HomeMy WebLinkAbout8.1 8. 1
DRAFT
Minutes of a Regular Meeting
Town of Los Altos Hills
PLANNING COMMISSION
Wednesday,April 26, 1995,6:30 p.m.
Council Chambers,26379 Fremont Road
cc: Cassettes#09-95 (4 )
1. ROLL CALL AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANC1
The Planning Commission meeting was called to order at 6:35 p.m. in the
Council Chambers at Town Hall.
Present: Chairman Schreiner,Commissioners Cheng(arrived at 6:45),
Doran(left at 12:13),Finn,Gottlieb,McMahon&Stutz
Staff: Mike.Porto and Debra Pollart,Acting Town Planners;Sheryl Kolf,
Assistant Engineer;Suzanne Davis,Planner;Susan Manca,
Planner;Lani Lonberger,Planning Secretary
2. PRESENTATIONS FROM THE FLOOR
Jean Struthers,Environmental Protection and Design Committee commented on
a gap in the Site Development process that allows minor changes to building to
be handled at staff level noting some of the changes have an impact on the
neighbors. It was noted that this subject was on the agenda for discussion(6.2
Discussion on possible changes in review process for Site Development
Permits).
3. CONSENT CALENDAR
None.
4. PUBLIC HEARINGS
4.1 LANDS OF WESTWIND BARN,27210 Altamont Road (11-95-
CUP); A request for an amendment to the Conditional Use Permit
for arena refurbishment(continued from March 22, 1995).
Staff had nothing further to add to the staff report. A letter from Mr. Reiser was
provided to the Planning Commission,staff and the applicant for review.
Planning Commission nutes DRAFT '
April 26, 19, 5 •
Page 2
OPENED PUBLIC A 'ii G
Mike Stortz,21885 Alma•en Avenue,Cupertino,president of Friends of
Westwind,Inc. discussed the following issues: alternate site by the pump house
for the storage water to i,however less functional;and the status of ADA
requirements.
Nancy Couparas, 13680 P.ge Mill Road,Westwind Barn associate, commented
on ADA reqluirements fo Westwind Barn as discussed at previous ADA
subcommittee meetings. • t that time,it was thought that Westwind Barn
requirements were low o the priority list for Town facilities to be updated.
Bathrooms (portable) and marked parking areas for the handicapped could be
accomplished.
A letter was provided by e City Attorney regarding Westwind Barn ADA
requirements noting it wa. incumbent upon Westward to satisfy itself that it is
in compliance with all fed•ral,state and local laws. The City Attorney
recommended,with rega • to the new arena,Westind seek independent
advice as to meeting the r,•quirements of ADA. Commissioner Doran felt they
should rem ve Westwind from the list of Town property as so noted in the City
Attorney's 1 tter.
Hill Reiser, 7640 Red Ro. Road, questioned why they do not use a pressurized
water syste . Jean Struth-rs suggested the color of paint for the water tank
blend in wit the-surroun•'ngs.
Les Earnest, athway Co 1 'ttee Chairman,discussed an alternative to their
original request to build a path with no more the 15°.:. grade,they noted an
existing path through By i e Preserve with a reasonable grade on it. It was
therefore possible to conn-ct the pathway coming from Central Drive through a
gate to the Byrne Preserve path and drop the path leading up the hill from the
pathway system (omit). C rently the path coming from Central Drive drops
into a swamp below the a •na area. The path should stay on solid ground
somehow. There are two .lternative ways to getting over to the gate: turn
toward the arena followin; the contour of the hill and loop around to get to the
Preserve;the other is to si ply turn right along the grade and go over that way.
Either way is acceptable t. the Pathway Committee as long as there is a solid
pathway connecting to By i e Preserve. This will involve minimal expense. He
noted that the gate into By ne Preserve was originally self closing which it is not
now. This needs to be ad.ressed.
Susie Holic, secretary for t i e Friends of Westwind,noted that if the objective
was to get from Central D I've to Byrne Preserve there is already an existing way
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April 26, 1995
Page 3
which is a little longer without ever coming on Westwind property. Mr. Reiser
had difficulty with the path mentioned noting that Central Drive is a private
road and he suggested looking at this pathway as he felt it was very steep and
almost impossible to use currently except on horseback. This path is currently
being used as a channel for drainage.
CLOSED PUBLIC TESTIMONY
Discussion ensued regarding the response to requests at the previous meeting(1
through 11). All items appear to be addressed. Commissioner Stutz noted that
the two items required for ADA compliance were addressed (portable bathroom
and marked parking). She further discussed pathway requests suggesting
leaving it to the applicant,staff,and pathway committee as to the best solution.
