HomeMy WebLinkAbout3.3 •
Town Of Los Altos Hills September 9, 1998
Staff Report to the Planning Commission
RE: REQUEST FOR SITE DEVELOPMENT AND CONDITIONAL USE
PERMITS FOR INSTALLATION OF PANEL ANTENNAS ON EXISTING
MONOPOLE; AND ADOPTION OF NEGATIVE DECLARATION; 2350
PAGE MILL ROAD AT HWY. 280 (LANDS OF CALIFORNIA DEPT. OF
TRANSPORTATION); GTE MOBILE COMMUNICATIONS; FILE #128-
98-ZP-SD-CUP-ND.
FROM: Curtis Williams, Planning Directgr , 1
RECOMMENDATION That the Planning Commission:
Recommend approval of the requested site development and conditional use permits,
subject to the conditions outlined in Exhibit "A", and citing the findings outlined in
Exhibit"B"; and recommend adoption of the Negative Declaration.
BACKGROUND
On February 5, 1997, the City Council approved conditional use permits for Sprint
Spectrum, Pacific Bell Mobile Services (PBMS), and Cellular One to install a 55-foot
high monopole at the CalTrans maintenance yard site at Page Mill Road and Hwy. 280.
Each of the carriers also proposed antennas on the pole and equipment cabinets or
shelters on the land leased from CalTrans. The project was subsequently constructed
and, according to conditions of approval,the pole and antennas were painted a dark green
to better blend with the surrounding vegetation. Staff believes that the installation has
been very successful in achieving the Town's goals of allowing for. such
telecommunications facilities without substantial visual intrusion into neighborhoods.
Sprint and Cellular One have installed their antennas on the pole. PBMS, however, due
to some contractual difficulties with CalTrans, only recently pulled their building permits
for installing the antennas, and has had a temporary (metal) antenna structure on the site
for some time now. Staff expects that structure to be removed within 30-60 days, upon
installation of the antennas.
GTE Wireless had contacted Sprint and the other carriers in early 1997 about its potential
desire to co-locate antennas on -the pole _as well. The pole was then designed to
accommodate the additional antennas. The application from GTE was submitted in June,
but has been delayed due to the Commission's workload the past few months.
DISCUSSION
The proposed project consists of adding four panel antennas, each 6 feet high by 1 foot
wide, to the existing 55 foot high monopole, along with appurtenant small equipment
units, fencing and conduit. The antennas would be placed at a height of approximately
43'6" on the pole (to the center of the antennas), above the Sprint antennas, but below the
planned PBMS antennas. The proposed facilities and locations are indicated in the
attached plans.
Planning-Commission: September 9, 1998
GTE/CalTrans: Antennas
Page 2
Zoning Code Requirements
As the property is a part of the CalTrans right-of-way for Hwy. 280, MDA and MFA
calculations were not requested and are not relevant for this site. Similarly, no part of
the project is proposed to be located within 40 feet of the property line of any residential
parcel, so that. setbacks are not of concern. No variances are therefore required for the
project. _
Wireless Communications Facilities Policy
The proposed location is consistent in several respects with the Town's Wireless
Communications Facilities Policy, as approved by the City Council (attached): 1) a non-
residential site is to be used for the antenna location; 2) co-location with three other
carriers is proposed to limit the number of poles needed in this vicinity; and 3) visual
impacts have been minimized by the location of the antenna.away from residences and
largely screened by existing trees. Proposed conditions of approval would include
requirements to paint the antennas (and equipment boxes if necessary) green to blend
with the trees and to provide additional landscaping around the equipment units for
screening if needed. While the Town cannot deny a request based on potential health
hazards from radio frequency emissions, a condition has also been included to require
that, on an annual basis, testing be performed at the site to demonstrate compliance with
Federal emission standards.
Visual Impacts
The addition of the antennas to the existing pole will not add perceptively to any negative
visual impacts of the pole or the site in general, but will be a minor modification in
keeping with the character and color of the installation. The antennas themselves will be
visible probably only briefly from Hwy. 280 and the on-ramp from Page Mill Road.
Conditional Use Permit
Findings for approval of the conditional use permit(s) are included as Exhibit "B".
Conditions of approval (Exhibit "A") for the use permit include a term of three (3) years,
annual monitoring for compliance with emission standards, paint colors for the antennas
and equipment, additional landscape screening of the equipment units, if necessary, and
provisions for removal of the facilities in the event of abandonment. The conditions and
findings are essentially the same as for the previous threeconditionaluse permit requests.
The Commission's actions on the Use Permit and Negative Declaration are
recommendations to the Council, which will conduct a public hearing and take final
action on the applications.
