On the agenda: Gonzales Planning Commission - Special Meeting - Sep 04, 2024 — FLOCK camera (May 7)

AGENDA
GONZALES PLANNING COMMISSION
SPECIAL MEETING
CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS – 117 FOURTH STREET
GONZALES, CA 93926
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 4, 2024
6:00 P.M.
CALL TO ORDER
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
1.

ROLL CALL -

Chair Gloria Velasquez, Chair Pro Tem Ernesto Mancera,
Commissioner Adrian Paco, Commissioner Tencia Vargas,
Commissioner Alex Ramirez

PUBLIC NOTICE
This meeting is being conducted in accordance with the State of California Executive Order N-2920, dated March 17, 2020, regarding the COVID-19 pandemic. The public may participate in
person or online via Zoom at https://us06web.zoom.us/j/88427889263 or call 1-1669-900-6833
and use Meeting ID: 884 2788 9263. If you wish to make a general public comment or comment
on a specific agenda item, please use the Raise Hand function. You will be allowed three minutes
to make your comments.
If you choose not to attend the meeting but wish to comment on a specific agenda item, please
submit your comment limited to 250 words or less by noon on the day of the meeting to the City
Clerk at [email protected]
BUSINESS FROM THE PUBLIC
2.

Business from the Public not on the Agenda; any member of the Public may address the
Commission for a period not to exceed three minutes on any subject not on the Agenda.
The Commission will listen to all communications but may take no action.

CONSENT AGENDA
All matters listed under the Consent Agenda are considered routine by the City
Commission and will be adopted by one action of the Commission unless any Commission
Member has a question or wishes to make a statement or discuss an item. In that event, the
Chairperson will remove the item from the Consent Calendar for separate consideration.
3.

Planning Commission – Regular Meeting – May 13, 2024 Minutes

Any writing or documents provided to a majority of the Planning Commission regarding any item on this agenda will be made available for public.
inspection at City Hall located at 147 Fourth Street, Gonzales, California, during normal business hours.
Page 1 of 2

PC Agenda 09-04-2024

REGULAR AGENDA
4.

Public Hearing to Consider Approval of Resolution No. PC 2024-03, A Resolution of the
Planning Commission of the City of Gonzales Approving A Conditional Use Permit To
Allow an Offsite Advertising Billboard Sign On A City-Owned 6+Acre Parcel Adjacent
To Highway 101 On Assessor’s Parcel Number 020-201-022-000
a)
b)
c)
d)

5.

Staff Report
Public Hearing
Commission Discussion
Commission Action
Staff Recommended Action – Adopt Resolution No. PC 2024-03

Planning Commission Workshop – The Tools & Documents of Planning
a)
b)
c)
d)

Staff Report
Public Comment
Commission Discussion
Commission Action
Staff Recommended Action – Conduct Workshop

BUSINESS FROM PLANNING COMMISSION
6.

Oral Communications

BUSINESS FROM COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR
7.

Oral Communication – Vista Lucia Specific Plan, Anticipated Hearing Schedule

ADJOURNMENT
In compliance with the American Disabilities Act, if you need special assistance participating in
this meeting, please contact the City Clerk at (831) 675-5000. Notification 48 hours prior to the
meeting will enable the City to make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility to this
meeting. (CFR 35.102-35.104 ADA Title II). This is a public meeting and, as such, can be seen
live by people present or online and is being recorded; therefore, anything you say or do here is
public information. The recordings are available online.
I, Alejandra Flores, Development Services Technician/Administrative Analyst of the City of
Gonzales, do hereby certify that a copy of the foregoing Planning Commission Meeting Agenda
was posted at City Hall, Council Chambers, and on the City’s website by Thursday, August 29,
2024, by 5:00 P.M.
08/29/2024

Alejandra Flores

Date

Any writing or documents provided to a majority of the Planning Commission regarding any item on this agenda will be made available for public.
inspection at City Hall located at 147 Fourth Street, Gonzales, California, during normal business hours.
Page 2 of 2

PC Agenda 09-04-2024

3

DRAFT

UNAPPROVED

GONZALES PLANNING COMMISSION
REGULAR MEETING
MONDAY, MAY 13, 2024
6:00 P.M.
CALL TO ORDER
The meeting was called to order at 6:00 PM by Chairperson Gloria Velasquez
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
All present saluted the flag.
ROLL CALL
Attendee Name
Gloria Velasques
Ernesto Mancera
Tencia Vargas
Adrian Paco
Alex Ramirez

Title
Chairperson
Chair Pro Tem
Commissioner
Commissioner
Commissioner

Status
Present
Excused
Present
Present
Present

STAFF PRESENT
Community Development Director Taven Kinison Brown, and Development Service Technician /
Administrative Analyst.
PUBLIC NOTICE
This meeting was conducted in accordance with the State of California Executive Order N-29-20,
dated March 17, 2020, regarding the COVID-19 pandemic. The public may participate in person
or online via Zoom at <https://us06web.zoom.us/j/86997892947> or call 1-1669-900-6833 and
use Meeting ID: 869 9789 2947. If you wish to make a general public comment or comment on a
specific agenda item, please use the Raise Hand function. You will be allowed three minutes for
your comments.
If you choose not to attend the meeting but wish to comment on a specific agenda item, please
submit your comment limited to 250 words or less by noon on the day of the meeting to the City
Clerk at [email protected] <mailto:[email protected].>

Page 1 of 5

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Minutes Acceptance: Minutes of May 13, 2024 6:00 PM (CONSENT AGENDA)

MINUTES

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UNAPPROVED

BUSINESS FROM THE PUBLIC
2.

