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HomeMy WebLinkAbout07/26/1978 (2)PLANNING COMMISSION `, TOWN OF LOS ALTOS HILLS 26379 Fremont Road Los Altos Hills, California MINUTES OF A REGULAR MEETING Wednesday, July 26, 1978 Reel 71, Side 1, Tr. 1, 503 to End; Side II, Tr. 1, 001 to 1113 Chairman Stewart called the meeting of the Planning Commission to order in the Council Chambers of Town Hall at 8:15 P.M.. ROLL CALL AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Present: Commissioners Stewart, Carico, Reeves, VanTamelen and Kuranoff Absent: Commissioners Lachenbruch and Dochnahl Also Present: City Manager Robert Crowe, Assistant City Engineer John Markl, Secretary Ethel Hopkins Press: Sharon Noguchi, Palo Alto Times SEATING OF COMMISSIONER REEVES: City Manager/City Clerk Robert Crowe administered the oath of office to newly appointed Planning Commissioner Maria Reeves. CONSENT CALENDAR: MOTION SECONDED AND CARRIED: It was moved by Commissioner Carico and seconded by Commissioner VanTamelen that the Minutes of July 12 be approved as submitted. All Commissioners present approved of the motion with the exception of Commissioners Reeves and Kuranoff who abstained from the vote because they were not present on July 12. PUBLIC HEARINGS: 1. "S0 ' ANDSOF BERRY HILL File #TM 2086-78, Page Mill and Arastradero Roads, xter gren, ner g ne, equest Tor Recommendations of Approval for Negative Declaration and Tentative Map (Continued from Meeting of July 12) Mr. Mark] discussed the subject request as detailed in his staff report dated July 5. Specific attention was given to noise mitigation measures as provided for in suggestion Conditions 8, 9, and 10, and to provisions on theprivatecul-de-sac street Berry Hill Lane. Commission discussion followed with Commissioner Carico asking why improvements for Berry Hill Lane were provided for one side only, and Chairman Stewart asking why the ownership of Berry Hill Lane was being retained by the developer. Mr. Markl noted that all other requirements for road standards were being met by the developer except the provision of rolled curbs and gutters all along Berry Hill Lane. There- `, after, the hearing was opened to the public discussion. Alan Lambert, 141 First StreetLos Altos Developer, stated that rolled curb and gutter along one side was for Ithe purposeof catch ng and controlling water flow, PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES - July 26, 1978 Page two 4V PUBLIC HEARINGS: (continued) LANDS OF BERRY HILL, File #TM 2086-78: (continued) and that in the event the adjoining horse operation fails and that area is sub- divided, he would be saved the expense of removing and reinstalling another curb and gutter. He added that the road was being retained in private ownership because of the possibility of further subdivision of the adjoining property. He stated he had no objection to providing for noise mitigation. He discussed the existing pathway easement and path connections. He was against a paved path on the private road. Fran Stevenson, Pathwa Comspoke for pathway requests made, and stated tate t was mmittee portant or t e su division to have in-house paths along Berry Hill Lane, and that some designation should be provided for the path area to pre- vent people planting down to the roadway area and covering up the pathway. She also wanted to assure that there would be a provision for a path along the private road in the event that the road becomes a public road. Mr. Markl discussed the number of paths that existed in the area, and thereafter the public hearing was closed. MOTION SECONDED AND PASSED BY UNANIMOUS ROLL CALL VOTE: It was moved by Commission- er Carico and seconded by Commissioner VanTamelen that the Negative Declaration for Lands of Berry Hill, File #TM 2086-78 with mitigation measures as suggested. Chairman Stewart began a review of the conditions with the following deliberations and actions taking place: City Manager Crowe noted that when the culvert and road improvements on Page Mill Road are completed, the Town will require that the developer tie in with these improvements (Condition 7). In discussion on whether a blade should be run along the