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3. PLANNING COMMISSION REPORT Planning Commissioner Dot Schreiner reported on the Planning Commission meeting of July 14, 1993. She noted that Commissioners Sinunu and Ellinger were absent. Planning Commissioner Takammo was swom in prior to the meeting by City Clerk Pat Dowd in a public ceremony. The Planning Commission had before them 3 applications. The first, Lands of MacDonald, 11800 Francemont Road, was continued from a previous meeting. The applicant had been asked to make certain modifications to his original plan including the reconfiguration of his driveway. The applicant did redesign his driveway and show the necessary easements on his plan as requested, however, he did not make any modifications to the house. Initially, the major concern of this project was it's location in the 100 year flood plain. Numerous surveys of the site had been required during the subdivision process and following further research on this issue, the Director of Public Works determined that the basement, as shown on the plans, was illegal and not to code. The applicant was informed of this ruling shortly before the meeting. He was given the option of having the project reviewed at the meeting with the basement not being considered as part of the application. After considering his options, the applicant requested that the Planning Commission consider granting him an additional 700 square feet of living space in exchange for the basement. It was noted that he did have enough floor area (MFA) available to permit this addition. The project was approved by a 3-2 vote. The no votes were cast because of continuing concerns over the bulk of the house and it's orientation. In several places it is sited very close to a Town path. The second application, Lands of Ahrens, 13711 Old Altos Road, was a request for a site development permit for a new residence, guest house and garage. This application borders Adobe Creek and is located in the 100 year flood plain. The main dwelling and the secondary dwelling have been raised to allow flood waters to flow under the units. The garage is located in the flood plain (grade level), but as a non -habitable structure this is permitted by code. The primary concern of the Planning Commission with this application was the protection and preservation of the large Heritage Oak trees on the property during the building process. The project was approved with conditions. The applicant will be required to have a certified arborist monitor and maintain the trees during construction. The property also has several Conservation Easements and a Santa Clara Valley Water District drainage easement. The Conservation Easement nearest to the creeks was removed by the Planning Commission by a unanimous vote and a new Conservation Easement was placed near the secondary dwelling. Planning Commissioner Schreiner noted that she is investigating changing her vote for the record on this issue. She misunderstood the motion and feels that the Conservation Easement nearest to Adobe Creek is vital and should not be removed. The third application before the Planning Commission was the Lands of Puri, 12775 Viscaino Road. The applicant is asking for a variance to allow for gates and entry pillars. The Commission was provided background information regarding the historical July 21, 1993 Regular City Council Meeting