Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAboutMay 16OSC Final_Minutes_19-0516.docx 1/7/19 1 Los Altos Hills Open Space Committee Los Altos Hills Parks and Recreation Building FINAL Minutes of Special Meeting May 16, 2019 Members and Associates Present: George Clifford, Richard Contreras, Nancy Couperus, Kit Gordon, Jean Struthers, Wendie Ward, Sue Welch (Members); Kjell Karlsson, Alice Sakamoto (Associates) Members and Associates Absent: Peter Brown, (Member); Karen Lemes, Sharen Schoendorf (Associates) Council Liaison Present: George Tyson Member of Public Present: David Milgram (Co-Chair LAH Public Art Committee) 1. Call to Order and Approval of Minutes A. Roll Call. RC called the meeting to order at 11:06 am. B. Acceptance of Meeting Minutes. Minutes of the April 11, 2019 OSC meeting were approved with amendments. KG moved, WW seconded, and the vote was 7 in favor of approval (GC, RC, NC, KG, JS, WW, SW). C. Announcements. i. Article in LATC. NC distributed a recent article from the LATC describing an Animal Control rescue of six abandoned coyote pups from a property in LAH. YouTube video is available on-line. NC sent a note to reporter Megan Winslow thanking her for the article. ii. 11th Annual SOD BLITZ. SW distributed a flyer about this year’s SOD BLITZ, UC Berkeley’s annual event for testing and mapping Sudden Oak Death (Attachment A). The joint training session meeting for LAH, Portola Valley, Woodside, Atherton, and Redwood City will be held 10–11 am Saturday May 18, 2019 at the Portola Valley Town Center, 765 Portola Road in Portola Valley. iii. Support for Friends of the Library. JS suggested individuals send letters to the LA City Council asking Council to allocate space (e.g., a portable) for this important library volunteer group. iv. Potential Mitigation sites in LAH. LAH Planning Director, Nichol Bowersox requested KG to work with OSC to help identify potential mitigation sites on Town property. This program may be a good opportunity to improve our local creeks and/or land near creeks. The item will be put on the OSC agenda next month. D. Change in Agenda. To accommodate a speaker from the Public Arts Committee, KG requested item 3B (Art Installation proposal for Edith Park) be moved to before the Planning site reviews. OSC unanimously approved. 3. New Business A. Planning Site Reviews i. 27772 Lupine Road. (KG, RC; Lands of Klein; APN 182-09-022; SD18-0073). KG presented information and draft recommendations (Attachment B). Reason for OSC review is a new residence. This project apparently was approved at the Fast Track meeting this week before OSC could review it. OSC report to the planner will include a request to schedule Fast-Track hearings after the OSC has had the opportunity to review the plans. The parcel has 30% slopes with oak trees between the house and the corral and street. Discussion included protecting the existing oaks, showing all oaks on the site plan, and removing invasive pest plants from the site. The site has a guest house and hardscape within the standard setback. RC moved that OSC approve the draft recommendation and comments to Planning Department as written: 1. No Open Space Easement is recommended on this property 2. Protect the existing oaks. 3. Mark all oaks on the property. Some oaks are missing from the plan. 4. Reduce invasive weeds: milk thistle, oxalis, Italian thistle. 5. Question [to planner]: Will hardscape be removed from the south border setback? SW seconded and the vote was 6 in favor (GC, RC, KG, JS, WW, SW) with NC abstaining for proximity. ii. 14146 Amherst Court. (GC, WW). WW presented information and reported the lot has no conservation issues and does not meet criteria for an open space easement or riparian setback. Matadero Creek is on the opposite side of Page Mill Road from the property. A full Site Review OSC Final_Minutes_19-0516.docx 1/7/19 2 Report was not prepared. RC moved the committee accept the proposed recommendation that no Open Space Easement is required on this lot. JS seconded and the vote was unanimously in favor (GC, RC, NC, KG, JS, WW, SW). iii. 28008 Laura Court Update. NC reported that EDPC had reviewed this property and recommended the plans be reviewed by OS. However, planning staff did not send the project to OSC for review and reported that OSC had