California Environmental Quality Act
Pursuant to the provisions of the California Environmental Quality Act, staff has prepared
a Negative _Declaration for the proposed co-location project. Proposed mitigation
measures include painting the antennas and equipment, landscape screening of the
equipment unit, if necessary, and monitoring of radio frequency emissions.
Staff is available to respond to questions from the Commission or the public.
Planning Commission: September 9, 1998
GTE/CalTfans: Antennas
Page 3
ATTACHMENTS
Exhibit A: Recommended Conditions of Approval
Exhibit B: Proposed Findings for Conditional Use Permit
Negative Declaration
Wireless Communications Facility Policy
August 31, 1998 Letter from Russ Bentson, Radio Engineer, GTE Wireless
Project Application and Support Information from Applicant
Plans
cc: Peter Maushardt
121 Madrid Way
Sonoma, CA 95476
Planning Commission: September 9, 1998.
GTE/CalTrans: Antennas
Page 4
EXHIBIT "A"
CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL FOR
CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT
WIRELESS TELECOMMUNICATIONS FACILITIES
2350 Page Mill Road (Lands of California Dept. of Transportation)
File#128-98-ZP-SD-CUP-ND (GTE Mobile Communications)
PLANNING
1. Any changes or revisions to the telecommunications facility or its 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 the facility is being used inconsistent with the approved use or in
violation of Town development codes.
2. The use permit shall expire three (3) years from the date of approval. Renewal of
the permit must be requested in writing, with appropriate fees, prior to the
expiration date.
3. The antennas shall be painted a dark green, consistent with the pole, to the
satisfaction of the Planning Director,prior to final inspection of the facility. The
equipment units shall be painted a color, to be determined by the Planning
Department, to blend with the surrounding environment,prior to final inspection
of the facility.
4. Landscape screening of the equipment units may be required by the Planning
Department upon final inspection, if determined to be necessary.
5. The applicant shall submit a signed agreement to the Town, agreeing that, should
the use be discontinued by the carrier, all facilities will be removed not later than
ninety (90) days after discontinuance of the use or abandonment. The agreement
shall be drafted by the City Attorney, and must be signed by the applicant and
submitted to the Town prior to acceptance of plans for building plan check
6. Not later than thirty (30) days after installation and initial operation of the antenna
facility, and on or prior to January 1st of each-year thereafter, testing of radio
frequency emissions shall be conducted by qualified professionals and the reports
of such testing shall be provided in writing to the Planning Department, with a
comparison to applicable Federal emission standards. If at any time the emission
levels are shown not to comply with Federal standards, the use permit shall be
scheduled for a revocation hearing before the Planning Commission.
ENGINEERING
7. Any, and all, changes to the proposed grading and drainage shall first be approved
by the Town Engineering Department.
8. Any, and all, areas on the project site that have the native material disturbed shall
be protected for erosion control during the rainy season and shall be replanted
prior to final inspection.
Planning Commission: September 9, 1998,
GTE/CalTrans: Antennas
Page 5
Upon completion of construction and installation, a final inspection shall be set with the
Planning Department at least one week prior to final building inspection approval.
CONDITION NUMBER 5 SHALL BE COMPLETED AND APPROVED BY THE
PLANNING DEPARTMENT PRIOR TO ACCEPTANCE OF PLANS FOR
BUILDING PLAN CHECK.
Note: The Conditional Use Permit is valid for one year from the approval date (until
September 9, 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: September 9, 1998
GTE/CalTrans: Antennas
Page 6
EXHIBIT "B"
FINDINGS FOR APPROVAL OF
CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT
WIRELESS TELECOMMUNICATIONS FACILITIES
2350 Page Mill Road (Lands of California Dept. of Transportation)
File#128-98-ZP-SD-CUP-ND (GTE Mobile Communications)
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;
While much of the surrounding area is residential, the subject site is located
entirely within State right-of-way, is bounded by Hwy. 280 and Page Mill Road,
and the site is currently occupied by public utility/transportation uses (a CalTrans
maintenance yard) and an existing monopole and antennas. The site will
accommodate four carriers, helping to avoid location of such facilities on
residential parcels or requiring multiple poles. The proposed facility would be
unmanned and will generate only one or two trips per month to the site for
maintenance. Access to the site is already readily available, and adequate utilities
already exist on the site.
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 proposed facility occupies a relatively small amount of land within the State's
right-of-way. Floor and development area limitations are not applicable, given
the use and ownership of the site. The facility would be compatible with the
surrounding residential properties as the proposed antennas would be located a
minimum of several hundred feet from most residences and would not be visible
from those residences at that distance. There would be no noise or traffic impacts
associated with the project.
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; and
4
The project will generate only one or two trips to the facility per month, for
maintenance purposes. Access to the equipment and parking is readily available
via the existing driveway from Page Mill Road.
