HomeMy WebLinkAbout06/11/1986PLANNING COD4IISSION
TOWN OF LOS ALTOS HILLS
26379 Fremont Road
Los Altos Hills, California
Nq,3nesday, Jame 11, 1986
Reel 121, Side II, Tract II, 524-E]'d; Reel 122, Side I, Tract I, 000 -End,
Side II, Tract I, 000-074
chairman Carico called the meeting to order at 7:35 p.m. in the Tann Hall
Council Chambers.
•• It Nt•N N i N
Present: Commissioners Gottlieb, Kaufman, Lachenbruch, Struthers, Yanez and
Chairman Carico
Absent: Commissioner Siegel
Staff: Michael W. Enright, City Engineer; Nancy Lytle, Town Planner;
Leslie Mullins, Secretary -
City
Council Rep: Counciluuman van Tamelen
N a �
0 B.1. removed: (Lytle & Carico )
Ns. Lytle amended the minutes on page two, second to last paragraph to add:
Commissioners opinions were not based upon public hearing, as this item is
preliminary assessment of the applicants proposal.
Carico amended the minutes on page two, last paragraph to add: Reasoning
for statement is that,the applicant could apply for subdivision (one lot)
to accomodate another dwelling.
Carico amended the minutes on page four, fourth paragraph to add: Commission
asked for legal interpretation of this application, as applicant indicated
the proposal had previously received City Council approval.
MOTION sBcoNDED AND CARRIED: Moved by Gottlieb, seconded by Struthers and
passed unanimously to approve the minutes of May 28, 1986 as amended.
Commissioner Lachenbruch abstained from approval.
MOTION SECONDED AND CARRIED: Moved by Gottlieb, seconded by Struthers and
passed unanimously to schedule the folle;dng items for public hearing for
the ,Time 25, 1986 Agenda:
1. Lands of Corkett, 28155 Christophers Lane, Appeal of Administrative Decision
for proposed addition.
2. Ordinance Amendment concerning setback lines for residence structures
STUDY SESSION:
�. Zoning Ordinance AmendMent (Bulk) -Planning Commission (thanon
to ossiole Joi;.t Steiy 5esslm w to City Council) .
Commissioner Kaufman abstained.
Planning Cammmission Minutes - June 11, 1986
Page Two
C. REPORT FROM CITY COUNCIL MEETING OF JUNE 4, 1986:
4 Commissioner Yanez reported the City Council approved Special Land Use Permits
for Sonek, Binder and Wong; Right -of -Way acquisition for Miller Property on
S -Curve Project continued to June 9, 1986 at 2:00 p.m.; Kerman, Matadero Creek
allowed to exceed building coverage and developnent area; relocation of
Fremont Road entrance; discussion of landscape bond increase.
Chairman Carioo informed ccnmission she has received a letter from Mayor Fuhrman
regarding the Fremont Road entrance relocation, asking Commission to give input,
this item will be discussed under "New Business".
D. PUBLIC HEARINGS:
1. LANDS OF E 4BERG, FILE #TP4 12-84, Taaffe Road, APN: 182-13-007,
(Nowack & Associates - Engineer), Proposed Four Lot Subdivision,
and Negative Declaration
Ms. Lytle referred to her Staff Report dated June 4, 1986, informing Camussion
the applicant proposes to subdivide the 7.61 gross acres into 4 lots, noting the
property is currently developed with both a primary and a pre-existing secondary
residence, accessory buildings and amenities. Ms. Lytle gave Comnission a
brief description of the proposed subdivision in terms of zoning and subdivision
requirements, noting the proposed subdivision complies with state and local
subdivision ordinance requirements. Ms. Lytle informed Canmission issues related
to the subdivision include: Geotechnical Constraints; Pathways; Conservation
Easement; and Building Site Constraints. Ms. Lytle recomnerded that the Planning
Commission adopt a motion recommending that the City Council approve the filing
of a Negative Declaration for this project with the Santa Clara County Clerk;
and that the Planning Commission adopt a motion recamending that the City
Council approve the Lards of Elmberg `ipntative Map, subject to the attached
Conditions of Approval, to the Staff Report.
