planning Commission Backup Memo May 1, 2024 Page 3 of 4 11. Landscaping shall be maintained by permanent and automatic/water efficient WaterSense labeled irrigation controllers (or similar smart controller) to minimize maintenance and irrigation water consumption for all on and offsite landscape irrigation. 12. Prior to final site plan approval, documentation shall be provided that demonstrates a commitment to participate in the Water Efficiency Checkup program for a minimum of 15 years, or as approved by the Planning and Development Department. 13. The developer shall dedicate right-of-way and construct a bus stop pad on eastbound Baseline Road. The bus stop pad shall be constructed according to City of Phoenix Standard Detail P1260 with a minimum depth of 10 feet. The bus stop pad shall be spaced from 41st Street according to City of Phoenix Standard Detail P1258. Trees shall be placed to provide minimum 50% shade coverage to bus stop pad. 14. A 30-foot-wide multi-use trail easement (MUTE) shall be dedicated along the south side of Baseline Road and a minimum 10-foot-wide multi-use trail (MUT) shall be constructed within the easement in accordance with the MAG supplemental detail and as approved or modified by the Planning and Development Department. 15. A minimum 70-feet of right-of-way shall be dedicated for the south half of Baseline Road, adjacent to the development. 16. The sidewalk along Baseline Road shall be a minimum of 6 feet in width and detached with a minimum 8-foot-wide landscape strip located between the sidewalk and back of curb and planted to the following standards, as approved or modified by the Planning and Development Department. a. Minimum 2-inch caliper single-trunk, large canopy, drought-tolerant, shade trees planted 20 feet on center, or in equivalent groupings. b. Drought tolerant vegetation to achieve a minimum of 75 percent live coverage. Where utility conflicts exist, the developer shall work with the Planning and Development Department on alternative design solutions consistent with a pedestrian environment for installing the required plants. 17. A minimum 5-foot-wide sidewalk shall be constructed on the north side of Highline Lane, adjacent to the development. 18. A minimum 5-foot-wide sidewalk shall be constructed on the east side of 41st Street, adjacent to the development. Z-SP-6-23-8 Planning Commission Backup Memo May 1, 2024 Page 4 of 4 19. A minimum 5-foot-wide sidewalk shall be constructed on the west side of 42nd Place, adjacent to the development. 20. Existing streetscape beginning at back of curb and median islands shall be replenished with the approved landscaping and trees along Baseline Road, as approved by the Planning and Development Department. 21. All streets within and adjacent to the development shall be constructed with paving, curb, gutter, sidewalk, curb ramps, streetlights, median islands, landscaping and other incidentals, as per plans approved by the Planning and Development Department. All improvements shall comply with all ADA accessibility standards. 22. If determined necessary by the Phoenix Archaeology Office, the applicant shall conduct Phase I data testing and submit an archaeological survey report of the development area for review and approval by the City Archaeologist prior to clearing and grubbing, landscape salvage, and/or grading approval. 23. If Phase I data testing is required, and if, upon review of the results from the Phase I data testing, the City Archaeologist, in consultation with a qualified archaeologist, determines such data recovery excavations are necessary, the applicant shall conduct Phase II archaeological data recovery excavations. 24. In the event archaeological materials are encountered during construction, the developer shall immediately cease all ground-disturbing activities within a 33- foot radius of the discovery, notify the City Archaeologist, and allow time for the Archaeology Office to properly assess the materials. 25. Prior to final site plan approval, the landowner shall execute a Proposition 207 waiver of claims form. The waiver shall be recorded with the Maricopa County Recorder's Office and delivered to the City to be included in the rezoning application file for record. Attachments Conceptual Site Plan date stamped April 26, 2024 (3 pages) Conceptual Landscape Plan date stamped April 26, 2024 (2 pages) Conceptual Building Elevations date stamped April 26, 2024 (2 pages) Conceptual Rendering date stamped April 26, 2024 (2 pages) Correspondence (143 pages) SUPPORT 1 From: Darcy Thomas <darcyluhu4@gmail.com> Sent: Tuesday, April 30, 2024 6:00 PM To: PDD Planning Commission Subject: Safe Stor z-SP 6-23-8 I am Darcy Thomas. I live at 7636 S 41st in Phoenix AZ. I am in favor of the Safstor unit being built on the corner of 41st and Baseline. Safstor has made many changed requested by the neighborhood. I definitely approve of their final plans for this corner. The entrance being moved to Baseline was very important to keep traffic our of the neighborhood. There will be liƩle traffic or noise added to the neighborhood. There might even be less noise from Baseline since it will block traffic noise. I am pleased with the changes Safstor made to accommodate the neighborhood concerns. I do not want retail shops on that corner. Traffic, trash, noise, strangers in the neighborhood. Darcy Thomas OPPOSITION 1 From: Catherine Napoli <catherine9196@gmail.com> Sent: Monday, April 1, 2024 6:36 PM To: PDD Planning Commission Subject: Z-SP-6-23 No more self storage facilities in South Mountain Village Attachments: Self storage in the area.docx; 27th Ave to 48th St.jpg Members of the Planning Commission As a resident and property owner in the neighborhood south of the proposed SAFStor Building, Z-SP- 6-23, I am concerned with the damage this building, as proposed by the developer, will do to my neighborhood. Specifically, the building height has destroyed all views from my home to the city lights. And it has destroyed all the views from Baseline Road up to South Mountain. Baseline Road is designated as a Scenic View Corridor. In destroying the views, my property