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Planning Commission Minutes DRAFT July 17, 2008 Page 8 requested, it must be shown on the Master Pathways map. He does not feel there is a justifiable reason for asking for the public easement dedication. Commissioner Clow felt that converting the existing neighborhood equestrian easement to a standard pathway easement for the Town is appropriate and not substantially different from the current easement. Commissioner Cottrell said he was not opposed to pathway easements but he believed that a Master Plan was needed for the area. The Pathways Committee had the responsibility to develop a proposal for pathways in the area to help provide guidance regarding requested easements. He objected to asking for the pathway easement. Commissioner Collins felt that requesting a pathway easement was consistent with the process of connecting neighborhoods by way of the pathways in the Los Altos Hills. The pathways system is an overall part of belonging to the Town. Chairman Harpoothan said the Pathways Committee should examine the area for possible inclusion in the Master Pathways map. The current equestrian easement has fallen into disuse but many neighborhood residents utilize the pathways system regularly. This easement could help connect dead end streets and the easement should be granted to the Town. John Komo, general contractor for the applicant, commented that he had lived at the end of Putter Way (near the easement's end) and felt it was not a practical way to access that street. He thought the applicant's privacy would be substantially affected by the easement's location on the property. Sandra Humphries, Fremont Road, said that off road pathways serve as escape routes during wildfires. Zack Bums stated that fences had been erected across the easement on neighboring properties that would affect the ability of the easement to be used as an escape route or pathway. Commissioner Abraham said that the easement had probably not been used for 30 years or more. The Town's Ordinances and processes were not being followed in asking for a pathway easement in a place where there was nothing before. The pathway is not shown on the Master Pathways map. He felt that asking for the easement was not a proper request. MOTION SECONDED AND PASSED BY THE FOLLOWING ROLL CALL VOTE: Motion made by Commissioner Collins and seconded by Commissioner Clow to approve the pathway easement requirement as requested for the Site Development Permit. AYES: Commissioners Collins and Clow, Chairman Harpoothan NOES: Commissioners Abraham and Cottrell This item is subject to a 22 day appeal period and will be forwarded to a future meeting of the City Council.