4. The proposed use will not adversely affect the abutting property or the
permitted use thereof.
- The facility produces no odors, noise,traffic impacts, or hazards. No interference
with radio, television, or other telecommunications activities on abutting
properties or in the vicinity will occur. Required monitoring would assure that
radio frequency emissions comply with Federal standards. The antennas will be
predominantly screened by existing vegetation and will be painted green to match
the existing pole and antennas and to minimize off-site visual impacts.
TOWN OF LOS ALTOS HILLS
NEGATIVE DECLARATION
PROJECT TITLE: WIRELESS TELECOMMUNICATIONS FACILITIES AT
CALTRANS MAINTENANCE YARD
#128-98-ZP-SD-CUP-ND (GTE Mobilnet)
NAME AND ADDRESS OF PROJECT SPONSOR:
GTE Mobil Communications
12677 Alcosta Blvd.
San Ramon, CA 94588
LOCATION OF PROJECT: 2350 Page Mill Road (at Hwy. 280), Los Altos Hills, CA
PROJECT DESCRIPTION:
Proposed PCS (personal communications services)wireless telephone facilities, including
a four (4) antenna panels flush mounted on an existing 55-foot high pole, and associated
equipment shelter.
The Town of Los Altos Hills has completed a review of the proposed project, and on the
basis of the attached Initial Study determined that the project, if subject to the attached
mitigation measures, will not have a significant effect upon the environment for the
following reasons:
a. The project does not 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 species, or eliminate important examples of the major periods of California
history or pre-history.
b. The project does not have the potential to achieve short-term goals to the
disadvantage of long-term environmental goals.
c. The project would not have impacts which are individually limited but cumulatively
considerable.
d. The project would not have environmental effects which will cause substantial
adverse effects on human beings, either directly 9r indirectly.
)--J\lalAt:wH-s 2-7 )1tor9
Curtis S. Williams, Planning Director Date
TOWN OF LOS ALTOS HILLS
GTE/CalTrans: Negative Declaration
Page 2 -
•
MITIGATION MEASURES,IF ANY, INCLUDED IN THE PROJECT TO AVOID
POTENTIALLY SIGNIFICANT EFFECTS:
1. The antennas and equipment boxes shall be painted to be compatible with their
background, preferably a dark green, and to match the existing pole and antennas,
to the satisfaction of the Planning Director.
2. Landscaping shall be planted around the equipment boxes, as required by the
Planning Director.
3. Radio frequency emissions must comply with Federal standards, and shall be
monitored and reported to the Town on an annual basis.
GTE/CalTrans: Negative Declaration •
Page 3 - -
INITIAL STUDY
GTE MOBILE COMMUNICATIONS
WIRELESS TELECOMMUNICATIONS SERVICES FACILITIES
2350 Page Mill Road (Lands of California Dept. of Transportation)
Los Altos Hills, CA
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
The proposed project includes the installation of wireless telecommunications equipment,
comprised of: 1) four (4) panel antennas, approximately 6 feet high, 1 foot wide and 2"
thick flush mounted on an existing pole 43.5 feet above ground level; 2) appurtenant
equipment cabinets (8) in a 25 foot by 15 foot lease area; and 3) appurtenant fencing and
conduit.
Facility maintenance would typically be provided on a monthly basis in small vehicles,
for brief maintenance checks. Additional parking is not required.
PROJECT LOCATION
The facilities are proposed to be installed at an existing CalTrans maintenance yard at
2350 Page Mill Road,near Highway 280.
ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING
The CalTrans maintenance yard comprises approximately 3/4ths of an acre of CalTrans
right-of-way for Highway 280 (APN 182-31-054). The site is relatively flat, with steep
slopes immediately adjacent to the freeway, which is situated to the south 30-40 feet
higher than the site. The property is surrounded by CalTrans right-of-way and bounded
by the eastbound 280 on-ramp to the northwest, Page Mill Road to the east, and Hwy.
280 to the southwest.
A number of trees, particularly eucalyptus and pines, border the site, with heights varying
from 25-45 feet. While surrounding uses to the north comprise single-family residences,
there are no residential properties immediately adjacent to the maintenance yard, and the
nearest residences are located at least 200 feet away from the yard. The existing
monopole is 55 feet high and contains panel antennas for Sprint and "whip" antennas for
Cellular One, as well as related equipment cabinets and shelters for those two carriers. A
temporary antenna pole is on the site, owned by Pacific Pell Mobile Services, but should
be removed within 30-60 days.
POTENTIAL SIGNIFICANT EFFECTS
This Initial Study has been prepared in accordance with the California Environmental
Quality Act. Information and conclusions in the Initial Study are based upon staff
research and review of the project plans; the application for Conditional Use Permits to
the Town of Los Altos Hills, including the project description, general information
provided by the applicant; a letter from the applicant's engineer regarding
radiofrequency calculations; and site visits by staff.