no comment. The parcel appears to have areas with mature oaks and slopes >30%, and is adjacent to a tributary of Hale Creek. KG has discussed the project with the planner and apparently an OSE on the western side was required as a condition of approval. OSC discussed options to assure the committee has the opportunity to review all site plans on properties with conservation issues. iv. 11545 Crestridge Drive. (Lands of Srinivasan; APN 331-01-027; SD19-0027). KG presented information and draft recommendations (Attachment C). Reason for OSC review is a new residence. This 1.28-acre lot is on the north side of Crestridge, a cul-de-sac off of Ravensbury Avenue in the southeast part of LAH. The lot is at the end of the cul-de-sac and extends to the LAH-LA town border. The new house will sit in approximately the same footprint as the existing house on the flat area at the top of the lot. Area in the rear meets criteria for an open space easement, with oaks and slopes at least 30%. This slope has more oaks than are shown on the developers’ site plans (i.e., 6, not 3). OSC reviewers noted evidence of active wildlife movement. LUF calculations (and MDA and MFA) appear to be over-estimated. Following OSC discussion about the location of the upper boundary of the OSE, GC moved that the OSC accept the Site Review Report with the comments and recommendations amended to include: 1. LUF calculation does not appear to be correct and therefore MDA and MFA may not be correct. A 1.28 Acre parcel with 20.7% slope calculates to a LUF of ~0.99. 2. OSC recommends the Town require dedication of an Open Space Easement on the sloped hillside north of the house. The easement should extend from the 350-foot elevation line at the western border, dropping to elevation 345 and continuing to the eastern border (as shown on the diagram in the OSC Site Review Report). 3. More oaks were observed behind the house than are noted on the plan. Please show all oaks on the plan. OSC recommends planting oaks on the slope to stabilize soil, improve groundwater retention, and improve habitat. RC seconded and the vote was unanimously in favor (GC, RC, NC, KG, JS, WW, SW). iv. 25351 West Fremont Road. (Lands of Whitely; APN 175-52-006; SD19-0028). KG presented information and draft recommendations (Site Review Report Attachment D). Reason for OSC review is an addition and remodel. This 1.14-acre lot is on the north side of Fremont just south of the intersection with Edith. Adobe Creek runs along the northeast border and a tennis court has been built within 10-feet of the top of bank. Although the LAH riparian setback ordinance requires no structures within 25 feet of top of bank, the Town will not require the structure to be removed. Following further OSC review and discussion, KG moved that the OSC accept the Site Review Report with the comments and recommendations amended to include: 1. OSC recommends the Town require dedication of an Open Space Easement on this property 25 feet from top of bank. The easement will overlap existing tennis court and fence. No modifications to the existing court or existing fencing are requested. 2. OSC recommends a 25-foot riparian setback from top of bank for all future structures. 3. OSC recommends no fencing or only wildlife-friendly fencing on northern border a minimum of 10 feet from property line to allow wildlife access to the creek. 4. Drainage swale outlet should not release directly to creek. Review drainage guidelines. See photo in Site Review Report. 5. Remove invasive bamboo from riparian corridor. 6. Remove invasive poison hemlock (Conium maculatum) from riparian corridor. 7. Control invasive Bermuda buttercup (Oxalis pes-caprae) and Italian thistle (Carduus pycnocephalus). OSC Final_Minutes_19-0516.docx 1/7/19 3 8. Tennis balls should be removed from the creek as needed, but a minimum of each October, before the rains begin. The screen door should be removed from the creek. RC seconded and the vote was unanimously in favor (GC, RC, NC, KG, JS, WW, SW). B. Fence Permit reviews. None received by OSC. RC will check with staff about sending these permits to OSC for review. 