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HomeMy WebLinkAbout02/22/1995AW Minutes of a Regular Meeting Approved 3/8/95 Town of Los Altos Hills PLANNING COMMISSION February 22,1995,7:00 p.m. nbers, 26379 Fremont Road cc: Cassettes nurvs ti / 1. ROLL CALL AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE The Planning Commission meeting was called to order at 7:05 p.m. in the Council Chambers at Town Hall. Present: Chairman Schreiner, Commissioners Cheng, Doran, Finn, Gottlieb & Stutz Absent: Commissioner McMahon Staff: Linda Niles, Planning Director; Sheryl Kolf, Assistant Engineer; Susan Manca, Planner; Lani Lonberger, Planning Secretary t.. ►� M • : u.0 0 V Ps a KOAM None. UNEW• ► ►M► 131111 7 None. 4.1 LANDS OF HWONG, 12813 Clausen Court (200 -94 -SD); A request for a Site Development Permit for grading for lawn and play area (continued from January 25, 1995). MOTION SECONDED AND PASSED BY CONSENSUS: Motion by Commissioner Doran, seconded by Commissioner Cheng and passed by consensus to continue the application to the March 8th meeting at the request of the applicant. 4.2 LANDS OF HONG, 26370 Ginny Lane (211-94-ZP-SD); A request for a Site Development Permit for a new residence and secondary unit (continued from February 8,1995). 4W Planning Commission Minutes Approved 3/8/95 February 22, 1995 Page 2 This item was continued to an undetermined date to allow the applicant to construct story poles and address noise attenuation. This item will be re -noticed. 4.3 LANDS OF BILGER, 25901 Vinedo Lane (2-94-ZP-SDGD); A request for a Site Development Permit for a new residence and pool (continued from December 14, 1994). Ms. Niles noted that part of the application was a preliminary landscape plan to help visualize mitigation screening. The normal landscape plan will be submitted some time after the house is framed. She further discussed some minor changes to worksheet S2. The proposed floor area is 4,614 square feet; the allowed is 4,689 square feet. However, in reviewing the floor plans, it was noticed that the basement shows an area on the floor plan that is not shown on the site plan. She will ask for clarification from the applicant as to which plan is correct (site plan or engineering plan). The development area figures are 8,887 square feet proposed; allowed 9,070 square feet. She noted that the area shown on the site plan is within the definition of a basement. This is why she needed the clarification of the floor plan. In answer to questions, she noted that grasscrete is counted 50% toward development area; height is measured from finished or natural grade, whichever is lower; nowhere will the house exceed 25 feet in height. Commissioner Finn was not at the previous public hearings for Lands of Bilger, however he has read the previous staff reports and minutes which allows him to discuss and vote on the application. ANSI � N . : t. V Bill Kull, Giuliani & Kull, 20431 Stevens Creek Blvd., Cupertino, discussed previous requests by the Planning Commission and changes to plan including relocation of the pool and pool equipment; steps in the house to offset the first and second floor (first floor needs to have wheelchair access); misunderstanding regarding tape on the story poles and not linking them together; proposed to drop the house an additional three feet; position of the house on the existing pad; following Town guidelines (design compatible with the terrain, saving all major screening plus new landscaping proposed, design to fit the neighborhood, and minimize the bulk). Mr. Kull had provided a model of the project for view. The house was designed for the Bilgers' needs, the neighborhood and the Town. The landscape voids will be mitigated with additional landscaping. By dropping the house three feet, the top of the roof will only be three feet higher than the present roof line. It was noted that there would be approximately 60 truck loads of export. Also metal roof is being proposed and the colors will follow closely to the model colors. Mr. Kull, for clarification, noted that the basement is shown correctly on the engineering plan. The semi -circular area shown on the architectural plan is not correct for the basement. The basement will be 1,877 square feet. Planning Commission Minutes Approved 3/8/95 February 22, 1995 Page 3 Commissioner Gottlieb discussed the possibility of moving the house back two feet towards the northern wall which she felt would help with the neighbor's concerns. Mr. Kull discussed the possibility, noting they were fairly tight with the turnaround in that area. The turnaround and the back up space just meets the design guidelines. Moving the house two feet would tighten up the turning movements which may require an additional maneuvering position in