Business from the Public not on the Agenda; any member of the Public may address the
Commission for a period not to exceed three minutes on any subject not on the Agenda.
The Commission will listen to all communications but may take no action.
There was none.

CONSENT AGENDA
Planning Commission – Public Workshop – April 08, 2024 Minutes
Community Development Director Taven Kinison Brown corrected the minutes. The City
will not be collecting money from businesses; it will be negotiating the rent with the Sign
company.
RESULT:
APPROVED [UNANIMOUS]
MOVER:
Adrian Paco, Commissioner
SECONDER: Alex Ramirez
AYES:
Tencia Vargas, Adrian Paco, Alex Ramirez, Gloria Velasquez,
EXCUSED:
Ernesto Mancera
.
REGULAR AGENDA
4.

Public Hearing to Consider Approval of Resolution No. PC 2024-02, a Resolution of the
Planning Commission of the City of Gonzales Allowing the Sale of Liquor for On-Site
Consumption to Complement Restaurant Service at Burger Pupuseria Liliana, 800 Fifth
Street, Suite H, Gonzales, CA 93926.
Staff Report: Community Development Director Taven Kinison Brown's presentation
introduced Liliana’s Burgers & Pupuseria restaurant. The restaurant, located on Fifth
Street, would like to offer beer or wine to complement its food service.
Chair Velasquez sought clarification on the limit of alcohol licenses in the City and
whether someone has to lose their license in order for someone to get a license.
Community Development Director Taven Kinison Brown explained that ABC has a given
amount per census tract for different regions. One factor that determines whether a license
is issued is whether the census district is saturated and whether the city has any concerns.
Chair Gloria Velasquez asked if the gas station next to the restaurant sells liquor.
Commissioner Tencia Vargas answered that the type of alcohol that the gas station sells is
beer, not open containers.
Community Development Director Taven Kinison Brown added that the difference is the
consumption on site. For the restaurant, you buy liquor with your meal not to go.

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Minutes Acceptance: Minutes of May 13, 2024 6:00 PM (CONSENT AGENDA)

3.

3

DRAFT

UNAPPROVED

Commissioner Adrian Paco sought clarification on the background and process of a public
notice.
Community Development Director Taven Kinison Brown explained that when a land use
permit is up for review, staff is obligated to mail properties within 300 feet to inform them
that a project might affect their property.

Community Development Director Taven Kinison Brown explained that the Planning
Commission has a say in regulating the time, place, and manner of different uses.
Commissioner Tencia Vargas asked if they could set hours based on the CUP.
Community Development Director Taven Kinison Brown explained that yes, they can set
hours, but they must provide a reason to justify it. He also added that the commission can
add conditions in their approval, and if those conditions are violated, the commission has
the power to revoke the CUP.
Commissioner Tencia Vargas asked if there is a standard for business hours. For example,
the Tap House closes at 10:00 pm.
Community Development Director Taven Kinison Brown answered that he is not aware of
a specific standard. He added that knowing that the Police Chief had any concerns showed
that Gonzales has a well-behaved community.
Chair Velasquez added that the only condition that she will add is that they only sell liquor
with a meal.
Community Development Director Taven Kinison Brown clarified that that is one of the
conditions already included in the CUP.
RESULT:
MOVER:
SECONDER:
AYES:
EXCUSED:

APPROVED [UNANIMOUS]
Tencia Vargas, Commissioner
Alex Ramirez
Tencia Vargas, Gloria Velasquez, Adrian Paco, Alex Ramirez
Ernesto Mancera

BUSINESS FROM PLANNING COMMISSION
5.

Oral Communications
Chair Gloria Velasquez shared her concerns about tow trucks occupying multiple spaces
and creating safety hazards. She shared that now there is a tow truck sign stating “tow
truck parking only”.

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Minutes Acceptance: Minutes of May 13, 2024 6:00 PM (CONSENT AGENDA)

Commissioner Adrian Paco sought further clarification on the hours that a restaurant can
sell alcohol.

3

DRAFT

UNAPPROVED

Community Development Director Taven Kinison Brown asked for an address, and he
will take a look at this.
Commissioner Alex Ramirez concurred with Chair Velasquez and proposed to limit the
length/height of vehicles parked on the street.

Community Development Director Taven Kinison Brown explained that there are
limitations to what a planning department can regulate. The realm of planning is private
property, and the realm of public streets and encroachments is police enforcement and
public works. For example, the use of the public right of way, such as installing a new
pipeline, street parking, or parades, falls under the realm of public works and police
departments.
Commissioner Alex Ramirez asked if this goes hand in hand with a previous conversation
relating to parking away from the corners.
Community Development Director Taven Kinison Brown will also explore that topic,
along with vehicle lanes and the possibility of fewer commercial vehicles in the
neighborhood.
Commissioner Tencia Vargas proposed that the planning commission seeks clarification
between the City code and the vehicle code to regulate vehicles. She emphasized the need
for the city to take a more proactive approach in addressing this issue. Commissioner
Vargas suggested using door hangers and social media posts to educate the community
about current parking regulations. She also mentioned that the lack of housing contributes
to parking issues and reiterated that these efforts would serve as a reminder of what is
permitted.
Chair Gloria Velasquez concurred and stated that posting this on the website and utility
bills would be a good idea.
Commissioner Tencia Vargas congratulated the City on the groundbreaking of the
forthcoming Community Center. She expressed her excitement about the progress and her
anticipation for the project's completion. Lastly, she raised the issue of lack of lighting
near the construction site by the Fairview Gym and asked the City to collaborate with the
school district to bring more lighting in that area.
Commissioner Adrian Paco commented about baseball diamonds and the lack of
maintenance. He asked who to ask about this matter.
Community Development Director Taven Kinison Brown explained that the city is
working to balance the allocations of public works crews and funds to maintain public
facilities. He noted that some parks, which are accessory to neighborhoods with
assessment districts are levied on to homeowners for maintenance and care, but the city
provides maintenance. He emphasized the need for the city to reconcile some of the books
related to these parks, but he is willing to learn more about the process.
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Minutes Acceptance: Minutes of May 13, 2024 6:00 PM (CONSENT AGENDA)

Commissioner Tencia Vargas echoed these concerns and mentioned potentially looking at
the vehicle code to see how we can regulate this issue.