3. New Business A. OSC annual presentation to Council. KG distributed a draft presentation (Attachment E) for OSC review and comment. The presentation is scheduled for the June Council meeting. B. Art Installation proposed for Edith Park. David Milgram, Co-Chair of the LAH Public Art Committee, described an art installation proposed for Edith Park and requested a statement of support from OSC. The work consists of 5 ceramic birds (two nuthatches and 3 woodpeckers, approximately 2-3X life size) that will be installed in trees in the park. Installation will not harm the trees and the work will likely last 8-10 years. Following OSC discussion, KG moved the committee accept the statement: OSC supports the installation of ceramic birds in Edith Park. OSC recommends the species be native to Los Altos Hills. NC seconded and the vote was 5 in favor (RC, NC, KG, WW, SW) and 2 opposed (GC, JS). 4. Continuing Business A. SOD BLITZ and oak tree policies. SOD Blitz will be this Saturday May18 (10–11 am) at the Portola Valley Town Center, 765 Portola Road. GC, KG, and SW will participate. B. Stinkwort management and other invasive plants. OSC posted information flyers on Nextdoor last month to encourage residents to remove oxalis and Italian thistle. C. Recruitment of new OSC members. OSC currently has only 8 members (maximum = 10) and JS, GC, and NC term out in May, 2019. Associates and members are encouraged to identify interested new participants. It was also suggested to make Council aware (e.g., by showing examples of site review reports) of the work OSC does to assist the Town planning staff, who do not always have time to research conservation-related issues. D. EDPC statement on wildlife corridors. EDPC is continuing to work on a proposal to change the LAH fence ordinance to provide the Town a firm legal basis for preventing obstruction of active wildlife movement routes. Residents in the La Paloma area requested this action from EDPC in response to a recent Council decision to allow fencing to block an active wildlife corridor in their neighborhood. OSC supports this action and reviewed the draft proposal at the April meeting and suggested edits. E. Tree Ordinance. Nothing to report. F. Updates for City Council and Planning Commission meetings, Site Development meetings, Committee meetings. See above. G. Review Future Topics for 2019 OSC Planning. Deferred. H. Sign-up for FastTrack/Site Development meetings. Meetings are held most Tuesdays from 10 – 11 am. 5. Open Discussion and Communications from the Floor. A. SOD BLITZ and oak tree policies. SOD Blitz will be this Saturday May18 (10–11 am) at the Portola 6. Adjournment. Meeting was adjourned at 12:55 pm. Next Regular Meeting: Thursday, June 13, 2019 9:00 AM at LAH Parks and Recreation Building Attachment A: SOD BLITZ Flyer Attachment B: OSC Site Review Report for 27772 Lupine Road Attachment C: OSC Site Review Report for 11545 Crestridge Drive Attachment D: OSC Site Review Report for 25351 West Fremont Road Attachment E: Draft of OSC Annual Presentation to Council Final minutes approved without amendments at the regular Open Space Committee meeting of June 13, 2019. 2019 Sudden Oak Death Blitzes • Monitor disease spread in a rainy year • Be on the lookout for new dangerous strains • Test oaks for SOD thanks to OakSTeP Californians do things differently. When the devastating forest disease known as Sudden Oak Death (aka SOD) became established across much of the coastal forests of Northern California, local residents together with environmental leaders and U.C Berkeley scientists decided to close ranks and fight back. They started what has become one of the oldest tree health Citizen Science program in the world: the SOD Blitzes. Over 500 citizens each year volunteer their time to survey their local neighborhoods for the presence of SOD, and results are made public in real time on www.sodmap.org and SODmap mobile, two of the largest databases on distribution of a forest disease ever created by man. Thanks to this knowledge, most Californians will be informed on how close SOD is to their oaks and determine whether it is time to protect them. This year, local volunteer-lead surveys will be organized throughout the State starting on March 30th (Marin County) and ending in Northern Humboldt County on June 15th. Go to www.sodblitz.org for a list of dates and venues. Participation in a SOD blitz is 100% free, but requires attendance of a 1-hour training meeting. SOD spreads with