She did not feel the site plan was as complete as it could have been but the
applicant had attempted to bring a completed plan. Other comments included:
the water storage tank and pump house alternate plan was acceptable;the
spectator area needs to comply with ADA requirements;and#10,trench not
needed with the new pump location. The pump location should be red lined on
the plan. Commissioner Doran felt the applicant had addressed all of the
concerns. She was satisfied with the ADA compliance as suggested without.
requiring anything further. She felt strongly that the Planning Commission was
not the governing body for ADA requirements and should be left to the
building official. Commissioner McMahon addressed item#1 in that the fire
department does not use the access road and does not have any requirements.
She still felt the access road at 22% slope does not meet the reasonable level of
safety for the activity taking place in the arena which she considered semi-
hazardous. She further discussed the City Attorney's recommendation
regarding ADA requirements and the assistance of a consultant. She requested
they review the consultant's requirements. She suggested leaving the pathway
requirements up to the pathway committee and the applicant. The spectator
area should comply with ADA requirements.
Chairman Schreiner made several comments: the applicant's request to have the
access road grandfathered in;the conditional use permit is not being expanded;
and ADA compliance. Mrs..Pollart, after discussing this with the City Attorney,
suggested changes to condition#10, "Westwind Barn shall comply with the
Americans with Disabilities Acts as per consultant's recommendation."
Chairman Schreiner further discussed the on-site pathways suggesting the
applicant work with the pathway committee and the City Engineer. The water
tank location by the pump house needs to be red lined on the plan and the color
should be specified (condition#6) so the tank will blend into the surroundings
(earthtones/brown). Commissioner Stutz suggested replacing 'burls"in#4
with " 5 gallon redwood trees on the Westwind property to fill in the gaps of the
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April 26, 1995
Page 4
Montgomery's landscapin " ... "with water running to them for the first two
years to guarantee growth "
Commissioner Doran note that in the City Attorney's letter there was an
exception and did not wart this overlooked. (If the cost and scope of furnishing an
accessible pat of travel is no proportionate to the overall cost of the alteration. "Not
proportionate'l is set forth in the ADA as 20% or more of the cost of the original
alteration. If Westwind det fines that providing an "accessible path of travel"in
accordance with ADA guidelines to the area is either "virtually impossible" to comply
with or exceeds 20% of the es imated cost of refurbishing the arena, then Westwind falls
within the exception. This determination should be made by Westwind and not the
Town. )
Discussion ensued regarding the pathway. Les Earnest noted that the
Emergency Access Committee at their next meeting+ill consider a proposal to
build a fire road through B, me Preserve adjacent to Westwind Barn which will
also provide access at a rea.onable grade into the lower area. A suggested
wording for the pathway c.ndition would state that the applicant shall improve
and reposition the existing'.ath to a reasonable level, contouring the pathway
either southward along the hill or northward along the hill to avoid the lower
swampy area. The Pathwa, Committee will ask the City Council if they would
consider constructing the r?st of the path up to Central Drive.
MOTION SECONDED i I PASSED: Motion by Commissioner Gottlieb and
seconded by Commissione Finn to approve the conditional use permit and site
development ipermit for W stwind Barn with the following changes to the
conditions of approval:
#4,insert"5 gallon redwoo. trees on the Westwind property to fill in the gaps of
the Montgomery's landsca.ing...with water running do them for the first two
years to_guarantee growth.'
#6, changed to read "paint dor for the Judge's booth,pump house,water tank,
roofing and fencing (if pro•osed) shall be chosen by the applicant in
conformance With the Tow 's adopted color board. The color shall blend in
with surroundings (earthto es/brown)."
#10,Westwind Barn shall c•mply with the Americans with Disabilities Acts as
per consultan 's recommen.ation,not to exceed 20%as stated in the City .
Attorney's letter dated Apri 17, 1995
Adding a conbtion (#11) st.ting that the applicant,working with the pathway
committee and Commissio er Gottlieb,shall provide a plan improving the
native path and possibly re a'ositioning the existing path to a reasonable level by
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April 26, 1995
Page 5
either contouring the pathway southward along the hill or northward along the
hill to avoid the lower swampy area to the satisfaction of the City Engineer.
AYES: Chairman Schreiner,Commissioners Cheng,Stutz, Doran,Finn&
Gottlieb
NOES: Commissioner McMahon
This item will appear on the City Council consent calendar May 17,1995.