values go down immediately. This does not serve the residents or the City of Phoenix and State of Arizona, who will lose revenue with lowered values. In working with our neighbors, SAFStor has made some changes to their original plan. We commend SAFStor on changes to the look of the building and on moving the entry from 41st Street, a residential street, to Baseline Road. However, our biggest concern, our property value reduction based on the destruction of our views, has not only never been addressed, in changing the entrance of the parking lot, views on an additional street have also been completely blocked. Right now, there are far too many storage facilities in Phoenix and specifically our area. There are a total of 11 self-storage facilities from 48th Street to 19th Avenue in the South Mountain Village area. There are an additional 3 facilities north of the river and south of the airport. From 19th Avenue west to the 202 (Laveen) there are 5 self-storage facilities. This makes our neighborhood the "Self-Storage Facility Capital of the World!" In addition, most storage units in the area are single story. On average, 85% of storage facilities build a level as a basement. Yet SAFStor is looking for a 2 story building completely above ground with a profile that will make entering and leaving our neighborhood at 41st Street, our ONLY WAY in and out, dangerous. City light views are not just a "nice bonus." Our property values include our homes being on view properties. Destroy the views, destroy the values, destroy the income to the City of Phoenix, Maricopa County, and the State of Arizona. Building on this land as the developer has currently 2 proposed will NOT increase revenue in the form of taxes. It will decrease revenue because of lowered property values. This neighborhood and South Mountain Village are in desperate need of real retail. Another unneeded self-storage facility brings one or two jobs and no needed retail. Neighborhood representatives have been meeting with representatives of Snell & Wilmer and SafStor in an effort to create something that would enhance the neighborhood. Brian Harvey, a designer, has even created an entire plan that would preserve views, give SafStor additional units, and preserve the views. SafStor has not budged beyond changing the color of the building and moving the entrance to Baseline Road. The neighbors of the South Mountain Gateway Residents Association were not asking for this building to be built somewhere else. We demanded that it be built in a way that does not destroy our homes and property values. However - SafStor will not compromise. We now want the City of Phoenix to deny this petition so that real retail that will enhance our neighborhood and the Village can come in. Accepting the special use permit and allowing self-storage facility #12 to come into South Mountain Village will be a detriment to our neighborhood and the City of Phoenix. Bring real retail into our neighborhood, NOT another box that will attract crime and be a blight to our RESIDENTIAL community. Catherine Napoli Resident since 1996 & Neighborhood Representative 3928 E. Beverly Road Phoenix, AZ 85042 602-295-3411 1 From: Catherine Napoli <catherine9196@gmail.com> Sent: Tuesday, April 9, 2024 2:46 PM To: Samuel S Rogers; PDD Planning Commission; Mayor Gallego; PDD South Mountain VPC; Council District 8 PCC Subject: Letters against Z-SP-6-23 Attachments: Comment Card.pdf; Letter 1.pdf; Letter 1A.pdf; Letter 2.pdf; Letter 2A.pdf; Letter 3A.pdf; Letter 4.pdf; Letter 4A.pdf; Letter 3.pdf; Letter 5.pdf; Letter 5A.pdf; Letter 6A.pdf; Letter 6.pdf; Letter 7A.pdf; Letter 7.pdf; Letter 8.pdf; Letter 9.pdf; Letter 9A.pdf; Letter 8A.pdf; Letter 10.pdf; Letter 10A.pdf; Letter 11 A.pdf; Letter 11.pdf; Letter 12.pdf; Letter 12A.pdf; Letter 13.pdf; Letter 13A.pdf; Letter 14A.pdf; Letter 14.pdf; Letter 15 A.pdf; Letter 15.pdf; Letter 16 A.pdf; Letter 17.pdf; Letter 16.pdf; Letter 17A.pdf; Letter 18 A.pdf; Letter 18.pdf; Petition.pdf Village Planning, Sam Rogers, Planning Commission, Councilwoman Hodge Washington, Mayor Gallego At a recent neighborhood block party, a number of neighbors signed letters and a petition asking all of you to vote against Z SP 6 23 and instead work on getting real retail, neighborhood retail, retail promised us over the last years, retail that never happened. I submit these letters on behalf of my neighbors and I will bring the originals to the South Mountain VIllage Planning Committee meeting tonight. Respectfully submitted Catherine Napoli 1 From: Catherine Napoli <catherine9196@gmail.com> Sent: Wednesday, April 24, 2024 12:56 PM To: PDD Planning Commission; Mayor Gallego; Council District 8 PCC; Racelle Escolar; Samuel S Rogers; support@phxazdistrict8.zendesk.com Subject: Z-SP-6-23 Members of Planning Commission - SAFStor is requesting a Special Permit to allow a C3 use, specifically for the building of a self-storage facility, on a C2 zoned property (Z-SP-6-23). As a resident of the small neighborhood south of Baseline Road located to the south and west of this self-storage facility, there are a number of reasons to vote no on this special use permit. However, the most compelling fact to vote no, in accordance with the South Mountain Village Planning Committee with a vote of 10 to 0, is that this is not an appropriate use for this parcel. From the beginning of this special permit request I, and the majority of my neighbors, have been against having a self-storage facility at the corner of 41st Street and Baseline Road. Their proposal of a two story building blocking both the views of my neighbors, that will result in bringing down property values and well as the view up the mountain from Baseline Road, identified by the City as a Scenic View Corridor. The look of their building, which is a massive box and, while changes have been made, it is still a massive box at the gateway of South Mountain Village. Even though I and other neighbors are very opposed, we listened to what the developer had to say. In fact, we asked three neighbors, Laurie Pheil, Catherine Napoli, and Brian Harvey, to bring our concerns and requests to