3

DRAFT

UNAPPROVED

Commissioner Alex Ramirez inquired about the status of the H2A project and, if it is still
in place, whether traffic conditions could be imposed. He also inquired about potential
upgrades to the bridge on 5th Street.

Commissioner Alex Ramirez commented on the FLOCK camera system, which is linked
to police departments and facilitates the ability to read license plates and track cars. He
noted that this system would be a great help to the police department.
BUSINESS FROM COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR/BUILDING OFFICIAL
6.

Oral Communications
Community Development Director Taven Kinison Brown shared that the City received
preliminary comments from the state on the Housing Element. Revisions to the element
will be posted on the Website. He emphasized the importance of having a certified
Housing Element in place to remain eligible for state funds. He also highlighted the need
for the Planning Commission to be prepared for the Vista Lucia Specific Plan, noting its
complexity and different components.

ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was closed at 7:16 PM

Gloria Velasquez, Chairperson
ATTEST:
Alejandra Flores, Development
Technician / Administrative Analyst

Services

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Minutes Acceptance: Minutes of May 13, 2024 6:00 PM (CONSENT AGENDA)

Community Development Director Taven Kinison Brown responded that in the coming
months, the planning commission would review the Specific Plan and final EIR for the
Vista Lucia project. He mentioned that part of that development project includes a
proposal for a major boulevard construction plan to widen the street.

4

City of Gonzales

AGENDA
ITEM

4

PLANNING COMMISSION

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT
STAFF REPORT
DATE:

September 4, 2024

TO:

Honorable Chair and Planning Commission

FROM:

Taven Kinison Brown, Community Development Director

THROUGH: Carmen Gil, City Manager
SUBJECT:

Resolution No. PC 2024-03, Approving a Conditional Use Permit To Allow an
Offsite Advertising Billboard Sign on a City-Owned 6+Acre Parcel Adjacent To
Highway 101 on Assessor’s Parcel Number 020-201-022-000

RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends that the Planning Commission consider approval of Resolution No. PC 2024-03, A
resolution of the Planning Commission of the City of Gonzales Approving A Conditional Use Permit To
Allow an Offsite Advertising Billboard Sign On A City-Owned 6+Acre Parcel Adjacent To Highway 101
On Assessor’s Parcel Number 020-201-022-000.

BACKGROUND
A request was received from Legacy Signs on June 12, 2024, to build and operate an offsite advertising
digital billboard sign-off at 875 S. Alta Street, Gonzales, adjacent to Highway 101. This request followed
the City’s adoption of new amendments to the City’s Zoning Code to allow such a sign to be constructed
in the City. The Planning Commission considered the new ordinance on April 8, 2024, and the City
Council had the first reading of the new ordinance on May 6, 2024; the second reading was May 20,
2024, with the ordinance becoming effective 30 days later.
Public Notice was provided in the local Salinas Valley Tribune, appearing August 21, 2024, and direct
mailed notices were sent to all property owners within 300 feet of the subject property.

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PROJECT DESCRIPTION
The Sign. From the Applicant’s Conditional Use Permit application: “The sign shall be a single monopole
support with two digital 14’x 48’ screens on top in a “V” formation for optimal visibility towards auto
traffic on the highway. The sign’s overall height is no taller than 70’ from grade. The overall design of the
sign shall be done in a way that fits the local landscape and architectural theme of the City.
The screens used are considered by the industry to be the highest resolution for this particular type of
application. Additionally, the screens have light dimming and directional capabilities to minimize any
excess light and focus the display on the intended audience on the highway. The screens typically operate
18 hours per day from 6am to midnight.
24-hour remote monitoring is done to ensure the sign is
operating correctly. Regular service for the sign is minimal
and done once a year. If damage is done to the sign, which is
not often, technicians are immediately alerted and called
onto the site. Access to the sign will be granted by the
neighboring property owner, Constellation Brands (CB).
Due to the sign being landlocked by CB’s operations, the
site is fairly secure and unlikely to be vulnerable to
vandalism and graffiti.
The sign will be used for a variety of purposes, such as Cityendorsed
announcements,
celebrating
community
achievements, law enforcement, fire and natural disaster
emergency communications, and advertising. Local
businesses located within the City of Gonzales will receive a
discount on advertising space.”
Location

ANALYSIS
In revising the City’s sign code, there was a purposeful effort to write the code in such a way as to not

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open the whole cityscape to electronic/ digital signs. The City code is meant to be permissive in a limited
fashion and that there be the return of a public benefit to the City. The City will negotiate a revenue share
capacity for the use of a publicly owned property where such a sign would be located.
Standards. The proposed sign is subject to the new regulations of Section 12.116.125.
12.116.125

