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HomeMy WebLinkAbout3.1 TOWN OF LOS ALTOS HILLS February 11, 1998 Staff Report to the Planning Commission RE: CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT AND SITE DEVELOPMENT PERMIT FOR CONSTRUCTION OF NEW MULTI-PURPOSE BUILDING, ADDITIONS TO EXISTING ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICES AND CLASSROOM BUILDINGS, AND PARKING; AND PROPOSED NEGATIVE DECLARATION; 26790 ARASTRADERO ROAD; LANDS OF CONGREGATION BETH AM; (#189-97-ZP-SD-CUP-ND). FROM: Curtis S. Williams,Planning Diref51,3 RECOMMENDATION That the Planning Commission: Recommend to the City Council approval of the conditional use permit, subject to the conditions of approval outlined in Exhibit"A" (attached), and citing the findings outlined in Exhibit "C"; approval of the site development permit, subject to the conditions of approval outlined in Exhibit"B"(attached); and adoption of the Negative Declaration. BACKGROUND On January 28, 1998, the Planning Commission considered this request, and heard testimony from representatives of the applicant and from affected neighbors. The application was continued due to the lateness of the hour, with direction to staff to: 1) request the City Attorney's opinion regarding the legality of limiting the Congregation's membership; 2) develop information from the applicant regarding the types and extent of uses prevalent on the site and capacity limitations of each building area; and 3) prepare revised conditions of approval directly addressing those activities. DISCUSSION Attached are revised conditions of approval for the project, including conditions for the conditional use permit (Attachment 1) and for the site development permit (Attachment 2). City Attorney Opinion Re: Congregation Membership The City Attorney has advised staff that, while the Town may regulate the use of the site with a variety of standards, conditions of approval may not limit the membership of the congregation. As a result, the previous condition #4, regarding congregation membership, has been deleted. The City Attorney has reviewed all of the other conditions of approval and concurs that all are appropriate and legal limitations of the use permit and/or site development permit. Typical Uses of the Site Attached are two tables of typical activities on the site, provided by the applicant, one for the summer months and another for the remainder of the year. A new condition #4 has been added specifying the allowable uses on the site, and the conditions have been modified to address hours of operation, noise, etc. for those uses which are potentially bothersome to neighbors, especially social events involving music and entertainment. Planning Commission: February 11, 1998 Congregation Beth Am: Conditional Use Permit Page 2 Capacity of Buildings The Congregation has provided the following capacity figures for occupancy of the various structures on the site: Use Occupancy Sanctuary(existing) 404 Social Hall(existing) Max. for Assembly 490 Max. for Dining 228 Classrooms Existing 243 New 85 Multi-Purpose Room(New) 210 Staff notes that the occupancy estimates for the social hall are not additive, but are one or the other, depending on how the hall is used. Also, the applicant has indicated that functions in the social hall and the sanctuary generally do not occur at the same time. The numbers provided did not include data for office/administrative uses on the site, but staff expects to report that information to the Commission prior to the meeting. The traffic engineer's study estimated traffic and parking projections based on rates used in standard engineering manuals and by the City of Palo Alto for church and related uses. This analysis planned for a maximum usage of the site of 750 persons at one time, which would obviously involve several uses and functions operating simultaneously. Staff has included condition #11 of the use permit to limit any site activities in excess of 750 persons to not more than twice per year, and to require notice to neighbors and on-site parking and traffic controls to be in place during such events. The applicant does not anticipate any activity at that level in the foreseeable future. Drainage The previous staff report identified a drainage problem downstream of the site and the applicant's proposal to address the problem. Since the last meeting, Engineering staff has walked the downstream channel and met with neighbors to evaluate their concerns as well. As a result, the Engineering Department recommends that some improvements be made to the downstream channel and drainage swales upstream of the relocated culvert. These modifications will likely include some 'widening to accommodate the 100-year flow and rock lining to protect the channel and swales from erosion and/or siltation. Condition #20 of the site development permit has been revised to require these improvements in addition to obtaining easements over the channel downstream. The applicant has objections about the proposed condition, as well as condition#13 of the conditional use permit, which requires maintenance of the downstream channel. Their concerns relate to the potential cost and uncertainty of obtaining easements, and the continuing maintenance obligation and potential liability. If the proposed improvements to the downstream channel are agreed to and completed, however, it may not be necessary to include the maintenance condition(for off-site drainage) with the use permit. The Engineering staff is working with the applicants and the neighbors to determine the Planning Commission: February 11, 1998 Congregation Beth Am: Conditional Use Permit Page 3 feasibility of alternative solutions, and will report on the results of those discussions at the Commission meeting. Conditional Use Permit Conditions Exhibit "A" (Attachment 1) outlines proposed conditions of approval for the use permit, and Exhibit "C" (Attachment 3) outlines staffs proposed findings to support approval of the conditional use permit for this project: Staff has modified the conditions of approval in response to comments from the applicants and neighbors at the last meeting. Staff believes that the changes have: more specifically outlined the allowable uses of the site; restricted hours of operation and frequency of small (over 50 persons) and large (over 750 persons) social events; has provided increased mitigation for neighbors in terms of limiting noise from catering activities and outdoor music, and from lighting, trash collection, leaf blowers, and other potential nuisances. Both the applicants and the neighbors have had an opportunity to comment on the revisions and staff has incorporated most of their suggestions in the modifications. Staff has suggested that the use permit be reviewed by the Planning Commission one year after final inspection of the multi-purpose building, and every 5 years thereafter. A condition is also included allowing for revocation of the permit in the event conditions are violated. Site Development Permit Conditions Exhibit "B" (Attachment 2) outlines proposed conditions of approval for the site development permit related to construction of the multi-purpose building and classroom additions: Staff has separated these conditions from the use permit conditions because the use will continue long after the construction is complete. The conditions have been revised since the initial meeting to add further details regarding the fence to be constructed along the westerly property boundary, to require construction of the soundwall around the service entrance to the social hall, and to require soundproofing of the multi-purpose building. The conditions would allow for the additions to the existing buildings to be completed prior to the construction of the new multi-purpose building, but would tie most of the other improvements, including parking, lighting, and landscaping, to the construction of the multi-purpose building. In addition, the property line fence and the sound wall near the social hall would have to be installed prior to issuing building permits for the multi- purpose building. Environmental Review In accordance with the provisions of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), staff has prepared a Negative Declaration to support the project. Potential significant impacts are identified for drainage, traffic, noise and lighting from the project, and mitigation measures are proposed for each, as discussed in the pertinent sections above. The mitigation measures are all incorporated into the conditions of approval for either the conditional use permit or the site development permit, or both. Staff is available to respond to questions from the Commission or the public. Planning Commission: February 11, 1998 Congregation Beth Am: Conditional Use Permit Page 4 ATTACHMENTS 1. Exhibit A: Conditions of Approval for Conditional Use Permit 2. Exhibit B: Conditions of Approval for Site Development Permit 3. Exhibit C: Findings for Approval for Conditional Use Permit 4. Negative Declaration 5. Draft Minutes of January 28, 1998 Planning Commission Meeting 6. Correspondence at January 28, 1998 Planning Commission Meeting 7. Congregation Beth Am Calendar of Events cc: Richard Rudman Congregation Beth Am 26790 Arastradero Road Los Altos Hills, CA 94022 Robert T. Steinberg, FAIA The Steinberg Group 60 Pierce Ave. San Jose, CA 95110 Heinz Erzberger 13457 Thendara Lane Los Altos Hills, CA 94022 Planning Commission: February 11, 1998 Congregation Beth Am: Conditional Use Permit Page 5 ATTACHMENT 1 EXHIBIT "A" CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT FOR RELIGIOUS INSTITUTION LANDS OF CONGREGATION BETH AM 26790 ARASTRADERO ROAD #189-97-ZP-SD-CUP-GD-ND 1. This conditional use permit allows the use of the subject property as a religious institution and for related religious educational activities and social functions, subject to the following conditions and according to plans approved by the City Council on , 1998. Any further expansion or change of the use shall require an amendment to the conditional use permit. Additionally, the Planning Director may, at any time, schedule a review or revocation hearing before the Planning Commission regarding the use permit, if any condition of approval is not being met or if the facility is being used inconsistent with the approved use or in violation of Town development codes. 2. Not later than one year after final inspection of the multi-purpose building, the applicant shall request and the Planning Commission shall then review the use permit at a noticed public hearing, to determine that the use remains in compliance with the conditions of approval. Subsequent to the initial review, subsequent reviews shall occur every five (5) years thereafter. 3. If permittee abandons the use of said real property allowed by this permit for a period of one year, then the abandonment shall constitute a revocation of the use herein granted, and this Use Permit shall become null and void. /1. The size of the Congregation shall be-limited to the present 1,200 families plus an allowable growth of 5%, for a total of 1,260 families. Tho size of tho Congregation shall be reported to the Town at each required review. Any Use Permit. 4. Uses permitted on the site are limited to the following: religious services; religious education (adult and children); life cycle events, such as weddings, bar and bat mitzvahs, etc.; congregational meetings; social gatherings of members of the Congregation and their guests; auxiliary administrative activities, such as administrative office use, classroom supervision, board meetings, etc; meetings of non-profit community groups; and necessary site and building maintenance. Food and alcohol service and music and entertainment are permitted only incidental to the above activities. 5. The following rules of operation shall apply to the use permit: 5.a} No commercial activities or retail sales are permitted on the site, other than those incidental to religious and educational activities, such as a religious arts and crafts fair, sale of Jewish holiday foods and items, bake sales, and the sale of wedding and bar/bat mitzvah invitations,for the purpose of raising funds for the Congregation. Planning Commission: February 11, 1998 Congregation Beth Am: Conditional Use Permit Page 6 6.13) Social events involving music and/or entertainment and/or catering shall end not later than 10:00 p.m. daily Sunday through Thursday, and not later than 11:30 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, or on Sundays before a Monday holiday. Clean-up must be completed such that the premises are vacated not more than 30 minutes later. Alcoholic beverages may not be served later than one hour prior to allowable closing times. 7. Social events involving music and/or entertainment and/or catering (not including religious services with food service thereafter) which proceed past 6:00 p.m. and involve fifty (50) or more persons shall occur not more frequently than twice per week and more than one such social event of that size shall not occur simultaneously on the site. 8. The west-facing doors of the social hall and kitchen shall remain closed during music and/or catering activities, except for loading and unloading. In addition, a phone number shall be provided to immediate neighbors to contact the event supervisor during a social event, in order to respond promptly to concerns regarding excess noise. 9.0 No outdoor sound amplification of music shall be allowed on the site, except for religious services or ceremonies. Noise levels shall be limited`to comply with the provisions of Section 5-2.02 of the Los Altos Hills Municipal Code. 10.4) Lighting shall be on separate circuits and on timers, such that only security lighting remains on during night hours, unless an event is in progress. In any event, all parking lot lighting shall be turned off by not later than 11:00 p.m., or past the close of an event (where permitted later than 11:00 p.m.), except in close proximity to buildings or where necessary for visibility along the driveway. 11. Site activities for which total site attendance is expected to exceed 750 persons shall not occur more frequently than twice per calendar year, unless approved by the City Council after public notice to neighbors. For any site activity for which attendance is expected to exceed 750 persons, the Congregation shall mail notice to all owners of adjacent property at least fourteen days in advance of such event. On-site traffic and parking control shall be provided, at the Congregation's expense, for the duration of any such event, to minimize impacts on Arastradero Road and neighboring properties. 12. Congregation Beth Am shall make all reasonable efforts to minimize impacts to neighboring residents regarding the hours of trash collection, leaf blowers and other gardening maintenance, and catering and clean-up activities. 13. Onsite and offsite storm drainage facilities shall be inspected and maintained annually by qualified engineering consultants to Congregation Beth Am, and a report shall be submitted to the Town not later than October 1st of each year describing the findings of the inspection and any remedial measures proposed to assure proper functioning of the drainage system. The report shall include any necessary erosion control measures for the open drainage swale as well as annual cleaning of the system and repairs. All proposed erosion control measures shall be approved by the City Engineer prior to installation. For the purposes of this • Planning Commission: February 11, 1998 Congregation Beth Am: Conditional Use Permit Page 7 provision, offsite drainage facilities include the open drainage channel downstream of the project site to Fremont Road. 14. A sign shall be installed and maintained at the exit of the site prohibiting left turns from the site onto Arastradero Road during the hours of 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Monday through Friday. 15. An approved Fire Department key box and appropriate building keys shall be provided to the Fire Department. 16. The roadway through the site shall be marked as a "Fire Lane" per Fire Department specifications, and parking shall be prohibited on either side of the road. Planning Commission: February 11, 1998 Congregation Beth Am: Conditional Use Permit Page 8 ATTACHMENT 2 EXHIBIT "B" CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL SITE DEVELOPMENT PERMIT FOR NEW MULTI-PURPOSE BUILDING AND ADDITIONS TO EXISTING BUILDINGS LANDS OF CONGREGATION BETH AM 26790 ARASTRADERO ROAD #189-97-ZP-SD-CUP-GD-ND A. PLANNING DEPARTMENT: 1. Any modifications to the approved plans requires prior approval of the Planning Director or Planning Commission depending upon the scope of the changes. . 