rainfall, so this wet year may be yet another critical one for California forests, but there are several other new reasons to attend the 2019 Blitzes. SOD Blitzes traditionally focus on collections of California bay laurel and tanoak leaves, since these are responsible for most, if not all, the spread of SOD. This year we will lunch the program OakSTep (Oak Sod Testing Program www.oakstep.org ) that will allow licensed arborists, preserve managers, and qualified government employees to team up with U.C. Berkeley to test oaks for SOD infection. Registration to OakSTep will be available at each SOD Blitz training, and within a couple of weeks you could have a precise diagnosis of possible SOD infection in oaks. In addition to OakSTeP, all samples collected by volunteers will be tested to ensure the new and aggressive EU1 strain of the pathogen found in Oregon has not arrived in California. Finally, if you are thinking of doing something or you have done something to control SOD in the past, we will have a questionnaire and some important information and tips for you at the trainings. So 2019 offers many reasons to come to the BLITZes… and remember SOD BLITZES provide an opportunity to stroll through the marvelous California landscape with the entire family. Peninsula SOD BLITZ: Portola Valley, Woodside, Atherton, Redwood City, Los Altos Hills Saturday May 18, 2019. 10 –11 am Portola Valley Town Center 765 Portola Road 5/17/19 To: Los Altos Hills Planning Department From: Open Space Committee Date: May 16, 2019 Property address: 27772 Lupine Drive Date of Site Visit: April 26, 2019 Lands of Klein APN 182-09-022 Town Planner Dylan Parker Project Number SD18-0073 Lot Slope LUF DA (sqft) FA (sqft) Earthworks 2.03 acre ? 1.9 26,576 10,634 1245 CY Reason for review New Residence PROPERTY SUMMARY There is an existing house, guest house, horse corral and barn on this property. The house will be demolish and replaced, a pool will be added. The guest house is partially in the set-back and was under renovation at the time of the site visit. The house is located on a knoll with ~30% oak slopes between the house and the corral & street. OSC FINAL RECOMMENDATION 1. No Open Space Easement is recommended on this property. 2. Protect the existing oaks. 3. Mark all oaks on the property. There are oaks missing from the plan. 4. Reduce invasive weeds: milk thistle, oxalis, Italian thistle 5. Question: Will hardscape be removed from south border setback? Date of OSC review: May 16, 2019 Voting of review: Unanimously in favor (NC, JS, SW, RC, WW, GC, KG) Absent (PB) 5/17/19 Google View of property 5/17/19 Street View of corral and barn 5/17/19 Back (south) of property near renovated guest house. Hardscape in setback. 5/17/19 Only the 6 inch oak on the left is shown on the plan. The larger (10”?) oak is not shown on the plan. 5/17/19 Slope between house and corral 5/17/19 Slope between house and corral, several small oaks. 5/17/19 Slope between house and road. 5/17/19 Slope between house and road. 5/17/19 SUPPORTING INFORMATION SLOPE AND SOIL Average slope of lot ~20% Areas with slope ≥30%? Yes Check slope/LUF worksheet on subdivisions na If applicable, Review Geologic Hazard Report, (For more information see Slope and Soil in Appendix) CREEKS Creeks or waterways or swale on parcel? No Name of creek/tributary of: Shown on USGS map? No SCVWD creek map? No LAH Hazard Map? EcoAtlas? No Condition of banks? Existing riparian or OSE or SCVWD easement along creek on this property or nearby parcels? Unk 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? For more information see Creeks in Appendix. TREES, NATIVE VEGETATION & INVASIVE PLANTS Heritage oaks? Yes, live oaks Significant trees? Groves of significant trees? Yes Trees proposed for removal (number and species)? Significant native vegetation? Yes, Significant invasive pest plant vegetation? Yes, oxalis, Italian thistle For more information see Trees, Native Vegetation & Invasive Plants in Appendix. WILDLIFE CORRIDORS & FENCING Check 2006 Live Oak Associates map (not official) Evidence of wildlife (e.g., deer trails, spoor)? Yes, wildlife trails noted Identify location and type of existing fencing: 7’ wood lattice fence at south border, 3’ rail fence along road, 5’ fence around corral, 6’ chain link fence around property. Check