order to back it up. Peter Shaw, landscape architect, discussed three major concerns of the project; off-site views (from Robleda and Elena); proximity of development height of structure, impact on the downhill neighbors; and the Wong's across the street and their view of the bay. He discussed the proposed redwood grove. The model is the view from Robleda and does not reflect the proposed three foot drop. He demonstrated what the project would look like prior to landscaping. The proposed redwood grove will block a small portion of the uphill neighbor's view, however it was proposed to deal with the concerns of the downhill neighbor (the Trayers). The low walls on the model are retaining walls which will add to the stability. The terracing will help the gentle transition to the neighbor's property and to and from the pool. The retaining walls will be of natural stone. The pool will have an engineered drilled pier foundation. Originally the pool was set close to the 30 foot setback. Presently, the pool has been pushed back, closer to 60 feet from the property line. Mr. Shaw also presented photographs of the area and a slide presentation demonstrating the benefits of landscape mitigation He further discussed %W three Wongs view noting minimal impact. The grade of the driveway with the additional three foot drop will be between a 4-7% slope. Patty Trayer, 25851 Vinedo Lane, commented: the project does not fit in with the hilltop homes in this area (presented photographs); houses in the area are all one story facades from Vinedo Lane; the house is massive; the location of the pool and pool pad infringing on privacy; safety issues involved with the pool location (earthquake safety); relocating the pool to the rear of the property; the impact of lowering the house three feet is not known; the need for correct placement of story poles; design guidelines and hilltop restrictions; negative impact on the mental and emotional state of her family members; possible reduction in property value; and the decking was a concern. She would like a neighbor friendly design. A letter from the Trayers was received and copies provided to all Commissioners. Josephine Wong, 25932 Vinedo Lane, presented photographs from their house and lawn, noting concern with the loss of their bay view due to the new house and landscaping. She objected to a two story structure, the project not blending into the environment, the bulk and mass, and the removal of the pine tree which will open up more view to the Bilger home. Mr. and Mrs. Wong had also submitted a letter to the Planning Commission. Mr. Kull discussed Mrs. Wong's existing views and the lowering of the house an additional three feet, demonstrating the impact on a photograph provided by Mrs. Wong. 4W Planning Commission Minutes Approved 3/8/95 February 22, 1995 Page 4 Laura Johnson, 25900 Vinedo Lane, discussed her concerns: aesthetic value of the proposed home (not matching other homes in the area); the actual proposed site of the home and the proposed landscaping which does not fit the terrain and is extremely obtrusive to their view; blocking of their views; massive home for the size of the lot; and a concern with construction trucks which will use their driveway and orchard as a place to turn around and park their veh cies. Mrs. Johnson also submitted a letter to the Planning Commission. John Trayer, 25851 Vinedo Lane, discussed the improvements and the proposed landscaping which appears to block the Bilgei s views. Monitoring of the approved landscaping plan for at least two years was discussed by Chairman Schreiner and Ms. Niles. Landscaping is not for blocking or hiding the house but to soften the appearance of the house and mitigate any sharp lines or any prominent off-site views of the house. Brent Bilger, applicant, was concerned with some of the photographs presented by the Trayers as they seemed out of portion to him as viewed from Elena Road. He assumed the photographs were taken with a telephoto lens. He discussed the removal of the dirt and the possible harm to the street as previously discussed. Chairman Schreiner noted that any concern with damage to the street is usually handled in the conditions of approval. Jean Struther, Environmental Design Committee, urged the Commission not to approve the concept of the design based on the redwood trees on the side of the property. The redwood trees will provide shade for the entire lot as they get older. However, she preferred Mr. Shaw's design using native oaks that will not grow as high as redwoods. She was confident, based on Mr. Shaw's past performances in the town, that he would be planning something appropriate. She did not feel redwood trees would be appropriate. Diana Peacock, 25991 Vinedo Lane, commented that the