HomeMy WebLinkAbout07/08/1968PLANNING COMMISSION
TOWN OF LAS ALTOS HILLS
L.. MINUTES OF A REGULAR MEETING
July 8, 1968
Chairman W. F. Minckley called the meeting to order at 7:47 P. M. at the
Town Hall, 26379 Fremont Road, Los Altos Hills, California. The following
members answered Roll Call: Commissioners Dawson, Hibner, Lachenbruch,
Sherlock, and Chairman Minckley. Absent: Commissionexs Magleby, Perkins.
COUNCIL REPRESENTATIVE: Councilman Leslie A. Helgesson
APPROVAL OF MINUTES: June 10, 1968.
MOTION, SECONDED AND CARRIED: Commissioner Sherlock moved, seconded by
Lachenbruch and carried unanimously, that the Minutes of June 10, 1968
be approved as submitted.
ANNOUNCEMENTS:
City Clerk noted the following:
1. City Manager expressed regret fox his absence due to illness.
Commission extended their best wishes for a quick recovery.
2. Planning Commission held a Study Session June 24, 1968, which included the
following considerations:
a) Following discussion of an overall development plan for the MAPS Area,
the Commission concurred that it would be desirable to hold a joint
meeting with the City Council following the Completion of City Attorney's
report regarding private roads. Commission also concurred that Chairman
Minckley, Commissioners Hibner and Lachenbruch, the City Manager and
the City Planner should meet to define the scope of the private road
problem and determine the estimated cost of a special study.
b) Following review of a Map Check List for Building Site Approval,
Commission Concurred the matter should be agended July 8th.
c) Following review of the proposed amendments to the General Plan, Zoning
Ordinance and Subdivision Ordinance concerning slope density implementa-
tion, Commission concurred the matter should be agended for Public
Hearing July 8th.
3: A revised Tentative Map of a Portion of Lot 46 of the Hale Ranch Sub-
division (Suburban Associates) was submitted to the Engineers and
returned to the applicant since the subdivision alters a natural
drainage channel and more information was previously requested by the
Commission.
COUNCIL REFERRALS:
AW 1. City Clerk noted that City Council had returned the application of
Floyd W. Goates (UP -306-68) for secondary dwelling at 13730 Burke Road,
to be reviewed upon resubmission of the application to include the
variance request.
OLD BUSINESS:
1. Consideration of Amendments to Zoning Ordinance No 78 providing for
Can Open Space Reserve Zone.
Staff report was presented, noting the following significant amendmentst
1) The creation of two zoning districts: (a) R -A Residential -Agricultural;
and (b) OSR Open Space Reserve.
2) Permitted primary uses OSR districts: (a) Agricultural; (b) Forest
Preserves, and (c) Open Spaces.
Staff noted all property within the Town would be within the R -A District,
except for the Byrne Property and O'Keefe Property. Commission discussion
ensued concerning spot zoning and the necessity for a General Plan review.
Commission concurred that a Public Hearing should be agended on this matter
for July 22, 1968.
2. Consideration of Map Check List re: Building Site Approval.
Staff presented Map Check List previously reviewed by the Commission at
Study Session June 24th, noting the additional information required for
building site approvals would be similar to information required for sub-
division maps. Commission deferred this item to allow distribution of
Map Check List to the audience for their review,
3. PUBLIC HEARING RE: Proposed Amendments to the General Plan, Zoning
n -A.---- —A Rn hAivicinn Ordinance concerning Slope Densly
Staff Report was presented, noting the proposed amendments were the results
of the Planning Commission's recommendations for implementation of slope
density requirements.
City Planner recommended the addition of the following amendments to the
Subdivision Ordinance:
1) Section 1:30. Interpretation�Their interpretation and application, the
provisions herein shall be held to be the minimum requirements for the
protection of the public health, safety and welfare, with tho maximum
retention of existing natural features.
2) Delete Sections 6:40 (A) 2. and 3.
3) Re -number Sections 6:40 (B), (C) and (D) to 6:40 (C), (D) and (B),
respectively.