that fencing on plans agrees with fencing on the ground Note any fence that does not meet current fencing regulations (For more information see Wildlife Corridors and Fencing in Appendix) 5/17/19 OPEN SPACE EASEMENTS (OSE)/CONSERVATION EASEMENTS (CE) Check Town records for existing CE or OSE on this property and adjacent and nearby parcels. Unknown Identify on plans and attach copy (photo) of areas where OSE are recommended (slope ≥30%, significant trees, wildlife corridor, creeks, drainage swales) (For more information see Open Space/Conservation Easements, in Appendix) PATHWAY EASEMENTS (PE) Check Town records for existing or newly proposed PE on this property or adjacent and nearby parcels. None FOLLOW-UP Send final copy to OSC Chair & Secretary Upload to TraKit ? Add address to list of easements to track on OSC agenda 5/17/19 Appendix Slope and soil 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 Area within the OHWM are regulated as Waters of the United States and protected by the Clean Water Act. Any development, vegetation removal, or stream bank modifications 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. 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. 5/17/19 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 and Invasive Plants Note in main body of form - 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 5/17/19 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 and Fencing 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) ft. (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 5/17/19 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. (10) Any fence crossing or intersecting an officially designated wildlife corridor shall conform to the requirements specified above for an open space/conservation easement perimeter fence. Open Space/ Conservation Easements 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. 5/17/19 To: Los Altos Hills Planning Department From: Open Space Committee Date: May 16, 2019 Property address: 11545 Crestridge Drive Date of Site Visit: May 15, 2019 Lands of Venkatachary Srinivasan APN 331-01-027 Town Planner Dylan Parker Project Number SD19-0027 Lot Slope LUF DA (sqft) FA (sqft) Earthworks 1.28 acre 20.7 Listed: 1.12 Calculated: 0.99 9153 5931 5 CY Reason for review New residence PROPERTY SUMMARY There is an existing house on the top flat portion of this parcel. The new residence will occupy nearly the same footprint. The existing garage is in the side setback and will be removed. The land slopes downward at approximately 30% slope from the road and house site. There is a pathway at the lowest elevation along the western border. OSC FINAL RECOMMENDATION 1. The LUF calculation does not appear to be correct and therefore MDA & MFA may not be correct. A 1.28 acre parcel with 20.7% slope calculates to LUF ~0.99. 2. The Committee recommends the Town require dedication of an Open Space Easement on the sloped hillside, north of the house. The recommended easement begins at the 350 elevation line at the western border, dropping down to elevation 345 and continuing to the eastern border. See photo of marked plan 3. More oaks were observed behind the house than are noted on the plan. Please show all oaks on the plan. We recommend planting oaks on the slope to stabilize soil, improve groundwater retention and improve habitat. Date of OSC review: May 16, 2019 Voting of review: Unanimously in favor (NC, JS, SW, RC, WW, GC, KG) Absent (PB) 5/17/19 Google View of property 5/17/19 Recommended easement area. 5/17/19 Street view of house. Note oaks visible behind house. 5/17/19 Wildlife trail over low point in fence on eastern border near street. 5/17/19 Grassy slope with various fruit and nut trees. 5/17/19 Pathway at lowest elevation along western border. 