2. Proposed holly oaks shall be replaced with a native evergreen species acceptable to the Planning Director and Environmental Design Committee. Prior to final inspection of the multi-purpose building,the Planning Department shall determine whether additional landscaping is necessary,particularly between the new parking areas and the western property boundary. All landscaping required for screening purposes or for erosion control (as determined by the City Engineer) must be installed prior to final inspection of the multi-purpose building, unless the Planning Director finds that unusual circumstances, such as weather or site conditions, require that planting be delayed. In those instances, a deposit of an amount equal to the cost of landscape materials and installation, to the satisfaction of the Planning Director, shall be submitted to the Town. Landscaping shall in any event be installed not later than 6 months after final inspection, or the deposit will be forfeited. 3. A landscape maintenance deposit (or certificate of deposit), equal to the cost of materials and installation for all landscaping required for screening purposes or for erosion control (as determined by the City Engineer), but not to exceed $5,000.00, shall be posted prior to final inspection of the multi-purpose building. An inspection of the landscape to ensure adequate establishment and maintenance shall be made two years after installation. The deposit will be released at that time if the plantings remain viable. 4. Materials and colors for the proposed structures shall match the existing buildings on the site. If paint colors are proposed to be changed, colors must be chosen by the applicant and approved by staff in conformance with the Town's adopted color board, and shall exhibit a light reflectivity value of 50 or less. Roofs shall use materials which have a light reflectivity value of 40 or less. All applicable structures shall be painted in conformance with the approved color(s) prior to final inspection. 5. Class A or B fire retardant roofing is required for the new construction. 6. Not later than 60 days after issuance of a building permit for the multi-purpose building, the applicant shall submit a revised outdoor lighting plan for review at a Site Development Hearing. Lighting at the perimeter of the property adjacent to existing residential properties shall be modified to either reduce wattage, reduce the height of light poles, or reduce the number of lights to minimize impacts on Planning Commission: February 11, 1998 Congregation Beth Am: Conditional Use Permit Page 9 those neighbors. All approved lighting must be installed to the satisfaction of the Planning Director prior to final inspection of the multi-purpose building. 7. At the time of foundation inspection for the multi-purpose building and prior to final inspection, the location and elevation shall be certified in writing by a registered civil engineer or licensed land surveyor as being in/at the approved location and elevation shown on the approved Site Development plan. At the time of framing inspection for the multi-purpose building, the height of the building shall be similarly certified as being at the height shown on the approved Site Development plan. Prior to paving of the parking lot areas, the location and elevation shall also be certified as being in/at the approved location and elevation shown on the approved Site Development plan. 8. A 6-foot high solid wooden fence shall be constructed along the west property boundary from the rear property line to approximately 75 feet from the front property line at Arastradero Road. The fence alignment shall deviate from the property line to the extent needed to maintain a consistent contour elevation at approximately the height of the parking area, to the satisfaction of the Planning Director. Construction details should include overlapping boards for sound protection, and baseboards or other separation from the ground to assure durability of the fence. A fence permit showing the precise alignment and construction details must be obtained prior to installation, and the fence must be constructed to the satisfaction of the Planning Director prior to acceptance of plans for building plan check for the multi-purpose building. 9. The sound wall outside the kitchen area of the social hall must be constructed according to the details shown on the plan, and a building permit must first be obtained prior to installation. The sound wall shall be constructed to the satisfaction of the Planning Director prior to acceptance of plans for building plan check for the multi-purpose building. 10. The multi-purpose building shall be soundproofed to minimize noise levels at the perimeter of the site, prior to final inspection of the multi-purpose building. B. ENGINEERING DEPARTMENT: 11. A Class IIb pathway shall be constructed within the right-of-way of Arastradero Road, to the satisfaction of the Engineering Department,prior to final inspection of the multi-purpose building. If necessary to accommodate the pathway, a pathway easement shall be dedicated parallel to the right-of-way sufficient to provide for the pathway. The property owner shall provide legal description and plat exhibits that are prepared by a registered civil engineer or a licensed surveyor, to the satisfaction of the Engineering Department, and the Town shall prepare the dedication document. The dedication document, including the approved exhibits, shall be signed by the property owner and notarized and returned to the Town prior to acceptance of plans for building plan check for the multi-purpose building. 12. A sign shall be installed at the exit of the site prohibiting left turns from the site onto Arastradero Road during the hours of 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Monday through Friday. The design of the sign shall be approved by the Engineering Department and the sign must be installed prior to final inspection of the multi- purpose building. Planning Commission: February 11, 1998 Congregation Beth Am: Conditional Use Permit Page 10 13. As recommended by William Cotton & Associates in their report dated December 10, 1997,the applicant shall comply with the following: a. The project geotechnical consultant shall review and approve all geotechnical aspects of the project building and grading plans (i.e.., site preparation and grading, site drainage improvements, and design parameters for foundations and pavement) to ensure that their recommendations have been properly incorporated. As part of the plan evaluations, the consultant should consider and address whether structural fill beneath the multi-purpose building should be placed at a minimum of 95 percent relative compaction. The consultant shall summarize the results of their plan review in a letter to be submitted to the Town,prior to acceptance of plans for building plan check for the multi-purpose building.. b. The project geotechnical consultant shall inspect, test (as needed) and approve all geotechnical aspects of the project construction. The inspections should include, but not necessarily be limited to: site preparation and grading, site surface and subsurface drainage improvements, and excavations for foundations and retaining walls prior to the placement of steel and concrete. The project geotechnical consultant shall describe the results of inspections and as-built conditions of the project in a letter to be submitted to the Town Engineering Department prior to final inspection of the multi-purpose building.. For further details on the above requirements, please reference the letter from William Cotton&Associates dated December 10, 1997. 14. The site drainage associated with the proposed development must be designed as surface flow wherever possible to avoid concentration of the runoff. The proposed drainage shall be designed to maintain the existing flow patterns. A final grading and drainage plan shall be required to be submitted and approved by the Town Engineering Department prior to acceptance of plans for building plan check. Final drainage and grading shall be inspected by the Engineering Department and any deficiencies corrected to the satisfaction of the Engineering Department prior to final inspection. A letter shall be submitted from the project engineer stating that the drainage improvements were installed as shown on the approved plans and in accordance with their recommendations prior to final inspection. 15. Any, and all, changes to the approved grading and drainage plan shall be submitted as revisions from the project engineer and shall first be approved by the Town Engineering Department. No grading shall take place during the grading moratorium between November 1 and April 1 except with prior approval from the City Engineer. No grading shall take place within ten feet of any property line. 16. All public utility services serving this property shall be placed underground. 17. An erosion and sediment control plan shall be submitted for review and approval by the Engineering Department prior to acceptance of plans for building plan check for the multi-purpose building. The contractor and the property owner shall comply with all appropriate requirements of the Town's NPDES permit relative to grading and erosion/sediment control. The first 100 feet of the Planning Commission: February 11, 1998 Congregation Beth Am: Conditional Use Permit Page 11 driveway shall be rocked during construction and all cut and fill slopes shall be protected from erosion. All areas on the site that have the native soil disturbed shall be protected for erosion control during the rainy season and shall be replanted prior to final inspection of the multi-purpose building. 18. Two copies of a grading and construction operation plan shall be submitted by the property owner for review and approval by the City Engineer and Planning Director prior to acceptance of plans for building plan check The grading/construction plan shall address truck traffic issues regarding dust, noise, and vehicular and pedestrian traffic safety on Arastradero Road and surrounding roadways; storage of construction materials; placement of sanitary facilities; parking for construction vehicles; and parking for construction personnel. A debris box (trash dumpster) shall be placed on site for collection of construction debris. Arrangements must be made with the Los Altos Garbage Company for the debris box, since they have a franchise with the Town and no other hauler is allowed within the Town limits. 19. The property owner shall inform the Town of any damage and shall repair any damage caused by the construction of the project to pathways, private driveways, and public and private roadways,prior to final inspection and shall provide the Town with photographs of the existing conditions of the roadways and pathways prior to acceptance of plans for building plan check 20. The property owner shall obtain private drainage easements from the property owners at 27201 and 27241 Fremont Road and 26744 Arastradero Road and shall submit copies of the recorded documents prior to submittal of plans for building plan check for the multi-purpose building. Additionally, the property owner shall improve the downstream channel between the site and Fremont Road and the on-site drainage channels in proximity to the proposed headwall to accommodate expected 100-year flow levels and to protect against erosion, to the satisfaction of the Engineering Department. Improvements to the drainage channels shall be completed prior to final inspection of the multi- purpose building. 21. A Certificate of Compliance is required to be issued by the Town for this property. The property owner shall submit legal description and plat exhibits prepared by a registered civil engineer or a licensed land surveyor for the boundary of the property in addition to the title history for the property prior to the Town's incorporation in January 1946. The Town shall prepare the Certificate of Compliance. The required exhibits and title history shall be submitted and approved by the Town prior to acceptance of plans for building plan check C. FIRE DEPARTMENT: 22. Approved numbers or addresses shall be placed on all new and existing buildings to be plainly visible and legible from the street or road fronting the property. Said numbers shall contrast with their background and be a minimum of 4 inches in height. 23. The roadway through the site shall have a minimum width of twenty (20) feet. Vertical clearance shall be a minimum of thirteen feet six inches. Both dimensions shall be maintained. The driveway shall be designed and maintained to support the imposed loads of fire apparatus (40,000 pounds) and shall be provided with a surface so as to provide all-weather driving capabilities. Planning Commission: February 11, 1998 Congregation Beth Am: Conditional Use Permit Page 12 24. A private on-site fire hydrant shall be provided at a location to be determined by the Fire Department. Maximum hydrant spacing shall be 250 feet and the minimum flow hydrant shall be 1000 GPM at 20 psi residual pressure. (Note: The Fire Department has indicated that the hydrant is to be located near the east driveway alongside the multi-purpose building). The hydrant must be installed to the satisfaction of the Fire Department prior to framing construction. Bulk construction materials may not be delivered to the construction site until installation is completed as stated above. 25. When open gates shall not obstruct any portion of the required access roadway or driveway width. If gates are provided, all locks shall be Fire Department approved, and installations shall conform with Fire Department Standard Details . and Specifications G-1. 26. The roadway through the site shall be marked as a "Fire Lane" per Fire Department specifications. Upon completion of construction, a final inspection shall be set with the Planning Department and Engineering Department at least two weeks prior to final building inspection approval. CONDITION NUMBERS 8, 9, 11, 13a, 14, 17, 18, 19, 20 AND 21 SHALL BE COMPLETED AND SIGNED OFF BY THE PLANNING DIRECTOR AND THE CITY ENGINEER PRIOR TO ACCEPTANCE OF CONSTRUCTION PLANS FOR PLAN CHECK BY THE BUILDING DEPARTMENT. (NOTE: THE PLANNING DIRECTOR MAY ALLOW THE ADDITIONS TO THE EXISTING STRUCTURE TO PROCEED SUBJECT ONLY TO CONDITION NUMBERS 13, 17, 18,AND 20 BEING SATISFIED). All properties must pay School District fees to either the Los Altos School District or the Palo Alto Unified School District, as applicable, before receiving their building permit from Los Altos Hills. The applicant must take a copy of Worksheet #2 to school district offices (both the elementary and high school offices in the Los Altos School District), pay the appropriate fees and provide the Town with a copy of their receipts. NOTE: The Site Development permit is valid for one year from the approval date (until February 11, 1999). All required building permits must be obtained within that year and work on items not requiring a building permit shall be commenced within one year and completed within two years. Planning Commission: February 11, 1998 Congregation Beth Am: Conditional Use Permit Page 13 ATTACHMENT 3. EXHIBIT "C" FINDINGS FOR APPROVAL OF CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT RENEWAL LANDS OF CONGREGATION BETH AM 26790 ARASTRADERO ROAD #189-97-ZP-SD-CUP-GD-ND 1. The proposed use or facility is properly located in relation to the community as a whole,land uses, and transportation and service facilities in the vicinity; The church has been located on this site for 40 years. Access is to a major through roadway connecting the Town to Palo Alto and to Highway 280, and does not conflict with neighboring residents. The proposed multi-purpose buildings are situated over 120 feet from property lines to retain the openness existing with current neighbors. The.church serves community members in Los Altos Hills, Los Altos, and Palo Alto, so it is conveniently located in proximity to all three cities. 2. The site for the proposed use is adequate in size and shape to accommodate the proposed use and all yards, open spaces, walls and fences, parking, loading, landscaping, and such other features as may be required by this chapter or will be needed to assure that the proposed use will be reasonably compatible with land uses normally permitted in the surrounding area; The site is over 9 acres in size, and can accommodate the proposed use, buildings, and required parking and remain compatible with residential uses in the surrounding area. In particular, setbacks are proposed far in excess of the minimum required, and measures are proposed to minimize lighting and noise impacts to neighbors. 