OFFSITE ADVERTISING BILLBOARD SIGNS

A. Offsite Advertising Billboard Signs are permitted in the Industrial District only in areas visible to
Highway 101 travelers, and the following standards shall apply:
1. No new permitted offsite advertising sign may be less than 3,000 feet from an existing
permitted offsite advertising sign.
2. New offsite advertising signs will only be allowed on property zoned industrial.
3. No new outdoor advertising structure shall be less than 500 feet from any existing church,
park, or school.
4. Only highway facing signs will be allowed.
5. Digital or static display is allowed.
6. Overall height from grade must be 70’or less.
7. The display sign area may be no more than 672 square feet, per face side.
8. Digital displays shall not rotate copy more frequently than every 6 seconds.
9. Sign structure and final architectural design must be approved by the City Planning
Department, and consistent with the recommendations of a design review process.
10. Development agreement, lease agreement or other agreement with the City of Gonzales.
a. The operations and City conditions for the use and utility of the advertising display shall
be included as part of a development agreement, lease agreement or other agreement with
the City of Gonzales, City Council.
b. The agreement must include revenue provisions to the City that allow the City to
undertake projects, programs or other activities funded by the City.
Please refer to the site plan in Exhibit A to the attached Planning Commission Resolution 2024-03. Staff
confirms that the offsite advertising billboard sign proposal conforms to the nine (9) standards above, and
the lease agreement (10) will track to the City Council following an affirmative action on the Conditional
Use Permit from the Planning Commission.
Design Review Committee Consideration.
On Wednesday, August 14, 2024, a design review committee gathered to discuss three potential designs
offered by Legacy Signs. Consisting of one City Council member, one Planning Commissioner, the City
Manager and the Economic Development Director, the Committee unanimously recommended that the
Planning Commission approve the design as shown above on page two of this report and as Exhibit B
attached to the Planning Commission Resolution. The committee thought that the selected design drew
from the architectural elements of the 4th Street archway and the green and tanned color features there
along Alta Street. This sign design is thought to amplify and build upon the unique Gonzales architectural
features there. It was even discussed that the City may want to encourage the coming residential and
commercial developments to also draw in some way from these features, further building on a “City of
Gonzales” architectural context.
CEQA Recommendation.
This project is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) per CEQA Guidelines
Section 15303: New Construction or Conversion of Small Structures. Class 3 Categorical Exemptions
includes a list of classes of projects that have been determined not to have a significant effect on the
environment and that are, therefore, exempt from the provisions of CEQA. The proposed billboard
monopole is a small structure with no expected significant effect on the environment and, therefore, the
project is not subject to CEQA.

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Relation to the Lease Agreement
Conditional Use Permits run with the land – not a person or business entity per se. In this situation for this
offsite advertising billboard sign proposal, the City of Gonzales is actually the property owner. In this
instance, the lease agreement will actually be the stronger governing document. The Planning
Commission’s Conditions of Approval (PC Resolution No. 2024-03) will be applied to the sign project
and will be included as an Exhibit/Attachment on the lease to be negotiated with the City Council.

FINDINGS
Section 1. Environmental Findings
A.
The application has been reviewed for compliance with the California Environmental Quality Act
and has been determined to qualify for an exemption under CEQA Guidelines Section 15303: New
Construction or Conversion of Small Structures, Class 3.
Section 2. Conditional Use Permit Findings
A.

The use is necessary or desirable in relation to the purposes and intent of the Gonzales general plan,
zoning ordinance, and the economic, social, and environmental status of the City.
The request is consistent with the General Plan designation of the site for industrial commercial
uses. The Gonzales zoning ordinance designates the site as Industrial. Subject to a conditional use
permit, offsite advertising billboard signs are permitted in the Industrial District subject to the new
regulations of Section 12.116.125. The sign presents an economic opportunity to drive new
business into the City of Gonzales, as well as to capture a negotiated fixed base rent return to the
City, and a percentage of revenue for portions of the revenue stream that may exceed the base rent.
Additionally, the City will be able to further its social programs and public outreach on the sign to
announce civic campaigns and promotions. Environmentally, the design and aesthetics of the
recommended sign design complement and enhance architectural themes and investments already
made in the City, such as the multimillion dollar improvements to Alta Minor and the archway and
trellises there.

B.

The use will be properly related to other uses, transportation facilities, and other public facilities in
the area, and will not cause undue environmental impacts relating to noise, odor, pollution, etc.
Subject to a conditional use permit, offsite advertising billboard signs are permitted in the
Industrial District only in areas visible to Highway 101 travelers and subject to the new regulations
of Section 12.116.125. The sign will have two sign faces and be oriented to both northbound and
southbound travelers. While on a City-owned parcel that includes a drainage basin, the sign
placement and foundation will not impact the public utility there, nor have impacts relating to
noise, odor, or pollution.

C.

The use will not adversely affect the health or safety of persons living or working in the vicinity or
be materially detrimental to the public welfare of the City and its residents.
Such offsite advertising billboard signs have been studied for health and safety reasons and it has
been found that while they do attract attention, its not to the point to distract vehicle operators from
the safe operation of their vehicles. The sign faces are oriented to passing traffic on Highway 101
and are not adjacent to residential neighborhoods or other sensitive receptors. With the utility to
display Amber Alerts and other emergency and community messages and social promotions, the
sign will actually enhance and further the public welfare of the City and its residents.

