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EXHIBIT A FINDINGS Lands of Merkley — 25851 Estacada Drive — File# SD22-0066 & CDP23-0002 & VAR23-0001 1. With regard to the Conditional Development Permit (CDP23-0003) for a major addition at 25851 Estacada Drive, the Planning Commission finds in accordance with Section 10- 1.1007(3) of the Los Altos Hills Municipal Code as follows: a) The site for the proposed development is adequate in size, shape and topography to accommodate the proposed intensity of development, including all structures, yards, open spaces, parldng, landscaping, walls and fences, and such other features as may be required by this chapter. The site, with respect to its existing development configuration, is adequate in size, shape and topography to accommodate the proposed development and other features. The existing development currently encroaches into the west and east side yard setbacks by XX feet. No further encroachment is requested along the western property line. The proposed total floor area and development area is over 600 square -feet below the property's MFA and 200 square -feet below the MDA, and therefore the site can adequately accommodate the proposal. Subsequent additions wishing to utilize the remaining MFA and MDA would also require a Conditional Development Permit. b) The size and design of the proposed structures create a proper balance, unity and harmonious appearance in relation to the size, shape and topography and in relation to the surrounding neighborhood. The size and design of the proposed single -story structure is appropriate in size and shape in relation to the surrounding neighborhoods, which are characterized by single -story residences along Estacada Drive and two-story residences on Estacada Way. Additionally, the proposed additions are located in such a configuration that does not change the frontage of the structure; the visual impact to the surrounding neighborhood is generally unchanged apart from the front of the house moving closer to the street and increased height. The eastern neighbor will see additional building frontage and massing but it will not encroach closer to the property line. Compared to the previous proposal, massing has been reduced by approximately 10 inches due to the changes in roof pitch and the retention of hipped roofs on the easterly and westerly ends. c) The rural character of the site has been preserved as much as feasible by minimizing vegetation and tree removal, excessive and unsightly grading and alteration of natural land forms. The Estacada Drive neighborhood and surrounding area is more suburban than other parts of Town due to the smaller lot sizes in the neighborhood and proximity to Palo Alto. The character of the site has been preserved as much as feasible as the existing trees proposed for removal include invasive species or will need to be replaced with other screening trees. As the site is generally flat, no grading is proposed for the proposed addition except for the minimum necessary to accommodate new foundations and pool excavation, the site will be otherwise unaltered. Resolution PC 05-23 Page 2