3. The site for the proposed use will be served by streets and highways of adequate width and pavement to carry the quantity and kind of traffic generated by the proposed use; The site has access directly to Arastradero Road. A traffic study has been prepared by the applicant and indicates that the project and use will not have a significant impact on the road or nearby intersections. The study recommended, however,that left turns from the site to Arastradero be prohibited at weekday peak hours, which is included as a condition of the use permit and Negative Declaration. 4. The proposed use will not adversely affect the abutting property or the permitted use thereof. The project includes several mitigation measures to assure that abutting property is not adversely impacted. These include construction of a sound wall and limitations on noise and hours of operation; revised lighting to minimize visibility to neighbors; traffic control requirements; and on-site and off-site drainage improvements. The new buildings will provide setbacks from adjacent properties well in excess of minimum setback requirements. TOWN OF LOS ALTOS BILLS NEGATIVE DECLARATION PROJECT TITTLE: LANDS OF CONGREGATION BETH AM #189-97-ZP-SD-CUP-ND NAME AND ADDRESS OF PROJECT SPONSOR: Congregation Beth Am Steve Bauman,President 26790 Arastradero Road Los Altos Hills,CA 94022 LOCATION OF PROJECT: 26790 Arastradero Road Los Altos Hills, CA APN#175-32-001 PROJECT DESCRIPTION: New multi-purpose building,administration and classrooms,hardscape and parking. IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE PROVISIONS OF THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT AND CITY POLICY, AN INITIAL STUDY WAS CONDUCTED TO DETERMINE WHETHER THE FOLLOWING PROJECT MAY HAVE A SIGNIFICANT EFrhCT ON THE ENVIRONMENT. ON THE BASIS OF THE INITIAL STUDY IT HAS BEEN DETERMINED THAT: _ THE PROPOSED PROJECT WILL NOT HAVE A SIGNIFICANT EFFECT ON THE ENVIRONMENT AND AN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT IS NOT REQUIRED. X ALTHOUGH THE PROPOSED PROJECT COULD HAVE A SIGNIFICANT ADVERSE EFFECT ON THE ENVIRONMENT, THERE WILL NOT BE A SIGNIFICANT ADVERSE EFFECT IN THIS CASE BECAUSE THE MITIGATION MEASURES DESCRIBED IN THE INITIAL STUDY HAVE BEEN INCORPORATED INTO THE PROJECT. AN ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT IS NOT REQUIRED. NOTICE: THIS DOCUMENT AND ALL SUPPORT MATERIAL ARE AVAILABLE FOR REVIEW IN THE OFFICE LISTED ABOVE. THIS NEGATIVE DECLARATION MAY BECOME FINAL UNLESS WRITTEN COMMENTS ARE RECEIVED AT THE O1HCE LIS Ell ABOVE BY JANUARY 28, 1998. IF YOU WISH TO APPEAL THE APPROPRIATENESS OR ADEQUACY OF THIS DOCUMENT, ADDRESS YOUR WRITTEN COMMENTS TO THE TOWN OF LOS ALTOS HILLS, AS REFERENCED ABOVE, AND STATE THE FINDING THAT THE PROJECT WILL NOT HAVE A SIGNIFICANT EFFECT ON THE ENVIRONMENT AND: 1. IDENTIFY THE ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECT(S), WHY THEY WOULD OCCUR, AND WHY THEY WOULD BE SIGNIFICANT. EXPLAIN THE BASIS FOR YOUR COMMENTS AND SUBMIT ANY SUPPORTING DATA;AND 2. SUGGEST ANY MITIGATION MEASURES WHICH YOU WOULD BELIEVE WOULD REDUCE OR ELIMINATE THE EFFECT TO AN ACCEPTABLE LEVEL. 11-119s Curtis Curtis S.Williams,Planning Director Da e TOWN OF LOS ALTOS HILLS Congregation Beth Am Initial Study/Mitigated ND Page 1 INITIAL STUDY CONGREGATION BETH AM Los Altos Hills, CA 26790 Arastradero Road (File#189-97-ZP-SD-CUP-ND) PROJECT DESCRIPTION The proposed project includes the construction of a new 7,050 square foot multi-purpose building (classrooms, kitchen and restrooms), 2,112 square feet of administrative offices,,2,112 square feet of classrooms (11,274 square feet total of new buildings), 12,330 square feet of patio/walkways, and 45,700 square feet of new parking (138 new standard spaces and 4 handicap spaces) on the existing Congregation Beth Am site. The proposed additions are intended to alleviate existing classroom overcrowding and would not have a significant impact on membership. According to information provided by the applicant, the membership growth at Congregation Beth Am has been approximately one percent per year for the past ten years. PROJECT LOCATION The project is located at 26790 Arastradero Road (APN#175-32-001) in the Town of Los Altos Hills. ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING The subject property is approximately 9 acres in size and is presently developed with a 16,716 square foot sanctuary, 6,736 square feet of administrative offices, 6,736 square feet of classrooms, and associated parking and other hardscape. The slope of the site is relatively flat (less than 10%) and the site contains numerous trees (mostly of pine and eucalyptus species). Surrounding uses to the west, east and south are single-family residential. Several `research park' office buildings are located to the north, across Arastradero Road, in the jurisdiction of the City of Palo Alto. Access to the site is from Arastradero Road, the only local access to the project site. Arastradero/Deer Creek and Arastradero/Fremont are the two closest major intersections (both un-signalized). Both intersections presently operate satisfactorily at Level of Service 'C' or better during the weekday P.M. peak hour and other times, with very little traffic delay as indicated by the applicant's traffic consultant. POTENTIAL SIGNIFICANT EFFECTS An Initial Study is a preliminary analysis prepared by the lead agency to determine whether an EIR or Negative Declaration must be prepared and to identify the significant effects to be analyzed in an EIR (CEQA Guidelines Section 15365). The Initial Study for the proposed Congregation Beth Am will serve to focus on effects determined to be potentially significant. In Congregation Beth Am Initial Study/Mitigated ND Page 2 accordance with CEQA Guidelines, the following checklist has been prepared that identifies any environmental effects. The following two sections evaluate impacts of the proposed project. The environmental checklist, approved by the Town and consistent with CEQA Guidelines, was used to focus this study on physical, social, and economic factors that may be further impacted by the proposed project. The checklist indicates whether there would be a `potentially significant impact', `potentially significant unless mitigation incorporated', 'less than significant', or 'no impact' for each specified potential impact. The second section will respond andanalyze in detail those impacts identified in the checklist. A brief explanation is required for all answers except 'no impact' answers that are adequately supported. A 'no impact' answer is adequately supported if the referenced information sources show that the impact simply does not apply to projects like.the one involved. Referenced information sources utilized for this analysis include the following: 1) Los Altos Hills Zoning Code/General Plan; 2) Site visit; 3) Traffic study prepared by Brian Kangas Foulk, dated December 4, 1997; 4) Noise mitigation letter from Charles M. Salter Associates, dated August 21, 1997; 5) Geotechnical investigation prepared by Lowney Associates, dated September 22, 1997; 6) Responses from Los Altos Hills staff/committees; 7) Santa Clara County Central Fire District; 8) Not applicable to project site; 9) Drainage study prepared by Brian Kangas Foulk, dated December 4, 1997. Congregation Beth Am Initial Study/Mitigated ND Page 3 ENVIRONMENTAL CHECKLIST TOWN OF LOS ALTOS HILLS PLANNING DEPARTMENT 1. Project Title: Congregation Beth Am(File#189-97-ZP-SD-CUP-ND) 2. Lead Agency Name: Town of Los Altos Hills 3. Contact person and phone number: Mr. Curtis Williams, Planning Director (650) 941-7222 4. Project location: 26790 Arastradero Road • 5. Project sponsor's name and address: Congregation Beth Am, Steve Bauman, President, 26790 Arastradero Road, Los Altos Mills, CA 94022 6. General plan designation: Religious Institution 7. Zoning: R-A(Residential-Agricultural) 8. Description of project: construction of new multi-purpose building, administrative offices and classrooms, and associated hardscape and parking. 9. Surrounding land uses and setting: Low-density residential to the west, south and east. Several `research park' office buildings to the north, across Arastradero Road in the jurisdiction of the City of Palo Alto. 10. Other public agencies whose approval may be required: None. Congregation Beth Am Initial Study/Mitigated ND Page 4 ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS POTENTIALLY AFFECTED: CTED: The environmental factors checked below would be potentially affected by this project, involving at least one impact that is a"Potentially Significant Impact" as indicated by the checklist on the following pages: O Land Use and Planning 0 Transportation/Circulation 0 0 Public Services ❑ Population and Housing 0 Biological Resources 0 Utilities and Service Systems 0 Geologic Problems 0 Energy and Mineral Resources 0 Aesthetics O Water 0 Hazards 0 Cultural Resources ❑ Air Quality 0 Noise 0 Recreation 0 Mandatory Findings of Significance DETERMINATION: 0 ❑ I find that the proposed project COULD NOT have a significant effect on the environment, and a NEGATIVE DECLARATION will be prepared. O I find that although the proposed project could have a significant effect on the environment,there will not be a significant effect in this case because the mitigation measures described on an attached sheet have been added to the project.A NEGATIVE DECLARATION will be prepared. ❑ I find the proposed project MAY have a significant effect on the environment, and an ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT is required. ❑ I find that the proposed project may have a significant effect(s) on the environment,but at least one effect 1) has been adequately analyzed in an earlier document pursuant to applicable legal standards, and 2)has been addressed by mitigation measures based on an earlier analysis as described on attached sheets, if the effect is a "potentially significant impact" or "potentially significant unless mitigated.".An ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT is required,but is must analyze only the effects that remain to be addressed. ❑ I find that although the proposed project could have a significant effect on the environment, there WILL NOT be a significant effect in this case because all potentially significant effects (a) have been analyzed adequately in an earlier EIR pursuant to applicable standards, and (b) have been avoided or mitigated pursuant to that earlier EIR, including revisions or mitigation measures that are imposed upon the proposed project. QtAA- W.&9A1 I ) Signature Date s . Wi• 11�Q.�.-,s Pi a--,h►Y1(1\ Printed Name Name and Title Congregation Beth Am Initial Study/Mitigated ND Page 5 ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS Potentially Significant Potentially Unless Less than Significant Mitigation Significant L LAND USE AND PLANNING. Would the Impact Incorporated Impact No Impact proposal: a) Conflict with general plan designation or 0 0 0 0 zoning?(1) b) Conflict with applicable environmental plans or policies adopted by agencies with jurisdiction 0 0 ❑ ❑x over the project?(8) c) Be incompatible with existing land uses in the ❑ ❑ N ❑ vicinity? d) Affect agricultural resources or operations (e.g., impacts to soils or farmlands, or impacts from ❑ ❑ ❑ N incompatible land uses)?(2) e) Disrupt or divide the physical arrangement of an established community(including a low income ❑ ❑ ❑ N or minority community)?(8) IL POPULATION AND HOUSING. Would the proposal: a) Cumulatively exceed official regional or local ❑ 0 0 population projections?(1) b) Induce substantial growth in an area either directly or indirectly(e.g.,through projects in an undeveloped area or extension of major 0 0 0 infrastructure)?(1) c) Displace existing housing, especially affordable 0 0 0 housing?(8) III. GEOLOGIC PROBLEMS. Would the proposal result in or expose people to potential impacts involving: a) Fault rupture? 0 ❑ N 0 b) Seismic ground shaking? 0 N 0 0 c) Seismic ground failure, including liquefaction? ❑ ❑ N ❑ d) Seiche,tsunami,or volcanic hazard?(8) ❑ ❑ ❑ N e) Landslides or mudflows?(5) 0 0 0 • Congregation Beth Am . Initial Study/Mitigated ND Page 6 Potentially Significant Potentially Unless Less than SIgnificant Mitigation Significant Impact Incorporated Impact No Impact f) Erosion, changes in topography or unstable soil conditions from excavation,grading,or fill? 0 0 Ni 0 g) Subsidence of land?(5) 0 0 ❑ 0 h) Expansive soils? 0 0 0 0 i) Unique geologic or physical features?(5) 0 0 0 0 IV. WATER. Would the proposal result in: a) Changes in absorption rates, drainage patterns, ❑ 0 0 0 or the rate and amount of surface runoff? b) Exposure of people or property to water related ❑ ❑ 0 ❑ hazards such as flooding? c) Discharge into surface waters or other alteration !, of surface water quality (e.g., temperature, ❑ 0 0 0 dissolved oxygen or turbidity)? d) Changes in the amount of surface water in any ❑ ❑ 0 ❑ water body? e) Changes in currents, or the course or direction ❑ ❑ ❑ 0 of water movements?(8) f) Changes in the quantity of ground waters, either through direct additions or withdrawals, or through interception of an aquifer by cuts or excavations or through substantial loss of 0 0 Ni 0 groundwater recharge capability? g) Altered direction or rate of flow of groundwater? 0 0 0 0 h) Impacts to groundwater quality? 0 0 Ni 0 i) Substantial reduction in the amount of groundwater otherwise available for public 0 0 0 0 water supplies? Congregation Beth Am Initial Study/Mitigated ND Page 7 V. AIR QUALITY. Would the proposal: Potentially Significant Potentially Unless Less than Significant Mitigation Significant a) Violate any air quality standard or contribute to Impact Incorporated Impact No Impact an existing or projected air quality violation? 0 0 0 0 b) Expose sensitive receptors to pollutants?(2) 0 0 0 0 c) Alter air movements, moisture, or temperature, or cause any change in climate? 0 0 0 0 d) Create objectionable odors? 0 0 0 0 VL TRANSPORTATION/CIRCULATION. Would the proposal result in: a) Increased vehicular trips or traffic congestion? ❑ ❑ 0 ❑ b) Hazards to safety from design features (e.g., sharp curves or dangerous intersections) or incompatible uses(e.g.,farm equipment)? ❑ 0 10 ❑ c) Inadequate emergency access or access to nearby ❑ ❑ 0 ❑ uses? d) Insufficient parking capacity onsite or offsite? ❑ ❑ 0 ❑ e) Hazards or barriers for pedestrians or bicyclists? ❑ ❑ 0 ❑ f) Conflicts with adopted policies supporting alternative transportation (e.g., bus turnouts, ❑ ❑ ❑ 0 bicycle racks)?(1) g) Rail,waterborne or air traffic impacts?(8) ❑ ❑ ❑ 0 VILBIOLOGICAL RESOURCES. Would the proposal result in impacts to: a) Endangered, threatened or rare species or their habitats (including but not limited to plants, fish,insects, animals,and birds)?(2) ❑ ❑ ❑ 0 b) Locally designated species(e.g.,heritage trees)? ❑ ❑ p ❑ c) Locally designated natural communities (e.g., oak forest,coastal habitat,etc.)?(2) ❑ ❑ ❑ 0 d) Wetland habitat (e.g., marsh, riparian, and vernal pool)?(2) 0 0 0 0 e) Wildlife dispersal or migration corridors?(8) 0 0 0 0 Congregation Beth Am Initial Study/Mitigated ND Page 8 VIII. ENERGY AND MINERAL RESOURCES. Would the proposal: Potentially Significant Potentially Unless Less than Significant Mitigation Significant a) Conflict with adopted energy conservation plan? _ Impact Incorporated Impact No Impact (8) 0 0 0 0 b) Use nonrenewable resources in a wasteful and inefficient manner? 0 0 0 ❑ . c) Result in the loss of availability'of.a known mineral resource that would be of future value to the region and the residents of the State?(1) ❑ 0 0 IX. HAZARDS. Would the proposal involve: a) A risk of accidental explosion or release of hazardous substances(including,but not limited to,oil,pesticides,chemicals,or radiation)?(8) ❑ ❑ ❑ b) Possible interference with an emergency response plan or emergency evacuation plan?(8) ❑ ❑ ❑ c) The creation of any health hazard or potential health hazard?(2) ❑ ❑ ❑ d) Exposure of people to existing sources. of potential health hazards?(2) ❑ ❑ ❑ e) Increased fire hazard in areas with flammable brush,grass, or trees?(8) ❑ ❑ ❑ 0 X. NOISE. Would the proposal result in: a) Increases in existing noise levels? ❑ 0 ❑ ❑ b) Exposure of people to severe noise levels? ❑ ❑ 0 ❑ XL PUBLIC SERVICES. Would the proposal have an effect upon, or result in a need for new or altered government services in any of the following areas: a) Fire protection? ❑ 0 0 0 b) Police protection? ❑ ❑ ❑x ❑ c) Schools?(8) 0 0 0 0 d) Maintenance of public facilities, including roads? 0 ❑ [7 0 e) Other government services?