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CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL
Standard Conditions
1. Code Compliance. All construction and improvements and uses shall be in accordance with
zoning, building, fire, and all other codes and ordinances of the City of Gonzales or agencies that
have regulatory jurisdiction over the project. All such requirements shall be met prior to issuance
of a certificate of occupancy or final building inspection, except for items agreed to by the owner
and the Building Official.
2. Hold Harmless and Indemnification. Except to the extent the City has constructed
improvements on or about the property, the City and Applicant/Owner acknowledge that the City
has not made an independent investigation of the design of the proposed use, or conditions
affecting either design or use. Applicant/Owner shall indemnify and hold harmless the City, its
elective and appointive boards, commissions, officers, agents and employees from all damages,
injuries, claims and any and all liability and costs arising from or about the site or in connection
with the conduct of business thereon.
Applicant/Owner agrees to, and shall, defend City, its elective and appointive boards,
commissions, officers, agents, and employees, from any suits or actions at law or equity from
damages caused, or alleged to have been caused, by reason of the aforesaid use of the involved
site. Except as provided above, the terms of this paragraph shall apply to all damages and claims
for damages of every kind suffered, or alleged to have been suffered, by reason of the aforesaid
design or operations referred to herein, regardless of whether or not City has prepared, supplied
or approved of plans and or specifications for use of the proposed site. To the extent that
Applicant is required to indemnify and hold harmless the parties listed above, it shall have the
right to control the litigation, including but not limited to contracting for counsel of its choice,
and accepting or rejecting any settlement offer.
Special Conditions
3. Design. The sign approved shall be designed
according to the design recommended by the design
review committee, consisting of a 59-foot tall twofaced freeway oriented electronic reader monopole
sign, with architectural materials and colors
reflective of the City of Gonzales 4th Street Archway
at Alta Street. The sign will be constructed with
aluminum features and accents mounted on a steel
pole with a gemstone synthetic stone base. Each face
of the electronic display shall be allowed a maximum
display area of 14’ x 48’ feet totaling 672 square
feet, per face. The sign will also include two 7-foot
tall City shields mounted below each of the two
display faces (The Wine Capital golden shields).
4. Placement. The sign shall be placed on Assessor’s
Parcel Number 020-201-022-000, in accordance with
the Site Plan and vicinity map included in the City’s review and staff report.
5. Permitted Uses are more clearly included in the associated Lease Agreement with the City
Council of the City of Gonzales and Legacy Signs but are clarified here to include:

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a. Constructing, operating, maintaining, repairing, improving, the Digital Billboard, the
Sign Structure, and any utilities installed in connection with the Billboard Project.
b. Installing and maintaining utility wires, poles, cables, conduits, and pipes over or under
the Premises from the nearest accessible public right-of-way that support the permitted
operations of the Billboard Project.
c. All rights of ingress and egress over the Premises that Tenant needs to access the
Billboard Project under control of the City of Gonzales.
6. Term. The term of the sign shall be included in the Lease Agreement with the City Council of the
City of Gonzales and Legacy Signs.
7. No Nuisance/Use of Property. Use of the property shall be conducted in such a way that it does
not constitute a nuisance to the surrounding neighborhood. If the Planning Director/Planning
Commission/City Council finds at any time that any use of the property constitutes such a
nuisance or is otherwise detrimental to the neighborhood or to the community, the Lease
Agreement with the City Council of the City of Gonzales and Legacy Signs shall be consulted for
direction and remedy.
8. The Lease Agreement with the City Council of the City of Gonzales and Legacy Signs shall
govern all operations, rent and revenue provisions between the sign operator / tenant and the City
of Gonzales as may be amended from time to time.

CONCLUSION
Through the attached Planning Commission Resolution, staff recommends that the Planning Commission
Approve Resolution No. PC 2024-03, A resolution of the Planning Commission of the City of Gonzales
Approving A Conditional Use Permit To Allow an Offsite Advertising Billboard Sign On A City-Owned
6+Acre Parcel Adjacent To Highway 101 On Assessor’s Parcel Number 020-201-022-000.

Attachments:
1. Resolution No. PC 2024-03 w/ Exhibits

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A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION, OF THE CITY OF
GONZALES APPROVING A CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT TO ALLOW AN OFFSITE
ADVERTISING BILLBOARD SIGN ON A CITY-OWNED 6+ACRE PARCEL
ADJACENT TO HIGHWAY 101 ON ASSESSOR’S PARCEL NUMBER 020-201-022-000.
WHEREAS, a request was received from Legacy Signs on June 12, 2024, to build and
operate an offsite advertising digital billboard sign off of 875 S. Alta Street, Gonzales, adjacent to
Highway 101. and
WHEREAS, this request followed the City adopting new amendments to the City’s Zoning
Code to allow such a sign to be constructed in the City. and
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission considered the new ordinance on April 8, 2024,
and the City Council had their first reading of the new ordinance on May 6, 2024; the second
reading was May 20, 2024, with the ordinance becoming effective 30 days later. And
WHEREAS, public notice was provided in the local Salinas Valley Tribune, appearing
August 21, 2024, and direct mailed notices were sent to all property owners within 300 feet of the
subject property; and
WHEREAS, subject to the granting of a conditional use permit, an offsite advertising
digital billboard sign may be allowed in the Industrial District, subject to the provisions of Section
12.116.125. of the City of Gonzales Sign Code; and
WHEREAS, the offsite advertising digital billboard sign is described as a single monopole
support with two digital 14’x 48’ screens on top in a “V” formation for optimal visibility towards
auto traffic on Highway 101. The overall height of the sign is to be no taller than 70’ from grade;
and
WHEREAS, the screens on the sign are further described to have light dimming and
directional capabilities to minimize any excess light and focus the display on the intended audience
on the highway. The screens typically operate 18 hours per day from 6am to midnight; and
WHEREAS, the Location of the sign on City owned Assessor’s Parcel Number 020-201022-000; and
WHEREAS, access to the sign will be granted by the neighboring property owner,
Constellation Brands (CB). Due to the sign being landlocked by CB’s operations, the site is fairly
secure and unlikely to be vulnerable to vandalism and graffiti; and
WHEREAS, the sign will be used for a variety of purposes such as City endorsed
announcements, celebrating community achievements, law enforcement, fire and natural disaster
emergency communications and advertising. Local businesses located within the City of Gonzales
will receive a discount on advertising space; and

