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Home My WebLink AboutMay 8OSC_FINAL_Minutes18-0508.docx 1 Los Altos Hills Open Space Committee Los Altos Hills Parks and Recreation Building FINAL Minutes of special Meeting May 8, 2018 Members and Associates Present: Peter Brown, George Clifford, Richard Contreras, Nancy Couperus, Kit Gordon, Alice Sakamoto, Jean Struthers, Sue Welch (Members); Peter Brown, Sharen Schoendorf (Associate) Members and Associates Absent: Wendie Ward (Member); Karen Lemes (Associate) Council Liaison Present: Roger Spreen Member of Public Present: Jim Waschura (LAH resident) 1. Call to Order and Approval of Minutes A. Roll Call. KG called the meeting to order at 9:02 am. B. Acceptance of Meeting Minutes. SW moved to accept with minor amendments the minutes from the meetings of April 12, 2018. JS seconded and the vote was 4 in favor (GC, RC, NC, JS) and two abstaining (KG, SW not present at April meeting) C. Announcements. i. Article on Kestrels in Mt Diablo area threatened by rodenticides was emailed to OSC members. ii. Pathways Run-Walk. OSC thanks member AS for her photos of this annual event iii. Rodenticide traps place in O’Keeffe OSP. PB reported bait stations on/near the preserve border. He will use LAHConnect to inform Public Works. OSC will provide info on safe alternatives to bait traps. 2. Planning A. Fence Permit Reviews. LAH Planner Erin Horan, who provided fence plans to OSC, has left the City; comment period for all the permits listed below has already expired. OSC member reviewing the permit should contact the Planner directly, get the plans, and send comments (if any) directly to the planner. Input from full OSC is not possible because of the 10-day comment period. A fence subcommittee (NC, AS, Kjell Karlsson) was formed in April to review policy and consider potential changes. i. 10888 Magdalena Rd. Solid fence along the road; no open space issues. ii. 26966 Beatrice Lane. No info. iii. 13300 Country Way. No info. iv. 25802 Vinedo. No info. B. OSC Site Reviews and Recommendations for Development Projects. i. 13120 East Sunset (Lands of Ho; APN 331-21-002; #117-16-ZP-SD-GD). OSC first reviewed this project in May 2016 with a recommendation to dedicate an OSE over the steep slopes (>30%) behind the building pad, extending across the parcel from the 360-ft elevation line down to the eastern boundary. A drainage flowing to Adobe Creek runs along the SE border. Developers returned to OSC in Aug 2016 with a request to reduce the OSE for a vineyard. At that time, OSC recommended an OSE across the parcel extending from the pencil line drawn on the map by the developers down to the southeast boundary of the parcel. The pencil line starts at the 360-foot elevation contour line on the southwest border and runs along that contour line below the building pad, then drops down to the southeast to 320-foot elevation contour line, and then runs along the 320-foot contour line to the northeast border of the parcel. This reduced the OSE by about a third (Attachment A). The project was not completed and the property was sold. The new owner has requested OSC review. Following discussion, KG moved that OSC recommend an OSE to protect the steep (>30%) slopes from the 360-ft contour line down slope to the eastern property line. NC seconded and the vote was unanimously in favor (GC, RC, KG, JS, SW). Final recommendation Attachment B ii. 23281 Mora Heights. This parcel is in a newly annexed section in the SE part of LAH. OSC was asked to review this property in Jan 2018 but was not given access for a site visit. OSC sent a conditional recommendation, notes, and questions to the Planner. A large part of the parcel meets criteria for OSE to protect oaks and steep slopes. After lengthy discussion, OSC unanimously voted to sent a conditional recommendation to planner: 1) identify existing OSEs in the area if records are available; 2) dedicate OSE over steep areas above and below the house to protect oaks and steep slopes; 3) note on map the creeks and drainages; 4) confirm location of drainage swales and note that a retaining wall and hardscape appear to extend over a drainage swale; if so, the plans should OSC_FINAL_Minutes18-0508.docx 2 be modified; 5) “top of bank” marked on map does not appear to be the top of creek bank; please clarify; 6) confirm fence is not in creek riparian setback; 7) confirm MDA-MFA are compliant as new development