Camussion questioned the use of gravity sewer system, proposed lot configuration
and sizes; and possible need because of the shape of the lots for variances with
regard to future developent.
The Public Hearing was then opened with regard to the Negative Declaration.
Mr. Paul Noack, representing Owner, indicated the proposed lots can accomodate
houses which'can be easily screened with existing trees on the property, noting
the proposed conservation easement provides open space.
Mrs. Wendy Correll, 26811 Taaffe Road, informed Crnmission the deer population
has decreased over the years, noting she is pleased to see conservation easement
proposed.
Commission discussed the conservation easement proposed, indicating the need
for fences allowed Which would allow the movement of animals from adjacent
properties.
The Public Hearing was then closed.
MOTION SECONDED AND CARRIED: Moved by Kaufman, seconded by Struthers and passed
unanimously to recc miend the City Council approve the filing of a Negative Declara-
4W tion for the Lands of Elmberg, with the Santa Clara County Clerk.
Conmission discussed proposed pathway easements and connections to existing
with Mary Stutz.
The Public Hearing for the Tentative Map was then opened.
planning Comussian Minutes - Sure 11, 1986
page Three
D. PUBLIC LiF'ARINGS:
( 1. LANDS OF EIM EIC: (continued)
Mr. Paul No,,ck, informed Cumussion, Mrs. Elmberg has reviewed the proposed
Conditions of Approval and only opposes Condition 1.D. regarding the pathway
easerent.
Carmissioner Gottlieb expressed concern over recomending approval of a subdivision
which lots do not meet our zoning ordinances, noting property owners will feel
the need for requesting variances in future, noting she would prefer the map be
sent back to engineer for re -design of a three lot subdivision, which would
better accomodate future developnent.
Cmmissioner lachenbruch noted he appreciates Gottliebs cori. ts, however, the
property can accarodatefour lots, if designed differently, noting concern over
Lot #2, re: Section9-4.603(c); 350'circle; noting this is not a very usable
configuration, and needs to be redesigned to better accrnndate four lots.
Ms. Lytle informed Commission the Subdivision Committee held two reviews of the
subject property, noting it was their concern also over the proposed lot
configuration, however, Mrs. Elmberg is comtitted to this design for many
reasons (i.e., trees, driveway, etc.), reconrending the Camaassion do not recamend
disapproval should the applicant disagree because of mandated subdivision
laws regarding time periods.
Conmissioner Struthers and Yanez indicated the same concerns voiced by Gottlieb
and Lachenbrvch, asking the applicant for re -design to better accoodate four
lots.
Comdssioner Kaufman noted the lots are legal, they meet all ordinance and state
requirements, noting he did not feel without legal reasoning that the Commussion
could recortnend disapproval of the proposed subdivision.
Mr. Nowack informed Cmmission that he did not feel there would be any point in
going back to the owner, noting this is what she wants, the lots meet ordinances,
asking cmmission to reca m d approval of the proposed tentative map to the
City Council.
The Public Hearing was then closed, cmmission began review of the proposed
Conditions of Approval.
MOl'ICN SECONDED AND CARRIED: Moved by Struthers, seconded by Gottlieb and passed
unanimously to amend Condition I.A. to read as follows: The owner shall dedicate
a Conservation Easement as re -redlined by staff (over to edge of property) on the
7�-ntative Map (dated Received,"April 22, 1986" to the satisfaction of the City
Engineer and Tbwn Planner. No structures, grading or vegetation removal shall be
allowed within the easement, except brush clearing for fire protection purposes,
and small ornamp-ntal garden structures to the satisfaction of Site Developmnt
Camndttee, and open style fences which would not prohibit migration of native
animals.