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Attachment: Resolution No. PC 2024-03 w/ Exhibits (3088 : Resolution No. PC 2024-03 CUP for Billboard Sign)

RESOLUTION NO. PC 2024-03

WHEREAS, the proposed sign is subject to the new regulations of Section 12.116.125, as
follows.
A. Off-Site Advertising Billboard Signs are permitted in the Industrial District only in areas
visible to Highway 101 travelers, and the following standards shall apply:
1. No new permitted off-site advertising sign may be less than 3,000 feet from an
existing permitted off-site advertising sign.
2. New off-site advertising signs will only be allowed on property zoned industrial.
3. No new outdoor advertising structure shall be less than 500 feet from any existing
church, park or school.
4. Only highway facing signs will be allowed.
5. Digital or static display is allowed.
6. Overall height from grade must be 70’or less.
7. Display sign area may be no more than 672 square feet, per face side.
8. Digital displays shall not rotate copy more frequently than every 6 seconds.
9. Sign structure and final architectural design must be approved by the City Planning
Department, and consistent with the recommendations of a design review process.
10. Development agreement, lease agreement or other agreement with the City of
Gonzales.
a. The operations and City conditions for the use and utility of the advertising
display shall be included as part of a development agreement, lease agreement or
other agreement with the City of Gonzales, City Council.
b. The agreement must include revenue provisions to the City that allow the City to
undertake projects, programs or other activities funded by the City.
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission confirms that the off-site advertising billboard sign
proposal conforms to the nine (9) standards above and the lease agreement (10) will track to the
City Council following an affirmative action on the Conditional Use Permit from the Planning
Commission; and
WHEREAS, on Wednesday, August 14, 2024, an assembled design review committee
gathered to discuss three potential designs offered by Legacy Signs. The Committee unanimously
recommends that the Planning Commission approve the design as shown and attached to the draft
Planning Commission Resolution; and
WHEREAS, Conditional Use Permits run with the land. In this situation for this off-site
advertising billboard sign proposal, the City of Gonzales is the property owner. In this instance,
the lease agreement will actually be the stronger governing document. The Planning
Commission’s Conditions of Approval (Resolution PC No. 2024-03) will be applied to the sign
project and will be included as an Exhibit/Attachment on the lease to be negotiated with the City
Council; and
WHEREAS, the application has been reviewed for compliance with the California
Environmental Quality Act and has been determined to qualify for an exemption under CEQA
Guidelines Section 15303: New Construction or Conversion of Small Structures, Class 3.

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Attachment: Resolution No. PC 2024-03 w/ Exhibits (3088 : Resolution No. PC 2024-03 CUP for Billboard Sign)

4.a

4.a

NOW THEREFORE, the Planning Commission of the City of Gonzales ordains as
follows:

A. The application has been reviewed for compliance with the California Environmental
Quality Act and has been determined to qualify for an exemption under CEQA Guidelines
Section 15303: New Construction or Conversion of Small Structures, Class 3.
Section 2. Conditional Use Permit Findings
B. The use is necessary or desirable in relation to the purposes and intent of the Gonzales
general plan, zoning ordinance, and the economic, social and environmental status of the
City.
The request is not inconsistent with the General Plan designation of the site for industrial
commercial uses. The Gonzales zoning ordinance designates the site as Industrial. Subject
to a conditional use permit, off-site advertising billboard signs are permitted in the
Industrial District subject to the new regulations of Section 12.116.125. The sign presents
an economic opportunity to drive new business into the City of Gonzales, as well as to
capture a negotiated fixed base rent return to the City, and a percentage of revenue for
portions of the revenue stream that may exceed the base rent. Additionally, the City will be
able to further its social programs and public outreach on the sign to announce civic
campaigns and promotions. Environmentally, the design and aesthetics of the recommended
sign design complement and enhance architectural themes and investments already made
in the city, such as the multimillion dollar improvements to Alta Minor and the archway and
trellises there.
C. The use will be properly related to other uses, transportation facilities, and other public
facilities in the area, and will not cause undue environmental impacts relating to noise,
odor, pollution, etc.
Subject to a conditional use permit, off-site advertising billboard signs are permitted in the
Industrial District only in areas visible to Highway 101 travelers and subject to the new
regulations of Section 12.116.125. The sign will have two sign faces and be oriented to both
northbound and southbound travelers. While on a City-owned parcel that includes a
drainage basin, the sign placement and foundation will not impact the public utility there,
nor have impacts relating to noise, odor or pollution.
D. The use will not adversely affect the health or safety of persons living or working in the
vicinity or be materially detrimental to the public welfare of the city and its residents.
Such off-site advertising billboard signs have been studied for health and safety reasons
and it has been found that while they do attract attention, it is not to the point to distract
vehicle operators from the safe operation of their vehicles. The sign faces are oriented to
passing traffic on Highway 101 and are not adjacent to residential neighborhoods or other

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Attachment: Resolution No. PC 2024-03 w/ Exhibits (3088 : Resolution No. PC 2024-03 CUP for Billboard Sign)