GTE/CalTrans: Negative Declaration
Page 4 - - •
-
•
ENVIRONMENTAL CHECKLIST
TOWN OF LOS ALTOS HILLS PLANNING DEPARTMENT
I. BACKGROUND
1. Name of Proponent(s): GTE Wireless Communications
2. Address and Phone Number of Proponent: GTE Wireless Communications
12677 Alcosta Blvd.
San Ramon, CA 94588
3. Date of Checklist Preparation: September 3, 1998
4. Name of Proposal: WIRELESS TELECOMMUNICATIONS FACILITIES
LANDS OF CALIF. DEPT. OF TRANSPORTATION
2350 Page Mill Road
#128-98-ZP-SD-CUP-ND (GTE Wireless
Communications)
II. ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS
(Explanations of all "yes" and "maybe" answers are found on the last sheet.) •
1. Earth. Will the proposal result in: yes maybe no
a. Unstable earth conditions or in changes
in geologic substructures? X
b. Disruptions, displacements, compaction,
or overcovering of soil? X
c. Change in topography or ground surface
relief features? X
d. The destruction, covering, or modification
of any unique geologic or physical
features? X
e. Any increase in wind or water erosion of
soils, either on or off the site? X
f. Changes in deposition or erosion of beach
sand or changes in siltation, deposition,
or erosion which may modify the
channel of a river or stream or the bed
of an ocean or any bay, inlet, or lake? X
GTE/CalTtans: Negative Declaration
Page 5 - -
yes maybe no
g. Exposure of people or property to geologic
hazards such as earthquakes, landslides,
mudslides, ground failure, or similar
hazards? X
2. Air. Will the proposal result in:
a. Substantial air emissions or deterioration
of ambient air quality? X
b. The creation of objectionable odors? X
c. Alteration of air movement, moisture, or
temperature, or any change in climate,
either locally or regionally? X
3. Water. Will the proposal result in:
a. Changes in currents or in the course or
direction of water movements in either
marine or fresh waters? X
b. Changes in absorption rates, drainage
patterns, or the rate and amount of
surface runoff? X
c. Alterations to the course or flow of
flood waters? X
d. Change in the amount of surface water
in any water body? X
e. Discharge into surface waters, or in any
alteration of surface water quality,
including but not limited to temperature,
dissolved oxygen, or turbidity? X
f. Alteration of the direction or rate of flow
of ground wafers? X
g. Change in the quality of ground waters, •
either through direct additions or
withdrawals, or through interception
of an aquifer by cuts or excavations? X
h. Substantial reduction in the amount of
water otherwise available for public
water supplies? X
GTE/CalTrans: Negative Declaration
Page 6
yes maybe no
i. Exposure of people or property to water
related hazards such as flooding or
tidal waves? X
4. Plant Life. Will the proposal result in:
a. Change in the diversity of species, or
number of any species of plants
(including trees, shrubs, grass, crops,
and aquatic plants)? X
b. Reduction of numbers of any unique,
rare, or endangered species of plants? X
•
c. Introduction of new species of plants
into an area, or in a barrier to the normal
replenishment of existing species? X
d. Reduction in acreage of any agricultural
crop? X
5. Animal Life. Will the proposal result in:
a. Change in the diversity of species, or
numbers of any species of animals
(birds, land animals including reptiles,
fish and shellfish, benthic organisms,
or insects)? X
b. Reduction in the numbers of any unique,
rare, or endangered species of animals? X
c. Introduction of new species of animals
into an area, or result in a barrier to
the migration or movement of animals? X
d. Deterioration of existing fish or wildlife
habitat? X
6. Noise. Will the proposal result in:
a. Increases in existing noise levels? X
b. Exposure of people to severe noise
levels? X
7. Light and Glare. Will the proposal produce
new light or glare? X
GTE/CalTrans: Negative Declaration •
Page 7 - '
yes maybe no
8. Land Use. Will the proposal result in a
substantial alteration of the present or
planned land use of an area? X
9. Natural Resources. Will the proposal result
in an increase in the rate of use of any
natural resources? X
10. Risk of Upset. Will the proposal involve:
a. A risk of an explosion or the release of
hazardous substances (including, but
not limited to, oil, pesticides, chemicals
or radiation) in the event of an accident
or upset condition? X
b. Possible interference with an emergency
response plan or an emergency
evacuation plan? X
11. Population. Will the proposal alter the
location, distribution, density, or growth
rate of the human population of an area? X
12. Housing. Will the proposal affect existing
housing, or create demand for additional
housing? X
13. Transportation/Circulation. Will the proposal
result in:
a. Generation of substantial additional
vehicular movement? X
b. Effects on existing parking facilities or
demand for new parking? X
c. Substantial impact upon existing
transportation systems? X
d. Alterations to present patterns of
circulation or movement of people
and/or goods? X