4.2 LANDS OF VIDOVICH, 11920 Stonebrook Drive (254-93-TM and
257-93-EIR); Review of Draft Environmental Impact Report and
preliminary Tentative Map for a proposed 23 lot subdivision
(continued from April 12, 1995).
Continued discussion ensued regarding EIR issues. Mr. Porto noted that all
input will be directed to the consultant for finalization of the Environmental
Impact Report after the May 1st deadline for comments. A letter was sent to De
Anza Properties requesting additional information with a requested response by
May 5th. The next scheduled meeting date is May 24th for discussion of the
tentative map with possible conditions of approval formulated relating to the
map. The final EIR(response to comments)will be brought back at the June
14th meeting. At that time,the Commission can make their recommendations
of certification of the EIR and proceed in depth with map issues. At the May
24th meeting,the Commission will have the response from the applicant. At
that time they will be able to determine if the issues have been adequately
discussed,if they have enough information, or if additional information is
required to determine what direction they would like to provide the applicant at
that time. Chairman Schreiner asked what was the schedule for the May 31st
meeting? Mrs. Pollart noted that the meetings of May 10th and 31st would be to
catch up on other numerous projects.
OPENED PUBLIC HEARING
Jean Struthers, 13690 Robleda Road,noted concern with the existing impact
asking if the Town can require some restoration of what was existing prior to
Mr. Vidovich scrapped the hillsides and cleaned out the little hill on lot 11. The
EIR does not address what happened to the area prior to the application.
Concerns involved the restoring of a quarry; the amphitheater effect;planting
of natural (native)plantings,water quality of the lake (dirty water and runoffs
from streets and properties containing fertilizers,pesticides,etc.);landslides
occurring on old Stonebrook off of Magdalena;wildlife having access to the
lake; and the gathering of all the water into the lake,never to come out again.
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April 26, 1995
Page 6 .
Elyne Dauber,27920 Robl Alto,expressed concerns with the following: if the
cost of maintaining the la e was reasonable;addressing the potential access to
Juan Prado sa sewer 1' a from the subdivision itself and any environmental
effects;environmental imioacts of extending the sewer line down Stonebrook
Avenue;and investigatin: and discussion regarding any environmental impacts
of the sewer line being p ped up.
CLOSED PUBLIC TES I ONY
Discussion ensued regard g a retaining wall going up around the quarry which
does not appear to be a pa t of the reclamation plan which does have an impact
on the environment. Que tions were raised as to why it was being installed and
who authorized it. Mr. Po to reported that staff was not aware of the
construction until yesterd.y when they saw it under construction. A staff
member from the Santa Cl:ra County building department went with the City
Manager to'iew the cons uction. They are also in the process of obtaining
more information from thapplicant. No informatidn is known regarding the
retaining wail. A "Stop N lice"is being investigated by the County.
Mrs. Pollart discussed the nvironmental impact an a letter sent to the
applicant regarding the re gaining wall. The concern was that this represents
significant new informatio that was not available at the time the Draft EIR was
prepared. Under these cir'umstances,the lead agency (the Town)has the
discretion to re-circulate t e EIR so that the new information can be discussed
from an environmental sta dpoint and mitigation measures addressed. Staff is
in the process of making a •etermination as to what the environmental process
will be,giver.this develop ent. This could greatly extend the time frame for
the review of the EIR. Staf is still gathering information and has not made a
determination as to wheth:•r or not the EIR would have to be changed and re-
circulated. Another route o take would be to proceed with the draft EIR with
recommendations,and ce ifying it,then immediately prepare a supplemental
EIR with the additional inf•rmation added which was not included in the draft.
This needs to be discussed further with the City Attorney. The options will be
reviewed and reported to e Commission.
Commissioner Doran and inn suggested asking the applicant's representative
to clarify the construction •f the retaining wall.
Commission r Gottlieb no'-d concerns and questions regarding the fencing of
the lake and will the nativ- animals have access to the lake;lake water flow into
Hale Creek and will it be a ile to hold the water without flooding the down hill
neighbors; the water diver ion from Prospect and will there be any mechanism
to be shut off if there is do nhill flooding of Hale Creek;limiting swimming
pools and tennis courts to . public area;need to address open space in areas
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April 26, 1995
Page 7
. over 30% slope;and how the lake water could be best utilized in case of fire.
Commissioner Stutz noted that the use of the lake for fire fighting was
mentioned in the first EIR,however not in the current EIR.