Section 1. Environmental Findings

4.a

CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL
Standard Conditions
1. Code Compliance. All construction and improvements and uses shall be in accordance
with zoning, building, fire, and all other codes and ordinances of the City of Gonzales or
agencies that have regulatory authority over the project. All such requirements shall be
met prior to issuance of a certificate of occupancy or final building inspection, except for
items agreed to by the owner and the Building Official.
2. Hold Harmless and Indemnification. Except to the extent the City has constructed
improvements on or about the property, the City and Applicant/Owner acknowledge that
the City has not made an independent investigation of the design of the proposed use, or
conditions affecting either design or use. Applicant/Owner shall indemnify and hold
harmless the City, its elective and appointive boards, commissions, officers, agents and
employees from all damages, injuries, claims and any and all liability and costs arising
from or about the site or in connection with the conduct of business thereon.
Applicant/Owner agrees to, and shall, defend City, its elective and appointive boards,
commissions, officers, agents and employees, from any suits or actions at law or equity
from damages caused, or alleged to have been caused, by reason of the previously
mentioned use of the involved site. Except as provided above, the terms of this paragraph
shall apply to all damages and claims for damages of every kind suffered, or alleged to
have been suffered, by reason of the previously mentioned design or operations referred to
herein, regardless of whether or not City has prepared, supplied or approved of plans and
or specifications for use of the proposed site. To the extent that Applicant is required to
indemnify and hold harmless the parties listed above, it shall have the right to control the
litigation, including but not limited to contracting for counsel of its choice, and accepting
or rejecting any settlement offer.
Special Conditions
3. Design. The sign approved shall be designed according to the design recommended by the
design review committee, consisting of a 59-foot tall two-faced freeway oriented electronic
reader monopole sign, with architectural materials and colors reflective of the City of
Gonzales 4th Street Archway at Alta Street. The sign will be constructed with aluminum
features and accents mounted on a steel pole with a gemstone synthetic stone base. Each
face of the electronic display shall be allowed a maximum display area of 14’ x 48’ feet
totaling 672 square feet, per face. The sign will also include two 7-foot tall City shields
mounted below each of the two display faces (The Wine Capital golden shields).
4. Placement. The sign shall be placed on Assessor’s Parcel Number 020-201-022-000. in
accordance with the Site Plan and vicinity map included in the City’s review and staff

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Attachment: Resolution No. PC 2024-03 w/ Exhibits (3088 : Resolution No. PC 2024-03 CUP for Billboard Sign)

sensitive receptors. With the utility to display Amber Alerts and other emergency and
community messages and social promotions, the sign will actually enhance and further the
public welfare of the city and its residents.

4.a

5. Permitted Uses are more clearly included in the associated Lease Agreement with the City
Council of the City of Gonzales and Legacy Signs but are clarified here to include:
a. Constructing, operating, maintaining, repairing, improving, the Digital Billboard,
the Sign Structure, and any utilities installed in connection with the Billboard
Project.
b. Installing and maintaining utility wires, poles, cables, conduits, and pipes over or
under the Premises from the nearest accessible public right-of-way that support the
permitted operations of the Billboard Project.
c. All rights of ingress and egress over the Premises that Tenant needs to access the
Billboard Project under control of the City of Gonzales.
6. Term. The term of the sign shall be included in the Lease Agreement with the City Council
of the City of Gonzales and Legacy Signs.
7. No Nuisance/Use of Property. Use of the property shall be conducted in such a way that
it does not constitute a nuisance to the surrounding neighborhood. If the Planning
Director/Planning Commission/City Council finds at any time that any use of the property
constitutes such a nuisance or is otherwise detrimental to the neighborhood or to the
community, the Lease Agreement with the City Council of the City of Gonzales and
Legacy Signs shall be consulted for direction and remedy.
8. The Lease Agreement with the City Council of the City of Gonzales and Legacy Signs
shall govern all operations, rent and revenue provisions between the sign operator / tenant
and the City of Gonzales as may be amended from time to time.
PASSED AND ADOPTED by the Planning Commission of the City of Gonzales at a
meeting held on this 4th day of September, 2024 by the following vote:
AYES:

COMMISSIONERS:

NOES:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:

COMMISSIONERS:
COMMISSIONERS:
COMMISSIONERS:
_______________________
Gloria Velasquez, Chair

_____________________________
Mary Villegas, Deputy City Clerk

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Attachment: Resolution No. PC 2024-03 w/ Exhibits (3088 : Resolution No. PC 2024-03 CUP for Billboard Sign)

report.

scale 1"=90'

Attachment: Resolution No. PC 2024-03 w/ Exhibits (3088 : Resolution No. PC 2024-03 CUP for Billboard Sign)

EXHIBIT A
SITE PLAN
Gonzales, CA 93926
Parcel ID: 020-201-022-000
Property line
Lot area: 6.19 Acres
Constellation Brands
Paper Size: 11"x17"
Processing Plant and Wine
Tasting Tours
Zoning: Industrial
Owner: City Of Gonzales
Applicant Name and Address:
5'
4
5
Scott Smith, 323 Tolak Road,
electrical
Aptos, CA 95003
underground

4.a

AGRICULTURAL

20'

Hw
1
y 10

'

701

7' 3
' 2

39

Property line

water overflow

1'

47'

48'

48

'

10'

12
3'

PROPOSED SIGN
1,152 sq ft

AGRICULTURAL

Property line

97'
12

1'

'

25

'2

294
5'

25

'
Property line

AGRICULTURAL

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EXHIBIT B

4.a

Alumiuli
Attachment: Resolution No. PC 2024-03 w/ Exhibits (3088 : Resolution No. PC 2024-03 CUP for Billboard Sign)

/

60 ti

City Seal Printed
w/ UV Coating

frame Made From
Alumin1Jm

Green Paint to Match
City Archway Downtown

7 ft

-

-steel

-

Pole

Genstone Synthetic Stone Base

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Attachment: PC July 29 2024 - Planning Documents (3089 : Planning Commission Workshop - the Tools &

Planning Commission Workshop
City of Gonzales

5.a

July 29, 2024

The Tools and Documents of Planning
Taven M. Kinison Brown, Community Development Director
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Staff, Planning Commissioners
and City Council Members
Community
Development

Planning
Commissioners

Support Staff

Technical Advisory

Legislative &
Decision making

Taven M. Kinison Brown

Chair Gloria Velasquez

Mayor Jose Rios

Alejandra Flores

Adrian Paco

Mayor Pro Tem
Scott Funk

Tencia Vargas

Alex Ramirez
Ernesto Mancera

Attachment: PC July 29 2024 - Planning Documents (3089 : Planning Commission Workshop - the Tools &

5.a

City Council

Maria Orozco
Lorraine Worthy
Liz Silva

Gonzales will continue to be a safe, clean, family-friendly community, diverse in its heritage, and
committed to working collaboratively to preserve and retain its small-town charm.