area appears larger than existing. The developers have asked for a second review but have not specified what changes they want. This is a highly constrained lot with steep slopes above and below the house, many oaks, and a creek running along the bottom near the rear property line. After lengthy debate, KG moved to modify the OSE to exclude part of the 30% slope above the house (as shown drawn on the map) even though this area meets criteria for OSE. SW seconded and the vote was unanimously in favor (GC, RC, KG, JS, SW). iii. OSE resolutions to be confirmed a. 14510 Manuella Road (OSC recommendation Mar 2018) b. 12735 Alto Verde Lane (OSC recommendation July 2017). Project was approved at the Fast Track meeting of 4/24/18 with OSE as recommended by OSC. 3. New Business A. National River Clean-Up Day and Coastal Clean-Up Day. OSC briefly discussed organizing and/or participating in local creek clean-ups associated with these events. 4. Continuing Business A. WWCB weed management. SW reported Town crew has cut most of weedy areas around the barn and arenas. She will send a note of thanks from OSC to City Manager, Public Works, and the crew thanking them for this proactive weed management, which is greatly improved from last year. B. Grassroots Ecology update. Byrne Brigade workdays are continuing every Monday with focus on removal of milk thistle, purple star thistle, teasel, and Italian thistle. Plans also include installation of native plants in the flood plain. C. Off-leash dogs in Open Space. OSC discussed this ongoing problem. Possible actions include requesting additional patrols by Sheriff’s deputies and discussions with City Manager. D. Landscape Guidelines. PB, who has been revising this document, yesterday sent the final version to Planning Director Suzanne Avila for review. E. Revised Site Review Forms. KG distributed revised site review form for committee review (Attachment D). The revised form includes text of LAH policies and ordinances that support decisions in each section of the review. Members should attach all supporting documents to the review (maps, photos, relevant conditions of approval from prior development, easement CRs, adjacent OSEs, etc). F. OSC Webpage Information. New info has been added. G. SOD BLITZ and Community Education. The joint LAH-Portola Valley-Woodside SOD Blitz will be held Saturday, May 12 at Woodside Town Hall. 5. Open Discussion 6. Communications from the Floor. None. 7. Adjournment. The meeting was adjourned at 11:00 am Next Regular Meeting: Thursday, June 14, 2018 9:00 AM at LAH Parks and Recreation Building Attachment A: Aug 2016 revised OSC recommendation for 13210 East Sunset Attachment B: May 2018 revised OSC recommendation for 13210 East Sunset Attachment C: May 2018 OSC recommendation for 23281 Mora Heights Attachment D: Revised Site Review Form Final minutes were approved with minor amendments at the Regular Open Space Committee meeting of June 14, 2018. !"#$$%&’(’$)*+,(*-$ ./"0#$$"1’-$%1*2’$3,445&&’’$ 67!8#$$9:;<=;<>$ %?@A83!#$/’(5B’+$/’2,44’-+*&5,-$C,D$"1’-$%1*2’$8*B’4’-&$,-$<=E<9$8*B&$ %F-B’&$ GGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGG$ 7&$&H’$+’(’I,1’DBJ$D’KF’B&L$&H’$"1’-$%1*2’$3,445&&’’$M"%3N$D’2,-B5+’D’+$&H’$ ’*DI5’D$D’2,44’-+*&5,-$C,D$&H’$+’+52*&5,-$,C$*-$,1’-$B1*2’$’*B’4’-&$M"%8N$,-$&H5B$ 1*D2’I$4*+’$*&$&H’$D’OFI*D$"%3$5-$0*P$E9<>Q$$ 7$I*DO’$1,D&5,-$,C$&H5B$EQRS*2D’$1*D2’I$H*B$B&’’1$BI,1’B$5-$’T2’BB$,C$=9UL$*-+$&H’$ B,F&H’*B&$1D,1’D&P$I5-’$*VF&B$+’-B’$,*W$X,,+I*-+B$&H*&$2,--’2&$&,$7+,V’$3D’’W$ *11D,T54*&’IP$=R9$P*D+B$*X*PQ$$ !H’$"%3$D’2,44’-+*&5,-$5-$0*P$E9<>$X*B$&,$+’+52*&’$*-$"%8$CD,4$&H’$=>9SC,,&$ ’I’(*&5,-$2,-&,FD$I5-’$V’I,X$&H’$VF5I+5-O$1*+$+,X-$&,$&H’$B,F&H’*B&$1D,1’D&P$I5-’Q$$ 7&$&H’$7FO$<<$4’’&5-OL$&H’$+’(’I,1’DBL$YF5*-$Z5-$*-+$[5-5-O$\FL$&H’$)D,]’2&$ 0*-*O’DL$052H*’I$0FII’DL$*-+$.D’+$^’DD5-O$*DOF’+$&H*&$&H’$*D’*$,C$"%8$BH,FI+$V’$ D’+F2’+$&,$*22,44,+*&’$*$(5-’P*D+L$&,$*II,X$4,D’$+’(’I,1*VI’$*D’*$V’I,X$&H’$ VF5I+5-O$1*+L$*-+$&,$1D,(5+’$*-$*D’*$C,D$1D,]’2&$B&*O5-O$*-+$15I5-O$’T2*(*&’+$+5D&Q$ 6’(’I,1’DB$*IB,$X*-&$&,$5-B&*II$*$B’1&52$BPB&’4$-’*D$&H’$B,F&H’*B&$V,D+’DQ$ 7C&’D$I’-O&HP$+5B2FBB5,-$X5&H$"%3L$&H’$+’(’I,1’DB$+D’X$*$1’-25I$I5-’$,-$&H’$ +’(’I,14’-&$1I*-B$5-+52*&5-O$*-$F11’D$V,F-+*DP$&,$*$D’(5B’+$"%8$&H*&$X,FI+$*II,X$ *$(5-’P*D+$*-+$4,D’$*D’*$V’I,X$&H’$VF5I+5-O$1*+Q$$ Z7^$"%8$*OD’’4’-&B$*II,X$*11D,(’+$B’1&52$,D$B’X’D$BPB&’4B$*-+$+D*5-*O’$ 