(6) 0 0 0 ❑x Congregation Beth Am Initial Study/Mitigated ND Page 9 XILUTILITIES AND SERVICE SYSTEMS. Potentially Would the proposal result in a need for new systems significant Potentially Unless Less than or supplies, or substantial alterations to the significant Mitigation Significant following: Impact Incorporated Impact No Impact a) Power or natural gas? 0 0 0 0 b) Communication systems? 0 0 0 c) Local or regional water treatment or distribution ❑ ❑ ❑ systems? d) Sewer or septic tanks? ❑ El e) Storm water drainage? 0 0 ❑ fl Solid waste disposal? ❑ ❑ 0 ❑ g) Local or regional water supplies? ❑ ❑ 0 ❑ MIL AESTHETICS. Would the proposal: ii a) Affect a scenic vista or scenic highway? ❑ ❑ El ❑ b) Have a demonstrable negative aesthetic effect? ❑ ❑ 0 ❑ c) Create light or glare? ❑ 0 ❑ ❑ XIV. CULTURAL RESOURCES. Would the proposal: a) Disturb paleontological resources? ❑ 0 ❑ ❑ b) Disturb archaeological resources? ❑ 0 ❑ ❑ c) Have the potential to cause a physical change which would affect unique ethnic cultural 0 0 0 0 values? d) Restrict existing religious or sacred uses within 0 0 0 tEl the potential impact area?(8) XV.RECREATION. Would the proposal: a) Increase the demand for neighborhood or regional parks or other recreational facilities? 0 0 0 0 (6) b) Affect existing recreational opportunities? 0 0 0 0 Congregation Beth Am Initial Study/Mitigated ND Page 10 Potentially Significant Potentially Unless Less than Significant Mitigation Significant Impact Incorporated Impact No Impact RVI. MANDATORY FINDINGS OF SIGNIFICANCE. a) Does the project have the potential to degrade the quality of the environment, substantially reduce the habitat of a fish or wildlife species,cause a fish or wildlife population to drop below self-sustaining levels; threaten to eliminate a plant or animal community, reduce the number or restrict the range of a rare or endangered plant or animal or eliminate important examples of the major periods of California history or pre-history? ❑ ❑ 0 ❑ i b) Does the project have the potential to achieve short-terns,to the disadvantage of long-term,environmental goals? ❑ ❑ Cl ❑ ! c) Does the project have impacts that are individually limited, but cumulatively considerable, ("Cumulatively considerable" means that the incremental effects of a project are considerable when viewed in connection with the effects of past projects,the effects of other current projects, and the effects of probable future projects) ❑ 0 El ❑ d) Does the project have environmental effects which will cause substantial adverse effects on human being either directly or indirectly? ❑ 0 (] 0 Congregation Beth Am Initial Study/Mitigated ND Page 11 Checklist Responses and Environmental Analysis The following section provides responses to those questions in the previous section. Each subsection is annotated with the number, name and letter corresponding to the checklist form. Sources used to complete the Initial Study include the Town's Zoning Code and General Plan, written comments from stalEcommittees, and technical information provided by the applicant. Please note that as stated in theprevious sections, questions responded to with a 'no impact' which are adequately supported (numbers appear in parentheses following the questions, indicating the source utilized for analysis) do not require further explanation. Therefore, only those questions marked other than 'no impact' are discussed below. The roman numbers correspond to those utilized in the checklist. L Land Use and Planning(c) Land Use Incompatibilities The proposed project represents a continuation of existing uses on-site (weekly religious services, administrative offices, school attendance, and community social functions). Sur"'rounding land uses to the east, west and south include low-density single-family residential uses, with `research park' offices to the north across Arastradero Road. The new buildings proposed on-site would not result in an incompatibility with adjacent lands as the uses on-site are proposed to remain the same and would not foster a dramatic increase in congregation membership. According to the applicant, the new buildings would essentially be relieving overcrowding conditions currently experienced on-site. Therefore, .this impact is considered to be less than significant. No mitigation is required Some nearby residents have complained of noise levels related to events that are catered. Please refer to the Noise section for a discussion of this potential impact. III. Geologic Problems (a, b, c, f, h) Information for this section was derived from a geotechnical investigation report prepared by Lowney Associates (dated September 22, 1997), consultants to the applicant. Fault Rupture The site is not located within an Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zone, and no active faults are believed to exist within the project site. Fault rupture is not anticipated. Therefore, this impact is considered to be less than significant. No mitigation is required Seismic Ground Shaking Strong ground shaking can be expected at the site during moderate to severe earthquakes in the general region. This is common to virtually all developments in the San Francisco Bay Area. Congregation Beth Am Initial Study/Mitigated ND Page 12 Current understanding of earthquake activity indicates that the site will likely be subject to at least one moderate to severe earthquake within 50 years following construction. During such an earthquake the danger of fault offset at the site is slight, but strong shaking of the site is likely to occur. This is considered a potentially significant impact. The following mitigation measures arerecommended to reduce potential impacts to a level of insignificance: Ma. A geotechnical consultant shall be retained by the applicant to review the final construction plans and specifications. The applicant's geotechnical consultant shall submit a letter indicating that the design and specifications are adequate (indicating any recommendations, as necessary), to the Town's geotechnical consultant for approval prior to submittal of plans for building plan check. Seismic Ground Failure—Liquefaction Soil liquefaction results from loss of strength during cyclic loading, such as imposed by earthquakes. Soils most susceptible to liquefaction are clean, loose, saturated, uniformly graded, fine-graded sands. The sands encountered in on-site borings were well graded, dense to very dense and contained a significant amount of fine-grained material. For these reasons, the potential for liquefaction is low during seismic shaking. Therefore, this impact is considered to be less than significant. No mitigation is required Erosion, Changes in Topography or Unstable Soils Due to the fact that the site is relatively flat, erosion is anticipated to be minimal during the construction phase. In addition, the Town Engineering Department's standards conditions of approval (i.e., no grading during the rainy season) would further reduce any potential for erosion or unstable soils. Therefore, this impact is considered to be less than significant. No mitigation is required Expansive Soils Test boring performed by the applicant's geotechnical consultant found that in the area of the proposed multi-use center and classrooms, soils encountered were generally hard silty and sandy clay with varying sand and gravel content to depths ranging from 6 to 10.5 feet. A Plasticity Index (PI) test performed on this surficial soil resulted in a PI of 29, indicating moderate expansion potential. For future structures to be built in this area, this is considered a potentially significant impact. The following mitigation measures are recommended to reduce potential impacts to a level of insignificance: Mitigation measure Ma. above would apply. Congregation Beth Am Initial Study/Mitigated ND Page 13 IV. Water (a, b, c, d, f, g, h, i) Information for this section was derived from a drainage report prepared by Brian Kangas Foulk (dated December 4, 1997), consultants to the applicant. Absorption Rates/Drainage The proposed project would increase the amount of impervious area on the site from 63,600 square feet to 132,900 square feet. The increase in impervious area will cause the peak flow rate at Fremont Road to increase by about 6 percent. The calculated change in flow depth at Fremont Road is less than 0.05 feet during the 10-year event. The Engineering Department, in their review of the applicant's drainage study, has indicated that additional analyses will be required to assess the potential impact of the proposed drainage system. This is a potentially significant impact. The following mitigation measures are recommended to reduce potential impacts to a level of insignificance: Na. The applicant shall prepare and submit a revised drainage study, which includes analysis of the natural drainage channel (from outlet of 30" cm(p to inlet of pipes under Fremont Road) comparing existing flow with proposed flow to determine if any additional erosion control measures are required. This shall be accomplished to the satisfaction of the City Engineer prior to submittal of plans for building plan check. IVb. The applicant shall provide proof to the Town of their legal right to use the drainage swale, OR acquire such right prior to submittal of plans for building plan check. Flooding The site is located in FEMA Zone 2, which has a mean annual precipitation of 17 inches per year. The existing storm drain culverts at Fremont Road do not have adequate flow capacity for the design 10-year flow. With the proposed development, the flow rate to these culverts will increase by about 6 percent. The resulting increase in depth of flow is less than 0.05 feet. The potential increase in the duration of ponding on Fremont road is less than 4 minutes during the 10-year event. The changes to the depth and duration of ponding are not significant. With the proposed project, there will be at least two feet freeboard to the existing finished floor of the buildings downstream of the site. The extension of the 30-inch diameter storm drain culvert to the site will reduce the potential for clogging at the culvert opening with the existing conditions. This will benefit downstream landowners by reducing the overland flows that would occur when the culvert opening clogs. This impact is considered to be less than significant. No mitigation is required Congregation Beth Am Initial Study/Mitigated ND Page 14 Groundwater Free groundwater was encountered during drilling at a depth of 18.5 feet. Fluctuations in the level of the groundwater may occur due to variations in rainfall and other factors not in evidence at the time measurements were made. Due to the relatively small scope of site improvements proposed, impacts related to groundwater quantity and quality are considered to be less than significant No mitigation is required V. Air Quality (a, c, d) Proposed site improvements are not anticipated to result in an increase in the congregation membership, which in turn would increase automobile trips to/from the site and air quality impacts associated with cars. Due to the relatively small scale of development proposed, any changes in local climate or creation of objectionable odors is anticipated to be negligible. Therefore, this impact is anticipated to be less than significant. VL Transportation/Circulation (a, b, c,d, e) The following information is provided based on a traffic report prepared by Brian Kangas Foulk (dated December 4, 1997), consultants to the applicant. Vehicular Trips The study performed by BKF evaluated traffic impacts at two adjacent intersections (Arastradero Road/Fremont Road and Arastradero Road/Deer Creek Road). Both intersections presently operate satisfactorily at Level of Service "C" or better, with very little traffic delay. Calculations and analysis performed by BKF indicate that Level of Service levels would not change with addition of the proposed project. Therefore, impacts are considered to be less than significant. Safety Hazards from Design Features Because the existing driveway to the site is located at the middle of a short block of Arastradero Road, between Fremont Road and Deer Creek Road, it is difficult for motorists to turn left onto westbound Arastradero Road during weekday PM peak hours. The weekday PM peak hour volume on westbound Arastradero is approximately.837 vehicles per hour and the average gap between vehicles is only about 4.3 seconds. Based, on Table 10-2 of the "Highway Capacity Manual", the minimum gap that would be found acceptable for motorists to make a left turn should be 6.5 seconds. Motorists could encounter severe delays to turn out of the site during the PM peak hour. This is considered a potentially significant impact. • The following mitigation measures are recommended in order to reduce potential impacts to a level of insignificance: • Congregation Beth Am Initial Study/Mitigated ND Page 15 Via. The applicant shall post a sign at the exit to Arastradero Road indicating that 'No Left Turn' is permitted between the hours of 4-6 PM on weekdays. This shall be accomplished to the satisfaction of the City Engineer prior to final inspection. Internal Circulation and Parking City of Palo Alto Parking Regulations were utilized due to the fact that the Town has no regulations for non-residential uses. Palo Alto's parking standard for a religious institution is one on-site parking space for each four seats or four persons. The maximum seating number at the existing sanctuary is approximately 450. The number ofstudents who are going to attend educational programs will be approximately 300. Assuming it is possible to have 750 people in the Temple at the same time, a minimum of 188 parking stalls must be provided. The proposed parking supply of 199 paved and approximately 30 unpaved parking spaces is sufficient to meet peak demands. Existing one way circulation for on-site access will remain with some modification at the main entrance. Proper signage shall be installed at the main entrance to minimize confusion for drivers. No striping and signage will be provided for unpaved parking. These impacts are anticipated to be less than significant. No mitigation is required VII. Biological Resources (b) There are no designated heritage trees on the project site. Although several trees are proposed for removal in order to accommodate construction, none of these would qualify as a Town Heritage Tree (typically oak species). In addition, the applicant is proposing replacement plantings for those trees proposed for removal. Therefore, this impact is considered to be less than significant. No mitigation is required VIII. Energy (b) Although the proposed project will utilize nonrenewable resources during the construction phase of development, due to the relatively small scale involved, it is not anticipated that these resources would be used in a wasteful or inefficient manner. Therefore, this impact is considered to be less than significant. No mitigation is required X. Noise (a, b) Increases in Existing Noise Levels Future noise levels are not anticipated to increase over existing noise levels. However, nearby residents have complained in the past about noise generated by use of the assembly hall kitchen (from catering services delivering and loading from vans parked adjacent to the kitchen door). Due to these existing issues, this impact is considered potentially significant. Congregation Beth Am Initial Study/Mitigated ND Page 17 Maintenance of Public Facilities Due to the nature of the proposed improvements, and the fact that future use of the site will remain unchanged from existing uses, impacts related to maintenance of roadways provided by the Town of Los Altos Hills are considered to be less than significant. No mitigation is required XII. Utilities and Service Systems (a, b, c, d, e, f, g) Due to the relatively small level of development proposed, impacts to utilities and services are anticipated to be less than significant. No mitigation is required XIII. Aesthetics (a, b, c) Aesthetics The proposed buildings will be required to conform to Town standards regarding height and color of building materials. As the local ridgeline acts as a backdrop to the project site and due to extensive existing and proposed landscape screening, impacts related to aesthetics are anticipated to be less than significant. No mitigation is required Light and Glare The majority of the Town of Los Altos Hills has no street lighting, therefore any nighttime lighting provided for the parking lots is likely to be noticeable, even from off-site. This could affect nearby residences and be noticeable to cars travelling along Arastradero Road. This is considered a potentially significant impact. The applicant proposes to remove