the developer. We felt if we had to have this shoved into our neighborhood, we could hopefully make it as non-offensive as possible. Over the course of the past 5 months, the developer would say that our requests were impossible and then create a slight variation of the request in the hope that it would appear as if they were listening to our concerns. Our representatives engaged in good faith conversations, meeting with the developer and their attorney firm for many hours. The fact is, a special permit, essentially a C3 use in a C2 zone that is adjacent to a residential neighborhood is not an appropriate land use for this site. The Baseline Area Character Plan, created by the residents of South Mountain Village, with the City of Phoenix, set guidelines for what is needed in our Village. Strategic tools, in the form of plans and codes, were created to guide the growth of this unique area. The Baseline Area Master Plan and Baseline Area Overlay are in place to ensure we get what is so needed in our neighborhood. The PhxCAN plan looks at creating Connected Active Neighborhoods. This special permit request fits none of these guidelines. Specific to the Character Plan, retail, something this area desperately needs is identified in the existing land use. Retail that has long been promised the residents of South Mountain Village. As "South Phoenix," we were told retail was not coming in until rooftops came here. We have the rooftops. We have a diverse mix of culture, housing, socio-economics. Where is the retail? Allowing this special permit takes away yet another area slated for neighborhood retail. Jobs are needed in our Village. Other actual C2 uses that are permitted by right, including neighborhood retail, would bring jobs. A self-storage facility may bring 2 to 3 jobs at most. The aesthetics of building in the Village calls for an agrarian feel that protects views. creates a gathering place for neighbors, and is sensitive to the residents. Protecting views both to the north and south of any new development is part of the plan. 2 The types of businesses that can be built by right are far more appropriate land uses than a self storage facility that needs you to approve a special permit. Does this change positively affect the neighbors and area? No. Does it have a majority of the 39 points in the South Mountain Village Character Map? No. Is this special permit use going to bring more money and more jobs into the Village than what can currently be built by right? No. The recommendation by the Village Planner for South Mountain Village looks at this parcel in a vacuum. The neighborhood's needs are not taken into account. The local opposition by the residents has not been considered. The Character Plan, the Baseline Area Master Plan and Overlay are not considered. And the PhxCAN plan is ignored. South Mountain Village Planning knows what the neighborhood needs. What can be built there by right is far more in keeping with the City's own plans than a facility that requires a special permit. As a concerned resident, I am asking you not to allow this special permit to pass. Thank you for your consideration, Catherine P. Napoli-Cohen Resident since 1997 in a 75 year old house (built in 1949) 3928 E. Beverly Road, Phoenix 85042 602-295-3411 1 From: Alberto Rodriguez <2015silver@cox.net> Sent: Thursday, April 25, 2024 12:41 PM To: PDD Planning Commission; Racelle Escolar; Council District 8 PCC; Mayor Gallego; support@phxazdistrict8.zendesk.com Subject: From Carmen L. Rodriguez Re: SAFStor-Request to Deny Special Permit Z-SP-6-23 from Carmen L. Rodriguez Respected Members of Planning Commission SAFStor is requesting a Special Permit to allow a C3 use, specifically for the building of a self storage facility, on a C2 zoned property (Z SP 6 23). As a resident of the small neighborhood south of Baseline Road located to the south and west of this self storage facility, there are a number of reasons to vote no on this special use permit. However, the most compelling fact to vote no, in accordance with the South Mountain Village Planning Committee with a vote of 10 to 0, is that this is not an appropriate use for this parcel. From the beginning of this special permit request I, and the majority of my neighbors, have been against having a self storage facility at the corner of 41st Street and Baseline Road. Their proposal of a two story building blocking both the views of my neighbors, that will result in bringing down property values and well as the view up the mountain from Baseline Road, identified by the City as a Scenic View Corridor. The look of their building, which is a massive box and, while changes have been made, it is still a massive box at the gateway of South Mountain Village. Even though I and other neighbors are very opposed, we listened to what the developer had to say. In fact, we asked three neighbors, Laurie Pheil, Catherine Napoli, and Brian Harvey, to bring our concerns and requests to the developer. We felt if we had to have this shoved into our neighborhood, we could hopefully make it as non offensive as possible. Over the course of the past 5 months, the developer would say that our requests were impossible and then create a slight variation of the request in the hope that it would appear as if they were listening to our concerns. Our representatives engaged in good faith conversations, meeting with the developer and their attorney firm for many hours. The fact is, a special permit, essentially a C3 use in a C2 zone that is adjacent to a residential neighborhood is not an appropriate land use for this site. The Baseline Area Character Plan, created by the residents of South Mountain Village, with the City of Phoenix, set guidelines for what is needed in our Village. Strategic tools, in the form of plans and codes, were created to guide the growth of this unique area. The Baseline Area Master Plan and Baseline Area Overlay are in place to ensure we get what is so needed in our neighborhood. The PhxCAN plan looks at creating Connected Active Neighborhoods. This special permit request fits none of these guidelines. Specific to the Character