path area, it was the feeling of the Commission that this would scar the land. Alan Lambert requested that an adjustment of fees be given him, since he was being charged twice because of an original parcel map submission. Jean Struthers Pathwa Committee, expressed concern on Condition ll, asking that on rt on a amended to nclude a pathway in the event that the road becomes public or owners buy the road from the developer. MOTION SECONDED AND PASSED BY UNANIMOUS ROLL CALL VOTE: It was moved by Commissioner Kuranoff and seconded by Commissioner Stewart that Condition 13 be deleted. A proposal to provide a five foot easement along Berry Hill Lane died for lack of a second.to the motion. MOTION SECONDED AND CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY: It was moved by Commissioner Stewart and seconded by Commissioner Carico that all calculations on Condition 14 (a), (b), (c) and (d) be based on four lots. Commissioner VanTamelen expressed the hope that the subdivision would have had four lots instead of five, but it was the consensus that the design of the lots was to to avoid the freeway noise. It was felt that the subdivision was relatively well designed. PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES - July 26, 1978 Page three PUBLIC HEARINGS: (continued) 1. LANDS OF BERRY HILL File #TM 2086-78: (continued) MOTION SECONDED AND PASSED BY UNANIMOUS ROLL CALL VOTE: It was moved by Commission- er Carico and seconded by Commissioner Reeves that the Lands of Berry Hill, File #TM 2086-78 be recommended for approval with conditions as amended. 2. LANDS OF DEVEZE File #BSA 6107-78, Moody Road, Paul Nowack and Associates, Eng neer, Request forR ec ommendation of Approval of Building Site Approval Request Mr. Markl noted that the subject request had been referred by the Variance and Permit Commission to the full Planning Commission for action on the request. He discussed the subject request, apprising the Commission of the additional memorandum from Robert Sheble and Richard Karnan dated July 20. Discussion among Commissioners centered on Commissioner Lachenbruch's request for some architectural control on the development; however, it was Mr. Markl's con- tention that this control was embodied in the list of conditions suggested for the development. Commissioner Carico expressed concern on drainage off the steep hill- side area on the lot, and Commissioner Reeves asked about the possibibility of re- locating the driveway to avoid its intersection with a blind corner. Commissioner Reeves also expressed concern on noise in the area and the possibility of putting c up a guard rail to keep cars from striking the residence. �r Staff discussed issues raised by Commissioners, and the hearing was opened to the public. Paul Nowa ck 220 State Street Los Altos En sneer stated that the staff report and memo rom r. 5 eb a covered a aspects of tTie proposal before the Commission. He submitted a colored map detailing contour areas outlined for steepness. Fred Strath 1087 Industrial Road San Carlos, Architect, discussed the proposed ouse es gn, not ng t at t e m mrma amount o retaining wall would be used, along with minimal grading. Thereafter the hearing was closed, and discussion centered on the matter slope den- sity compliance for the lot, the option that the Town purchase the lot for open space, and the relative isolation of the proposed dwelling. Commissioner Kuranoff commended the developer and architect for the sensitivity of the design to the difficult site. The following amendments were passed on the proposed conditions: PASSED BY CONSENSUS: That Condition 3(b) be amended by inserting "exactly" before the last three words of the sentence. The sentence should read 'exactly as shown by Exhibit 'A'.' PASSED BY CONSENSUS: That Condition 6 (a)(2) be amended to read: The planting of fire resistant screening vegetation... (The rest of the sentence remains as written. PASSED BY CONSENSUS: To amend the last sentence of Condition 6(b) to read: This design shall assure that the residential structure/driveway areas are protected from flooding using cut-off ditches above the structure and underground piping, and that leach lines... (The