e. Alterations to waterborne, rail, or air
traffic? X
f. Increase in traffic hazards to motor -
vehicles, bicyclists, or pedestrians? X
GTE/CalTrans: Negative Declaration
Page 8 - -
- yes maybe no
14. Public Services. Will the proposal have an
effect upon or result in a need for new or
altered governmental services in any of the
following areas:
a. Fire Protection? X
b. Police Protection? X
c. Schools? X
d. Parks and other recreational facilities? X
e. Maintenance of public facilities,
including roads? X
f. Other governmental services? X
15. Energy. Will the proposal result in:
a. Use of substantial amounts of fuel or
energy? X
b. Substantial increase in demand upon
existing sources of energy, or require
the development of new sources of
energy? X
16. Utilities. Will the proposal result in a need
for new systems, or substantial alterations to
utilities? X
17. Human Health. Will the proposal result in:
a. Creation of any health hazard or potential
health hazard(excluding mental health)? X
b. Exposure of people to potential health
hazards? X
18. Aesthetics. Will the proposal result in the
obstruction of any scenic vista or view open
to the public, or will the proposal result in the
creation of an aesthetically offensive site open
to public view? X
19. Recreation. Will the proposal result in an
impact upon the quality or quantity of
existing recreational opportunities? _ X
GTE/CalTrans: Negative Declaration •
Page 9 -
yes maybe no
20. Cultural Resources. Will the proposal result in:
a. The alteration of or the destruction of a
prehistoric or historic archaeologic
site? X
b. Adverse physical or aesthetic effects_to a
prehistoric or historic building,
structure, or object? X
c. Or have the potential to cause a physical
change which would affect unique
ethnic cultural values? X
d. Therestrictionof existing religious or
sacred uses within the potential
impact area? X
GTE/CalTtans: Negative Declaration
Page 10 -
21. Mandatory Findings of Significance.
a. Does the project have the potential to
degrade the quality of the environment,
substantially reduce the habitat of 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
prehistory? . X
b. Does the project have the potential to
achieve short-term, to the disadvantage
of long-term, environmental goals?
(A short-term impact on the environment
is one which occurs in a relatively brief,
definitive period of time while long-term
impacts will endure well into the future.) X
c. Does the project have impacts which are
individually limited, but cumulatively
considerable? (A project may impact on
two or more separate resources where
the impact on each resource is relatively
small, but where the cumulative effect
of those impacts on the environment is
significant.) X
d. Does the project have environmental
effects which will cause substantial
adverse effects on human beings, either
directly or indirectly? X
GTE/CalTrans: Negative Declaration •
Page 11 - -
III. DISCUSSION OF ENVIRONMENTAL EVALUATION
(Explanations of"yes", "maybe" and"no"responses.)
1-7. The proposed project will have no significant adverse environmental impact on
any of the subject categories, as the area affected is minimal, and there will be no
significant grading or land disturbance.
8. Land Use. Will the proposal result in a substantial alteration of the present
or planned land use of an area?
The antenna use already exists on the site, and the proposal will simply add
antennas to the existing pole, in colocation with Sprint, PBMS, and Cellular One.
The predominant land use on the subject site is "institutional" (maintenance yard)
in nature and situated within a triangle bounded by major roadways. This use
will not substantially alter the present or planned use of the adjacent area. The
commercial nature of the use will not result in intensification of traffic or other
associated impacts typical of commercial development.
9-16. See response to 1-7 above.
17. Human Health. Will the proposal result in exposure of people to potential
health hazards?
According to information from the Federal Communications Commission (FCC),
the site will transmit and receive calls by radio waves operating in the 825-880
MHz (cellular) and 1850-1990 MHz (PCS) bands. Radio frequency emissions
generated by these facilities are non-ionizing and have not been found to be
harmful to humans, and no significant impacts are expected. In addition, the
antennas must, by Federal law, comply with ANSI (American National Standards
Institute) exposure standards for radio-frequency emissions. The applicant has
provided a letter from its radio engineer stating that the projected cumulative
emissions at the site would be 0.8% of the required ANSI standard. A mitigation
measure has been included to require compliance with those standards, and to
require annual monitoring of emissions.
18. Aesthetics. Will the proposal result in the obstruction of any scenic vista or
view open to the public, or will the proposal result in the creation of an
aesthetically offensive site open to public view?