Passed by the following Roll Call vote to Amend Condition 1.C. as follows: The
owner shall dedicate private right-of-way for the first approximately 60 feet of
access off Taaffe Road for Parols 2,3, and 4, as redlined by staff on the Tentative
Map and to the satisfaction of the City Engineer.
AYES: Commissioners Kaufman, Iachenbruch, Yanez and Carico
NOES: camussioners Gottlieb and Struthers
planning Oammission Minutes - June 11, 1986
Page Four
D. PUBLIC BEARINGS:
6 1. LANDS OF EEK3ERc:(continued)
` MOTION SECONDED AND CARRIED: Moved by Struthers, seconded by Lachenbruch and
passed unanimously to amend condition I.D. to read as follows: The owner shall
dedicate a pedestrian/equestrian easement, 10 feet in width along the entire
westerly property line, to the satisfaction of the City Engineer and Pathway
Committee Chairmen.
MOTION SECCNDED AND CARRIED: Moved by Lachenbruch, seconded by Kaufman and
passed unanimously to approve Conditions 2.A., 2.B., and 2.C. as re -numbered.
(Shown in Staff Report as 2.A., 2.B., and 3.B.)
MOTION SECONDED AND CAR=: Moved by Gottlieb, seconded by Struthers and
passed by the following roll call vote to amend Condition 5.B. as follows:
The applicant shall enter into a recorded agreenent to preserve mature
trees along tho westerly property line, and mature oak trees, (i.e., 30"
on Parcel #4; 24" on Parcel #2, between Lots 3 and 4).
AYES: Commissioners Gottlieb, lachenbruch, Struthers, Yanez and Chairnen Carico
NOES: Commissioner Kaufman
Passed by Consensus to anend Condition 6.A. to read: 4 lots @ $200.00 Per lot,
MOTION SECONDED AND CARRIED: Moved by Carico, seconded by Lachenbruch and
passed by the following roll call vote that the pathway easement be cleared
along the westerly property line.
AYES: Comiissioners Gottlieb, Kaufman, Lachenbruch, Struthers and Chairman Carico
NOES: None
ABSTAIN: Commissioner Yanez
Ms. Lytle suggested the Commission recommend approval of the 'tentative Map
subject to the applicant's engineer revising Lot #2 to meet the 350' rule
brought up earlier by Commissioner Lachenbruch.
MOTION SECONDED AMID .CARRIED: Moved by Lachenbruch, seconded by Struthers and
passed by the following roll call vote to recomnend approval of the Lands Of
Elmberg, File #IM 12-84, to the City Council subject to the Conditions of Approval
attached to the Staff Report dated June 4, 1986, and as amended by Planning
Commission, and with the non -conformity of Parcel #2, being corrected by
Nowack & Associates prior to being presented to City Council for their consideration.
ROLL CALL:
AYES: Commissioners Kaufman, Iachenbruch, Struthers, Yanez and Chairman Carico
NOES: Commissioner Gottlieb
ABSTAIN: None
Commissioner Gottlieb noted she voted against recommendation of approval for the
subject Tentative Map because the lots are too restrictive as designed.
2. LANDS OF BORKE., CAMERON, MURPHY (OWEN), FILE #PM 2-85, APN: 175-32-049, 050,
051, and 048, Lot Line Adjustment and Lot Consolidation
Ms. Lytle referred to her Staff Report dated June 5, 1986, noting the proposed
project involves four .lots created in 1984 under the Lands of Fowle Subdivision,
and is currently being proposed to allow the applicant to construct an estate
style residence with numerous residential amenities, i.e., tennis court, pool,
cabana, caretakers cottage, residence, etc., noting the lot line adjustment is
proposed to better accomodate the design of the main residence and driveway.