5-B&*II*&5,-B$X5&H5-$&H’$"%8Q$"%3$D’5&’D*&’+$&H’$541,D&*-2’$,C$"%8B$&,$1D,&’2&$B&’’1$ BI,1’B$MO’-’D*IIP$=9U$,C$4,D’N$*-+$&,$1D,(5+’$2,--’2&5(5&P$&,$*D’*B$,C$2,-B’D(*&5,-$ (*IF’Q$7I&H,FOH$&H’$B&D51$,C$I*-+$*I,-O$&H’$B,F&H’*B&$V,F-+*DP$,C$&H’$1*D2’I$*&$&H’$ V,&&,4$,C$&H’$BI,1’$5B$-,&$*B$B&’’1$*B$4,B&$,C$&H’$H5IIB5+’L$"%3$2,-B5+’DB$5&$,C$ 2,-B’D(*&5,-$(*IF’$V’2*FB’$5&$2,--’2&B$&,$*$I*DO’$*D’*$,C$,*W$X,,+I*-+$*-+$-’*DVP$ 7+,V’$3D’’WQ$$ %\$4,(’+$&H*&$"%3$D’2,44’-+$&H’$!,X-$D’KF5D’$&H’$+’(’I,1’DB$,C$<=E<9$8*B&$ %F-B’&$&,$+’+52*&’$*-$,1’-$B1*2’$’*B’4’-&$*2D,BB$&H’$1*D2’I$’T&’-+5-O$CD,4$&H’$ 1’-25I$I5-’$+D*X-$,-$&H’$4*1$VP$&H’$+’(’I,1’DB$+,X-$&,$&H’$B,F&H’*B&$V,F-+*DP$,C$ &H’$1*D2’IQ$!H’$1’-25I$I5-’$B&*D&B$*&$&H’$=R9SC,,&$’I’(*&5,-$2,-&,FD$I5-’$,-$&H’$ B,F&HX’B&$V,D+’D$*-+$DF-B$*I,-O$&H*&$2,-&,FD$I5-’$V’I,X$&H’$VF5I+5-O$1*+L$&H’-$ +D,1B$+,X-$&,$&H’$B,F&H’*B&$&,$=E9SC,,&$’I’(*&5,-$2,-&,FD$I5-’L$*-+$&H’-$DF-B$*I,-O$ &H’$=E9SC,,&$2,-&,FD$I5-’$&,$&H’$-,D&H’*B&$V,D+’D$,C$&H’$1*D2’IQ$\\$B’2,-+’+$*-+$ &H’$(,&’$X*B$R$5-$C*(,D$M_3L$‘aL$7%L$\\L$%\N$*-+$<$,11,B’+$Mab$BF11,D&’+$,D5O5-*I$ D’2,44’-+*&5,-NQ$ !H’$D’(5B’+$D’2,44’-+*&5,-$M7&&*2H4’-&$@N$D’+F2’B$&H’$"%8$VP$*&$I’*B&$*$&H5D+L$ *II,XB$&H’$+’(’I,1’DB$&,$5-B&*II$*$(5-’P*D+$,-$*$B&’’1IP$BI,1’+$1,D&5,-$,C$&H’$I,&L$*-+$ 1D,(5+’B$*++5&5,-*I$*D’*$V’I,X$&H’$VF5I+5-O$1*+$&H*&$5B$,F&B5+’$&H’$"%8Q$$ !""#$%&’(")*+),-’().-#$’)/0&&1""’’)&’’"1(2)34566567) 8’91:’;),-’().-#$’)<#:’&’(")8’$0&&’(;#"10()=0>)6?@63)<#:").A(:’") OSC Site Review 13120 East Sunset F.docx 5/18/18 1 To: Los Altos Hills Planning Department From: Open Space Committee Date: May 18, 2018 Property address: 13120 East Sunset Drive Date of Site Visit: Lands of Pang APN 331-21-002 Town Planner Steve Padovan Project Number Reason for review (check one) ü New Residence Second Unit Addition/Major Remodel Fence Permit OSC RECOMMENDATION FOR THIS PROPERTY Final OSC recommendation (after formal OSC review) Date of OSC review: May 8, 2018 Voting of review: Unanimous in favor (JC, AS, SW, NC, PB, GC, RC, SS) Background: This property was reviewed by OSC in May 2016. An open space was recommended on the slopes greater than 30%, below the 360-foot elevation contour line. It was reviewed again in August 2016, when the developers requested a modification (reduction) in the recommended open space easement for a vineyard. OSC agreed to the modification, but the project was not completed and the easement was not granted. The property was sold. At the third review on May 8, 2018 (with a new owner), the Open Space Committee recommended an open space easement on this property below the 350’ contour line downslope to the southeast property line. The criterion is a very steep slope, greater than 30% (Land Use Policy 2.5). At the bottom of this slope is a drainage that flows to Adobe Creek . OSC Site Review 13120 East Sunset F.docx 5/18/18 2 SUPPORTING INFORMATION SLOPE AND SOIL Average slope of lot ___________ Areas with slope ≥30%? Yes Check slope/LUF worksheet on subdivisions Review Geologic Hazard Report, if applicable. Check for colluvial soil, earthquake faults, springs, seeps, shallow groundwater. Safety Policy 1.1 Open space easements, zoning and other land use regulations shall be used to limit and, in some cases, prohibit development in areas of unstable terrain, active fault traces, water channels, flood plains, excessively steep slopes and other areas determined to be hazardous to public welfare and safety. Safety Policy 2.2 Locate development so as to avoid geologic hazards, including slope instability, to the maximum extent feasible. Land Use Policy 2.5 Steep slopes, canyons and ravines generally in excess of 30% slope, as well as natural swales and drainage channels, and geologic hazard areas within areas designated for residential development shall be left undisturbed and preserved in their natural condition to the maximum extent feasible. Land Use Policy 2.6 Limits on the development of individual residential lots shall be determined based on evaluation of such factors as natural vegetation, topographic characteristics, soils and geology. CREEKS Creeks or waterways or swale on parcel? Yes Name of creek/tributary of: Adobe Shown on USGS map? SCVWD creek map? LAH Hazard Map? EcoAtlas? Yes Condition of banks? Existing riparian or OSE or SCVWD easement along creek on this property or nearby parcels? Does SCVWD want to expand their easement? Proposed setbacks for structures? Evidence of bed, banks, or Original High Water Mark (OHWM)? Identify any structures including fences within 25 feet of top of bank? Within OHWM? Waters within the OHWM are regulated as Waters of the United States and protected by the Clean Water Act. Any development within this area may require permits from regulatory agencies: US Army Corps of Engineers, CA Dept of Fish and Wildlife, Regional Water Quality Control Board. OSC Site Review 13120 East Sunset F.docx 5/18/18 3 Source: US Army Corps of Engineers Safety Policy 3.1: Leave natural channels and flood plains in a natural state, unencumbered by development to the maximum extent feasible. Conservation Policy 5.1: Keep or restore major drainage courses in their natural condition insofar as possible because of their importance in supplying major vegetation, land forms and wildlife habitat, and storm drainage. Conservation Policy 1.3: Preserve the integrity of riparian corridors as unique and environmentally sensitive resources. Conservation Policy 3.1: Maintain and protect creeks and riparian corridors for wildlife that use this resource for food, shelter, migration and breeding. Conservation Policy 11.5: Ensure that development projects are designed to conserve the natural slope, preserve existing native vegetation, limit invasive species, and conserve natural drainage channels and swales. Municipal Code 10-2.702 Siting. (e) Creek Protection. Structures shall be set back a minimum of twenty-five (25) feet from the top of bank of all creeks. Greater setbacks may be required along major creeks in the Town; however, lesser setbacks may be allowed where approved by the Planning Commission. Improvements required to all creeks shall be accomplished to appear natural and to maintain the natural meandering course of the existing creek. Creeks and banks shall be protected so as to remain in their natural state as much as possible. They should not be disturbed by the building or grading process. No grading shall be allowed in creeks or within the required setbacks from top of bank. Siting of structures shall be done with safety as a primary concern. Safety concerns and preservation of riparian habitat are required to be simultaneously addressed when designing development and required improvements to creeks. (§ 15, Ord. 299, eff. December 11, 1985; §§ 6, 7, Ord. 370, eff. May 20, 1994; § 1, Ord. 504, eff. October 28, 2006) TREES, NATIVE VEGETATION & INVASIVE PLANTS Heritage oaks? Yes OSC Site Review 13120 East Sunset F.docx 5/18/18 4 Groves of significant trees? Trees proposed for removal (Heritage oaks or other; number and species)? Significant native vegetation? Significant invasive weed vegetation? Conservation Policy 2.2: Minimize disturbance of the natural terrain and vegetation. Preserve and protect native and naturalized plants, with special attention to preservation of unique, rare or endangered species and plant communities such as oak woodlands. Conservation Policy 2.3: Preserve and protect Heritage Trees, including native oaks and other significant trees, on public and private property. Conservation Policy 11.5: Ensure that development projects are designed to conserve the natural slope, preserve existing native vegetation, limit invasive species, and conserve natural drainage channels and swales. Conservation Program 2.5 Encourage the dedication of conservation/open space easements or the public acquisition of areas that are rich in wildlife or of a fragile ecological nature to ensure their protection Open Space Policy 1.2: Protect and maintain those areas necessary to the integrity of natural resources and processes, with special emphasis on, but not limited to, the groundwater recharge and drainage system, open spaces vital for wildlife habitat, open spaces suitable for agriculture, and other areas of major or unique ecological significance. Land Use Program 2.3 Encourage the preservation of existing trees, rock outcroppings, ridgelines and other significant natural features Municipal Code 10-2.702 Siting. (f) Tree Preservation. Every feasible attempt should be made to preserve existing trees except those trees identified in the Los Altos Hills Landscape Guidelines invasive plant CA FOOD AND AGRICULTURAL CODE - FAC DIVISION 4. PLANT QUARANTINE AND PEST CONTROL [5001 - 8808] 5401. Any premises, plants, conveyances or things which are infected or infested with any pest, or premises where any pest is found, are a public nuisance, and shall be prosecuted as such