Chairman Schreiner's concerns were: the traffic and safety on Stonebrook,and
not sufficient information regarding lake management plan as it should be
expanded.
f
Commissioner Stutz made comments on the following pages of the EIR: page 5,
no 24 acre lots;page 8,paragraph 3, asking if they needed to make changes
before approved or could they ask that the original conditions be required;page
9, address the labeling of the creeks coming through this property(i.e. the La
Loma drainage as Hale Creek);page 9,paragraph above the "Table"noting the
unnamed drainage swale to the west was Hale Creek and the unnamed
drainage swale to the northwest was the drainage off of La Loma;Table 2 on
page 9,the approximate drainage area being 271 acres was incorrect according
to page 64 which states Hale Creek drains approximately 1,677 acres in size;
page 11,under "landscaping/plantings",requesting the addition of a statement
that all pampas grass needs be removed and requesting a copy of the
landscaping plan when the reclamation was originally approved by the County;
page 26,4th paragraph,the sewer line should be embedded.in gravel as any
change in the Preserve for putting in lines of any kind will effect the Hale Creek
flow;page 27, "alterations to Hale Creek flows or diversion of stream flows are
not proposed as part of the project"is not accurate;page 31,second paragraph
from the bottom, suggesting deletion of the first two sentences;page 34,under
"Quarry Area" noting in a previous report it noted that when grading of lots 1
and 2 an archeologist should be present, asking what can be done after they
have already been grading without an archeologist present;does not approve of
one large lot above several smaller lots below;page 44,first full paragraph from
the bottom,conflicting statements regarding"20 foot width" and "a minimum of
22 feet"; and pages 45,46,50 and 51 were discussed. Staff noted all comments.
Commissioner Stutz will give Mrs. Pollart the remaining comments and provide
a copy to the Planning Commission. Commissioner Stutz felt the EIR consultant
has not adequately addressed the options of an alternate placement of the
sewer.
CLOSED PUBLIC TESTIMONY
MOTION SECONDED AND PASSED BY CONSENSUS: Motion by
Commissioner Doran, seconded by Commissioner Cheng and passed by
consensus to continue the application to the May 24th meeting.
Brief break at 9:00 p.m. .
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April 26, 1995
Page 8
A request was made to h a ar Lands of Ward, 11881 Francemont Avenue,parcel
3,before parcels 1 and 2. Everyone was in agreement with the request.
Commissioner McMaho stepped down from the hearing as she has a personal
(business)r lationship w th the applicant.
4.5 LANDS OF ARD, 11881 Francemont Avenue (205-94-ZP-SD-
GD); A req est for a Site Development Permit for a new residence
and pool.
Mrs. Davis introduced ', item noting that the applicant had provided the
Commission with a map -hown the layout of all three parcels. There was also a
memo from the City Engi eer indicating modifications to conditions of approval
for parcels 1,2 and 3. Th:re was also a letter from the Santa Clara County
regarding materials to be emoved from the site which are not hazardous
materials.
Ms. Kolf discussed the co ditions of approval on the original subdivision: eight
lots in the Bellucci portio , and the three lots off of Francemont. Some of the
conditions of approval included a general condition relating to the conditions
from William Cotton nee•ing to be met.When additional studies where done,
there was an old landslid: that was mapped which needed to be investigated.
The is no inciication of mo ement at this point,however there is a monitoring
program being installed ' order to watch this. The CR's and the Landslide
Maintenanc Program are the same which will be recorded with each property.
The Commission asked if •ools were allowed in a flood plain area and if the
installation of Abode Cree takes away the flood plain designation to these lots
(correcting the map). Ms. olf indicated the statement was accurate. The
designation shown on the clans currently is the designation from the FEMA
map. When the channel as widened,the flood plain or the flood elevation will
be contained within that c annel. The FEMA map will eventually be amended __
to reflect these changes. 's situation is similar to the Lands of Wayman which
required a FEMA map rev sion. It was noted that all conditions of approval of
the subdivision also need .• be met. The Bellucci subdivision improvements
were discussd.