Bilger house was not excessively large for the street noting several houses were even larger. Her house is larger than the proposed Bilger house and visible from Elena Road and Robleda Road. Ron Essary, 25850 Vinedo Lane, agreed with Mrs. Peacock, discussing off site views and landscaping. He has a 4,700 square foot one story home plus garage. The value of his property should go up. CLOSED PUBLIC T$STIMONY Commissioner Stutz noted this was the third time this project had been heard. Previously she was not in favor of the project as she did not want it above the level of the road. The design is greatly improved. They have moved the pool on contours, pulled in the second floor which really helps. The model was very helpful. She commented that the size of the house is determined by the slope of the lot; they cannot Planning Commission Minutes Approved 3/8/95 February 22, 1995 Page 5 guarantee preserving all views; neighbors must be willing to share views; and the Commission does not make determination on their own desires for architectural style. She felt the Bilgers have come a long way to comply with the Planning Commission's requirements as discussed at the previous meeting. Commissioner Finn was happy with the new location of the pool. He discussed the views of the neighbors; the good design, the metal roof; the Bilger's doing their best with the design. Commissioner Doran was pleased with the lowering of the house three feet. She discussed the location of the pool; mitigating views; the change of architectural styles in town, the model of the project; the conditions of approval addressing construction traffic; and the metal roof should be non -reflective. She felt the landscaping plan should not be approved this evening. She felt if the story poles would have been in, showing the three foot reduction, and the tapes would have been across, it would have helped the neighbors visualize what was being proposed. Commissioner Cheng felt the Bilgers have done a lot to compromise with the town and the neighbors. The uphill neighbors will only lose a partial view with the house being lowered an additional three feet. Each house design is different in the town. She agreed that the landscape plan should be approved at a later time, either by the Site Development Committee, or by the Planning Commission. Commissioner Gottlieb felt that the design has come a long way. However she was still t4W concerned with the constrained turnaround; the front of the house being very visible from Vinedo Lane even after the house is lowered three feet; suggested moving the entry back towards the north side two feet, the pool is a better location than previously submitted; all the retaining walls are not in keeping with the natural slopes; the landscaping plan should show more of a natural setting; a metal roof is not appropriate, suggesting tile roof with varying shades; and the arbor poles on the second story should be eliminated to help reduce the look of bulk. Chairman Schreiner concerns were the very visible hilltop from off-site; flat lot; bulky two story house; the metal roof not desirable; and grasscrete in setbacks is not desirable in her opinion. She felt the Bilgers have tried very hard to meet their own needs and to address the Planning Commissioner's concerns. The conditions of approval were discussed with suggested changes to #3 noting the staff will monitor the truck traffic issues...; #5 the paint color and the landscape plan will return to the Planning Commission for approval; #8 (d) fenced on all four sides and roof for noise ...; #10 will be checked to see if lowering the house will impact the Cotton report; add a condition regarding the house being lowered by three feet, referencing the elevation (479 elevation for first floor); 504 elevation for the roof, house electrical lighting plan to be reviewed and approved including wording prohibiting flood lights from shining out. The retaining walls, landscaping and paint color are not being approved at this time. 4W Planning Commission Minutes Approved 3/8/95 February 22, 1995 Page 6 J MOTION SECONDED, AMENDED AND PASSED: Motion by Commissioner Finn, amended and seconded by Commissioner Stutz to approve the site development permit for a new residence and pool with the amended conditions as previously stated. AYES: Commissioners Cheng, Finn, Stutz & Doran NOES: Chairman Schreiner & Commissioner Gottlieb ABSENT: Commissioner McMahon This item will appear on the City Council consent calendar March 15th. Brief break at 9:25 p.m. 4.4 LANDS OF MELCHOR,13212 East Sunset Drive (1 -95 -SD); A request for a Site Development Permit for grading, landscape and related improvements. Staff had nothing further to add to the staff report. There was a question regarding the