in all actions and proceedings. All remedies which are given by law for the prevention and abatement of a nuisance apply to such a public nuisance. WILDLIFE CORRIDORS & FENCING OSC Site Review 13120 East Sunset F.docx 5/18/18 5 Check 2006 Live Oak Associates map (not official) Evidence of wildlife (e.g., deer trails, spoor)? Identify location and type of existing fencing Check that fencing on plans agrees with fencing on the ground Note any fence that does not meet current fencing regulations Conservation Policy 2.7: Avoid the development of environmentally sensitive areas that are rich in wildlife or of a fragile ecological nature, such as areas of rare or endangered species of plants, or riparian areas. Conservation Goal 3: Maintain and enhance the integrity of wildlife habitat. Conservation Program 3.3: Assess the potential for development patterns to fragment and isolate significant wildlife habitats. Conservation Section 315: Planning for natural movement of wildlife can help avoid, minimize and compensate for serious negative impacts on wildlife and humans. Areas that link wildlife habitat have become vital because native animals such as deer, fox, bobcat, and coyote are prevented by roads, fences, homes and other development from moving freely as they once did. Municipal Code 10-1.507 (d) Prohibited Fences, Walls, Gates, and Column Types. The following fences are prohibited: (1) Chain-link or cyclone fences, including any fence with bare lengths of wire stretched between metal poles, with the exception of dark green, black, or brown vinyl- coated chain-linked fences with matching vinyl-coated cross bars and caps. (2) Barbed or razor wire fences, including any fence with attached barbs, sharp points, or razors. Electric fences, including any fence designed to produce an electric shock, except where necessary for animal husbandry operations. (3) Any fence, wall, and/or gate that may cause harm to people, pets, and/or wildlife due to points, spikes, or sharpened edges on the top or bottom part of the fence, wall structure and/or gate. (9) Open Space/Conservation Easement Perimeter Fences. (i) Maximum height of open space/conservation easement perimeter fences: six (6) feet. (ii) Minimum distance of lowest fence strand or rail from ground: twelve (12) inches above grade. (iii) Open space/conservation easement perimeter fences shall provide openings sufficient to accommodate the free passage of wildlife through the easement. A split- rail wood fence (see exhibit) or equivalent design shall be required. Where a pathway is located within an open space/conservation easement, the perimeter fence shall be OSC Site Review 13120 East Sunset F.docx 5/18/18 6 required to have at least two (2) openings at least as wide as the width of the pathway easement. OPEN SPACE EASEMENTS (OSE)/CONSERVATION EASEMENTS (CE) Check Town records for existing CE or OSE on this property and adjacent and nearby parcels. Identify areas where OSE may be appropriate (slope ≥30%, significant trees, wildlife corridor, creeks, drainage swales) Open Space Policy 1.1 Provide, during the development process, for the maximum feasible preservation of open space in and adjoining the Town, with spaces ranging in size from regional scale to small-scale open space on individual lots. Open Space Policy 1.4: Preserve the natural beauty and minimize disturbance of the natural terrain and vegetation. Open Space Policy 1.7: To the extent possible, link open spaces together visually and physically to form a system of open spaces. Open Space Policy 1.8: Ensure that land uses and structures are compatible with the general open space quality of the planning area. Open Space Policy 2.6 New residential subdivisions shall provide open space for recreation in order to meet their appropriate share of local recreation needs. PATHWAY EASEMENTS (PE) Check Town records for existing or newly proposed PE on this property or adjacent and nearby parcels. Attachments: - Photos from site - Easement history and research - Photo of site plan with marked OSE OSC Site Review 13120 East Sunset F.docx 5/18/18 7 FOLLOW-UP Send final copy to OSC Chair & Secretary Upload to TraKit ? Add address to list of easements to track on OSC agenda OSC Site Review 23281 Mora Heights Way.docx           6/11/18 1  To: Los Altos Hills Planning Department  From:  Open Space Committee  Date: May 18, 2018  Property address: 23281 Mora Heights Way  Date of Site Visit: Jan 24, 2018       Lands of Liou / Ambika APN 33114020  Town  Planner   Project  Number    4‐18‐SD‐ZP    Reason for review (check one)   New Residence  Second Unit  Addition/Major Remodel  Fence Permit    OSC RECOMMENDATION FOR THIS PROPERTY  Second OSC recommendation (after formal OSC review)  Date of OSC review: Second review May 8, 2018  Voting of review: Yes (NC, SW, PB, AS, KG, GC, JC)  No (RC)    Background: This property was reviewed in January 2018. The lot is highly constrained by  step slopes, creek habitat and appears to be a substandard LUF lot. The applicant requested a  second review of the open space easement recommendation.   