OPENED PUBLIC HE • I G
John Barksd0e,project arc 'tect, discussed the constraints on all three lots. •
Some of the assets of the lots included the building areas being flat,adjacent to a
wooded hillside, and adjac-nt to a creek. The assets have also created some
constraints; al three sites ave been filled as part of the subdivision,out of the
flood plain so the flood pla' is readjusted. The sites can be built on as if the
flood plain did not exist,however they are having to establish the building
Planning Commission Minutes DRAFT
April 26, 1995
Page 9
height from the existing grade prior to the subdivision. This has severely
constrained the heights of the building because they are measuring not from
what they see now but in some cases two,three or four feet from below what
you see. The creek has a storm drain and conservation easement attached to it
that is approximately 25 feet from the creek. This supersedes the normal setback
requirement. The hillside which involves two of the sites creates its own new
setback due to the fact that they are very limited to height. They cannot even
consider starting up the hillside with any construction. Lot l's buildable area
has been reduced to about 68%of what they otherwise could have built on had
the lot been flat and without the creek. Lot 2-has been reduced to 60%of what
would have been normal and lot 3,25%. This along with the height constraints
has made for an interesting design problem. Lot 1 height restriction is the least
of all three. He noted that they liked placing the garages so you cannot see them
from the street. They have provided a pool area on the southwest side of the
house to maximize the sunlight. They have also provided a separation of the
house from the hill so they could have views from the house out to the hill. The
family areas will be facing the pool and the more private areas will be facing the
cul-de-sac Francemont side of the property).
Mr. Barksdale provided an exhibit showing the proposed driveways versus
alternative driveways with minimum required back-up area. He noted staffs
concern with the apparent parking in the setback between the house and
Francemont Drive. This is actually the turnaround space from the garage. The
alternate design does not really save any pavement and is not as desirable. Tile
has been chosen for the roofs with stucco siding. Currently the colors for the
exterior of the residences have not been decided but they will comply with the
Town color board. They will probably go with a darker stucco color and
medium tone tiles. They do try to stay away from thered tile colors,preferring
more neutral organic colors in both the stucco colors and the tile roofs. It was
noted that the landscape plan would not be a part of this approval.
Commissioner Finn asked what,if any, compromises were reached with staff
when putting the design together. Mr. Barksdale noted there were someon lots -
1 and 2. On lot 1,the first surprise was the understanding that they needed to
measure from the existing grade prior to the subdivision fill which has been a
major driving factor in the design. Commissioner Doran asked if he felt he
could have a better driveway design on lots 1 and 3 with a circular driveway.
Mr. Barksdale commented that on lot 1 they could,however,on lot 3,it would
not matter. Mrs. Davis noted that the applicant is showing on his exhibit the
area that would be required for maneuvering vehicles. Mrs. Davis discussed
Town policy regarding circular driveways. This subject is on the agenda for
discussion.
Planning Commission Mi Utes DRAFT
April 26, 1995
Page 10
Commissioner Gottlieb d' cussed rotating the house and pool to get much more
sun in the pool area. Mr. B rksdale commented that they looked at many
different options before d eloping this design. Commissioner Finn did not feel
the issue of t.ie pool being in the sun was significant J Commissioner Cheng
asked if the applicant had tarted the study of the ground water monitoring and
mitigating program as not d in William Cotton's letter. Mr. Barksdale noted as
part of the sibdivision,th hillside was studied by about every geotechnical
engineer in the area. Ther has been three monitoring wells that are
approximately 110 feet de p that are in place that have been drilled. There has
been a main shaft that haseen drilled looking for any signs of sliding. The
engineers feel that the hillside is stable which they call an ancient dormant
landslide. They do feel ifa water table were to rise to a certain level,it might
effect the stability of the ' 1. The purpose of the monitoring wells is to make
sure that this does not hap en. If it does happen, there are plans devised for
mitigation. Commissioner Gottlieb also asked if the eaves on the second floor
could be exteded. Mr. Ba ksdale indicated that the proposed siding and
roofing materials does not end itself to large roof overhangs.
Les Earnest,PI
recommendation should b as noted in their request of January 25, 1995 whichathways Co ittee Chair,noted that the pathway
has been incl ded in the p ket. In addition to granting a pathway easement,
the native pa h should be eared. Condition 16 will include wording stating "to
the satisfactio of the path ay committee and the City Engineer." Further
discussion a ued. Mr. Baitksdale noted that the geologist did not want
anything that would impa. the steep slope or cause erosion problems. For
clarification,it was noted at it would be an easement at the cul-de-sac just for
a section to access the path Other pathway requirements would be staying five
feet way with landscaping,sprinkler water,etc.
CLOSED PUBLIC TESTIM o NY
Chairman Schreiner discus•ed excessive pavement in the setback.
Commissioner Gottlieb not-d that the fourth car space could be eliminated.
Staff pointed out that the a plicant is required to have four on-site parking
spaces that are not within s-tbacks.