MIs. Lytle noted staff has not raised any issues of concern identified with this
application, recortmending Ccmmdssion adopt a motion approving Tentative Int Line
Planning Camuission Minutes - June 11, 1986
Page Five
D. PUBLIC HEARINGS:
2. LMDS OF CWEN (Lot Line Adjustment) Continued:
Adjustment and Consolidation, subject to Conditions of Approval attached to
the June 5, 1986 Staff Report.
Comuissioner Kaufman requested docunarts reflect "Old Trace Lane" not "Old
Trace Read" throughout. Comnussioner Lachenbruch requested that the IAF,
Average Slope, Site Circle Slope be included on maps when presented for review.
Ms. Lytle infonued Larhenbruch and Commission this request is not a requirement
of our Subdivision ordinance.
The Public Hearing was then opened.
Mr. Ken Pastrof, poen Companies, infoneod Omission he has reviewed the Staff
Report and concur with Conditions stipulated.
The Public Hearing was then closed.
MOTION SECONDED AND CARRIED: Moved by Kaufman, seconded by lachenbiuch and
passed unanimously to approve the Lands of Owen, File OM 2-85, Lot Line
Adjustment and Consolidation subject to Conditions of Approval attached to
the June 5, 1986 Staff Report
3. LAMIDS OF MURPHY/CWEN, OLD TRACE LANE, Request for Site Development Permit for
New Residence, Driveway, Tennis Court, swimming Pool, Cabana, and Caretaker's
Cottage
Mr. Enright referred to his memo of June 6, 1986, noting in his review of the
proposed development he has recommnded conditions of approval for the Site Develop-
nrent Permut and general comrents regarding the proposal. Mr. Enright informed
Cannission before review of the project, the Co,umission should first review the
proposed 12' retaining wall at the westerly end of the garage.
Ms. Lytle referred to her Staff Report dated June 5, 1986, noting the applicant
is requesting a Site Developrent Peanut for New Residence, Driveway, Tennis Court,
&T mning Pool, Cabana, and Caretaker's Cottage on old Trace Lane, noting
in conjunction with this application, the applicant filed for a lot consolidation
lot line adjustment and conditional use peanut. MIs. Lytle noted the proposal
should be reviewed according to the Site Development Ordinance, sUnUarized in the
Checklist (provided), in addition to the checklist, the following issues should
also be addressed: 1) Retaining Wall as described by Mr. Enright in his June 6,
1986 Memo; 2) Forty Foot Setback determination; 3) Tbwn Geologist, Fire Department,
and City Engineers recd mendations and convents should also be incorporated into
any approval; and 9) Recovendation to City Council regarding Special Land Use
Pendt, (Guidelines attached).
The Public Hearing was then opened.
Mr. Ken Pastrof, Owpn Cmpanies, referred to Mr. Enrights mend of June 6, 1986,
noting they agree to stipulate to Conditions 1,2,3,5, and 6,. noting #6, he
has tried to relate to Coumission in his letter of May 30th as to the reasoning
[ for the proposed retaining wall. If the retaining wall was lowered, Mr. Pastrof
4/ infonned Caumission, they would then need to adjust the slope and possibly renove
sane of the existing eucalyptus trees, noting he does not believe that the garage
area is out of proportion for this residence. Mr. Pastrof noted they have had
discussions with neighbors and are trying to he sensitive to them and the property
as the project is very large.
Planning Comnission Minutes - June 11, 1986
Page Six
D. PUBLIC HEARINGS:
3. LANDS OF MURPHY/UfEN (continued)
The Public Hearing was then closed.
Commission discussed the intent of the Wall and Fence Ordinance with regard to
the proposed retaining wall, discussing possible alternatives and sizes, location
and heights.
Mr. Bob Owen, informed Commission he has been working on these plans for two years,
and has spent much time with the neighbors and Mrs. Cameron, noting the garage
has been dropped into the ground so it will not be an impact and the necessity
for -the proposed retaining wall. Mr. Owen informed 0mmission the project is for
himself and his immediate family, noting the project is 2,000 sq.ft. under the
max5noim allowed by ordinance.
