Title
PLN160258 - DRISCOLL STRAWBERRY ASSOCIATES INC.
Public hearing to consider action on establishment of a research and development breeding facility consisting of an agricultural support facility, greenhouses, and screenhouses.
Project Location: 1790 San Juan Road, Aromas, North County Area Plan
Proposed CEQA action: Categorically Exempt per Section 15301 of the CEQA Guidelines
Report
RECOMMENDATION:
It is recommended that the Zoning Administrator:
1) Find the project Categorically Exempt per Section 15301 of the CEQA Guidelines; and
2) Approve the Combined Development Permit (PLN160258) consisting of:
a. A Use Permit to allow construction of a 22,052 square foot agricultural support facility for offices, fruit lab, cold box, storage and ancillary space; and
b. A Use Permit to allow construction of 151,238 square feet of greenhouses and screenhouses.
The attached resolution includes findings and evidence for consideration (Exhibit B). Staff recommends that the Zoning Administrator adopt the resolution approving PLN160258 subject to 17 conditions of approval.
PROJECT INFORMATION:
Agent: Charles Eadie, Eadie Consultants
Property Owner: Driscoll Strawberry Associates Inc.
APN: 267-043-017-000
Parcel Size: 43.39 Acres
Zoning: Farmland, 40-acres per unit or "F/40"
Plan Area: North County Area Plan
Flagged and Staked: No
SUMMARY/DISCUSSION:
The subject property is located at 1790 San Juan Road, Aromas, within the inland area of North Monterey County. The adjacent property to the north is developed with an agricultural processing facility providing warehouse storage and shipping services for Driscoll Strawberry Associates Inc. Outside of that, agricultural fields planted with row crops are found within a one-mile radius of the property.
The 43.39-acre site is prime farmland that is currently farmed with strawberries. Improvements on the site include a utility barn, modular office building, wells, and a driveway and access road. The applicant requests a Us...
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