Commissioner Finn liked e house and the elevation. His only issue was the
driveway design. Commis ioner Stutz agreed. She did not have a problem
with the amount of paving setback,although the driveway cuts itself off from
the house and it could be re•esigned. The placement hof the house and design
are fine. Commissioner Go tlieb could not approve the house without asking
for a drivewaredesign. S e asked if there was any way to extend the eaves on
the second floor to help sof •n the look. She also felt the pool should be in a
sunny area and the drivew y should be redesigned. Chairman Schreiner had a
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April 26, 1995
Page 11
problem with the design as this area is a very rural area. She suggested using
the darker colors on the color board so the house would blend in. She was also
concerned with the amount of paving in the setback. Commissioner Cheng
noted that a redesign for a circular driveway actually increases the amount of
pavement. However,it would make the design look better and more usable.
Commissioner Doran suggested a continuance for a driveway redesign and
pathway dedication only and not open up any other conditions (items). All
Commissioners agreed with the request. Chairman Schreiner asked that the
pathway committee accompany the applicant to show them the exact placement
of the proposed pathway.
Mr. Barksdale noted that they would be happy to grant an easement for the
trails as long as it did not include improving of the trails with header boards. It
has been a very long process and they would like to at least,start with building
construction. The requirement for certain conditions of approval to be signed
off by the Planning and Engineering Department prior to acceptance of plans for
building plan check was discussed.
Conditions of approval were discussed including changes made by the City
Engineer for#10 and#17. An additional change to#17 included the deletion of
"and for the Francemont Subdivision" and adding"no temporary occupancy will
be permitted." Condition#6, adding that the roof and exterior shall be in darker
reflective colors (reflective value of 40%).. Condition 16 will return with the
redesign. The condition should be changed to reflect the recommendation of the
pathway committee dated January 25, 1995 including wording that the native
path will be cleared.
MOTION SECONDED AND PASSED: Motion by Commissioner Finn and
seconded by Commissioner Stutz for a consensus vote accepting the conditions
of approval as amended,excluding#16 which will return with new wording
along with the redesign of the driveway at the May 24th meeting at 6:30 p.m.
AYES: Commissioners Finn,Stutz, Doran&Gottlieb
NOES: None .
ABSTAIN: Chairman Schreiner&Commissioner Cheng
MOTION PASSED BY CONSENSUS: To continue past 11:30 p.m. to complete
the public hearings 4.3,4.4 and 4.6.
4.3 LANDS OF WARD, 11801 Francemont Avenue (202-94-ZP-SD-
GD); A request for a Site Development Permit for a new residence
and pool.
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April 26, 19 5
Page 12
OPENED PUBLIC HE G
John Barksdale,project a chitect,discussed the design of parcel 1. The exhibit
shows minimum paving eeded on the driveway to maneuver vehicles. He
discussed architectural fe tures noting the circulation inside the house is such
that all of the areas will a cess the outdoor space. The house is immediately
adjacent to the conservati n easement because there is no need for a sidewalk
on the north side. There as a problem with the site with providing the
required 10 foot distance om the property line even though it is on the south
side of the flag portion of the flag lot. They have a problem with being up
against the conservation asement which staff suggested being back five feet in
the event a future home o ner wanted to put a sidewalk around the house.
Instead,they have design d the house to bisect the property,providing a
private family living are on the western side away from the street. He felt no
one would Want or need t put any kind of improvement around the north edge
of the house that is against the conservation easement. It was his understanding
that the conservation easement was to be a setback line for structures but there
was no intent to keep people from using that space. He asked that this
requirement be waived al owing them to provide a9 easier,more elegant
turnaround and access to e house with the circular element shown of the
drawings. They have atte pted to keep the house low,keep areas on the site
usable and seeping out of the setbacks. He noted that they were aware of the
requirements for darker calors and will comply. The materials for the homes
are similar but architectur:1 detailing varies for the three homes;one is single
story,one is essentially o stories,and this house is a partial two story. The
plan does not indicate po•1 equipment placement although it could be placed
adjacent to the garage.
Chairman Schreiner aske• about accessing from Lot 2. Mr. Barksdale noted that
it was their original idea, owever they did not pursue it since it has been a
concern of the Town to ha e two driveways. Commissioner Finn did not feel
access onto someone else' flag lot was not desirable
Chairman S einer read e Environmental Design Committee's comments on
lots 1 and 2 rioting the 25 f-et conservation easement does not preclude the 30
foot setback and should b: in addition to the 30 feet. Another comment was
that the creek bank and ea.ement should be re-vegetated with native riparian
plants (no roses or lawns).