rest of the sentence remains as written.) PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES - July 26, 1978 L Page four PUBLIC HEARINGS: (continued) 2. LANDS OF DEVEZE, File #BSA 6107-78: (continued) MOTION SECONDED AND PASSED BY UNANIMOUS VOTE: It was moved by Commissioner Van Tamelen and seconded by Commissioner Stewart that the following be added as a con- dition: Due to the steepness of terrain and constraint of the building envelope, the size and design of the dwelling shall be limited to the design proposed at the time of building site approval. Robert Sheblel Develo er, asked for a reduction in the amount of storm drainage fee charged, since he was putting in extensive drain provisions. He was told, however, that the fee could not be waived. Commissioner Carico complimented the developer on the high quality of the design for the proposed building, but noted that the lot itself was one of the worst she had ever seen. MOTION SECONDED AND CARRIED: It was moved by Commissioner Kuranoff and seconded by Commissioner Reeves that the Lands of DeVeze, File #BSA 6107-78, be recommended for approval with conditions as amended. AYES: Commissioners Stewart, Reeves, VanTamelen, Kuranoff NOES: Commissioner Carico ABSTAIN: None At 10:10 P.M. a recess was called; the meeting resumed at 10:26 P.M. 3. LANDS OF TAYLOR, File #TM 2077-78, Miranda Road, Paul Nowack and Associates Engineer, u, or ecommen ations for Approval of Negative Declaration and Tentative Map Mr. Markt reviewed the history of the subject request and discussed the revised tentative map request as detailed in his staff report of July 19. He noted that in the past there had always been a crossing for vehicles into the adjoining Lands of Taylor in Los Altos but noted that this crossing had been washed out. He directed Commissioners to Condition 16 of the suggested conditions that provided only for non -vehicular crossing into Los Altos. Other items discussed were storm drainage easements, the complaints concerning entrance to the property, and the concern ex- pressed by Mr. Brink relative to tree removal for the storm drain construction. Commissioners asked about the location of the new culvert to be installed, tree removal, and the Exhibit B letter from Mr. Moffat. Thereafter the hearing was opened to the public. Jean Struthers Pathwa Committee, asked for an easement to be set aside for foot an icyc a tra is rom os MI tos Hills to Los Altos, the easement being from Miranda to the tip of the bulb of Koch Lane and into Los Altos, in the event that the adjoining Land belonging to Mr. Taylor is developed. Jack Moffat 453 C res ( rn s Drive> Los Altos as representative for his neighborhood group expresse concet at r. Tay ors land in Los Altos would be land -locked by the Los Altos Hills developement of Mr. Taylor's property. His concerns were expressed in a letter dated July 26 and submitted to the secretary. PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES - July 26, 1978 Page five ` PUBLIC HEARINGS: (continued) 3. LANDS OF TAYLOR, File #TM 2077-78: (continued) Mildred Gallo 25720 LaLanne Court, spoke for herself and neighbors, saying that it was on y eresay tat Bu lis and Purissima School might be closed. She spoke against having a path access into Los Altos for this reason or for any reason, saying that they liked the land as it is. As the safety --of the s -curve path fntoLos Altos via Fremont Road had been questioned, Commissioner Carico asked that the safety factor of this path be checked into with Mr. Crowe, as this was one of the most heavily travelled paths in the Town. Paul Nowack En ineer 220 State Street, Los Altos replied to Mr. Hearn's questions as state n is etter o November 21 relating to sanitary sewer installation rather than septic tanks, culvert installation, and setbacks, and and access off Miranda. Robert Ta lor, C rtss Drive Los Altos, discussed dirt build-up on the property, is esire to save t e trees on ie property, and cited that access to his property in Los Altos will either be off Foothill expressway or through a home owned by Mr. Santos that he has an option to buy. Jean Struthers, 13690 Robleda Road, said that white a resident