4) Insert a new Section 6:40 (B) as follows: (B) Each lot shall be of
such dimensions and shape that on a map thereof: 1* a circle 160'
in diameter can be inscribed within the lot boundaries in a location
affording an adequate building site; 2.a space one net acre in area
can be defined within which no straight line exceeding 350' in length
can be drawn.
AW Commission unanimously concurred that the above amendments would be
desirable for purposes of clarity.
Chairman Minckley opened the Public Hearing at 8:12 P. M.
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OLD BUSINESS: ITEM NO. 3 cont'd.:
Commission discussion ensued concerning lot design and the definition of
"unusual conditions" which iaight roquirc addition>l considerations, with
Floor participation by Assrs. G. T.ylor, 1229 Forest Avenue, Palo Alto,
and E. A. Breyman. 13456 Wildcrest Drive. Commission noted that unusual
conditions pertinent to lot design might include the following: 1) major
portion of the lot subject to inundation; 2) excessive drainage problems;
3) unstable soil; and 4) excessive easements which encumber lot use.
Commission also noted that a Preliminary Hearing procedure is available
to all applicants.
Commission noted that it would be desirable to include a partial list of
additional considerations in a supplemental slope density check list to
be prepared at a later date.
Chairman Minckley declared the Public Hearing closed at 8:32 P. M.
MOTION. SECONDED AND CARRIED: RESOLVED, that the proposed amendments to
the General Plan, Zoning Ordinance and Subdivision Ordinance concerning
slope density implementation be transmitted to the Council for their
review and adoption with the complete endorsement of the Planning Commission.
So Moved by Commissioner Hibner, seconded by Dawson and carried unanimously
by Roll Call Votes Ayess Commissioners Dawson, Hibner, Lachenbruch,
Sherlock and Chairman Minckley. Noes: None. Absents Commissioners
Magleby and Perkins.
OLD BUSINESS: ITBM NO. 2_CMAP_CH4CK LIST_ RS BUILDING SITE AI'YxwxL7 c-vnz'o. s
Commission discussion ensued concerning information that would be required
to be shown on the face of the maps with Floor participation by Glen
Taylor.
MDTION, SECONDED AND CARRIED: Commissioner Lachenbruch moved, seconded
by Sherlock and carried unanimously, that the Map Check List for Building
Site Approval be approved and transmitted to the Council for their approval.
VARIANCES:
1. Baker, R. C. (V-308-68) - Request for 30' reduction in street setback
to 10' for pool at 12195 Winton Way.
Staff report was presented, noting the .91 acre parcel is located on an
area consisting of both cut and fill, that the proposed site of the pool is
on the same level as the road (Camino Hermoso), and that a better location
might exist at the northerly end of the property.
Commissioner Hibner presented Map Committee Report, noting the steepness of
the lot and the difficulty with leaching lines if the pool site were
moved northerly, and recommending approval.
Commission discussion ensued concerning the location of the leaching lines
and the proximity of the proposed fill to the property line, with Floor
participation by Mr. Baker.
fa, MOTION, SECONDED AND CARRIED: Commissioner Dawson moved, seconded by
Lachenbruch and carried unanimously, that the Commission continue the
Hearing on the variance application to June 22, 1968 and request the
applicant to submit additional information to aid the Commission in
determining if the requested setback reduction can be decreased.
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VARIANCES: Cont'd.:
2. Thomas, D. V. (V-309-68) - Request fox 20' reduction in side setback
to 10' for pool at 26444 Ascension Drive.
Staff report was presented, noting the Commission had approved a 10'
variance at its last regular meeting and since that time, a survey has
shown that a 20' variance would be required.
Commissioner Hibner presented Map Committee Report noting the proposed pool
site is the only level spot on the lot, that the remainder of the lot is
very steep, emphasizing the unusual topographical characteristics of the
site and recommending approval.