CLOSED PUBLIC HE a I G
There was a concern with .lowing the applicant to build up to the conservation
easement as there would b- grading beyond that point. The house should be at
least five feet]from the edg- of the conservation easement. There was a concern
Planning Commission Minutes DRAFT
April 26, 1995
Page 13
with fencing in the conservation easement. Commissioner Doran agreed with
not sharing a driveway. She liked the house design,suggesting a redesign of
the driveway and staying five feet from the conservation easement.
Commissioner Stutz would go along with the driveway if done as shown on the
landscape plan. She did like the design of the house. Commissioner Gottlieb
noted that the house should be at least five feet from the conservation easement.
She would like the driveway cut down,perhaps a smaller radius on the circular
area and the location of the pool equipment shown on the plans. Chairman
Schreiner suggested moving the house away from the conservation easement,
changing the driveway design,and she would request a color requirement.
Commissioner Finn was impressed that the MDA and MFA have not been
maxed out. He did not want the three houses to look as if they were built
together,at the same time,by the same contractor and designed by the same
architect. He suggested they do anything they can to make them look different
from one another. Commissioner Cheng did not have any problems with the
driveway. She did agree that they needed five feet from the conservation
easement. She suggested using grasscrete for parking. Commissioner Stutz was
concerned with the number of lights,requesting the applicant to provide
samples of the outdoor lights to be used. Lights should be pointed down.
Mr. Barksdale noted that all lights are down shielded. There will be no
additional lights beyond what is needed for safety. He suggested all lights that
are shown on columns be put on the inside of the columns,use recess spotlights,
and they were willing to reduce the number of lights. It was suggested leaving
this to the satisfaction of staff. He noted that he discussed grading in the
conservation easement with the civil engineer and she has designed the grading
so there would not be any grading in the easement (piers will be drilled and
grade beams used so they do not have to encroach into the easement). They will
keep the existing grade. They have already reduced the house in width when
they found out they could not be as dose to the flag lot as the previous
application was. He agreed with moving the driveway 10 feet,changing it from
a circle to more of a "bulge" so people can maneuver and park. He suggested
making all items conditions of approval so the application could go forward.
Commissioner Doran had no problem with this request.
CONSENSUS MOTION: Consensus vote accepting the conditions of approval
as amended with only the following items continued to the May 24th meeting:
the redesign of the driveway by modifying the driveway and turnaround to
reduce some of the paving within the setback (instead of circular area,would be
more egg shaped),moving the driveway in a 45 degree direction towards the
house 10 feet as demonstrated on plan Ll,pool equipment location shown on
site plan;house pulled in five feet from the conservation easement;revise the
lighting plan;and provide samples of the outdoor lights to be used. The
changes to the conditions of approval are as follows: Condition#6, adding that
Planning Commission Mi tes DRAFT
April 26, 1995
Page 14
the roof and exterior shall •e in darker reflective colors (reflective value of 40%);
deleting the last sentence ' #9;and making changes to#16 per City Engineer's
memo deleting"Francemo t Subdivision"and deleting"acceptance of plans for
building plan check" and s bstituting"final inspection and issuance of
occupancy certificate. No •mporary certificates of occupancy shall be
permitted."
4.4 DS OF ARD, 11841 Francemont Avenue (203-94-ZP-SD-
GD); A requ-st for a Site Development Permit for a new residence
and pool.
Staff had nothing further t• add to the staff report.
OPENED PUBLIC HE G
John Barksdale explained e architectural details and discussed the driveway
design. This a flag lot an. there is a need for over-flow parking requiring
very little pavement in the •etback. The design of the driveway reflects the
need for man uvering.
There was a concern that a lots do not have the same configurations and the
houses do not look alike. r. Barksdale commented that they intended to make
each house as different as p•ssible. Suggestions included using stucco on two
houses and possibly wood •ided on lot 3. Commissioner Doran felt the
applicant has done a good j.b designing the driveway, and that it would not be
as livable,if changed. Co 'ssioner Stutz asked if tl}e columns on lots 1 and 2
will be painted white. Mr. r►arksdale noted that the columns on lot 1 will be the
same color as the walls. Co umns on lot 2 are intended to be a different color
from the siding but not whi e. Gray or brown are likely choices. It was noted
that the pool lquipment wa. not shown on the plan.