of Los Altos, . that s e had talke with City onager George Sanregret of Los Altos, expressing con- cern for the enomnous oak tree on the property and exploring ideas on the land be- longing to Mr. Taylor becoming open space area. Mr. Sanregret was not in favor of the Taylor land becoming open space because of the policing problems involved. She reported that he had proposed de-annexaction of the land as a solution to the problem. Mr. Taylor, Developer, stated that he had discussed with Lafco the possibility of de -annexation, but they had objected to the idea, as had Mr. Sanregret and Mr. Crowe. The public hearing was closed, and considerable discussion ensued on whether the City of Los Altos should be contacted on the possibility of de -annexation of adjoining lands to the Town, the environmental impact of development under the proposed sub- division, and problems of circulation of traffic in the area as each of the Taylor properties is developed. Commissioner VanTamelen and Commissioner Reeves agreed to check with City Manager Crowe, City Manager Sanregret of Los Altos, and Lafco on what planningis being done relative to access and other related problems on the Lands of Taylor across from the proposed subdivision. They would report to the Planning Commission on their findings at the next meeting. MOTION SECONDED AND CARRIED: It was moved by Commissioner Carico, seconded by Commissioner Stewart and earried that a Negative Declaration be recommended for approval for the Lands of Taylor, File #TM 2077-78. AYES: Commissioners Stewart, Carico, Kuranoff NOES: Commissioners Reeves and VanTamelen ABSTAIN: None A review of the conditions followed, with the following amendments: PASSED BY CONSENSUS: That Condition 8 be amended to read: The existing well located on the proposed Lot 4 must be abandoned and filled according to Santa Clara Valley Water District Standards in the event that it is closer ih^w 100 feet to the leachfield or expansion area (Ordinance No. 232, Section 9-4.1110): If required, this work shall be completed prior to the issuance of any building permit on Lot 4. PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES - July 26, 1978 Page six PUBLIC HEARINGS: (continued) 3. LANDS OF TAYLOR, File #TM 2077-78: (continued) PASSED BY CONSENSUS: Amend Condition 11 to read: "The existing structures, retain- ing walls and driveway surfact noted by the map...(the rest of the condition remains as written). PASSED BY CONSENSUS: Amend Condition 12(c) to read: "A storm drainage easement along Adobe Creek ..... (rest of the condition remains as written). PASSED BY CONSENSUS: Add to the end of Condition 13 "as measured from the top of the bank". PASSED BY CONSENSUS: Amend Condition 17 to read, after "January 1978, shall not support structures for human habitation. MOTION SECONDED AND PASSED UNANIMOUSLY: It was moved by Commissioner Reeves and seconded by Commissioner Carico to add as a condition: The removal of any existing cypress, cedar or other tree shall be reviewed at the time of site development for each lot in the subdivision. MOTION SECONDED AND PASSED UNANIMOUSLY: It was moved by Commissioner Carico and L. seconded by Commissioner Stewart that the following pathway condition be added: mMirandaad Type improved t path the commonll bpropertyconstructed linesaofnLotsthe 4northerly side of Koch Lane from MOTION SECONDED AND APPROVED UNANIMOUSLY: It was moved by Commissioner Carico and seconded by Commissioner VanTamelen to delete Condtion 20(c). Rolf Lem 400 C ress Lane, Los Altos, recommended that the adjoining Land of ay or a eve ope n one acre ots on the Los Altos side. MOTION SECONDED AND PASSED UNANIMOUSLY: It was moved by Commissioner Carico and seconded by Commissioner Stewart to recommend approval for the Lands of Taylor, File #TM 2077-78, with conditions as amended. The hour being after adjournment, it was moved by Commissioner Carico and seconded by Commissioner Stewart to continue the meeting to no later than 12:30 A.M. OLD BUSINESS: 1. Re-submitt Commissioner VanTamelen stated that the re -submitted Noise Ordinance as proposed in the Noise Abatement Minutes of May 10 and July 25, satisfied all objections. Mr. Walt