- The existing monopole is 55 feet high, with a thickness of 2-3 feet in diameter for
the upper, visible portion, and with two "whip" (1.5" diameter) antennas
extending an additional five feet. The pole has been painted a dark green to
blend with the site vegetation and the background. The site is well screened and
the visibility from homes is generally at a distance of over 300 feet. The addition
of the proposed antennas to the pole and equipment boxes at the ground level will
not be noticeable from off-site. A mitigation measure has been included to require
the antennas and equipment boxes to be painted a dark green to blend in with the
surrounding trees.
19-20. See response to 1-7 above.
GTE/CalTrans: Negative Declaration
Page 12 - -
IV. DETERMINATION OF THE LEAD AGENCY OF ENVIRONMENTAL
DOCUMENT REQUIRED
On the basis of this initial evaluation:
I find that the proposed project COULD NOT have
a significant effect on the environment, and a
NEGATIVE DECLARATION has been prepared.
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 the attached sheet have been
added to the project. A MITIGATED NEGATIVE
DECLARATION HAS BEEN PREPARED. X
I fmd the proposed project MAY have a significant effect
on the environment, and an ENVIRONMENTAL
IMPACT REPORT is required.
Qktki (igivt;4nIN 2._/ 28
Curtis S. Williams, Planning Director Date
TOWN OF LOS ALTOS HILLS
Attachments
Mitigation Measures
Mitigation Monitoring Program
/CalTransND.rep -
GTE/CalTrans: Negative Declaration •
Page 13 -
Mitigation Measures:
1. The antennas and equipment boxes shall be painted to be compatible with their
background, preferably a dark green, and to match the existing pole and antennas,
to the satisfaction of the Planning Director.
2. Landscaping shall be planted around the equipment boxes, as required by the
Planning Director. -
3. Radio frequency emissions must comply with Federal standards, and shall be
monitored and reported to the Town on an annual basis.
Mitigation Monitoring Program
Responsible Must Be
Mitigation Measure Department Completed By: Done
1. Paint colors Planning Final inspection
2. Landscaping Planning Final inspection
3. Emissions Planning Annually
TOWN OF LOS ALTOS HILLS
Policy Re: Wireless Communications Facilities
Code Sections and Design Guidelines:
Section 10-1.703(h)(2) of the Zoning Ordinance allows service uses, including
"communications facilities", to be permitted in the Town if a Conditional Use Permit is
granted by the Planning Commission and City Council. Section 10-1.1107(1) of the
Code outlines findings which must be made to approve a.use permit, including the proper
location of the use or facility relative to others in the vicinity, the adequacy of the site to
accommodate the use, and that the facility or use will not have an adverse effect on
adjacent properties. The Design Guidelines do not address such uses, but do suggest (on
pages 29-31).that ancillary facilities, such as lights, pool equipment, and satellite dishes,
be located so as to minimize impacts on neighbors.
Intent:
The purpose of this policy is to outline the desired criteria for siting of wireless
communications facilities, generally including monopoles, related antennas, and
equipment shelters. As the Town's land use is virtually entirely residential, wireless
communication facilities will be most appropriately located on public or institutional sites
existing within the Town. Collocation, location on or near existing buildings, and
landscape screening will be desired to minimize the visual impacts of the facilities on
neighbors and the public.
Policies:
1. Priorities for Siting. Wireless communication facilities shall generally be
located on properties not used for residential purposes, with priority as
follows: a) Town-owned properties; b) Foothill College; c) water tank
sites; and d) other public or quasi-public facilities, such as schools or
churches. .
2. Siting on Residential Parcels. Wireless communication facilities shall not be
permitted on properties used for residential purposes or vacant parcels
intended for residential use, unless the residential property owner provides
written consent and: a) the carrier demonstrates that all alternative non-
residential sites (including collocation) have been explored and are not
technologically feasible for use; and b) no significant visual impacts would
result from the proposed facility location. The Town may, at its discretion
and at the applicant's cost, retain an independent telecommunications expert
to review the carrier's documentation and advise the Town regarding the
technological feasibility of alternate sites.
Policy Re:. Wireless Communications Facilities
page 2
3. Collocation. Collocation of wireless communication facilities with other
facilities is encouraged to the maximum extent feasible, as long as the
collocation is technologically compatible and does not substantially increase
visual impacts. The Town will generally require as a condition of approval
for any conditional use permit that the applicant permit collocation of other
facilities, subject to technological constraints and Town review. _
4. Landscape Screening and Color. Landscape screening shall be required by
the Town to minimize the visual impacts of wireless communication facilities.
Poles, antennas, and equipment buildings should be painted to blend with the
surrounding environment and/or buildings to further minimize visual
impacts.
5. Environmental Review. A Negative Declaration will typically be prepared
for review of proposed wireless communication facilities, with special
attention to the visual impacts of the facilities. Categorical exemptions may
be used where facilities are collocated with or would be minimal additions to
existing structures,with negligible additional visual impact.