CLOSED PUBIC HEARIN
Ms. Kolf note4 changes to c•ndition#10 as noted in the City Engineer's memo;
change to#17 removing "Fr.;ncemont Subdivision" and adding "no temporary
certificates of occupancy sh.11 be permitted.
Planning Commission Minutes DRAFT
April 26, 1995
Page 15
MOTION SECONDED AND PASSED: Motion by Commissioner Doran and
seconded by Commissioner Finn to approve the Land of Ward, 11841
Francemont Drive with the amendments to the conditions as stated.
AYES: Chairman Schreiner,Commissioners Stutz,Gottlieb,Cheng,Finn
&Doran
NOES: None
This item will appear on the City Council consent calendar May 17, 1995.
4.6 REVISION TO THE TOWN'S COLOR BOARD; A discussion on
utilizing a reflectivity value to approve exterior colors for new
construction,and adoption of a new set of colors.
Discussion ensued regarding choosing low reflective value colors.
Commissioner Doran felt the values were too low on the color board requesting
taking the values up a little. Chairman Schreiner noted that the code and the
policy states that they are to choose low reflective values for earthtone colors
asking for agreement that 50%is the mid-range;anything below 50% is low,
anything above 50%is high. Commissioner Cheng noted that you cannot look
at the exterior colors alone. It is a combination of all the colors (materials,
roofing, accent such as brick,siding and trim). Commissioner McMahon
suggested setting values on roofs at(30%),walls (at 50%) and trims at (70%).
Chairman Schreiner noted that Town policy was to not let buildings dominate
the landscape.
MOTION SECONDED AND FAILED: Motion by Commissioner McMahon, •
seconded by Chairman Schreiner and failed by the following vote to approve
40%reflective value for exterior walls.
AYES: Chairman Schreiner,Commissioner McMahon
NOES: Commissioners Cheng,Finn,Stutz &Gottlieb
ABSENT: Commissioner Doran
MOTION SECONDED AND PASSED: Motion by Commissioner Gottlieb and
seconded by Chairman Schreiner to approve 50%reflective value for exterior
walls.
AYES: Chairman Schreiner,Commissioners Stutz,McMahon&Gottlieb
NOES: Commissioners Finn&Cheng
ABSENT: Commissioner Doran
Planning Commission Mi utes DRAFT
April 26, 1995 •
Page 16
MOTION SECONDED • D PASSED: Motion by Commissioner McMahon
and seconded by Chairman Schreiner to approve 40%reflective value for roofs.
AYES: Chairman S• einer,Commissioners S utz,McMahon&Gottlieb
NOES: Commission-rs Finn&Cheng
ABSENT: Commission-r Doran
MOTION SECONDED • D PASSED: Motion by Commissioner Finn and
seconded by Commission:r Cheng to approve 100%reflective value for 10%of
trim excluding major fea res such as trellis,columns,garage doors and
railings.
AYES: Commission-rs Stutz,McMahon,Finn,Cheng&Gottlieb
NOES: Chairman S einer
ABSENT: Commission•r Doran
The PlanningCommission shall review the reflective values six months after
approval uner the new policy. The color value recommendations will be
agendized for City Counc' review and approval.
5. REPORT FROM CITY COUN IL MEETIN
5.2 Planning Co ission representative for April 19th meeting-
Commission:r Gottlieb.
6. NEW BUSINESS
6.1 Discussion o'Council policy on circular driveways. This item will
be continued o the next meeting. Continued to May 10, 1995.
6.2 Discussion o possible changes in review process for Site
Developmen.permits. This item will be continued to the next
eeting. Co tinued to May 10, 1995.
7. LD B'. E
7.1 Report from ubcommittees.
None.
Planning Commission Minutes DRAFT
April 26, 1995
Page 17
8. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
8.1 Approval of the April 12, 1995 Minutes.
MOTION SECONDED AND PASSED BY CONSENSUS: Motion by
Commissioner McMahon,seconded by Commissioner Finn and passed by
consensus to approve the April 12 minutes.
9. REPORT FROM THE SITE DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE MEETING
9.1 LANDS OF YUNG, 13880 Campo Vista Lane; A request for a Site
Development Permit for a landscape plan(continued from the
April 26th meeting). Approved April 26th with conditions.
9.2 LANDS OF LIN, 12380 Priscilla Lane; A request for a Site
Development Permit for a tennis court. Approved with conditions
April 26, 1995.
10. ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was adjourned by consensus at 12:15 a. m.
Respectfully submitted,
Lani Lonberger
Planning Secretary