MOTION SECONDED AND CARRIED: Moved by Kaufman, seconded by Iachenbruch and
passed by the following roll call vote to interpret the proposed retaining
wall shown on the Site Develornent Plans meets the intent of Y micipal Cade
Section 9-5.503 (c).
ROLL CAIS,:
AYES: Camdssioners Kaufman, Lachenbruch, Yanez and Chairman Carico
NOES: oomm ssioner Gottlieb and Struthers
ABSTAIN: None
MOTION SECONDED AND CARRIED: Moved by Kaufman, seconded by Lachenbruch and
passed unanimously that the forty foot (40') setback be taken from old Trace
6 lane.
Commission began a review of the Conditions of Approval in the Mery dated
June 6, 1986 by Michael Enright.
Passed by Consensus to approve Conditions 1, 2, 3, and 5 as written.
Condition #4, passed by consensus to add: The eucalyptus tree shall not be
disturbed with construction of retaining wall.
Condition #6, passed by consensus to amand "Authority" to "COmmittee".
Passed by Consensus to Add Condition #7, to read as follows: As per letter
from Stuart Farwell, Los Altos Fire District, dated March 4, 1986, the applicant
shall install a fire hydrant at a location selected by the Fire Department.
The hydrant shall be capable of flawing 1,000 G.P.M. or better. In lieu of
the above, all buildings on parcel 1 shall be protected by residential fire
sprinklers.
Passed by consensus to Add Condition #8, to read as follows: Site and
Geotechnical Plan Review - The geologic and geotechnical reports were prepared
in 1982 and 1983, and need to be updated. The applicant shall retain the
services of the subdivision geotechnical consultants to inspect the current
site conditions, review and modify (as needed) the subdivision geotechnical
report, and review and approve the geotechnical aspects of the development plans,
(i.e., site preparation and final grading, site drainage irprovements, and design
parameters for the foundations, retaining walls, etc.) to ensure their conformance
with existing site conditions and the subdivision geotechnical report.
The results of the site and plan reviews shall be sumnarized in a letter by
the geotechnical consultant and submitted to the Toon to be reviewed and approved
by the Town Geologist and Engineer prior to issuance of Site Development and
Building Permits.
Planning Camuission Minutes - June 11, 1986
Page Seven
D. PUBLIC HEARINGS:
4W 3. LANDS OF MURPHY/OWEN (continued)
Passed by Consensus to Add Condition #9, to read as follows:
9. Geotechnical Field Inspection - The geotechnical consultant shall inspect,
test (asneeded), and approve all geotechnical aspects of project construction.
These inspections shall include, but not necessarily be limited to:
site preparation and grading, site drainage improvements, and foundation
and retaining wall excavation prior to the placement of steel and concrete.
The results of these inspections and the as -built conditions shall be
described by the geotechnical consultant in a letter and submitted to
the Town Engineer for review prior to final project approval.
Passed by Consensus to Add Condition #10, to read as follows: Excavation
material shall be removed to the satisfaction of the City Engineer.
MOTION SECONDED AND CARRIED: Moved by Lachenbruch, seconded by Yanez and
passed unanimously to approve the Site Development Permit for the Lands of Murphy/
Owen, Old Trace Lane, New Residence, Tennis Court, Swimming fool, Driveway, Cabana,
Caretaker's Cottage subject to Conditions of Approval as amended.
MOTION SBMNDED AND CARRIED: Moved by Kaufman, seconded by Carico and passed
unanimously to recommend approval of the Special Land Use Permit for the Lands of
nxuphy/Oaen, Old Trace Lane to the City Council subject to the height of structures
at 27'.