Plan, retail, something this area desperately needs is identified in the existing land use. Retail that has long been promised the residents of South Mountain Village. As "South Phoenix," we were told retail was not coming in until rooftops came here. We have the rooftops. We have a diverse mix of culture, housing, socio economics. Where is the retail? Allowing this special permit takes away yet another area slated for neighborhood retail. Jobs are needed in our Village. Other actual C2 uses that are permitted by right, including neighborhood retail, would bring jobs. A self storage facility may bring 2 to 3 jobs at most. The aesthetics of building in the Village calls for an agrarian feel that protects views. creates a gathering place for neighbors, and is sensitive to the residents. Protecting views both to the north and south of any new development is part of the plan. 2 The types of businesses that can be built by right are far more appropriate land uses than a self storage facility that needs you to approve a special permit. Does this change positively affect the neighbors and area? No. Does it have a majority of the 39 points in the South Mountain Village Character Map? No. Is this special permit use going to bring more money and more jobs into the Village than what can currently be built by right? No. The recommendation by the Village Planner for South Mountain Village looks at this parcel in a vacuum. The neighborhood's needs are not taken into account. The local opposition by the residents has not been considered. The Character Plan, the Baseline Area Master Plan and Overlay are not considered. And the PhxCAN plan is ignored. South Mountain Village Planning knows what the neighborhood needs. What can be built there by right is far more in keeping with the City's own plans than a facility that requires a special permit. As a concerned resident, I am asking you not to allow this special permit to pass Respectfully, Carmen L. Rodriguez 7649 S. 41st Place Phoenix, AZ 85042 1 From: Alberto Rodriguez <2015silver@cox.net> Sent: Saturday, April 27, 2024 8:21 PM To: PDD Planning Commission; Racelle Escolar; Council District 8 PCC; Mayor Gallego; support@phxazdistrict8.zendesk.com Subject: SAF Stor Z-SP-6-23-8 Request to not allow the special permit to pass Phoenix Planning Commission pdd.planningcomm@phoenix.gov Racelle Escolar with Planning Commission racelle.escolar@phoenix.gov Councilwoman Kesha Hodge Washington council.district.8@phoenix.gov Mayor Kate Gallego mayor.gallego@phoenix.gov Members of Planning Commission SAFStor is requesting a Special Permit to allow a C3 use, specifically for the building of a self storage facility, on a C2 zoned property (Z SP 6 23 / Z SP 6 23 8 Agenda Item 7). As a resident of the small neighborhood south of Baseline Road located to the south and west of this self storage facility, there are a number of reasons to vote no on this special use permit. However, the most compelling fact to vote no, in accordance with the South Mountain Village Planning Committee with a vote of 10 to 0, is that this is not an appropriate use for this parcel. From the beginning of this special permit request I, and the majority of my neighbors, have been against having a self storage facility at the corner of 41st Street and Baseline Road. Their proposal of a two story building blocking both the views of my neighbors, that will result in bringing down property values and well as the view up the mountain from Baseline Road, identified by the City as a Scenic View Corridor. The look of their building, which is a massive box and, while changes have been made, it is still a massive box at the gateway of South Mountain Village. Even though I and other neighbors are very opposed, we listened to what the developer had to say. In fact, we asked three neighbors, Laurie Pheil, Catherine Napoli, and Brian Harvey, to bring our concerns and requests to the developer. We felt if we had to have this shoved into our neighborhood, we could hopefully make it as non offensive as possible. Over the course of the past 5 months, the developer would say that our requests were impossible and then create a slight variation of the request in the hope that it would appear as if they were listening to our concerns. Our representatives engaged in good faith conversations, meeting with the developer and their attorney firm for many hours. The fact is, a special permit, essentially a C3 use in a C2 zone that is adjacent to a residential neighborhood is not an appropriate land use for this site. The Baseline Area Character Plan, created by the residents of South Mountain Village, with the City of Phoenix, set guidelines for what is needed in our Village. Strategic tools, in the form of plans and codes, were created to guide the growth of this unique area. The Baseline Area Master Plan and Baseline Area Overlay are in place to ensure we get what is so needed in our neighborhood. The PhxCAN plan looks at creating Connected Active Neighborhoods. This special permit request fits none of these guidelines. Specific to the Character Plan, retail, something this area desperately needs is identified in the existing land use. Retail that has long been promised the residents of South Mountain Village. As "South Phoenix," we were told retail was not coming in until rooftops came here. We have the rooftops. We have a diverse mix of culture, housing, socio economics. Where is the retail? Allowing this special permit takes away yet another area slated for neighborhood retail. Jobs are needed in our Village. Other actual C2 uses that are permitted by right, including neighborhood retail, would bring jobs. A self storage facility may bring 2 to 3 jobs at most. 2 The aesthetics of building in the Village calls for an agrarian feel that protects views. creates a gathering place for neighbors, and is sensitive to the residents. Protecting views both to the north and south of any new development is part of the plan. The types of businesses that can be built by right are far more appropriate land uses than a self storage facility that needs you to approve a special permit. Does this change