existing lighting standards from theparking area and replace them with poles and fixtures better directed away from residential properties. The following mitigation measures are recommended in order to reduce potential impacts to a level of insignificance: XIIIa. Outdoor lighting shall be directed away from residential properties and adjacent roadways to the greatest extent feasible. All outdoor lighting locations and specifications shall be approved by the Planning Director prior to submittal of plans for building plan check. XIV. Cultural Resources (a, b, c) No data has been provided by the applicant indicating the presence/absence of archaeological resources on the project site. This is considered a potentially significant impact. The following mitigation measure is recommended in order to reduce potential impacts to a level of insignificance: Congregation Beth Am Initial Study/Mitigated ND Page 18 X[Va. Should archaeological artifacts or remains be discovered during construction of the project, work in the vicinity of the find shall stop immediately until a qualified archaeologist can evaluate the site and determine the significance of the find. Project personnel shall not collect or alter cultural resources. Identified cultural resources shall be recorded on forms DPR 422 (archaeological sites) and/or DPR 523 (historic resources). If human remains are found, the County Coroner shall be contacted immediately. XV. Recreation (b) Arastradero Road is a primary route through Town and a connector to the City of Palo..Alto. Nearby Fremont Road provides access to Town Hall and two schools. Existing pathway use in the vicinity of the site is high (due mostly to lunchtime joggers/walkers from Palo Alto and from the two Los Altos Hills schools) and would be expected to continue at current levels with the proposed development. Due to the extensive Town pathway system, this impact is considered to be less than significant. No mitigation is required The Town's Pathways Committee has reviewed the proposed project and''has the following recommendation: XVa. Construct II-B path along Arastradero Road. If necessary, acquire additional pathway easement adjacent to road right-of-way. This shall be accomplished to the satisfaction of the Engineering Department prior to final inspection. Planning Commission Minutes DRAFT January 28, 1998 Page 7 Gottlieb would like to see the bac ouse articulated more by .g which would break up the mass and addre neighbor's privacy issues. Mr. Cahoon wo refer approval as designed. ain stated nothing has been acceptable to neighbors. This design is wit 'F ` e CC&R's. She does not want to change 'ng. TION SECONDED AND PAS . " 0: Motion by Chairman Gottlieb an..:ti "onded by Commissioner Schreiner to as:- ye the Site Development Permit for.,;: =` ew residence, Lands of Jain, with the foil.. ng additions/changes to the condition ,_r'approval: the main floor shall be set back a,.- 'mum of five feet from the lower lev; '. all plane. AYES: -•+ an Gottlieb, Commissioners Jinke - & Schreiner NOES: ommissioner Cheng This ' will appear on the City Council co • - t calendar February 4, 1998. rief break at 11:15 p.m. 3.4 LANDS OF CONGREGATION BETH AM, 26790 Arastradero Road (189-97-ZP-SD-CUP-ND); Proposed Conditional Use Permit and Site Development Permit for the construction of a 7,050 square foot multi- purpose building, additions of 4,225 square feet of classroom and administrative buildings, and 142 new parking spaces, to an existing religious facility; and Proposed Negative Declaration. CONSENSUS: To take public input only, continuing this item to the February 11t meeting. The Planning Director introduced this item noting the receipt of three letters: (1) Congregation Beth Am addressing the limitation on the size of the Congregation, the rules of operation, the hours of use for site activities, no outdoor sound amplification allowed, and noise levels; (2) Heinz Erzberger suggesting nine recommendations for consideration; and (3) a letter of support from the Janklow family. The Planning Director had provided the Commission with conditions of approval for Fremont Hills Country Club, St. Nicholas School, and Chapel of the Hills. It was not known if the Commission could legally limit membership. OPENED PUBLIC HEARING Planning Commission Minutes DRAFT January 28, 1998 Page 8 Richard Block, Rabbi, Congregation Beth Am, expressed a desire to proceed with the project which will provide them with additional classrooms, a gathering space for meetings, and additional office space. He discussed the 40 year history of the site, and not wanting to accept a limitation on membership or a requirement that they seek permission to expand membership which has been addressed in his letter of January 27, 1998. The social hall is a gathering place used mainly for education. The expansion will spread the activities over the area and should not impact neighbors. Rob Steinberg, project architect, discussed the three components: multipurpose building, classrooms and administrative building, and new parking spaces with the reorganization of parking circulation. He further discussed the following: additional screening; the use of the same roof line; design elements; a modest proposal for the maximum numbers allowed; maximum required parking per Fire Code; and not imposing from Arastradero Road. Commissioner Schreiner asked what was the total capacity of the classrooms and the multipurpose building. The number was not known. Ric Rudman, Facilities Committee Chairman, Congregation Beth Am,' discussed their obligations to neighbors, keeping them informed and addressing their concerns. They would prefer this project not modeled after the Jewish Community Center, but modeled after a church as it is a house of worship. He asked for support as there is a time urgency with the start of construction. Katie Buzbee, 27201 Fremont Road, voiced concern regarding drainage improvements adjacent to Beth Am. Heinz Erzberger, 13457 Thendara Lane, reiterated concerns addressed in his letter of January 28, 1998 noting the following recommended suggestions: (1) issue a use permit requiring periodic review along the lines developed by the City of Palo Alto for the operation of the Jewish Community Center on Arastradero Road. The use permit should enumerate permitted activities, hours of operation, noise levels, etc. and an enforcement mechanism. (2) Establish a time table for splitting the congregation to achieve the membership levels promised by the congregation during the original variance hearings. (3) Prior to construction, build a durable wooden sound/privacy wall 6 1/2 feet in height along the Thendara/Beth Am boundary. (4) Minimize intensity of lighting in all area and shut off lighting in the new parking lot by 11:00 p.m. (5) Set a monthly limit on the number of social hall events involving catering of meals, food preparation in the kitchens, alcoholic beverage service and amplified music performances (11:00 p.m. limit). Limit the hours of operation from 9:00 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. (6) Restrict use of social halls to life cycle events of congregants only. (7) Schedule no more than one social hall event per day. (8) Develop a definite control procedure for selectively limiting traffic along the perimeter road by restricting access to specific classes of drivers (i.e. staff, rabbi, handicapped). (9) Add a driveway connecting the east and west segments of the perimeter road, along the south side Planning Commission Minutes DRAFT January 28, 1998 Page 9 of the new classroom buildings, in order to reduce perimeter road traffic and parking lot circulation traffic. He stated the summer months are the noisiest as the doors are open due to the heat. He suggested installing air conditioners so doors remain shut to reduce noise levels. Rabbi Block discussed activity usage and rules on weekend activities. The problem appears to be with amplified noise. A reasonable number of events is unknown. It would be hard to limit catered services. Chairman Gottlieb noted a condition placed on the Fremont Hills Country Club Use Permit so alcohol would not be served later than one hour prior to the end of an event. -CLOSED PUBLIC HEARING MOTION SECONDED AND PASSED: Motion by Commissioner Jinkerson and seconded by Commissioner Cheng to continue the proposed Conditional Use Permit and Site Development Permit for the construction of a 7,050 square foot multipurpose building, additions of 4,225 square feet of classroom and administrative building's, and 142 new parking spaces, to an existing religious facility; and proposed Negative Declaration, Lands of Congregation Beth Am, to the February 11th meeting. Additional information shall be provided regarding the following: maximum capacity, drainage, City Attorney opinion regarding restricting synagogue membership (maximum numbers); hours of operation, and calendar of events. AYES: Chairman Gottlieb, Commissioners Cheng, Jinkerson& Schreiner NOES: None 4. OLD BUSINESS 4.1 Re from subcommittees-none 5. BUSINESS 5.1 Joint Work Session wit ty Council: Tuesday, Feb v -.i 10, 1998, at 6:00 p.m. Commissione eng will not be able to a •. • 111 RICHARDA BLOCK CONGREGATION 26790 ARASTRADERO ROAD (415) 493-4661 RABBI BETH AM LOS ALTOS HILLS, CA 94022 FAX(415) 494-8248 KENNETH I. CARR RABBI February 3, 1998 SIDNEY AKSELRAD RABBI EMERITUS DAVID UNTERMAN TO: Curtis Williams, Planning Director CANTOR ,...14111ifbAy. KAY GREENWALD FROM: Marcyl Seidscher, Director of Administ CANTOR RE: Site Development Permit #189-97-ZP-SD-CUP-ND !ABBI LAURA NOVAK WINER DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION USA LANGER By personal delivery PROGRAM COORDINATOR MARCYL SEIDSCHER DIRECTOR OF ADMINISTRATION Ric Rudman asked that the enclosed calendar of events, for the periods June through August, and September through May, be delivered to you per your request. Weekly Event Calendar June,July and August Congregation Beth Am Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday 8 _Office opens at 8:30 Office opens at 8:30 Office opens at 8:30 Office opens at 8:30 Office opens at 8:30 Bible study . am, closes at 5 pm am, closes at 5 pm am, closes at 5 pm am, closes at 5 pm am, closes at 5 pm 9 = 1 O • Sabbath worship services Wedding (averages 2 month) per Religious education Religious education Religious education 1 2 for adults for adults for adults After service gathering and lunch 1 ,,,,,,,..,v,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,„,,,,,,,,,,„„:„,,.„:f 'Bar/bat mitzvah 2raQ 3 }b � i { � celebration ave r g s $ 4 ," Y �> y ) SG Y 1 per month) hi3 y 4 tr � as \ 5 z r e � ,� rsa:r ti . Outdoor Sabbath Bar/bat mitzvah 6service andgathering celebration (averages ., ... . „ . ,., ,. „ (JI/Aug) 1-2 per month) 5 ' Meetings (average Meetings (average Meetings (average 2-3 per month) 2-3 per month) 2-3 per month) o • Sabbath evening service and gathering (June) R t 0 C x © Wdg. can end Mem'l ' ' 11 r. DayWknd 1 > d. LFII y''' LFII y''' \ ,� Typical Frequency Weekly Unless Otherwise Indicated, Hours Vary PM Events May End Earlier But Do Not End Later Than Indicated • Weekly Event Calendar September-May Congregation Beth AM Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday 8 Office opens at 8:30, Office opens at 8:30, Office opens at 8.30, Office opens at 8:30, Office opens~at 8:30, Religious education closes at 5pm. closes at 5pm. closes at 5pm. closes at Spm. closes at 5pm. Bible study for youth and adults 9 = 1 O Parent child class Sabbath worship services ' ''',,K:,:::;.:,,:,........„. ....,...:;;;.:',...,...'...' ..,.'„ :...1:':::,:.>::::::. Religious education Religious education Religious education 12 for adults for adults for adults After service gathering and lunch 1 2 Bar/bat mitzvah e ebratio ve rages cl n (a ' .n 1 per month) 3 �.. �� `� w ; X<�>.;t ,� Wedding (averages Religious education Religious education Religious education Religious education,. 1-2 per month) for youth and adults; for youth and adults; for youth and adults; for youth y 4 meetings meetings meetings Family education program 5 6 : Sabbath dinner (averages 2 per Bar/bat mitzvah ::month) celebration or i Adult education and wedding (averages meetings Sabbath worship 1-2 per month) services and 7 gatherings O gAdult education and Adult education and Adult education and meetings meetings meetings Wdgs. can end on 3 0: day wknd. 11 Typical Frequency Weekly Unless Otherwise Indicated, Hours Vary PM Events May End Earlier But Do Not End Later Than Indicated 01/27/98 TUE 13:20 FAX 415 494 8248 CONGREGATION BETH AM IjO02 I 7 -7 / • 1 RICHARDA BLOCK CONGREGATION 26790 ARASTRADERO ROAD (650) 493-4661 RABBI BETH AM LOS ALTOS HILLS, CA 94022 FAX(650) 494-8248 KENNETH I. CAR • R • I January 27, 1998 SIDNEYAKSELRAD Ms. Carol Gottlieb, RABB` ` Chairman, Planning Commission KAY GREENWALD Town of Los Altos Hills CANTOR 26379 Fremont Road DAVID uNrERnnAry Los Altos Hills; CA CANTOR EMERITUS Dear Madam Chairman, RABBI LAURA NOVAK WINER DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION I am writing with respect to item 3.4.on the Planning LISA LANGER Commission agenda for Wednesday, January 28, 1998, PROGRAM COORDINATOR pertaining to the Proposed Conditional Use Permit and Site MARCYLSEIDSCHER Development Permit for Congregation Beth Am. DIRECTOR OF ADMINISTRATION As you know, there has been extensive communication between our congregation and Town staff with respect to our project as well as a recent study session attended by three Planning Commissar,vers. We are grateful! to the Staff and the Commission for the time, effort and care that they have devoted to our application. In the process of preparing our application, we have invested considerable time, expanse and effort to inform and be informed by our neighborsand to eliminate or substantially mitigate any negative impact of our project and activities upon them. Indeed, we are proud of r ur efforts over the years to be a good and considerate neighbor. We received a copy of the Staff Report to the Planning Commission, including the proposed "Conditions of Approval/Conditional Use Permit for Religious Institution," (Exhibit "A") over the past weekend. We find +::lurselves I largely in agreement with the provisions of the Staff Report concerning the Site Development Permit, with the exception of two items that will be discussed with Staff and reviewed with you at tomorrow night's meeting, The purpose of this letter is share a number of concerns with respect to the proposed Conditional Use Permit. Unlike the Site Development Permit, the content of the Use Permit, which would define and limit the communal life of our congregational family, was not discussed with us, nor were we afforded an opportunity to address the; issues involved on an informal basis with Staff or the Commission, 01/27/98 TUE 13:21 FAX 415 494 8248 CONGREGATION BETH AM x1003 prior to its release to the public. Hence, we set forth our view;; here and request the relief described below. We are continuing to study the Staff Report and the exhibits and respectfully reserve the right to raise other issues that may emerge from that review. Our present concerns with respect to the Conditional Use Permit are these: 1. Limitation on the Size of the Congregation (Exhibit "A", sec L:lon 4) As we have indicated, the proposed project is intended to serve our present membership and we do not expect it to impact the size of the Congregation. Since Beth Am made its home in Los Altos Hills, we have grown slowly, but steadily, beyond the good faith estimates and expectations of our founders nearly forty years ago. In those years, three additional synagogues have been established nearby, totalling approximately 750 member families who might otherwiseliave affiliated with us. While we do not aspire to further growth, we cannot: accept a limitation on membership or a requirement: that we seek permission. to expand membership for the following reasons: • Membership size does not bear a direct relation to site utilization. For example, many members are seldom, if ever, on the site and affiliate in order to support the synagogue and to attend high holy day services that have been held elsewhere for four years. Even though memk:►ership has grown over the years, we have considerably fewer social events connected with religious ceremonies than was the case ten years ago, due to self- imposed restrictions on hours of operation, etc. • Restricting synagogue membership and potentially requiring!; the Congregation to turn away persons who seek to worship and affiliate with us would cause us to violate our religious obligations. It wotu:kd also impose potentially substantial financial burdens on the Congregation and hamper its