9. LANDS OF MURPHY/OWEN, FILE #CUP 10-85, OLD TRACE LANE, Peguest for approval
of Conditional Use Permit to allow a secondary dwelling unit
Ms. Lytle referred to her staff report dated June 5, 1986, noting this application
is for a C.U.P. to construct a caretaker's cottage on property located on old
Trace Lane. Ms. Lytle noted findings in Section 9-5.1107 (a)(i-iv), necessary
to grant a C.U.P. can be made, as the secondary unit conforms with the Zoning
Ordinance, is properly located, adequate to accomodate the use, site is served
by adequate roads, and the use is not anticipated to adversely effect the abutting
property, as may be conditioned by the Site Development Authority. Ms. Lytle
noted the requixee is for secondary dwelling units as set forth in Section
9-5.703 (k) can be met with the proposal, the unit is detached and limited by
ordinance to 1,000 sq. ft. (proposed unit 985 sq.ft.), the unit is architecturally
ccapatible with the primary residence and will be connected to sanitary sewer.
Ms. Lytle informed Commission there are two additional potential secondary dwelling
units proposed within this development plan, noting staff has determined that neither
fits the administrative definition of a secondary dwelling unit, the cabana is
primarily an open-air facility and the dormitory above the garage will not be
allowed to have 220 volt electrical or gas cennection and therefore a CUP would not
be required or Variance. Staff reconmends the Planning Commission adopt a notion
to approve the above referenced Conditional Use Permit subject to the attached
staff recce ended conditions of approval.
The Public Hearing was then opened.
Mr. Ren Pastrof, Owen Companies, in review of the Conditions of Approval, we
agree to 1 through 9, but request Condition #10 be deleted, as this proposal
due to the size, we would require two meters, for both water and electric.
The Public Hearing was then closed.
Planning Cmmission Minutes - Jure 11, 1986
Page Eight
D. PUBLIC HEARINGS:
(' 4. LANDS OF MURPHY/G9jRN (continued)
;l MOTION SEOCNDED AND CARRIED: Moved by Kaufman, seconded by Iachenbruch
and passed by the following roll call vote to delete Condition #10.
ROLL CALL:
AYES: Commissioners Kaufman, Lachenbruch, Yanez and Chairman Carico
NOES: Commissions Gottlieb and Struthers
MDTICN SECONDFD AND CARRIED: Moved by Iachenbruch, seconded by Kauffman and
passed unanimously to approve the Lands of Murphy/OWM, File #CUP 10-85,
subject to amended Conditions of Approval attached to the June 5, 1986
Staff Report
5. LANDS OF cAR4 S, 14090 Tracy Court, Request for approval of Site
De,elopsot Permit for Gest House/Studio, Swimming Pool, Fool Decks,
Driveway Modification, Retaining Walls and Fence
Ms. Lytle referred to her Staff Report dated June 5, 1986, noting the
applicant is requesting a Site Developrent Permit for a swfmling pool, studio/
guest house, pool decks, driveway =codification, retaining walls and fence,
noting this property is one of those severely damaged in the July 1, 1985 fire,
and the rebuilding of the primary residence, front walk, back patio and arbor
was previously approved by the Disaster Site DeveloEment Camiittee. Along
with the rebuilding, Ms. Lytle noted, the applicant has a desire to make same
improvements to the property. Ms. Lytle informed Commission, the project
(40 should be reviewed according to the Site Development Ordinance, sucmmarized
in the Checklist attached to the Staff Report. Ms. Lytle recamended that
Cmudssion approve the Site Development Permit, subject to conditions as
listed in the Jame 5, 1986 Staff Report.
Mr. Enright noted a condition should be added that the drainage for the
subject project be to the satisfaction of the City Engineer.
The Public Hearing was then opened.
Mr. Don Brandeau, Representing Owner, asked for clarification of when the
Landscape Plan would be required. Staff indicated prior to final inspection
of Bailding Permit for the Swimming Pool and Gest House.
The Public Hearing was then closed.