MOTION, SECONDED AND CARRIED, Commissioner Lachenbruch moved, seconded by
Hibner and carried unanimously that, pursuant to Section 65-906 of the
State Planning Act, the Commission recommend approval of the variance
application of D. V. Thomas (V-309-68) for 20' reduction in side setback
to 10' for pool at 26444 Ascension Drive.
3. Altman, B. N. (V-310-68) - Request for 15' reduction in side setback
to 15' for bedroom addition at 12,796 Normandy Lane.
Staff report was presented noting the .811 acre parcel is located on a
level lot with the present residence well placed. Staff read letters from
thirteen neighborhing property owners supporting variance application and
a letter from Allen C. Carmichael, 12791 Normandy Lane, opposing the
variance. Staff recommended denial unless a hardship could be proven.
Commissioner Hibner presented Map Committee report noting that proposed
addition would come within 45' of the adjoining home and suggesting a
possible addition above garage or in bedroom area. Mr. Altman noted he
had contacted all neighbors prior to buying the home and now would be
forced to move if he could not provide additional family area. Commission
reviewed requirements for granting a variance and noted the existence of
several lots in the Torn which will not support additional construction.
MOTION, SECONDED AND CARRIED: Commissioner Dawson moved, seconded by
Lachenbruch and carried unanimously, that the request of E. N. Altman
(V-310-68) for 15' reduction in side setback to 15' for bedroom addition
at 12796 Normandy Lane, be denied in the absence of demonstrated hardship.
CONDITIONAL EXCEPTIONS:
1. Szabo, J. J. (340-68) 2 lots, Alta Lane North, 2.61 acres - Request
for Conditional Exception re: Slope Density Ordinance.
Staff report was presented noting the 2.61 acre parcel has an average slope
of 31.2% requiring average lot size of 1.538 acres or total parcel size
of 3.076 acres. Staff recommended the Conditional exception be denied,
unless a hardship as defined by the State Map Act could be demonstrated.
Staff read letter from Richard B. Oliver, 13030 Alta Lane South, noting
the existence of a private road and questioning future maintenance of
same.
4W Commission discussion ensued concerning hardship involved, with Floor
participation by Tom Floyd, surveyor representing Mr. Szabo. Mr. Floyd noted
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CONDITIONAL EXCEPTION: S7AE0 cont'd.:
that Lot #2 has already been graded, which has increased the contour lengths
approximately 500' and that the original parcel would have complied with
slope density requirements. Mr. Floyd also noted a heavily wooded ravine
with 50% slope runs along the westerly property line and if approximately
3/10th of an acre were sold, the property would then comply with the slope
density ordinance.
Commission noted the following:
1) Although no calculations on slope prior to grading have been submitted,
it appears the parcel still would not qualify under slope density
requirements even if 570' were subtracted from contour lengths; 2) no
advantage could be achieved by the applicant in shaving off a portion
of the lot unless the shaved portions slope exceeded 70%.
Mr. Szabo stated he will attempt to purchase additional adjoining acreage
and noted he would like to have the subdivision considered based on
original grading.
MOTION, SECONDED AND CARRIED: Commissioner Hibner moved, seconded by
Dawson and carried unanimously, that the request for Conditional Exception
by J. J. Szabo (340-68) be returned, without prejudice, for resubmission
by the applicant after additional acreage has been obtained.
4 RECESS: 10:25 - 10136 P. M.
DIVISIONS OF LAND: Tentative Maps:
1. Deer Park Acres (342-68) - With the consent of the applicant, this item
was defexxed until later in the Agenda at the request of the Staff.
2. Monte Lucero, Unit #3 (345-68) 5 lots. Target Engr. Co.
Staff report was presented noting this subdivision was formerly Champagne
Heights Unit #3. Staff recommended approval, subject to an in lieu payment
for Natoma Road frontage.
Commissioner Hibner presented Map Committee report noting that the 6.9 acre
parcel was well designed, conformed to slope density requirements and
recommended approval.
Mrs. A. Ginzton, Pathways Committee, recommended in lieu path payment for
Natoma Road frontage. .Commission concurred.