2

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5.a

1) What is an Amendment to the
General Plan?

6) What is a Development
Agreement?

2) What is a Specific Plan?

7) What is an Environmental
Impact Report?

3) What is Pre-Zoning?
4) What is a Tentative Map?
5) What is a Final Map?

Attachment: PC July 29 2024 - Planning Documents (3089 : Planning Commission Workshop - the Tools &

The Tools and Documents of Planning

8) What is a Condition
Compliance and Mitigation
Monitoring and Reporting
Program?
9) What is an annexation request?
What is LAFCo?

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What is an Amendment to a General Plan?

•

A change to the City’s guiding document and
Official Maps

•

Goals, Policies and Programs

•

Often based on Land Uses

4

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Attachment: PC July 29 2024 - Planning Documents (3089 : Planning Commission Workshop - the Tools &

5.a

Attachment: PC July 29 2024 - Planning Documents (3089 : Planning Commission Workshop - the Tools &

5.a

What is a Specific Plan?
•

A written planning document that implements
goals and policies of the General Plan, but in a
smaller area than the whole city.

•

Contains detailed Development Standards and
Implementation Measures.

•

It is also a mapped area overlayed onto the
City’s General Plan Map.

•

Projects in plan areas must follow the Specific
Plan Development Standards and Measures.

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Attachment: PC July 29 2024 - Planning Documents (3089 : Planning Commission Workshop - the Tools &

5.a

What is Prezoning?
• Cities may "prezone" lands located within the
surrounding county in the same way that they
approve zoning within the city.
• Prezoning is done before annexation of the land
to the city in order to facilitate its transition into
the city boundaries.

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Attachment: PC July 29 2024 - Planning Documents (3089 : Planning Commission Workshop - the Tools &

5.a

What is a Tentative Map?
• A subdivision map that divides a larger property
into smaller properties.
• Shows roads and access to each of the smaller
properties, and other things too like parks,
pathways, public landscaping areas.
• A discretionary review and approval process
used by cities and counties.

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Attachment: PC July 29 2024 - Planning Documents (3089 : Planning Commission Workshop - the Tools &

5.a

What is a Final Map?
• After a Tentative Map has been reviewed and
approved, Final Maps can be processed.
• Creates the individual property lots for
which building permits may be issued.
• There may be several or many Final Maps for
smaller sections of the Tentative Map.

• A ministerial review. Approval is required if the
final map is in substantial conformance with the
approved tentative map conditions.

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Attachment: PC July 29 2024 - Planning Documents (3089 : Planning Commission Workshop - the Tools &

5.a

What is a Development Agreement?
• A legally binding contract between a property
owner or developer and a local government.
• Often includes terms not otherwise required through
existing regulations.
• A “Business Agreement” that clarifies responsibilities
of the developer and the City, including timing,
how expenses are shared and how business will be
conducted between parties.

9

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What is an Environmental Impact Report?
• An Analysis of potential effects
environment and community.

on

the

• It identifies measures and alternatives to avoid
potentially significant effects.
• Process is very public and procedural, so that the
City knows what to expect.

10

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Attachment: PC July 29 2024 - Planning Documents (3089 : Planning Commission Workshop - the Tools &

5.a

Attachment: PC July 29 2024 - Planning Documents (3089 : Planning Commission Workshop - the Tools &

5.a

What is a Condition Compliance and
Mitigation Monitoring and
Reporting Program?
• Describes the procedures for implementing the
protective measures identified in the Draft and Final EIR.
• Project applicants are required to satisfy the conditions
and mitigation measures.

• The City is responsible to assure that the conditions and
mitigation measures are being performed and satisfied.

11

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Attachment: PC July 29 2024 - Planning Documents (3089 : Planning Commission Workshop - the Tools &

5.a

What is an annexation request?

• The process by which a city or special district adds
land to its jurisdiction.
• The city then extends its services, laws, and voting
privileges to meet the needs of residents living in
the new annexed area.

12

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What is LAFCo?
LAFCo means: Local Agency Formation Commission.
• Two County Supervisors: Mary Adams and Wendy Root Askew

• Two Mayors: Kimbley Craig and Ian Oglesby
• Two Special District Members: Mary Ann Leffel, Chad Lindley
• One Public Member: Matt Gourley

Attachment: PC July 29 2024 - Planning Documents (3089 : Planning Commission Workshop - the Tools &

5.a

• And there are four “Alternates:” Anna Velazquez, Chris Lopez,
Mike Bickle, David Kong

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Attachment: PC July 29 2024 - Planning Documents (3089 : Planning Commission Workshop - the Tools &

5.a

Other Outreach and Education
June 22, 2024
July 4, 2024
July 13, 2024
July 29, 2024

Financial Literacy (English)
Flyers handed out at Park
Financial Literacy (Spanish)
Planning Commission (Workshop)

Website, Facebook and Instagram Updates
“Interest in Housing List”

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QUESTIONS?

The Tools and Documents of Planning

Attachment: PC July 29 2024 - Planning Documents (3089 : Planning Commission Workshop - the Tools &

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