MOPICN SECCNDED AND CARRIED: Moved by Kaufman, seconded by Gottlieb, and
passed unan -mously to approve the Site Development Pezmit for the Lands of
Carnes, subject to Conditions of Approval as in the June 5, 1986 Staff Report
and new Condition: #2: Drainage shall be to the satisfaction of the City
Engineer.
LANDS OF CARDS, FILE #COP 4-86, 14090 Tracy Court, Request for approval
of Conditional Use Permit for Secondary Dwelling [mit
Planning Camdssion Minutes - June 11, 1986
Page Nine
D. PUBLIC BEARINGS:
6. LANDS Cr CARNES: (continued)
Ms. Lytle referred to her Staff Report dated Jame 5, 1986, the applicant
is requesting a Conditional Use Permit to construct a studio/guesthouse,
of 400 square feet. In staff's opinion the findings in Section 9-5.1107 (a)
(i -iv) necessary to grant a C.U.P. can be made, as the secondary unit conforms
with zoning ordinances, the proposed use is properly located, the site is
adequate to accomodate the use, the site is served by adequate roads, and the
use is not anticipated to adversely effect the abutting property, as may be
conditioned by the Site Developnent Authority. Ms. Lytle noted the requirements
for secondary dwelling units as set forth in Section 9-5.703 (k) can be met
with the proposal, noting the unit is 400 sq. ft., and allowed to be 1,000 sq.£t.,
the studio/guest house will be architecturally canatible with the primary
residence, and will be connected to sanitary sewer.
The Public Bearing was opened and closed with no ode speaking for or against
this iter.
MOTION SEMMED AND CARRIED: Moved by Iachenbruch, seconded by Yanez and
passed unanimously to approve the Conditional Use Permit for the lands of
Carnes, File #CUP 4-86, subject to Conditions of Approval as attached to
the June 5, 1986 Staff Report.
E. NEW BUSINESS:
1. letter from Don Brandeau, dated June 4, 1986, requesting a preliminary
discussion of a proposed sound berm at 14090 Tracy Court, Lands of Carnes
Ms. Lytle referred to her Staff Report dated June 5, 1986, informing Commission
Mr. Brandeau is requesting an informal discussion of the proposed sound berm
at 14090 Tracy Court, for which an application for variance has been filed.
Ms. Lytle noted the variance is necessary to allow grading within ten feet of
the property limes, and possibly exceed the naxim fence height allowance
along roadways. Ms. Lytle informed Comnission that Mr. Brandeau and staff
have met with Mr. Bill Carlson from the Santa Clara Valley Water District,
noting in general staff recommends that grading, vegetation clearance and
other forms of land use be held back from all drainageways within the ccnmunity,
noting in this situation, and other, staff encourages riparian habitat restora-
tion and enhancement.
Commissioner lachenbruch noted there are many items which should be considered
with this type of project, i.e., landscaping between pathway and roadway;
landscaping between pathway and creek; and landscaping between creek and
property which would be consistent with Santa Clara Valley Water District.
Mr. Brandeau presented Ooanission with an informal presentation of the proposed
cross sections.
Chairman Carico noted she would not bein favor of a fence on top of the berm,
and noted it is very difficult to make recommendations without seeing the plans.
Connissionner Struthers indicated perhaps a small retaining wall such as that
shown on the creek side would be a solution, or trove berm closer to roadway
giving more space to Santa Clara Valley Water District.
planning Commission Minutes - June 11, 1986
Page Ten
[[ E. NEW BUSINESS:
`• 2. letter from Marcia Accola, dated June 6, 1986, regarding definition of
Floor Area
Ms. Lytle referred to Staff Report dated June 6, 1986, informing Cmmission
Mrs. Accola has described a problem with the definition of Floor Area that
is being used ux:der Urgency Ordinance #300 guidelines, noting staff would
appreciate assistance from the Commission in improving the wording of the
definition for the upcoming draft zoning ordinance revision, likewise, an
interpretation from the Commission for use in the case of Mrs. Arcola would
be appreciated. Ms. Lytle noted as pointed out in Mrs. Arcola's letter,
according to the existing definition of Floor Area used by the 'Town, a
structure which appears exactly the same from the outside would have a
different square footage based on the location of the interior ceilings,
noting this was not the intent of staff when the recamendation was made.