Gre or 11 h, Noise Abatement Committee, however, asked that the Minutes of T y e correcte y ad ng t e de rn tion of "Powered Motor Vehicle" to the ordinance proposed. (The definition was to be found in the Model Community Noise `r Ordinance document.) Chairman Stewart thanked Mr. Gregorwich, Commissioner VanTamelen, and other participants for their work on the new noise ordinance. PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES - July 26, 1978 Page seven `. OLD BUSINESS: (continued) MOTION SECONDED AND UNANIMOUSLY APPROVED: It was moved by Commissioner VanTamelen and seconded by Commissioner Carico to send the newly proposed noise ordinance to the City Attorney for drafting into ordinance form and to recommend the new ordinance to the City Council for approval. 2. Ordinance and Municipal Code Revisions: MOTION SECONDED AND UNANIMOUSLY APPROVED: It was moved by Commissioner VanTamelen and seconded by Commissioner Reeves that Section 1, amendments to the Los Altos Hills Municipal Code, contained in a memo dated July 17, be recommended to the City Council for approval. MOTION SECONDED AND CARRIED: It was moved by Commissioner Stewart and seconded by Commissioner Carico that the amendment proposed above be enacted on an emergency basis. AYES: Commissioner Stewart, Carico, and Reeves NOES: Commissioners VanTamelen and Kuranoff ABSTAIN: None MOTION SECONDED AND PASSED UNANIMOUSLY: It was moved by Commissioner Stewart and seconded by Commissioner Kuranoff that the amendment to the Subdivision todthenPlanning239, Commissionnbe recommended to thepCitysed in Councilhforuly 17 Memo approval. MOTION SECONDED AND PASSED UNANIMOUSLY: It was moved by Commissioner VanTamelen and seconded by Commissioner Reeves that the amendment to Subdivision Ordinance No. 239, Section 9-4.603, page 6, be recommended for approval by the City Council. MOTION SECONDED AND CARRIED: It was moved by Commissioner VanTamelen and seconded by Comnissinner Reeves that the above -recommended amendments to Ordinance No. 239 be recommended for enactment on an emergency basis. AYES: Commissioners Stewart, Carico, Reeves, VanTamelen NOES: Commissioner Kuranoff ABSTAIN: None 3. Election of Officers: MOTION SECONDED AND PASSED UNANIMOUSLY: It was moved by Commissioner Kuranoff and seconded by Commissioner VanTamelen to postpone the election of officers for the Planning Commission until a full Planning Commission is present. NEW BUSINESS: 1. Proposal for Study Session for August 9 Meeting: It was the consensus of the Commission that a study session would be scheduled for the next meeting, to beginat 6:30 P.M. and end at 8:00 P.M., with the following items to be considered as possible discussion itemA:.- PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES - July 26, 1978 Page eight j�6r NEW BUSINESS: (continued) 1. Proposal for Study Session for August 9 Meeting: 1. Large houses in Los Altos Hills - ordinance control on the number of square feet per acre - all stories. 2. Road -in -lieu fees - consistent road -in -lieu fees of $5.00 (?) per foot applied as in the past. 3. More Planning Commissioners than the one regularly assigned for Site Development and Subdivision Committee meetings. 4. Scenic Highways Element - Bring materials in your possession. 5. Inputs from Committees - (nothing from Environmental Design, Noise Abatement Committees, etc. and some limitation on the Pathway Committee) 6. Conservation Easement Guidelines for Allowable Structures and Activities. 7. Fence Ordinance 8. Circulation Study - Circulation Studies to cover area of more than one subdivision (would have been helpful, for instance, on Berry Hill Subdivision) 9. Understanding negative declarations before the review of subdivision conditions (Mr. Gillio) 10. Curb and gutter sections that might be more rural. (Commissioner Kuranoff suggesting the type used by the community of Hillsborough. 11. Motorcycle barriers and horse barriers. 12. New slope density test (Mr. Gillio is working on this.) 13. Solar Systems 14. Format of Staff Reports. br ADJOURNMENT: There being no further new or old business, the meeting was adjourned at 1:00 A.M.. Respectfully submitted, Ethel Hopkins Secretary 7