unity to serve others and carry out its religious mission. • Governmentally imposed limitations on church or synagogue: membership would violate present and potential members' constitutionally guaranteed rights to freedom of religion and assembly as well as the constitutionally mandated separation of church and state. • Concerns of neighbors and the Town can be adequately addressed by less intrusive and less restrictive means in the Site Development Permit and by reasonable rules of operation. Proposed Relief: Eliminate paragraph 4 of the Conditional Use Permit 2. The Rules of Operation (Exhibit "A", section 5) a. No commercial activities or retail sales are permitted on tht:,site. We do not normally engage in what we understand to be commercial activities or retail sales on the site. However, we occasionally have such synagogue-related activities as a religious arts and crafts fair, the sale of 2 01/27/98 TUE 13:22 FAX 415 494 8248 CONGREGATION BETH AM Lj004 Jewish holiday foods and items, bake sales, and the sale of wedding and bar/bat Mitzvah invitations, etc., as fundraisers for the Congregation. At one - time, we had a small gift shop selling religious items and while we have no present plans to reopen that shop, we would like to be free to ill o so. Proposed Relief Amend section 5 to permit fundraising events and activities b. Hours ofuse for site activities (Exhibit "A", section 5.b.) We hal't"°two concerns with the limitations proposed: • While the Staff Report indicates that the limitations apply only to "social events;;' the Conditional Use Permit (section 5.b.) is unqualified. It would limit or forbid an immense range of essential congregationalfunctions, including religious services and activities. For example, soiue worship services are traditionally.conducted at night. Congregation: Board and committee meetings often continue after 10 PM. It cannot have been Stars-intention to interfere With such fundamental activitie.. Proposed Relief Amend the rules of operation to conform to Staff Report by limiting their application to social events • Even as to social events, the hours are unduly restrictive. Some years ago, the Congregation voluntarily adopted a number of operating rules in order to establish and maintain-good relations with its neighbors. These rules require:that on Saturday nights and Sundays prior to a Monday holiday, all music and entertainment must end by 11:30 PM and the building must be completely cleared by 12 midnight. On other Sundays, all music and entertainment must end by 9:30 PM and the building must be completely cleared by 10 PM. (Social events do not customarily take place on Friday evenings.) These rules, combined with traditional Jewish prohibitions on wedding ceremonies between sundown Friday and sundown on Satur:I.ay, have drastically reduced the number of evening parties at Beth Am, earned the praise and appreciation of our neighbors, and reduced complaints to very rare occurences. The various provisions of the Site Development Permit will also insure that any noise will be even further reduced ter eliminated. Further restrictions would be unduly limiting and are not necessary. Proposed;Relief Incorporate the Congregation's present rules bas set forth above) pertaining to hours of facility use into the Conditional Use Permit for social events c. No outdoor sound amplification shall be'allowed on the site (Exhibit "A", section 5.c.) • This rule would make it impossible to conduct outdoor religious services, wedding ceremonies, and memorial services, which we have: always done. This cannot have been Staffs intent. I believe that it is aimed at one particular event, an outdoor summer evening party for emigres from the 3 01%27/98 TUE 13:23 FAX 415 494 8248 CONGREGATION BETH AM 0]005 • former Soviet Union that involved music. In more than ten years at Beth Am, I cannot recall a single complaint about any other outdoor event. Proposed Relief f Eliminate the prohibition of outdoor sound amplification. Substitute a prohibition of amplified music outdoors for socki.l events in evening hours. d. Noise levels shall be limited to comply with the provisions of Section 5- 2.02 of the Los Altos Hills Municipal Code To our knowledge, we are in conformity with all applicable rules. However, rules that apply to residential use may not be entirely appropriate to a synagogue. We will request clarification from Staff and, if necessary, seek appropriate ameliorative action. 3. The various documents before the Planning Commission, including the Staff Report, and Exhibit "C," refer to our congregation as a "church." The appropriate descriptive term for a Jewish congregation is "synagogue." We would appreciate the substitution of "synagogue" in place of "church" wherever;the latter word appears in these documents. We have shared this letter and our various concerns with Staff bOday and we look forward to tomorrow's meeting. Thank you for your dedicated service and outstanding leadership and for your careful consideration OF our application and views. In peace and blessing, Richard A. -Block Rabbi cc: Curtis S. Williams, Planning Director • • 4 • RECEIVED To Planning Commission Members, IAN 2 8 1998 Town of Los Altos Hills Reference: Congregation Beth Am Expansion Proposal TOW ur LOS ALTOS HILLS JanuarY 28,1998 'As residents of Thendara Lane, we take great interest in the proposed expansion of facilities at Congregation Beth Am and are here to express our concern that the expansion could further impair the quality of residential life in our neighborhood. Our concern is founded in the experiences of having been neighbors of Beth Am for over 20 years. In preparing for this meeting, we examined the records of the city council hearing which approved the variance for the building and operation of Beth Am in 1958. The records show that neighbors feared increased noise and traffic and loss of privacy. Indeed, over the years noise from a variety of activities has had a continuing adverse impact on the quality of life in our neighborhood. It has been the subject of numerous meetings with leaders of the Congregation starting in the early 80's.The most serious incidents occurred during the decade of the 80's and almost all involved events, such as wedding celebrations, held in the social hall. We have kept a loose record of such incidents and have included copies of some of the correspondence in an attachment. Further, in answering a question by the council during the variance hearing, the repre- sentative of the Congregation stated that a limit of 500 families had been established for its ultimate size and that growth would be controlled by forming anew congregation. In the intervening years, the membership has grown to nearly 1200 family units. While this growth far beyond the maximum explains the need for the proposed expansion, we won- der whether there is still an intent to control growth and whether an expansion would be needed at all if a new congregation were formed. Major sources of noise: • Amplified live rock band music with loud low frequencies in afternoon and late at night. • Catering truck loading and unloading, especially audible late at night. • Food preparation noises from an open kitchen door during summer afternoons and evenings. • Cleanup activities such as dumping of glass bottles into recycling bins late at night. • Shouting and loud conversations by caterers and food workers during cleanup late at night. • Honking of horns by guests departing late at night. • Emptying of garbage dumpster twice each week in the early morning hours (drum and booming noises). • Noise from perimeter road traffic. • Idling diesel engines of busses; also fumes. • Leaf blower operations 2 -3 times per week, sometimes early in the morning. Because of the location of our bedroom and backyard directly across from the west wall of the social hall, we have become intimately acquainted with the pulse of its activities. Whether we're are in our bedroom or in our backyard, we are always conscious of social hall events. Call us expert witnesses to weddings and bar mitzvahs. Behind the west wall is the stage where bands perform, and next to it is the institutional kitchen. On the outside is • a loading ramp and parking area for catering trucks;it is where the dumpster and the recycling bins are located. This area has, over the years, been the source of our severest noise disturbances. It compares to being located behind a busy restaurant and night club. We, therefore, welcome the proposal to build a sound wall that will partially shield us from the noise generated in this area. We will be interested to determine its effectiveness, once it has been installed. We are happy to report that, starting about 1991 the frequency and severity of noise disturbance from social hall events diminished significantly. We would like to express our gratitude to Rabbi Block for taking a personal interest in our problems and following up with measures to mitigate them. Specifically;he put in place new rules and restrictions governing events in the social hall which have greatly reduced the most disturbing type of noise,namely loud band music late at night. Other types of noise have also diminished though to a lesser degree. In discussing the various sources of noise, we wish to state that the weekly worship services and even the High Holy Days celebrations with the increased traffic volume have never been the source of a single complaint by the Thendara Lane residents over all the years we have lived next to Beth Am. While the situation is currently tolerable, we worry what will happen when the new classrooms and especially the second social hall will come on line. Can we expect to have two celebratory events scheduled simultaneously, one in the existing hall and one in the new hall? Each event can be expected to bring in catering trucks, band music and cars to fill the parking lot. We also are concerned over the noise impact of the large,new parking lot along Thendara Lane.This parking lot is designed to circulate traffic and will be used intensively by people heading for the new classroom buildings. We therefore request that, as a mitigation measure, a durable wood fence or sound wall, 6 1/2 ft. in height, be constructed to run along the full length of the boundary between the Thendara Lane and the Beth Am properties. The fence will help to reduce traffic and park- ing lot noise, as well a providing privacy. Landscaping is not enough by itself, since it takes years to establish and is subject to the vagaries of nature. We are also concerned that the expanded facilities will enable further growth in the membership, leading to an increase in the number of events, and thus further exacerbating the noise and traffic impact on neighbors. With further growth in both the number and diversity of non-worship events, the Beth Am facilities may evolve into a de facto commu- nity center,hosting various social services. Such changes ought to be guided and planned by the residents and city officials before they become accepted practice. As a summary of the preceding discussion, we respectfully submit the following list of recommendations for consideration by the Planning Commission: 1. Issue a use permit requiring periodic review along the lines developed by the City of Palo Alto for the operation of the Jewish Community Center on Arastradero road. The use permit should enumerate permitted activities, hours of operation, noise levels, etc. and an enforcement mechanism (see attachment). 2. Establish a time table for splitting the congregation to achieve the membership levels promised by the congregation during the original variance hearings. 3. Prior to construction, build a durable wooden sound/privacy wall 6 1/2 feet in height along the Thendara-Beth Am boundary. 4. Minimize intensity of lighting in all areas and shut off lighting in the new parking lot by 11:00 PM. 5. Set a monthly limit on the number of social hall events involving catering of meals, food preparation in the kitchens, alcoholic beverage service and amplified music performances. Require all catering trucks to be off the premises and after-party cleanup to completed by 11:00 PM. Limit the hours of operation from 9:00 AM to 10:30 PM 6. Restrict use of social halls to life cycle events of congregants only. 7. Schedule no more than one social hall event per day. S. Develop a definite control procedure for selectively limiting traffic along the perimeter road by restricting access to specific classes of drivers, i.e.: staff,rabbi,handicapped. 9.Add a driveway connecting the East and West segments of the perimeter road, along the South side of the new classroom buildings, in order to reduce perimeter road traffic and parking lot circulation traffic. 1/4664 Heinz Erzberger ��u� 13457 Thendara Lane Los Altos Hills;94022 /3{43TT 0Z� 60.5 O's t4;as, q FO? L A" I3vg/ C�.P-�7 9yo.2Z 13y�"' t .c�oem . otos &Z S/4o,26t- C* 2? • 1 i , i ine, Los Altos Hills , Ca 940022 City Council Town of Los Altos Hills 26379 Fremont Road RECEIVED Los Altos Hills , Ca 94022 4 Aor i 1 , 19(39 JAN 2 8 1998 From: Residents of Thendara Lane TOWN OF LOS ALTOS HILLS Tc : City Council Subject: Noise Disturbance from Congregation Beth Am We residents of Thendara Lane have a problem with loud noise from our neighbour the Congregation Beth Am for a long time. It usually happens on weekends and at night. Unacceptable loud noises are generated from live bands and performers singing on stage. Parties with live music have sometimes gone until midnight on a Sunday evening. After the bands stop playing , noisy cleanup activities may .continue until 2 am. These include loading of trucks, shouting of commands, honking of horns and various kitchen noises. These distrubances are especially annoying during warm summer nights when doors and windows are open for ventilation. They impact primarily residents of Thendara Lane because the band stand , kitchen access, caterer parking and garbage hold are all adjacent to our street. With• no sound absorbing barriers , the Beth Am facility is not equipped to contain the noise level from live band performance. Police have been called two times (3/ 18 & 4/2) in the past four weeks to quite them down . and on numerous other occassion in the past. We are frustrated with the situation. We have taken the following initiatives to solve this problem: 1 . In past years , H. Erzberger has written letters to the Congregation and has meet many times with different Congregation . leaders in attempts to resolve the noise problem. These attempts have not led to a lasting solution of the problem. 2. Rita Choong wrote a letter to Rabbi Block last year addressing the noise disturbance. Rabbi Block refered us to the administrator who has not been able to solve the Prr_blem. 7. On the evening Marcn 18, 1989 the party ' s noise was especially loud. Rita Choonq telephoned Rabbi Block _o let him know the problem. The phone call was answered by a answering machine. A message was left on recorder but the call was not returned. 4. Complaints have been filed with the police on many occasions over the years. But they are not effective because once the police had left the Beth Am facility the noise volume went back - up again . Police had to be called twice in one situation . 5. Noise from live bands playing inside the social hall was measured at the property boundary to be 5 to l ) db above the City ' s legal limits ( 1966) . The City ' s noise meter was used to make the measurements. The problem with the Beth Am facility is as follow: 1 . The Beth Am social hall facility is not designed to contain the noises associated with live band concerts and activities of caterers within the Beth Am property. 2. The Beth Am leadership has failed to exercise control over the people to whom they rent the facility. 3. Noise disturbance always happen at night and on weekend when administrator or responsible person cannot be reached. We urge you to consider the following solutions to remedy the situation: • 1 . Live band parties should not be allowed in the social hall until their facility has been modified to contain the noise level . 2. Activities in the social hall involving live bands and consumption of alcoholic beverages should be licensed by a permit that is subject to yearly renewals. 3. Responsible Beth Am administrators should be available so that we can contact them any time noisy activities are in progress. 