PC 101415 - Laserfiche WebLink

to use their garages for parking. She indicated that it is common knowledge that a lot of people use their garages for storage; however, when staff puts specific conditions on this because of things like this business where parking is necessary, staff can condition the project to make sure it is not used for storage. She added that this is the purpose of these kinds of conditions and that this is a perfect example of where it is appropriate to firm up what is already in the Municipal Code with conditions stating that a specific amount of garage space shall be used for parking. Commissioner Balch noted that that was one of the conditions the Commission added for another daycare on the other side of town by the Walmart area. He recalled that parking was a big issue because that complex had a requirement that the residents use their garage for parking because there was no additional parking available. He stated that this is an older home and assumed the PUD did not have the requirement that the garage be used for parking, and that the Commission can still impose it as part of the Conditions of Approval. Commissioner O'Connor noted that five spaces were marked as available for parent drop -off. He asked if staff was aware that the tenants of the home actually have three vehicles of their own, such that even if they parked two of their cars in the garage, there would really be only four places for drop -off and pick -up. Mr. Luchini replied that at the Zoning Administrator hearing, there was mention of only two vehicles. He stated that he believes the third vehicle came to light after the Zoning Administrator hearing, and the neighbors brought to staff's attention that the tenants had an additional vehicle, a van, that was being parked on the street. Commissioner O'Connor noted that if a teacher parks in in front of the home or in the driveway, there would be only three spaces available for the drop -off and pick -up. Ms. Harryman stated that the Municipal Code talks about parking with a reasonable distance and does not necessarily mean in the driveway or immediately in front of the home. She noted that while staff probably does not have to require them to have the two parking spaces in the garage to be used for occupants, it makes sense here given this particular neighborhood. She added that staff has seen applications elsewhere where there was no driveway for pick -up and drop -off or any street parking, and that would not be an appropriate place to locate a daycare because there is nowhere for the parents to park. She further added that this neighborhood is not situated that way. Commissioner Ritter inquired if there is any State regulation requiring square footage inside the house for a large daycare. Ms. Harryman replied that that is regulated by State law and the licensing department; cities do not have the ability to look at that. She stated that she understands the applicants did receive their license, and the Fire Department would look at certain things relating to fire safety. Commissioner Ritter asked if for the Commission to not approve this, it would need to make a finding other than the potential parking issue that the house is not suitable as a daycare for 12 children. PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES, October 14, 2015 Page 30 of 35