6. Antenna Master Plans. Any applicant for a wireless communication facility
site shall submit applications, to the best of their knowledge, for all sites
anticipated to be required by the carrier for a three (3) to five (5) year
period, and the requests shall be reviewed by the Planning Commission and
City Council as a master plan application.
7. Term of Permits and Abandonment of Sites. Conditional use permits for
wireless communication facilities shall be established for periods not to
exceed five (5) years, at which time renewal of the permit must be requested
by the applicant. More frequent review of the operation of the permit may
be made a condition of approval. Approval will also require a written
agreement from the applicant that, should the use be discontinued by the
carrier, all facilities will be removed not later than ninety (90) days after
-- discontinuance-of the use or abandonment. Such a provision shall also be
included in any lease with the Town for use of Town lands for wireless
communications facilities. The Town may require bonding or other surety
to assure the removal of such facilities.
8. Wireless communication firms shall, at the time of application for permits,
demonstrate efforts which have been made to inform neighboring residents
of the proposed facilities, such as conducting meetings, or mailing fact sheets
and/or letters, etc. to neighbors.
Approved by City Council: August 21, 1996
SEP-01' 98 (TUE) 12:35 GTE MOB1LENl;'f 31U LL4 tl1Ub l'. UUl
Los tos Hills Planning Commission
Lois',
'WS,Los,California
Al)t 31,1998
I�1
D lanning Commission:
In I I d to the proposed addition of GTE Wireless to the antenna monopole at Hwy 280&Page Mill Rd.
i
Using the Unistar modeling program with the ANSI standards I have determined that the level of radio
en e ;,present at the chest of a six foot man standing below the antenna monopole would be 0.8% of the
AN l standard. Thus this location meets the FCC requirements for general public exposure by more then a
101 to I factor.
II
Tli I I `dio energy levels calculated included those of GTE,Sprint,and CI,who will be colocatcd on this
moI ole.
iIT:have any questions I may be found at 925-904-3539. •Siarely;
Ritssc entson
RI1e1i I Engineer GTE Wireless
FCC License#PG-12-28008
i
1,
' I In
= Peter W:Maushardt
121 Madrid Way
Sonoma,Ca.95476
707-939-1427
June 17, 1998
Mr. Curtis Williams, Planning Director
Town of Los Altos Hills
26379 Fremont Blvd.
Los Altos Hills, CA 94022
Re: Proposed GTE Wireless Cellular Site#CA1426, HWY 280/Page Mill Rd.,
at the existing facility located within the CalTrans Equipment Yard , 2350 Page Mill Rd.,
Los Altos Hills , CA.
Dear Curtis,
The enclosed information represents GTE Wireless'(GTEW) request for approval of our
proposal to co-locate antennas and equipment at the above referenced facility. GTEW has
worked both with CalTrans and Sprint on this plan.
Per our plans, the equipment to be located at the site is:
One Lucent II MM cabinet plus CDMA cabinets on a pad adjacent to the tower. There
will be four (4) six (6) foot panel antennas with a centerline of 43'-6" placed on the
existing tower, along with one (1) 3.88 inch GPS receive antenna mounted on a 7 inch
pipe mount off one of the cabinets.
Along with the required sets of plans, I have also enclosed the mailing list as requested
and the authorization by CalTrans to proceed with this application. It is GTEW's intent to
proceed with construction of this site as soon as we receive all necessary approvals.
Thank you for your assistance in this matter. Should you have any questions I can be
reached at 510-904-3412.Please let me know when you will have a hearing date for us.
Respectfully,
L ,,
Peter Maushardt
Consultant to GTE
/ -
TOWN OF LOS ALTOS HILLS
26379 Fremont Road• Los Altos Hills, California 94022 •(415)941-7222 • FAX(415)941-3160
PLANNING DEPARTMENT
APPLICATION FOR PROJECT REVIEW
1. PROPERTY DESCRIPTION: •• I lease print or type ••
Street Address
0356 Rci c ( Y�( . for 4�Fa (-Ji '[
Lot(s) Number ii - I Tract or Parcel�Map Number Please Check One: Sewer
Septic
Assessor's Parcel Number Gross Acreage Net Acreage
Ilk S-hk*1 SCL�30-1ooS-01 .
2. PROJECT DESCRIPTION:
New Residence, etc.