OSC recommendation after first review:  1. Open Space Easement recommended on steep slopes (>30%) above proposed new  retaining wall and below proposed building and landscape area.   2. Label creek on map at northwest boundary.  3. Remove fence near western edge of property.  4. Protect 30" oak tree downslope of proposed lawn area by removing build up of soil  from crown of tree as recommended by arborist.  5. Recommend old playground area return to natural slope.  6. Riparian setback 25 feet from top of bank.    Concerns that proposed new retaining wall cuts into >30% slope area at western edge  of new hardscape area. Concerns that new deck extends over >30% slope area.  Concerns that new developed area exceeds existing area on this constrained lot.    At the May 8, 2018 Open Space Committee meeting members reviewed the property and  discussed the steep slopes (>30%) and the Loyola Creek corridor (tributary of Hale). After  lengthy discussion the committee voted to reduce the open space easement area at elevations  above the house site, and moved the border closer to the 470 elevation line. The committee  acknowledged that this modification is inconsistent with the General Plan. The open space  OSC Site Review 23281 Mora Heights Way.docx           6/11/18 2  easement recommendation at elevations below the house were kept the same (roughly at  elevations of 450‐456)   See attached photo.            OSC Site Review 23281 Mora Heights Way.docx           6/11/18 3        SUPPORTING INFORMATION    SLOPE AND SOIL  Average slope of lot ____>30%_________  Areas with slope ≥30%? Yes, most of property. Lot looks to be substandard size  Check slope/LUF worksheet on subdivisions  Review Geologic Hazard Report, if applicable. Check for colluvial soil, earthquake faults,  springs, seeps, shallow groundwater.    Safety Policy 1.1 Open space easements, zoning and other land use regulations shall  be used to limit and, in some cases, prohibit development in areas of unstable terrain,  active fault traces, water channels, flood plains, excessively steep slopes and other  areas determined to be hazardous to public welfare and safety.  Safety Policy 2.2 Locate development so as to avoid geologic hazards, including  slope instability, to the maximum extent feasible.    Land Use Policy 2.5 Steep slopes, canyons and ravines generally in excess of 30%  slope, as well as natural swales and drainage channels, and geologic hazard areas  within areas designated for residential development shall be left undisturbed and  preserved in their natural condition to the maximum extent feasible.  Land Use Policy 2.6 Limits on the development of individual residential lots shall be  determined based on evaluation of such factors as natural vegetation, topographic  characteristics, soils and geology.     CREEKS  Creeks or waterways through parcel? Yes. Loyola Creek along northern and western  boundary  Name of creek. Shown on USGS map? SCVWD creek map? LAH Hazard Map? EcoAtlas? Yes,  see attached.  Evidence of bed, banks, OHWM? Yes.  Condition of banks? Highly eroded, much cut wood in creek  Existing riparian or OSE along creek on this property or nearby parcels? No easements  records found.  Proposed setbacks for structures?   Evidence of bed, banks, or Original High Water Mark (OHWM)?  Identify any structures including fences within 25 feet of top of bank? Within OHWM?  Waters within the OHWM are regulated as Waters of the United States and protected by the  Clean Water Act. Any development within this area may require permits from regulatory  OSC Site Review 23281 Mora Heights Way.docx           6/11/18 4  agencies: US Army Corps of Engineers, CA Dept of Fish and Wildlife, Regional Water Quality  Control Board.      