positively affect the neighbors and area? No. Does it have a majority of the 39 points in the South Mountain Village Character Map? No. Is this special permit use going to bring more money and more jobs into the Village than what can currently be built by right? No. The recommendation by the Village Planner for South Mountain Village looks at this parcel in a vacuum. The neighborhood's needs are not taken into account. The local opposition by the residents has not been considered. The Character Plan, the Baseline Area Master Plan and Overlay are not considered. And the PhxCAN plan is ignored. South Mountain Village Planning knows what the neighborhood needs. What can be built there by right is far more in keeping with the City's own plans than a facility that requires a special permit. As a concerned resident, I am asking you not to allow this special permit to pass. Alberto Rodriguez 7649 S. 41st Place Phoenix, AZ 85042 602 882 9271 1 From: Alberto Rodriguez <2015silver@cox.net> Sent: Saturday, April 27, 2024 8:28 PM To: PDD Planning Commission; Racelle Escolar; Council District 8 PCC; Mayor Gallego; support@phxazdistrict8.zendesk.com Subject: SAF-Stor Z-SP-6-23-8 Request not to allow this special permit to pass. Phoenix Planning Commission pdd.planningcomm@phoenix.gov Racelle Escolar with Planning Commission racelle.escolar@phoenix.gov Councilwoman Kesha Hodge Washington council.district.8@phoenix.gov Mayor Kate Gallego mayor.gallego@phoenix.gov Members of Planning Commission SAFStor is requesting a Special Permit to allow a C3 use, specifically for the building of a self storage facility, on a C2 zoned property (Z SP 6 23 / Z SP 6 23 8 Agenda Item 7). As a resident of the small neighborhood south of Baseline Road located to the south and west of this self storage facility, there are a number of reasons to vote no on this special use permit. However, the most compelling fact to vote no, in accordance with the South Mountain Village Planning Committee with a vote of 10 to 0, is that this is not an appropriate use for this parcel. From the beginning of this special permit request I, and the majority of my neighbors, have been against having a self storage facility at the corner of 41st Street and Baseline Road. Their proposal of a two story building blocking both the views of my neighbors, that will result in bringing down property values and well as the view up the mountain from Baseline Road, identified by the City as a Scenic View Corridor. The look of their building, which is a massive box and, while changes have been made, it is still a massive box at the gateway of South Mountain Village. Even though I and other neighbors are very opposed, we listened to what the developer had to say. In fact, we asked three neighbors, Laurie Pheil, Catherine Napoli, and Brian Harvey, to bring our concerns and requests to the developer. We felt if we had to have this shoved into our neighborhood, we could hopefully make it as non offensive as possible. Over the course of the past 5 months, the developer would say that our requests were impossible and then create a slight variation of the request in the hope that it would appear as if they were listening to our concerns. Our representatives engaged in good faith conversations, meeting with the developer and their attorney firm for many hours. The fact is, a special permit, essentially a C3 use in a C2 zone that is adjacent to a residential neighborhood is not an appropriate land use for this site. The Baseline Area Character Plan, created by the residents of South Mountain Village, with the City of Phoenix, set guidelines for what is needed in our Village. Strategic tools, in the form of plans and codes, were created to guide the growth of this unique area. The Baseline Area Master Plan and Baseline Area Overlay are in place to ensure we get what is so needed in our neighborhood. The PhxCAN plan looks at creating Connected Active Neighborhoods. This special permit request fits none of these guidelines. Specific to the Character Plan, retail, something this area desperately needs is identified in the existing land use. Retail that has long been promised the residents of South Mountain Village. As "South Phoenix," we were told retail was not coming in until rooftops came here. We have the rooftops. We have a diverse mix of culture, housing, socio economics. Where is the retail? Allowing this special permit takes away yet another area slated for neighborhood retail. Jobs are needed in our Village. Other actual C2 uses that are permitted by right, including neighborhood retail, would bring jobs. A self storage facility may bring 2 to 3 jobs at most. 2 The aesthetics of building in the Village calls for an agrarian feel that protects views. creates a gathering place for neighbors, and is sensitive to the residents. Protecting views both to the north and south of any new development is part of the plan. The types of businesses that can be built by right are far more appropriate land uses than a self storage facility that needs you to approve a special permit. Does this change positively affect the neighbors and area? No. Does it have a majority of the 39 points in the South Mountain Village Character Map? No. Is this special permit use going to bring more money and more jobs into the Village than what can currently be built by right? No. The recommendation by the Village Planner for South Mountain Village looks at this parcel in a vacuum. The neighborhood's needs are not taken into account. The local opposition by the residents has not been considered. The Character Plan, the Baseline Area Master Plan and Overlay are not considered. And the PhxCAN plan is ignored. South Mountain Village Planning knows what the neighborhood needs. What can be built there by right is far more in keeping with the City's own plans than a facility that requires a special permit. As a concerned resident, I am asking you not to allow this special permit to pass. Carmen L. Rodriguez (Resident and Wife to Alberto Rodriguez) 7649 S. 41st Place Phoenix, AZ 85042 602 510 3367 1 From: cynthia harvey <harvey.cin@gmail.com> Sent: Saturday, April 