A Check List was prepared with the following additional conditions:
1) Parks and Open Space in lieu payment per Ordinance No. 117.
MOTION, SECONDED AND CARRIED: Commissioner Dawson moved, seconded by Hibner,
and carried unanimously, that the Commission recommend approval of the
Tentative Map of Monte Lucern Unit 03 (345-68), subject to the conditions
AW of the Check List.
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SUBDIVISIONS OF LAND: Tentative Maps cont'd.:
3. Miller, Donald K. (BSA -44-68) 1 lot, Natoma Road. BUILDING SITS APPROVAL.
06 Staff report was presented noting the 2.562 acre parcel has an average
slope of 20.8% and recommending approval, subject to the requirement of a
preliminary title report, a 30' dedication from the centerline of Natoma
Road and an in lieu payment of Notoma Road.
Commissioner Hibner presented Map Committee report noting property had a
periphery of 572' and that the Engineer estimated road improvements would
exceed $5,000. Commissioner Hibner recommended $2,000 as a reasonable in
lieu payment for road improvements. Commission discussion ensued concern-
ing the size and slope of the lot with door participation by Mr. Miller.
A Check List was prepared with the following additional conditions:
1) 5' path easement along easterly and ten foot easement for pathways along
southerly boundaries; 2) Parks and Open Space in lieu payment per Ordinance
No. 117; 3) in lieu payment of $2,000 for improvement of Natoma Road,
to be used in the vicinity of Natoma Road.
MOTION, SECONDED AND CARRIED: Commissioner Hibner moved, seconded by
Lachenbruch and carried unanimously, that the request of Donald K. Miller
(BSA -44-68) for building site approval be recommended for approval, subject
to the conditions of the Check List.
1. Deer Park Acres CONTINUED: (342-68) 45 lots. Engrs. Clegg & Foulk.
4 Staff report was presented noting the applicant had met with the Staff
regarding changes previously proposed by the Planning Commission and re-
submitted Tentative Map dated 7/3/68 containing 45 lots. City Planner
reviewed staff letter to the applicant's engineer, and noted the following
remaining deficiencies:
1) Drive accesses exceed 15% grade;
2) Inadequate entrance access to the subdivision off of Page Mill Road;
3) Inadequate path requirements;
4) Inadequate access frontage for Lot N6N
5) Inadequate noise and safety buffer along a portion of the southerly
boundaries of Lots #24 and 25; and
6) Inadequate landscaping regarding proposed tank site.
Mr. Richard Gulich, corporate representative, noted the applicant is
attempting to comply with the spirit of the Planning Commission's requests,
but raised the following questions: the fairness of the applicant bearing
the entire cost of widening the off-site bridge near the entrance off of
Page Mill Road; questioning the proposed continuity of the path along Page
Mill Road; and noting the difficulty of planting on cut slopes.
Commission discussion ensued with Floor participation by: Jerry Leva,
14146 Amerherst Court; Mrs, William Bredo, 13820 Page Mill Road; Charles
R. Garbett, 13906 Page Mill Road; John B. Chown, 13822 Page Mill Road.
It
The applicant requested continuance to July 22, 1968 to allow map
�-i revisions. Commission concurred.
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USB PERMITS:
1. Nueva Day School (UP -304-68) - Request for Private School at Page
4 Mill Road, near Arastradero Road.
Since the applicant was not present, this matter was deferred to the
July 22nd meeting, to coincide with the discussion of Deer Park Acres.
There being no further business, Chairman Minckley adjourned the meeting
at 12:25 A. M. to:
NEXT REGULAR ADJOURNED MEETING: Monday, July 22, 1968, at 7:45 P. M. at
the Town Hall.
NEXT REGULAR MEETING: Monday, August 12, 1968 at 7:45 P. M. at
the Town Hall, 26379 Fremont Road,
Los Altos Hills.
Respectfully submitted,
L. DAWSON, Secretary
Planning Commission
DRL/mam Town of Los Altos Hills
7/8/68
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