Source: US Army Corps of Engineers    Safety Policy 3.1: Leave natural channels and flood plains in a natural state,  unencumbered by development to the maximum extent feasible.  Conservation Policy 5.1: Keep or restore major drainage courses in their natural  condition insofar as possible because of their importance in supplying major  vegetation, land forms and wildlife habitat, and storm drainage.  Conservation Policy 1.3: Preserve the integrity of riparian corridors as unique and  environmentally sensitive resources.  Conservation Policy 3.1: Maintain and protect creeks and riparian corridors for  wildlife that use this resource for food, shelter, migration and breeding.  Conservation Policy 11.5: Ensure that development projects are designed to conserve  the natural slope, preserve existing native vegetation, limit invasive species, and  conserve natural drainage channels and swales.    Municipal Code 102.702 Siting.  (e) Creek Protection. Structures shall be set back a minimum of twenty‐five (25) feet  from the top of bank of all creeks. Greater setbacks may be required along major creeks  in the Town; however, lesser setbacks may be allowed where approved by the Planning  Commission. Improvements required to all creeks shall be accomplished to appear  natural and to maintain the natural meandering course of the existing creek. Creeks  and banks shall be protected so as to remain in their natural state as much as possible.  They should not be disturbed by the building or grading process. No grading shall be  allowed in creeks or within the required setbacks from top of bank. Siting of structures  shall be done with safety as a primary concern. Safety concerns and preservation of  riparian habitat are required to be simultaneously addressed when designing  development and required improvements to creeks. (§ 15, Ord. 299, eff. December 11,  1985; §§ 6, 7, Ord. 370, eff. May 20, 1994; § 1, Ord. 504, eff. October 28, 2006)    OSC Site Review 23281 Mora Heights Way.docx           6/11/18 5    TREES, NATIVE VEGETATION & INVASIVE PLANTS  Heritage oaks? Yes  Groves of significant trees? Yes, near creek  Trees proposed for removal (Heritage oaks or other; number and species)?  Significant native vegetation?  Note major infestation of invasive weeds such as stinkwort, oxalis, Italian thistle, purple  starthistle, yellow starthistle, pampas grass, broom, teasel, giant reed (Arundo donax), poison  hemlock, etc.    Conservation Policy 2.2: Minimize disturbance of the natural terrain and vegetation.   Preserve and protect native and naturalized plants, with special attention to  preservation of unique, rare or endangered species and plant communities such as oak  woodlands.   Conservation Policy 2.3: Preserve and protect Heritage Trees, including native oaks  and other significant trees, on public and private property.    Conservation Policy 11.5: Ensure that development projects are designed to conserve  the natural slope, preserve existing native vegetation, limit invasive species, and  conserve natural drainage channels and swales.  Conservation Program 2.5 Encourage the dedication of conservation/open space  easements or the public acquisition of areas that are rich in wildlife or of a fragile  ecological nature to ensure their protection  Open Space Policy 1.2: Protect and maintain those areas necessary to the integrity of  natural resources and processes, with special emphasis on, but not limited to, the  groundwater recharge and drainage system, open spaces vital for wildlife  habitat, open spaces suitable for agriculture, and other areas of major or unique  ecological significance.  Land Use Program 2.3 Encourage the preservation of existing trees, rock  outcroppings, ridgelines and other significant natural features    Municipal Code 102.702 Siting.  (f)    Tree Preservation. Every feasible attempt should be made to preserve existing  trees except those trees identified in the Los Altos Hills Landscape Guidelines invasive  plant    CA FOOD AND AGRICULTURAL CODE  FAC  DIVISION 4. PLANT QUARANTINE AND PEST CONTROL [5001  8808]  5401.    OSC Site Review 23281 Mora Heights Way.docx           6/11/18 6  Any premises, plants, conveyances or things which are infected or infested with any  pest, or premises where any pest is found, are a public nuisance, and shall be  prosecuted as such in all actions and proceedings. All remedies which are given by law  for the prevention and abatement of a nuisance apply to such a public nuisance.      