27, 2024 12:45 PM To: Racelle Escolar Subject: SafeStor Special permit application Members of Planning Commission - SAFStor is requesting a Special Permit to allow a C3 use, specifically for the building of a self-storage facility, on a C2 zoned property (Z-SP-6- 23 / Z-SP-6-23-8 Agenda Item 7). As a resident of the small neighborhood south of Baseline Road located to the south and west of this self- storage facility, there are a number of reasons to vote no on this special use permit. However, the most compelling fact to vote no, in accordance with the South Mountain Village Planning Committee with a vote of 10 to 0, is that this is not an appropriate use for this parcel. From the beginning of this special permit request I, and the majority of my neighbors, have been against having a self-storage facility at the corner of 41st Street and Baseline Road. Their proposal of a two story building blocking both the views of my neighbors, that will result in bringing down property values and well as the view up the mountain from Baseline Road, identified by the City as a Scenic View Corridor. The look of their building, which is a massive box and, while changes have been made, it is still a massive box at the gateway of South Mountain Village. Even though I and other neighbors are very opposed, we listened to what the developer had to say. In fact, we asked three neighbors, Laurie Pheil, Catherine Napoli, and Brian Harvey, to bring our concerns and requests to the developer. We felt if we had to have this shoved into our neighborhood, we could hopefully make it as non-offensive as possible. Over the course of the past 5 months, the developer would say that our requests were impossible and then create a slight variation of the request in the hope that it would appear as if they were listening to our concerns. Our representatives engaged in good faith conversations, meeting with the developer and their attorney firm for many hours. The fact is, a special permit, essentially a C3 use in a C2 zone that is adjacent to a residential neighborhood is not an appropriate land use for this site. The Baseline Area Character Plan, created by the residents of South Mountain Village, with the City of Phoenix, set guidelines for what is needed in our Village. Strategic tools, in the form of plans and codes, were created to guide the growth of this unique area. The Baseline Area Master Plan and Baseline Area Overlay are in place to ensure we get what is so needed in our neighborhood. The PhxCAN plan looks at creating Connected Active Neighborhoods. This special permit request fits none of these guidelines. Specific to the Character Plan, retail, something this area desperately needs is identified in the existing land use. Retail that has long been promised the residents of South Mountain Village. As "South Phoenix," we were told retail was not coming in until rooftops came here. We have the rooftops. We have a diverse mix of culture, housing, socio-economics. Where is the retail? Allowing this special permit takes away yet another area slated for neighborhood retail. Jobs are needed in our Village. Other actual C2 uses that are permitted by right, including neighborhood retail, would bring jobs. A self-storage facility may bring 2 to 3 jobs at most. The aesthetics of building in the Village calls for an agrarian feel that protects views. creates a gathering place for neighbors, and is sensitive to the residents. Protecting views both to the north and south of any new development is part of the plan. The types of businesses that can be built by right are far more appropriate land uses than a self storage facility that needs you to approve a special permit. Does this change positively affect the neighbors and area? No. Does it have a majority of the 39 points in the South Mountain Village Character Map? No. Is this special permit use going to bring more money and more jobs into the Village than what can currently be built by right? No. The recommendation by the Village Planner for South Mountain Village looks at this parcel in a vacuum. The neighborhood's needs are not taken into account. The local opposition by the residents has not been considered. The Character Plan, the Baseline Area Master Plan and Overlay are not considered. And the PhxCAN plan is ignored. South Mountain Village Planning knows what the neighborhood needs. What can be built there by right is far more in keeping with the City's own plans than a facility that requires a special permit. As a concerned resident, I am asking you not to allow this special permit to pass. Regards, Cynthia Harvey 816.868.3829 1 From: Paul Sapio <jessapio@gmail.com> Sent: Saturday, April 27, 2024 8:48 PM To: Racelle Escolar Subject: Save our neighbor Members of Planning Commission - SAFStor is requesting a Special Permit to allow a C3 use, specifically for the building of a self-storage facility, on a C2 zoned property (Z-SP-6- 23 / Z-SP-6-23-8 Agenda Item 7). As a resident of the small neighborhood south of Baseline Road located to the south and west of this self- storage facility, there are a number of reasons to vote no on this special use permit. However, the most compelling fact to vote no, in accordance with the South Mountain Village Planning Committee with a vote of 10 to 0, is that this is not an appropriate use for this parcel. From the beginning of this special permit request I, and the majority of my neighbors, have been against having a self-storage facility at the corner of 41st Street and Baseline Road. Their proposal of a two story building blocking both the views of my neighbors, that will result in bringing down property values and well as the view up the mountain from Baseline Road, identified by the City as a Scenic View Corridor. The look of their building, which is a massive box and, while changes have been made, it is still a massive box at the gateway of South Mountain Village. Even though I and other neighbors are very opposed, we listened to what the developer had to say. In fact, we asked three neighbors, Laurie Pheil, Catherine Napoli, and Brian Harvey, to bring our concerns and requests to the