4. The City should take appropriate action when there is a serious violat.ion of noise standards of the social hall . The recent letter to the neigbour see attachment) from the administrator of the social hall typifies the response of congregation leaders over the years. It is always apologetic and promises improvements. But , as the last paragraph indicates , it asks us to bear our burden patiently and not to disturb the responsible people at Beth Am on weekends and at nights when the disturbances actually occur. We, as residents of Los Altos Hills are proud to live in such a beautiful and serene area. Let us keep it that way. Loud noises are unlawful , and do not belong here. We did what we could. We now ask the City ' s help in rectifying the situation . Please let us know what kind of solution you recommand and what kind of action you will take. Hope to near from you soon . Thank you. } Choongs Family tr:oergers Family Jones Family ( 13435 Thendara ln ) ( 13457 Thendara 1n ) ( 13479 Thendara in ) . 111111111111111 [77 CONGREGATION 26790 ARASTRADERO LOS ALTOS HILLS RICHARD A. BLOCK BETH AM NEAR HILLVIEW CALIFORNIA 94022 RABBI (415) 493-4661 DAVID B. COHEN RABBI SIDNEY AKSELRAD RABBI EMERITUS DAVID UNTERMAN CANTOR May 26, 1989 GEORGE RUBIN EDUCATOR PAULA BALDWIN ADMINISTRATOR Mr. and Mrs. Erzberger 13457 Thendara Lane Los Altos Hills, CA 94022 Dear Mr. and Mrs. Erzberger, As a result of your recent letter to the Los Altos Hills City Council regarding noise, a meeting was held between the Town Manager, Tom Frutchui, Rabbi Richard Block, our President, Rosyland Bauer and myself. It was suggested that Rabbi Block, Mrs. Bauer and I meet with the three families involved. While we do not consider your letter to be entirely fair or accurate, and find it difficult to understand why you did not notify us before taking this action or see fit to send us a copy of your letter, we remain anxious to address your concerns. I will telephone you next week to invite you to a meeting where all of the issues can be aired and discussed. I look forward to meeting with you in the near future. Sincerely, � Paula Baldwin Administrator • CONGREGATION 26790 ARAS T RADERO LOS ALTOS HILLS RICHARD A. BLOCK BETH AM NEAR HILLVIEW CALIFORNIA 94022 RA E.;9, (415) 493-4661 DAVID B. COHEN RA22B. SIDNEY AKSELRAD RAEB: EMERITUS May 25, 1989 DAVID UNTERM.AN CANTOR GEORGE Fi iiV EDUCATOR Mayor Bob Johnson PAULA BALDWIN Members of the City Council ADMINISTRATOR 26379 Fremont Road Los Altos Hills, CA 94022 Dear Mayor Johnson, We recently became aware of the letter dated April 4 , 1989 from three of our neighbors complaining of noise. Town Manager Tom Frutchui brought the matter to our attention as a copy of the letter was not sent to us , nor had we been given any indication that our neighbors were contemplating such precipitous action. On May 16 , Rabbi Block, Rosyland Bauer, the President of our con- gregation, and I met with Mr. Frutchui to discuss the situation. As a result, we have written to each of the neighbors involved to suggest a meeting with the hope of addressing their concerns and establishing a better level of communication. A copy of that letter is enclosed. We want tc be, and have always tried hard to be , a good and con- siderate neighbor and we believe that we have succeeded to a much greater degree than the letter of complaint would suggest . Con- trary to the impression given in the letter, we believe that noise problems are truly exceptional rather than usual or consis- tent, that we have responded promptly to the occasional com- plaints we have received, and that we have taken effective action to minimize disturbance to our neighbors . ,Ironically, the letter of which our neighbors complain outlined our mgstr Steps towar�c "tiTi t end. Tve are deeply disappointed that they did no give .- - - -- . a c ance to w. 7111:1Ri' s+ :emo o ace extreff-d-aria unwarranted restrictions on our congregational ac- tivities . - Despite that disappointment, we want to assure you that we will redouble our efforts to cooperate with our neighbors . We are confident that a combination of goodwill , cooperation, reasonable expectations and direct communication between ourselves and our neighbors can resolve the outstanding issues. We are grateful to Mr. Frutchui for facilitating the process . Sincerely, P,(0._ rscack.A.r.ir„ Paula Baldwin Administrator Enc. cc: Mr. and Mrs. Jones Mr. and Mrs. Choong Mr. and Mrs. Erzberger • CONGREGATION 26790 ARASTRADERO LOS ALTOS HILLS RICHARD A. BLOCK BETH AM NEAR HILLVIEW CALIFORNIA 94022 RABBI (415) 493-4661 DAVID B. COHEN RABBI SIDNEY AKSELRAD RABBI EMERITUS DAVID UNTERMAN CANTOR GEORGE RUBIN EDUCATOR PAULA BALDWIN ADMINISTRATOR Dear Neighbor, Several weeks ago we received a complaint, as we do occasionally, that a loud party was underway on'a Saturday evening. We want to be good neighbors and we regret the inconvenience. The purpose of this letter is to inform you of the steps we are taking in an attempt to minimize disturbance to you. Firstly, all bands that will be playing at future events will be informed directly that they must stop playing by 11 : 30 p.m. Secondly, we will emphasize to each host that doors on the stage, the kitchen and the patio side of the social hall are to be kept shut while the band is playing. The parties that take place at our congregation are normally in Connection with important religious events in the life of the family. Sometimes, in the course of celebration, people forget the possible impact on those who live nearby. We promise to try even harder to sensitize people. At the same time, we hope you understand that even the most conscientious host cannot patrol thQ facility constant?y t ' make A4Q4e at a guest who is too warm does not open oor to get some fresh air. Therefore, we cannot promise that there will not be occasional violations of our rules . Should you find that a band is playing past 11 : 30 p.m. , please call me the following Monday. I will immediately contact the band and the family reminding them of our rules . If they wish to return, they must abide by our rules . We feel that 11 : 30 p.m. is a reasonable time to set for the conclusion of music, and we hope you agree. Please remember: no solution will satisfy everybody. Many of our members find these rules so restrictive that they "-AVM, celebrate elsewhere. Thus, in effect, we deny them the use of their own synagogue for a religious celebration and forgo income to the congrecjation.. We do so for your benefit and we as our patience and forbearance in return. Sincerely, PoLo, 13 cAl.A.,\,„;,-‘, Paula Baldwin Administrator i i CONGREGATION 26790 ARASTRADERO LOS ALTOS HILLS RICHARD A. BLOCK BETH AM NEAR HILLVIEW CALIFORNIA 94022 M.A.H.L.,J.D.,RABBI (415) 493-4661 DAVID B. COHEN • M.A.H.L.,RABBI SIDNEY AKSELRAD M.H.L.,D.D.,RABBI DAVID UNTERMAN B.S.M.,CANTOR GEORGE RUBIN M.A.H.E.,EDUCATOR PAULA.BALDWIN Mr. and Mrs. Heinz Erzberger ADMINISTRATOR 13457 Thendard Way Los Altos, CA 94022 Dear Mr. and Mrs. Erzberger, The professional staff and the Board of Directors at Congregation Beth Am have been made aware of your recent complaint about the loud music being played on Sunday evening November 18 . We are truly sorry that you were disturbed and will make every effort to impress upon caterers, musicians and other purveyors who service our congregation for their special occasions to main- tain as quiet an atmosphere as possible for our neighbors during -- evening hours. Hopefully, you will not have reason to be concerned about late evening noise in the future. Thank you, 11�� '1/4 —, d� '2,r- 'b r1_. Levenson, 1":ar lL'il�: Secretary y Board of Directors ML/ae r of Alto tto •t) P.O. BOX 10250 RECEIVED .•-• • PALO ALTO. CA94303 JAN 2 8 1998 . TOWN OF SOS ALTOS1.I1?i� USE PERMIT 82-UP-50 655 ARASTRADERO ROAD Use Permit 82-UP-50 is hereby issued for the location and operation of a community center on that portion of the former Terman Junior High School site described in Condition Number 1 below, 655 Arastradero Road, Zone District PF, Palo Alto, California, and is subject to the conditions listed below: CONDITIONS: 1 . Area of Community Center Use of the former Terman School site for the proposed community center shall be limited to that area within the lease lines as indicated on the attached map and limited by Section I of the attached Lease, excepting minor modifications of the lease boundaries 2. Site Improvement Improvement or construction of site facilities shall be restricted as set forth in Section XIII of the attached Lease, and shall be subject to review and requirements of the Architectural Review Board. 3. Use of Gymnasium a. The gymnasium may be utilized for athletic programs, including classes, clinics, leagues and open gym for all age groups. In addition, exercise classes, cardiac programs, social events, and other programs permitted by the terms of the Lease or typical of a community center may occur within the gymnasium. Use of the gymnasium shall be in accordance with terms of the Lease. b. The City of Palo Alto shall be allowed to operate City-run recreational programs in the gymnasium in accordance with the terms of the Lease. 4. Use of Swimming Pool a: The swimming pool may be utilized for open swim, family recreational activities, swimming lessons, swim teams, and other activities permitted by the Lease or typical of a community center. The use of the swimming pool shall be in accordance with the terms of the Lease. 5. Use of Administrative Building • a. The administrative building may be used to house the offices and meeting rooms of community groups, and to house the offices and staff of the community center and affiliated groups or any other purposes in accordance with the terms of the Lease. L 1 82-UP-50 -2- November 15, 1982 ,. y - 1 6. Use of Cafetorium a. The cafetorium may be utilized for theater productions, large group • • • activities such as lectures, concerts, social programs and community meetings, as well as providing lunch for seniors and other groups. It may also be used for other such typical community center activities which require large spaces or are permitted by the terms of the Lease. b• two teen dances or teen events which involve the pla-yina of loud amplified muparticularly of the tvoes commonl nown as "disco" or "rock" music) hall be .ermitted in he cafetorium •er year. Both such I events shall .- tr mmm .. evenin•s and music s all end b 1 :00 p.m. These events should be eld wi . . - amm. . . m ee side doors an win o c ose• . he two even .- ., , is _ the restriction ss et forth in Sections 8(a) and 9(a-d). qA � sub'ect to 7. Use of Music Building and Wings 40, 50, 60 and 70 Wings 40, 50, 60, 70 and the music building may be utilized for classrooms, studios for arts and crafts, lounges for all age groups, day care facilities, and nursery school facilities. They may also include program rooms that will be used in a variety of ways throughout the day to accommodate the needs of different age groups. Example of the kinds of programs that may be run include cooking classes, sewing classes, art classes, friendship groups, drama programs, counseling programs, parent effectiveness training programs, and the like, typical of programs that are run by community centers or any other purpose permitted by terms of the Lease. 8. Hours of Operation a. Cafetorium and Music Building: Hours of operation for the cafetorium and music building shall be limited as follows: Sundays: 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Mondays through Fridays: 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. J Saturdays: 8:00 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. • 1 ) Operation on Saturday mornings from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon will be pursuant to the Lease. 2) Eight (8) times per year the cafetorium may remain open until 11 :00 p.m. on Saturdays. ) Additionally, on three (3) Saturdays per year and December 31st the cafetorium may remain open until 12:00 midnight. 4) Access to and egress from the cafetorium for any late evening activity will be from the side of the cafetorium farthest from Pomona Avenue. 3 • 82-UP-50 -3- November 15, 1982 • b. Administration Building: The administration building may remain open whenever the center is open, but no programs shall take place there except during the hours specified in (a) above. • c. Other Buildings: Hours of operation shall be restricted for buildings other than the Administration Building, the Cafetorium and the Music Building as follows: Sundays: 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Mondays through Fridays: 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. - Saturdays: 8:00 a.m. to 11 :00 p.m. 9. Noise a. h- ! • - oi - ator will 'n- compl with th- P. Alto Noise Abatement Ordinance. b. The community center operator shall make every effort to prevent annoyance to, or disturbance of, the residents residing within the area bordered by El Camino Real , Page Mill Road and the southerly boundaries of • the City of Palo Alto, resulting from the center's use and occupancy of the site. c. .The community center operator will not prmit loud or amplified music (particularly of the types commonly known as 'disco" or srocK" music) or • other sound to be played or generated on the Terman Site if such music or sound would reasonably be anticipated to disturb the nearby residents. d. On the twelve (12) evenings referred to in Sections 8(a)(2) and 8(a) (3) above, the Cafetorium and Music Building may be used for community center activities provided that any sound generated does not violate the Palo Alto Noise Abatement Ordinance. 10. Parking a. The community center operator shall provide parking spaces for exclusive community center use. The community center operator will encourage patrons to utilize these exclusive community center spaces prior to use of other parking on-site subject to Condition (b) below. • . after com.letion of the sound wallrequired in Exhibit B Section IX(E) of the Lease, i i objective yl y determined app inCity ss a�ndaras that noise and intrusion on the nearby Pomona Avenue restdglits ave no been effectively muffled, then an automo.i e barrier wi be e? cons r�ted w iFi�c wi restrict arkin and other trattic a ong roadway between the Pomona Avenue residences an the community center when MT-Farrier is in use. i 1 (1 ) The barrier will be located across the roadway at a location library the building previously used as the Terman Middle School lobbyrr andrthenneaarby PomonabAvenueCrresidentesenter to become its main 82-UP-50 -4- November 15, 1982 y � (2) The community center will put the barrier in place at or before 7:00 p.m. nightly in order to limit access to parking spaces along • • such roadway to community center staff only, (3) The community center operator need not put the barrier in place on those evenings when it deems the non-housing parking spaces elsewhere on the entire Terman site to be inadequate to meet the reasonably anticipated parking needs for the community center programs being offered that evening (due consideration being given to the parking needs for the programs being offered that same evening at the. City-operated community center) . 11 . Major Events The community center shall obtain a use permit or temporary use permit as necessary for major events it intends to hold on the public portion of the Terman site. The center will be subject to all requirements applicable to other applicants and will not be given preference because it is occupying facilities on the Terman site. 12. Compliance with City Codes . The community center operator will comply with all City codes and ordinances and with the requirements of the Chiefs of the Palo Alto Fire Department and Inspectional Services Division. 13. Rates for Programs Open to Public Classes or programs offered by the operator of the community center which are open to the public may be at non-member rates. 14. Compliance with Specific Plan and Lease The community center operator shall comply with all requirements of the Terman Specific Plan and the attached Lease. 15. Agreement with Applicant, Successors, and Sub-Leasees The operation of the community center shall be deemed an agreement on the part of the applicant, the Unitied Jewish Community Centers, and any of its existing or future brances or future leasees or subleasees, to comply with all terms and conditions of the use permit. 16. Non-Compliance with Use Permit Fail - • comply with the conditions of this use permit may result in revocation as se or in ection :. 'i.s:. a • e 'a o Alto oning `UraTnanc• Com. . . its -• . • ' . non-comp iance o e communit center ith the use tl ' '. 1 is ld made in wri ing or orally to the onin. Administrator contemporaneousl' a •e a ege• y on-comp ging event. 