WILDLIFE CORRIDORS & FENCING  Check 2006 Live Oak Associates map (not official)  Evidence of wildlife (e.g., deer trails, spoor)? Evidence of deer trails  Identify location and type of existing fencing Fencing around property and near western  boundary  Check that fencing on plans agrees with fencing on the ground; yes  Note any fence that does not meet current fencing regulations: Fence near western  boundary is on slopes >30%. Recommend removal.      Conservation Policy 2.7: Avoid the development of environmentally sensitive areas  that are rich in wildlife or of a fragile ecological nature, such as areas of rare or  endangered species of plants, or riparian areas.   Conservation Goal 3: Maintain and enhance the integrity of wildlife habitat.  Conservation Program 3.3: Assess the potential for development patterns to  fragment and isolate significant wildlife habitats.  Conservation Section 315: Planning for natural movement of wildlife can help  avoid, minimize and compensate for serious negative impacts on wildlife and humans.   Areas that link wildlife habitat have become vital because native animals such as deer,  fox, bobcat, and coyote are prevented by roads, fences, homes and other development  from moving freely as they once did.    Municipal Code 101.507 (d) Prohibited Fences, Walls, Gates, and Column Types. The  following fences are prohibited:  (1)    Chain‐link or cyclone fences, including any fence with bare lengths of wire  stretched between metal poles, with the exception of dark green, black, or brown vinyl‐ coated chain‐linked fences with matching vinyl‐coated cross bars and caps.  (2)    Barbed or razor wire fences, including any fence with attached barbs, sharp  points, or razors. Electric fences, including any fence designed to produce an electric  shock, except where necessary for animal husbandry operations.  (3)    Any fence, wall, and/or gate that may cause harm to people, pets, and/or wildlife  due to points, spikes, or sharpened edges on the top or bottom part of the fence, wall  structure and/or gate.    OSC Site Review 23281 Mora Heights Way.docx           6/11/18 7  (9)    Open Space/Conservation Easement Perimeter Fences.  (i)     Maximum height of open space/conservation easement perimeter fences: six (6)  feet.  (ii)    Minimum distance of lowest fence strand or rail from ground: twelve (12) inches  above grade.  (iii)   Open space/conservation easement perimeter fences shall provide openings  sufficient to accommodate the free passage of wildlife through the easement. A split‐ rail wood fence (see exhibit) or equivalent design shall be required. Where a pathway  is located within an open space/conservation easement, the perimeter fence shall be  required to have at least two (2) openings at least as wide as the width of the pathway  easement.        OPEN SPACE EASEMENTS (OSE)/CONSERVATION EASEMENTS (CE)  Check Town records for existing CE or OSE on this property and adjacent and nearby parcels.  Recently annexed area so there are not many records  Identify areas where OSE may be appropriate (slope ≥30%, significant trees, wildlife corridor,  creeks, drainage swales) areas above and below house  Open Space Policy 1.1 Provide, during the development process, for the maximum  feasible preservation of open space in and adjoining the Town, with spaces ranging in  size from regional scale to small‐scale open space on individual lots.  Open Space Policy 1.4: Preserve the natural beauty and minimize disturbance of the  natural terrain and vegetation.  Open Space Policy 1.7: To the extent possible, link open spaces together visually and  physically to form a system of open spaces.  Open Space Policy 1.8: Ensure that land uses and structures are compatible with the  general open space quality of the planning area.  Open Space Policy 2.6 New residential subdivisions shall provide open space for  recreation in order to meet their appropriate share of local recreation needs.  OSC Site Review 23281 Mora Heights Way.docx           6/11/18 8    PATHWAY EASEMENTS (PE)  Check Town records for existing or newly proposed PE on this property or adjacent and  nearby parcels.     Attachments:  ‐ Photos from site  ‐ Easement history and research  ‐ Photo of site plan with marked OSE  FOLLOWUP   Send final copy to OSC Chair & Secretary  Upload to TraKit ?  Add address to list of easements to track on OSC agenda  