developer. We felt if we had to have this shoved into our neighborhood, we could hopefully make it as non-offensive as possible. Over the course of the past 5 months, the developer would say that our requests were impossible and then create a slight variation of the request in the hope that it would appear as if they were listening to our concerns. Our representatives engaged in good faith conversations, meeting with the developer and their attorney firm for many hours. The fact is, a special permit, essentially a C3 use in a C2 zone that is adjacent to a residential neighborhood is not an appropriate land use for this site. The Baseline Area Character Plan, created by the residents of South Mountain Village, with the City of Phoenix, set guidelines for what is needed in our Village. Strategic tools, in the form of plans and codes, were created to guide the growth of this unique area. The Baseline Area Master Plan and Baseline Area Overlay are in place to ensure we get what is so needed in our neighborhood. The PhxCAN plan looks at creating Connected Active Neighborhoods. This special permit request fits none of these guidelines. Specific to the Character Plan, retail, something this area desperately needs is identified in the existing land use. Retail that has long been promised the residents of South Mountain Village. As "South Phoenix," we were told retail was not coming in until rooftops came here. We have the rooftops. We have a diverse mix of culture, housing, socio-economics. Where is the retail? Allowing this special permit takes away yet another area slated for neighborhood retail. Jobs are needed in our Village. Other actual C2 uses that are permitted by right, including neighborhood retail, would bring jobs. A self-storage facility may bring 2 to 3 jobs at most. The aesthetics of building in the Village calls for an agrarian feel that protects views. creates a gathering place for neighbors, and is sensitive to the residents. Protecting views both to the north and south of any new development is part of the plan. The types of businesses that can be built by right are far more appropriate land uses than a self storage facility that needs you to approve a special permit. Does this change positively affect the neighbors and area? No. Does it have a majority of the 39 points in the South Mountain Village Character Map? No. Is this special permit use going to bring more money and more jobs into the Village than what can currently be built by right? No. The recommendation by the Village Planner for South Mountain Village looks at this parcel in a vacuum. The neighborhood's needs are not taken into account. The local opposition by the residents has not been considered. The Character Plan, the Baseline Area Master Plan and Overlay are not considered. And the PhxCAN plan is ignored. South Mountain Village Planning knows what the neighborhood needs. What can be built there by right is far more in keeping with the City's own plans than a facility that requires a special permit. As a concerned resident, I am asking you not to allow this special permit to pass. Sent from Paul Sapio 7620 s 40th pl Phoenix 85042 1 From: Debra McPeters <debmcpeters@msn.com> Sent: Monday, April 29, 2024 10:54 AM To: Council District 8 PCC; Mayor Gallego; PDD Planning Commission; racell.escolar@phoenix.gov; support@phxazdistrict8.zendesk.com Subject: Z-SP-6-23 Members of the Planning Commission, SAFStor is requesting a Special permit to allow a C3 use, specifically for the building of a self-storage facility on a C2 zoned property (Z-SP-6-23). As residents of the small neighborhood south of Baseline Road located to the south and west of this proposed facility, there a number of reasons to vote NO on this special use permit. However, the most compelling fact to vote NO, in accordance with the South Mountain Village Planning Committee with a vote of 10 to 0, is that this is not an appropriate use for this parcel. From the beginning of this special permit request we, and the majority of our neighbors have been against having a self-storage facility at the corner of 41st Street and Baseline Road. Their proposal of a two story building blocking both the views of my neighbors, that will result in bringing down property values as well as blocking the view up the mountain from Baseline Road, identified by the City as a Scenic View Corridor. The look of their building, which is a massive box and, while changes have been made, it is still a massive box at the gateway of South Mountain Village. Even though we and other neighbors are very opposed, we listened to what the developer had to say. In fact, we asked three neighbors (Laurie Pheil, Catherine Napoli and Brian Harvey) to bring our concerns and requests to the developer. We felt if we had to have this shoved into our neighborhood, we could hopefully make it as non-offensive as possible. Over the course of the past 5 months, the developer would say that our requests were impossible and then create a slight variation of the request in hope that it would appear as if they were listening to our concerns. Our representatives engaged in good faith conversations, meeting with the developer and their attorney firm for many hours. The fact is, a special permit, essentially a C3 use in a C2 zone that is adjacent to a residential neighborhood is not an appropriate land use for this site. The Baseline Area Character Plan, created by the residents of South Mountain Village, with the City of Phoenix, set guidelines for what is needed in our Village. Strategic tools, in the form of plans and codes were created to guide the growth of this unique areas. The Baseline Area Master Plan and Baseline Area Overlay are in place to ensure we get what is so needed in our neighborhood. The PhxCAN plan looks at creating Connected Active Neighborhoods. This special permit request fits none of these guidelines. Specific to the Character Plan, retail, something this area desperately needs is identified in the existing land use. Retail that has long been promised the residents of South Mountain Village. As "South Phoenix", we were told retail was not coming until