5/17/19 Six oaks in cluster behind the house but only three are shown on the plan. Recommend removing ivy from oaks. 5/17/19 SUPPORTING INFORMATION SLOPE AND SOIL Average slope of lot ~20% Areas with slope ≥30%? Yes Check slope/LUF worksheet on subdivisions Error in LUF calculation If applicable, Review Geologic Hazard Report, (For more information see Slope and Soil in Appendix) CREEKS Creeks or waterways or swale on parcel? No Name of creek/tributary of: Shown on USGS map? N/A SCVWD creek map? LAH Hazard Map? EcoAtlas? Condition of banks? Existing riparian or OSE or SCVWD easement along creek on this property or nearby parcels? Unknown 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? For more information see Creeks in Appendix. TREES, NATIVE VEGETATION & INVASIVE PLANTS Heritage oaks? Yes, live oaks Significant trees? Groves of significant trees? Yes Trees proposed for removal (number and species)? Significant native vegetation? Yes Significant invasive pest plant vegetation? For more information see Trees, Native Vegetation & Invasive Plants in Appendix. WILDLIFE CORRIDORS & FENCING Check 2006 Live Oak Associates map (not official) Evidence of wildlife (e.g., deer trails, spoor)? Yes, wildlife trails noted along eastern border 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 (For more information see Wildlife Corridors and Fencing in Appendix) 5/17/19 OPEN SPACE EASEMENTS (OSE)/CONSERVATION EASEMENTS (CE) Check Town records for existing CE or OSE on this property and adjacent and nearby parcels. Unknown Identify on plans and attach copy (photo) of areas where OSE are recommended (slope ≥30%, significant trees, wildlife corridor, creeks, drainage swales) (For more information see Open Space/Conservation Easements, in Appendix) PATHWAY EASEMENTS (PE) Check Town records for existing or newly proposed PE on this property or adjacent and nearby parcels. None FOLLOW-UP Send final copy to OSC Chair & Secretary Upload to TraKit ? Add address to list of easements to track on OSC agenda 5/17/19 Appendix Slope and soil 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 Area within the OHWM are regulated as Waters of the United States and protected by the Clean Water Act. Any development, vegetation removal, or stream bank modifications 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. 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. 5/17/19 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 and Invasive Plants Note in main body of form - 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 5/17/19 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 and Fencing 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) ft. (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 5/17/19 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. (10) Any fence crossing or intersecting an officially designated wildlife corridor shall conform to the requirements specified above for an open space/conservation easement perimeter fence. Open Space/ Conservation Easements 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. 5/17/19 To: Los Altos Hills Planning Department From: Open Space Committee Date: May 16, 2019 Property address: 25351 Fremont Drive Date of Site Visit: May 15, 2019 Lands of Whiteley APN 175-52-006 Town Planner Jeremy Loh Project Number SD19-0028 Lot Slope LUF DA (sqft) FA (sqft) Earthworks 1.146 acre ? 1.026 16,353 3822 5 CY Reason for review Addition and remodel PROPERTY SUMMARY There is an existing house, green houses, pool and tennis court on this creek side property. The house will be remodeled with minor additions. The green houses will be removed. The existing tennis court is approximately 10 feet from top of bank of Adobe Creek. A small swale exists on northeast corner of property. OSC FINAL RECOMMENDATION 1. The Committee recommends that the Town require dedication of an Open Space Easement on this property 25 feet from top of bank. The easement will overlap existing tennis court and fence. No modifications to the existing court or existing fencing are requested. 2. The Committee recommends a 25 foot riparian setback from top of bank for all future structures. 3. The Committee recommends no fencing or only wildlife friendly fencing on northern border a minimum of 10 feet along property line to allow wildlife movement to/from the creek. 4. Drainage swale outlet should not release directly to creek. Review drainage guidelines. See photo. 5. Remove invasive bamboo from riparian corridor. 6. Remove invasive poison hemlock (Conium maculatum) from riparian corridor. 7. Control invasive Bermuda buttercup (Oxalis pes-caprae) and Italian thistle (Carduus pycnocephalus). 