82-UP-50 -5- November 15, 1982 17. Review of Cafetorium Use This use permit shall be subject to review of compliance of the operator with Condition 6(b) on the first anniversary of the date of issuance of this use permit if the Zoning Administrator has by such date received any written complaints with respect to such compliance contemporaneously with the alleged noncomplying event. If no such complaints have been received by such first anniversary date, no such review shall be conducted pursurant to this Section 17. Any review conducted pursuant to this Section 17 shall be by public hearing provided that no complaint regarding such noncompliance may be considered at such hearing unless it has been submitted to the .Zoning Administrator in writing contemporaneously with the alleged noncomplying event. The community center operator shall provide upon request of the Zoning Administrator a current list of property owners within three hundred feet of the site for noticing such public hearing. ROBERT M. BROWN Zoning Administrator November 15, 1982 This Use Permit is granted in accordance with and subject to the provisions of Chapter 18.90 of the City of Palo Alto Municipal Code. In any case in which the conditions to the granting of a Use Permit have not been or are not complied with, the Zoning Administrator shall give notice to the permittee of intention to revoke such permit at least ten (10) days prior to a hearing thereon. Following such hearing and if good cause exists therefor, the Zoning Administrator may revoke the Use Permit. A Use Permit which has not been used within one (1 ) year after the date of granting becomes void, although the Zoning Administrator may, without a hearing, extend the time for an additional year if an application to this effect is filed with him before the expiration of the first year. cc: Applicant (United Jewish Community Centers, South Peninsula Jewish Community Center Branch, 830 E. Meadow Drive, Palo Alto 94306 Mr. & Mrs. Marion E. Hill , 4270 Pomona Avenue, Palo Alto 94306 Harry G. Wood, 673 Arastradero Road, Palo Alto 94306 Richard A. Dirks, 677 Arastradero Road, Palo Alto 94306 Kate Feinstein, 1600 Bryant Street, Palo Alto 94301 Louis R. Goldsmith, 2423 Sharon Oaks Drive, Menlo Park 94025 Arthur C. Rinsky, 525 University Avenue, Palo Alto 94301 • .i res ,, ) tib o yt1t& • P 8CX 10250 ALJ 4Lro. Ca94303 USE PERMIT. 82-UP-50 655 ARASTRADERO ROAD Use Permit 82-UP-50 is approved for the location and operation of a community center on that portion of the former Terman Junior High School site described in Condition Number 1 below, 655 Arastradero Road, Zone District PF, Palo Alto, California, and is subject to the conditions listed below: FINDINGS: 1 . The proposed use, at the proposed location, will not be detrimental or injurious to property or improvements in the vicinity, and will notbe detrimental to the public health, safety, general welfare, or convenience in that representatives from the City of Palo Alto, the United Jewish Community Center and neighborhood representatives have extensively discussed and reached agreement on a plan for the upgrading of the site and operation of the Community Center, this agreement being known as the Terman Working Agreement and later the Terman Specific Plan. The essential provisions of these documents have been included in a Lease Agreement between the City of Palo Alto and the United Jewish Community Centers. The Lease, attached as Exhibit A and incorporated herein by reference, contains limitations on hours of operation, noise, parking, lighting and implementation. These limitations are incorporated as the following conditions of this use permit and will serve to mitigate potential detrimental impacts of the center on the surrounding neighborhood. 2. The proposed use will be located and conducted in a manner in accord with the Palo Alto Comprehensive Plan and the purposes of-Title 18 of the Palo Alto Municipal Code in that the Comprehensive Plan has been amended to include the provisions of the Terman Specific Plan which regulates use and improvement of the site. This use permit is in substantialconformance with the Specific Plan. CONDITIONS: 1 . Area of Community Center Use of the former Terman School site for the proposed community center shall be limited to that area within the lease lines as indicated on the attached map and limited by Section, I of the attached Lease, excepting minor modifications of the lease boundaries. 2. Site Improvement Improvement or construction of site' facilities shall be restricted as set forth in Section XIII of the attached Lease, and shall be subject to review and requirements of the Architectural Review Board. 82-UP-50 -2- November 5, 1982 ,. j 3. Use of Gymnasium a. The gymnasium 'may be utilized for athletic programs, including • classes, clinics, leagues and open gym for all age groups. In addition, exercise classes, cardiac programs, social events, and other programs permitted by the terms of the Lease or typical of a community center may occur within the gymnasium. Use of the gymnasium shall be in accordance with terms of the Lease. b. The City of Palo Alto shall be allowed to operate City-run recreational programs in the gymnasium in accordance with the terms of the Lease. 4. Use of Swimming Pool a. The swimming pool may be utilized for open swim, family recreational activities, swimming lessons, swim teams, and other activities permitted by the Lease or typical of a community center. The use of the swimming pool shall be in accordance with the terms of the Lease. 5. Use of Administrative Building a. The administrative building may be used to house the offices and meeting rooms of community groups, and to house the offices and staff of the community center and affiliated groups or any other purposes in accordance with the terms of the Lease. 6. Use of Cafetorium a. The cafetorium may be utilized for theater productions, large group activities such as lectures, concerts, social programs and community meetings, as well as providing lunch for seniors and other groups. It may also be used for other such typical community center activities which require large spaces or are permitted by the terms of the Lease. b. Only two teen dances or teen events which involve the playing of loud, amplified music (particularly of the types commonly known as "disco" or "rock" music) shall be permitted in the cafetorium per year. Both such events shall be limited to Saturday evenings, and music shall end by 11 :00 p.m. These events should be held with the Pomona Street side doors and windows closed. The two events described about shall be subject to the restrictions set forth in Sections 8(a) and 9(a-d) . 7. Use of Music Building and Wings 40, 50, 60 and 70 Wings 40, 50, 60, 70 and the music building may be utilized for classrooms, studios for arts and crafts, lounges for all age groups, day • 82-UP-50 -3- November 5, 1982 care facilities, and nursery school facilities. They may also include program rooms that will be used in ,a variety of ways throughout the day to accommodate the needs of different age groups. Example of the kinds of programs that may be run include cooking classes, sewing classes, art classes, friendship groups, drama programs, counseling programs, parent effectiveness training programs, and the like,, typical of programs that are run by community centers or any, other purpose permitted by terms of the Lease. 8. Hours of Operation a. Cafetorium and Music Building: Hours of operation for the cafetorium and music building shall be limited as follows: Sundays: 81:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Mondays through Fridays: 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Saturdays: 8':00 a.m. to. 10:30 p.m. 1 ) Operation on Saturday mornings from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon will be pursuant to the Lease. 2) Eight (8) times per year the cafetorium may remain open until 11 :00 p.m. on Saturdays. 3) Additionally, on three (3) Saturdays per year and December 31st the cafetorium may remain open until 12:00 midnight. 4) Access to and egress from the cafetorium for any late evening activity will be from the side of the cafetorium farthest from Pomona Avenue. b. Administration Building: The administration building may remain open whenever the center is open, but no programs shall take place there except during the hours specified in (a) above. c. Other Buildings: Hours of operation shall be restricted for buildings other than the Administration Building, the Cafetorium and the Music Building as follows: • Sundays: 9;00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Mondays through Fridays: 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. Saturdays: 8:00 a.m. to 11 :00 p.m. 9. Noise a. The community center operator will at all times comply with the Palo Alto Noise Abatement Ordinance. b. The community center operator shall make every effort to prevent annoyance to, or disturbance of, the residents residing within the area bordered by El Camino Real , Page Mill Road and the southerly boundaries of 1 82-UP-50 -4- November 5, 1982 the City of Palo Alto, resulting from the center' s use and occupancy of the site. c. The community center operator will not permit loud or amplified music (particularly of the types commonly known as' "disco" or "rock" music) or other sound to be played or generated on the Terman Site if such music or sound would reasonably be anticipated to disturb the nearby residents. d. On the twelve (12) evenings referred to in Sections 8(a) (2) and 8(a) (3) above, the Cafetorium and Music Building may be used for community • center activities provided that any sound generated does not violate the Palo Alto Noise Abatement Ordinance. 10. Parking a. The community center operator shall provide parking spaces for exclusive community center use. The community center operator will encourage patrons to utilize these exclusive community center spaces prior to use of other parking on-site subject to Condition (b) below. b. If, after completion of the sound wall required in Exhibit B, Section IX(E) of the Lease, it is objectively determined! applying City standards that noise and intrusion on the nearby Pomona Avenue residents have not been effectively muffled, then an automobile barrier will be constructed which will restrict parking and other traffic along the roadway between the Pomona Avenue residences and the community center when the barrier is in use. (1 ) The barrier will be located across the roadway at a location between the building previously used as the Terman Middle School library (presently proposed by the community center to become its main lobby) and the nearby Pomona Avenue residences. (2) The community center will put the barrier in place at or before 7:00 p.m. nightly in order to limit access to parking spaces along such roadway to community center staff only. (3) The community center operator need not put the barrier in place on those evenings when it deems the non-housing parking spaces elsewhere on the entire Terman site to be inadequate to meet the reasonably anticipated parking needs for the community center programs being offered that evening (due consideration being given to the parking needs for the programs being offered that same evening at the City-operated community center) . 11 . Major Events The community center shall obtain a use permit or temporary use permit as necessary for major events it intends to hold on the public portion of the Terman site. The center will be subject to all requirements applicable to other applicants and will not be given preference because it is occupying facilities on the Terman site. 82-UP-50 -5- November 5, 1982 12. Compliance with City Codes The community center operator will comply with all City codes and ordinances and with the requirements of the Chiefs of the Palo Alto Fire Department and Inspectional Service's Division. 13. Rates for Programs Open to Public Classes or programs offered by the operator of the community center which are open to the public may be at non-member rates. 14. Compliance with Specific Plan and Lease The community center operator shall comply with all requirements of the Terman Specific Plan and the attached Lease. 15. Agreement with Applicant, -Successors and Sub-Leasees The operation of the community center shall be deemed an agreement on the part of the applicant, the Unitied Jewish Community Centers, and any of its existing or future brances or future leasees or subleasees, to comply with all terms and conditions of the use permit. 16. Non-Compliance with Use Permit Failure to comply with the conditions of this use permit may result in revocation as set forth in Section 18.90.080 (a) of the Palo Alto Zoning Ordinance. Complaints regarding non-compliance of the community center with the use permit conditions should be made in writing or orally to the Zoning Administrator contemporaneously with the allegedly non-complying event. 17. Review of Cafetorium Use This use permit shall be subject to review of compliance of the operator with Condition 6(b) on the first anniversary of the date of issuance of this use permit if the Zoning Administrator has by such date received any written complaints with respect to such compliance contemporaneously with the alleged noncomplying event. If, no such complaints have been received by such first anniversary date, no such review shall be conducted pursurant to this Section 17. Any review conducted pursuant to this Section 17 shall be by public hearing provided that no complaint regarding such noncompliance may be considered at such hearing unless it has been submitted to the Zoning Administrator in writing contemporaneously with C r- ; 82-UP-50 -6- November 5, 1982 the alleged noncomplying event. The community center operator shall provide upon request of the Zoning Administrator a current list of • property owners within three hundred feet of the site for noticing such public hearing. 'OBERT M. BROWN Zoning Administrator November 5, 1982 NOTE: This form does not constitute the use permit for which application was maTce. If the application is approved and if no appeal from this decision is filed by any person, firm, or corporation affected by the decision on or by November 15, 1982, you will receive a copy of your permit in the mail . If this application is denied, the decision may be appealed to the Plainning Commission by filing an appeal application with the City Clerk on or before the above mentioned date. cc: Applicant (United Jewish Community Centers, South Peninsula Jewish Community Center Branch, 830 E. Meadow Drive, Palo Alto 94306 Mr. & Mrs. Marion E. Hill , 4270 Pomona Avenue, Palo Alto 94306 Harry G. Wood, 673 Arastradero Road, Palo Alto 94306 Richard A. Dirks, 677 Arastradero Road, Palo Alto 94306 Kate Feinstein, 1600 Bryant Street, Palo Alto 94301 Louis R. Goldsmith, 2423 Sharon Oaks Drive, Menlo Park 94025 Arthur C. Rinsky, 525 University Avenue, Palo Alto 94301 c yz-,4P-501 • ' Cj j 12 fi.,-. . •! •';:.: FE r1 al Ju', ' ^ 1985 L DEPARTMENT OF PLANNING CITY OF PALO AL Marion E. Hill 4270 Pomona Ave. Palo Alto, CA 94.06 19 June 1986 • Robert M. Brown Zoning Administrator • City of Palo Alto P. 0. Box 10250 - Pal o Alto, CA 94303 Re: Use Permit 8 -UP-50 (Terman) Violation, June 15. 19S6 i This is a note to report a violation of the noise. limitations provided for in Permit 8 -UP-50 (Terman Site) as amended. (Jn June 15 the Cafetorium was used by a youth group who . played music and continued their activities until after 11 : 30 pm, in violation of the 10: 00 pm closing. In addition loud yelling and talking continued in the parking lot up to midnight. ` and - We called Sandy Blovad about this on June 10 _:n d i• eperted it to him. Sandy said thatthe Cafetori.u�m was rented to a teen-ager group with whom JCC has had previous problems. The group was aware of the limitations because now the use permit provisions are incorporated as part of any JCC contract with a renter. Sandy possibly will not renew the group' s contract; he was quite responsive to our phone call . This letter is i ust to comply with the requirement that cur concerns be expressed in writing. A41 Marion and Susan Hill `. : 5.,...4..t t —.+t To: From:Alvin Janklow 6504933337 1/28/98 11:25:48 Page 1 of 1 Phyllis and Al Janklow 13464 Carillo Lane Los Altos Hills, CA 94022-1902 Phone 650 493-3336 January 28, 1998 Planning Commission Los Altos Hills, CA 94022 Dear Members: ti In reference to the proposed Congregation Beth Am expansion: As neighbors and members of Congregation Beth Am, we support the proposed plans for expansion. Excellent planning was done and neighbors' input was illicited. Efforts were carefully made to ameliorate any objections and adapt to neighbors' concerns. The temple has been exemplary in its relations with the Town of Los Altos Hills, Its residents and especially its neighbors. We urge you to approve its plans presently before you. Sincerely, Phyllis and Al Janklow