rooftops came here. We have the rooftops. We have a diverse mix of culture, housing and socio-economics. Where is the retail? Allowing this special permit takes away yet another area slated for neighborhood retail. Jobs are needed in our Village. other actual C2 uses that are permitted by right, including neighborhood retail, would bring jobs. A self-storage facility may bring 2 or 3 jobs at most. The aesthetics of building in the Village calls for an agrarian feel that protects views, creates a gathering place for neighbors, and is sensitive to the residents. Protecting views both to the north and south of any new development is part of the plan. The types of businesses that can be built by right are far more appropriate land uses than a self-storage facility that needs you to approve a special permit. This change negatively affects the neighbors and area. It also not not have a majority of the 39 points in the South Mountain Village Character Map. 2 Is this special permit use going to bring more money and more jobs into the Village than what can currently be built by right? NO The baseline Area Master Plan and Overlay are not being considered. South Mountain Village Planning knows what the neighborhood needs. What can be built there by right is far more in keeping with the City's own plans than a facility that requires a special permit. As concerned residents in the neighborhood for over 25 years, we are asking you not to allow this special permit to pass. Thank You, Debra & Bill McPeters 8040 S. 38th Way Phoenix, AZ 85042 Highline Canyon Residents 1 From: Lorina McGrorty <lorina_hiatt@yahoo.com> Sent: Monday, April 29, 2024 11:48 AM To: Racelle Escolar Subject: Z-SP-6-23. Urgent Appeal: Please Preserve Our Neighborhood's Character and Property Values Dear Racelle Escolar, As longtime residents of Hancock Park, we are writing to express our deep concern regarding the proposed construction of a large storage unit building in our community. This development threatens to irreversibly alter the character of our neighborhood and significantly diminish property values for current residents. One of the most cherished aspects of living in Hancock Park is the breathtaking scenic views of the city and surrounding mountains that we enjoy from our homes. These views are not only aesthetically pleasing but also contribute to the overall sense of tranquility and well-being that residents have come to appreciate. The construction of a towering commercial building would effectively block these views, robbing us of one of the key features that attracted many of us to this neighborhood in the first place. Furthermore, the proposed development poses a serious threat to our property values. Studies have consistently shown that the presence of commercial and industrial structures, such as this proposed building, can have a detrimental impact on nearby residential property values. Potential buyers are likely to be deterred by the sight of a large storage unit building looming over the neighborhood, leading to a decrease in demand for homes in the area and a subsequent significant decline in the value of our property. We urge you to carefully consider the long-term consequences of allowing this development to proceed. Our neighborhood is more than just a collection of houses; it is a community where families have put down roots and invested their hard-earned resources. The current plans also encroach upon a protected wash, which not only channels water from the mountain, but also acts as a travel corridor for wildlife. Allowing this SAFStor building to be built here, as currently designed, would undermine the sense of community that we have worked so hard to cultivate and would have far-reaching negative effects on the quality of life for residents and native animals alike. In light of these concerns, unless SAFStor is willing to compromise on the building height by placing the first story underground, we respectfully request that you deny the permits needed for the construction of the storage unit building in our neighborhood. Instead, we urge you to explore 2 alternative development options that are more compatible with the character of our community and that will not jeopardize property values or the scenic beauty of our surroundings. Thank you for taking the time to consider our perspective on this important issue. We trust that you will make the decision that is in the best interests of our neighborhood and its residents. Sincerely, Patrick and Lorina McGrorty 7635 South 41st Place Phoenix, Az 85042 (480) 628-8911 1 From: PDD Planning Commission Subject: FW: Phoenix Planning Commission Agenda Item 7: Z-SP-6-23-8 From: Laurie Pheil <creativebenefitcommunications@gmail.com> Sent: Tuesday, April 30, 2024 12:27 PM To: PDD Planning Commission <pdd.planningcomm@phoenix.gov> Subject: Phoenix Planning Commission Agenda Item 7: Z SP 6 23 8 To the Planning Commission, My name is Laurie Pheil and I am requesting a recommendation of denial for case number Z SP 6 23 8. This Special Permit requests is for a C3 or Industrial Use on a C2 zoned property. It is surrounded by a Church, two schools, a Fire station, some small neighborhood retail and lots and lots of housing. A warehouse style storage facility does not fit into the local area in many ways. Based on their last presentation to the Village Planning Committee in April of this year where the Village Committee voted unanimously to deny their land use, their request falls short in several ways͙ It does not preserve views for the adjacent neighborhood The architecture does not reflect the area͛ s agricultural heritage It does not provide a good employment source for the Village for generations to come Plus, it all but ignores the standards outlined in the Plan Phoenix General Plan for Connectivity, Enhancing Neighborhood Retail, Healthy restaurants, or being a place where neighbors can meet to have a cold drink, plan a hike or hike ride, or perhaps get a bike tire repaired. Thank you for your consideration! Laurie Laurie Pheil Creative Benefit Communications Phone: 602-696-3800 E-mail: creativebenefitcommunications@gmail.com