8. Tennis balls should be removed from the creek as needed but a minium of each October, before the rains begin. The screen door should be removed from the creek. Date of OSC review: May 16, 2019 Voting of review: Unanimously in favor (NC, JS, SW, RC, WW, GC, KG) Absent (PB) 5/17/19 Google View of property 5/17/19 Northwest border of property. Request no fencing or only wildlife friendly fencing to allow passage of animals to/from the creek. 5/17/19 Back fence of tennis court approximately 10 feet from top of bank of Adobe Creek. Oleanders (poisonous) form a hedge along the creek. Steps should be taken to prevent tennis balls from entering the creek. 5/17/19 Remove screen door from creek. 5/17/19 Creek bank hardened with rock will increase stream velocity and increase downstream erosion. 5/17/19 Bamboo thicket should be removed, especially within riparian corridor. 5/17/19 Drainage swale on northeast corner dumps directly into creek. Does this meet current drainage code? 5/17/19 SUPPORTING INFORMATION SLOPE AND SOIL Average slope of lot ~20% Areas with slope ≥30%? No Check slope/LUF worksheet on subdivisions na If applicable, Review Geologic Hazard Report, (For more information see Slope and Soil in Appendix) CREEKS Creeks or waterways or swale on parcel? Yes Name of creek/tributary of: Adobe Creek Shown on USGS map? Yes SCVWD creek map? Yes LAH Hazard Map? Yes EcoAtlas? Yes Condition of banks? Eroded, some areas are covered with sandcrete, rock Existing riparian or OSE or SCVWD easement along creek on this property or nearby parcels? Unknown Does SCVWD want to expand their easement? Proposed setbacks for structures? Existing tennis court and fence Evidence of bed, banks, or Original High Water Mark (OHWM)? Yes Identify any structures including fences within 25 feet of top of bank? Tennis court & fence within 10 feet of TOB Within OHWM? For more information see Creeks in Appendix. TREES, NATIVE VEGETATION & INVASIVE PLANTS Heritage oaks? Yes, live oaks Significant trees? Groves of significant trees? Yes Trees proposed for removal (number and species)? Significant native vegetation? Yes, Significant invasive pest plant vegetation?Yes: oxalis, Italian thistle, poison hemlock, bamboo For more information see Trees, Native Vegetation & Invasive Plants in Appendix. WILDLIFE CORRIDORS & FENCING Check 2006 Live Oak Associates map (not official) Evidence of wildlife (e.g., deer trails, spoor)? Yes, wildlife trails noted Identify location and type of existing fencing: Chain link around tennis court and extends to east corner. Check that fencing on plans agrees with fencing on the ground 5/17/19 Note any fence that does not meet current fencing regulations Tennis court fence is within riparian setback. (For more information see Wildlife Corridors and Fencing in Appendix) OPEN SPACE EASEMENTS (OSE)/CONSERVATION EASEMENTS (CE) Check Town records for existing CE or OSE on this property and adjacent and nearby parcels. Unknown Identify on plans and attach copy (photo) of areas where OSE are recommended (slope ≥30%, significant trees, wildlife corridor, creeks, drainage swales) (For more information see Open Space/Conservation Easements, in Appendix) PATHWAY EASEMENTS (PE) Check Town records for existing or newly proposed PE on this property or adjacent and nearby parcels. None FOLLOW-UP Send final copy to OSC Chair & Secretary Upload to TraKit ? Add address to list of easements to track on OSC agenda 5/17/19 Appendix Slope and soil 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 Area within the OHWM are regulated as Waters of the United States and protected by the Clean Water Act. Any development, vegetation removal, or stream bank modifications 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. 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. 5/17/19 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 and Invasive Plants Note in main body of form - 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 5/17/19 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 and Fencing 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) ft. (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 5/17/19 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. (10) Any fence crossing or intersecting an officially designated wildlife corridor shall conform to the requirements specified above for an open space/conservation easement perimeter fence. Open Space/ Conservation Easements 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.