Ms. Lytle noted it is necessary to use a definition which can be easily
measured and understood by the camunity.
Commissioner Lachenbruch thedefinition is something that staff should come
up with, noting three basic problems: 1) attic space; 2) high ceilings;
and 3) basements. If the ceiling is 15' you court it once, if it is 16'
you count it twice: Formals: 15' over 8 X 1 = sq. R. which would measure
the volume of the building, asking if staff felt that this type of formula
would help mitigate this concern;
Mrs. Accola, 27461 Sherlock Road, as bulk is the sane on the outside, and
our house is currently designed with cathedral ceilings, feeling it does
not seem fair to be penalized for this, when if they added another floor
it would not be counted. Mrs. Accola indicated with this rule their proposal
exceeds the guidelines by approximately 280 sq.ft.
Ms. Lytle noted the applicant should go with the literal definition as written
in the guidelines.
Mr. IIuright suggested perhaps the Accola's might wish to go to the City Council
and request relaxation of guidelines, or conform to the existing guidelines.
Comdssimer Kaufman informed Accola's that the revised ordinance is likely
to be more stringent on high ceiling mons.
3. Possible relocation of 'Town Hall Entrance
Chairman Carico informed Camrissioners Mayor Fuhrman has requested the Cmvission
review a possible proposed relocation of the entrance to 'Town Hall, noting the
City Council at their June 4th meeting discussed this project and would like
input from Committee Members and Commission.
Cmmissicner Struthers indicated discussion over this item came up when the
Heritage House was placed in the back of Tuan Hall and a problem relating to
NIDA. We thought it would be better to have the entrance off of Fremont Road
because of confusion of people trying to find us, and our lights reflecting
f into those hares on Esperanza and Concepcion when leaving late at night.
V' Commissioner Lachenbruch questioned if the existing entrance would be preserved?
Planning Commission Minutes - June 11, 1986
Page Eleven
E. NEW BUSINESS:
3. Relocation of Town Hall Entrance (continued)
Cmmissioner Gottlieb indicated perhaps it would be :rare beneficial to hold
off on our reccmxmdation until we have had a chance to review the proposal
and look more carefully at the property.
Commissioner Kaufman indicated there are a couple of issues which would need
to be addressed: 1) Driveway to a major intersection (direct contradiction
with General Plan and Fremont Road access); 2) would like to see re -determina-
tion of forty foot setback is taken; and 3) request that any action of this
come to the full Commission, not Site Developmnt Committee.
Chaixman Carico noted there are sae other factors which should also be taken
into account: 1) Money; 2) we just spent money last year re -paving the
Town Hall driveway entrance; and 3) unless we have a problem with our meeting
NIDA, then why is there a need to proceed.
Cmmissioner Yanez if there are no problems, no concerns, then why change
the current entrance, it is very unobtrusive.
Cheri mn Carico suggested that perhaps Cmmission should spend Dore titre
to think on this issue, as the hour is late, look at it with regard to
General Plan and Land Use Purpose.
F. OLD BUSINESS:
Ms. Lytle gave Cmmission a brief update on the Keenan property, noting
Keenans have written a letter to City Cbuncil asking for relief of
Stop Work Order, and the City Attorney has been consulted, noting it
has been determined the Stop work was placed legally, noting the City
Attorney indicated they: 1) hake interpretation to concur with ordinance;
or 2) require variance, which could require setting a special meeting
so that the issue does not go back and forth fram Cmmissiou to Council.
reins :. •. �ko
There being no further new or old business, the meeting was adjourned at
12:50 A.M.
Respectfully submitted,
Leslie Mullins
Engineering/Planning