1
3. PROPERTY OWNER:
Name of Legal Owner
4.-3+rt-tz. Cc. .eailS,,,, r N i • 0 \ 1-.(\-N" . NY• A'ta*2
Mailing Address Lip
@. 0.-%0V 2440 JDill...L1keiluxp - 4t/9J. -Cy
Home Phone ' Work Phone FAX Nui i�er —
( ) r ( ) ( )
Representative's Name 6 IE. rAlDbit.A, cook tA r Phone FAX Number
- 11A IkA5k `ir---- (g953 qoLi-3 9i - (72050y- 3 s( 3
Mailing Address Zip
P.L - )a 5C I 1 S' E S A'it) C Mme's CO- G'11E& -- I /
4. FEES AND DEPOSITS: •
Planner will complete this section. Fees and deposits, payable to the Town of Los Altos Hills, are required to process all
Planning applications.
Fee Deposit
Real Estate Review:
Geologist:
Zoning:
Site Development: Receipt#
File#
•
Net 0er.L. 3 c °c.' Date: • I r, • r
5. SIGNATURE OF OWNER(S) OR AGENT:
(Please note: Agent requires letter of authorization from owner)
I, the undersigned owner or authorized agent of the property described above, hereby make an application for the
purposes set forth above in accordance.with the provisions of the City Ordinances, and I hereby certify that the
informatio iven is true and correct and to the best of my knowledge and belief.
Signature v iji
/ Date
•
Rev.1/8/97
- _
_ ._ OptiFiUTM
* 5MWIRELESS NA
FS 00
90 Deuce
13eantx it.lth and
DUaIPoITm --V:5 dl3d Gain
Base Station Antenna - DUall'"I:trized
806 - 896 MHz Slant 45
Receive
EMS Wireless DuaIPoITM OptiFillTM antennas are Polarization
all designed and manufactured using the same precise
standards developed from years of experience in Vertical Transmit
space electronics. Polariraion
• Ota
VSWR vs Frequency t rt -
1.5 .
1.4 Specification
1.3
•
•
Nz
%.L
6„ yiT .ti
+tea
800 810 820 ?30 840 850 860 _-) 880 890 900 _, -w•-,:- • .
Frequency(MHz)
Features :
• Dual Polarization provides diversity gain in a single aperture
• Low Backlobe Structure minimizes co-channel interference
• Low Passive Intermodulation reduces interference in high traffic areas
• Broad Band Operation covers both ESMR and cellular bands
• Low VSWR minimizes return to transmitter while maximizes radiated power
NOTE: Values are typical and variations may occur as a result of obstructions at the actual location where the antenna is installed. The type of
tower may also cause vanat:ons.
. .
•
_ Opt1FIIITM
* 6MW/RELESS FS9O-09-OONA -
Electrical Specifications240 270° 300°
SPECIFICATION FS90-09-00NA
Frequency Range 806-896 MHz _ 210° 330°
- Azimuth Beamwidth 90° 0114/10
Elevation Beamwidth 25°
Gain 9.5 dBd ��-��
Transmit Polarization Vertical 80° 0°
Receive Polarization Slant 45° 11"04317111,
Cross Pol Port-to-Port Isolation >_20 dB iV
Front-to-Back Ratio >_23 dB
* _
Transmit/Receive Isolation >_40 dB (50 dB Typical) 150° 44116#130°
Elevation Beam Position 0° Broadside
Power Handling 500 Watts CW 120° 80°
VSWR 1.35:1 Max 90°
Passive Intermodulation <-105 dBm (16 ch. @ 15W)
(<-147 dBc) AzimuthConnector - N-female(Optional 7/16 DIN)
Lightning Protection Chassis Ground
Mechanical Specifications 270°
330°
SPECIFICATION FS90-09-00NA
Dimensions
• Height 72 inches (183 cm) 210° 330°
• Width 12 inches (30 rm) �
• Depth 6 inches (15� cm) 4AVIL
�Rated Wind Velocity 1:0 mph(_09 km/hr) 80° I. 0°
(Wind Tunnel Tested) "'e
Equivalent Flat Plate Area 86:-sq inches (5574 sq cm)
Lateral Thrust.@ 100 mph 242 lbs(1076 N) Vill*'
Torsional Moment @100 mph 1 ft lbs (21.3 Nm) -- : 150° 30°
Weight _.a 2.71'2s( 12.31:0)
Mounting 120° =3'
Pole Mount 2 1 2" to 5" dia. pipe 90°
(clamps supplied) 6.=cm to 13 cm dia. pipe
Wall Mount(optional) NIS or 5/16 in. Std. Fasteners
Mech.Downtilt(optional) +5= :o-20° Elevation
Downtilt Kit P/N CEL-801Y-09
/ `ems WIRELESS
A Division of EMS Technologies, Inc.
VOTE: Patent Penning Technology Park/.Atl::a:_
All information is subject to change. 303 Research Dri'c
P.O. Box 7700. Norcross. GA ={091-7700
Rev. 4/96 Made in the USA TEL: (770) 263-9200 FAX: --)1 729-0036