percentage of slope on the property. Ms. Niles commented the average slope on the site was 29.2%. There was only one portion of the property with a 41% slope which is the lower portion of the property which will be terraced out. OPENED PUBLIC HEARING Patrick Whisler, Baronian Associates, landscape architect, discussed the grading plan; orchard planting; retaining walls; the grotto; the new septic system; terracing; and the rose garden. He noted when the new septic system went in, the result and grading from that septic system did not re-establish the terracing even though it was their intent. They could not get the final grades desired. They have incorporated the grading with the landscape. Mr. Melchor had provided Chairman Schreiner with a photograph of the area prior to installing the septic system. Prior vegetation was scotch broom which had to be removed for the re -grading of the new septic system. They have re-established the hill with hydro -seeding for erosion control. In concept, they are proposing to put the hillside back to its original condition. It was noted that the greenhouse was not part of this plan. He further discussed the proposed retaining walls, noting the Health Department has approved the plans. Commissioner Gottlieb asked how this project complies with the General Plan. Mr. Whisler noted that the site had an orchard on the terraces since the 1940's. In keeping with what was there, the terracing and orchards going back in will actually be a preservation move. Chairman Schreiner asked if there was a way to reduce the amount of grading and still attain what they want on this very visible hillside. Mr. Whisler noted that they could reduce the height of retaining walls and perhaps shrink some of the level area of the terrace and lower the proposed retaining walls. They are not proposing any new tree planting within 30 feet of the house. Commissioner Gottlieb Planning Commission Minutes Approved 3/8/95 February 22, 1995 Page 7 noted that originally the house was well screened. She also noted that they are pushing out the dirt further on the top, flattening the pad more to get this round effect and not staying within the compounds. They are doing more grading than is presently there. Jean Struthers, Environmental Design, noted that there was not much to save as far as vegetation. In answer to a question regarding what Environmental Design felt about putting retaining walls down a hillside in view of the General Plan (minimum disturbance to vegetation, etc.). She felt what the applicant was planning would be a vast improvement to the present condition. The type of material used for the retaining walls would be important. Mr. Whisler noted the material for the retaining walls have not been chosen as yet. The choices would be either earthtone stucco, brick or stone. CLOSED PUBLIC TESTIMONY Discussion ensued. The project was before the Planning Commission due to the amount of grading (cut and fill) proposed. Commissioner Stutz felt the Commission should only address the grading. The applicant does not have to ask for approval for landscaping. Commissioner Doran noted that the applicant could grade without the Planning Commissions approval if it is under a certain number of cubic yards. She felt the project was an improvement to the hillside. She was in favor of the project. Ms. Niles commented that the front side of the house (east side), the pad is being extended `, 5-7 feet; on the north side of the house the pad is being extended 10-12 feet. Commissioner Gottlieb felt that they were grading a pad. She was in favor of an orchard without much grading with a more natural look. It was noted that the retaining wall material and color can be reviewed prior to issuance of building permits. Mr. Whisler commented that they will use field stone (brownish/natural color) for the walls. The grotto is an entrance to a small wine cellar. MOTION SECONDED AND PASSED: Motion by Commissioner Doran and seconded by Commissioner Cheng to approve the site development permit for grading for a landscape plan and a grotto. The wall material will be field stone in a brownish/natural color. This will be added as a condition of approval. AYES: Commissioners Stutz, Doran, Cheng & Finn NOES: Chairman Schreiner & Commissioner Gottlieb ABSENT: Commissioner McMahon This item is subject to a 10 day appeal period. Planning Commission Minutes Approved 3/8/95 February 22, 1995 Page 8 4.5 LANDS OF ABRAMO,13981 Fremont Pines Lane (2-95-ZP-SD); A request for a Site Development Permit for a new residence and cabana. MOTION SECONDED AND PASSED BY CONSENSUS: Motion by Commissioner Doran, seconded by Commissioner Cheng and passed by consensus to continue the application to the March 8th meeting to allow the applicant to provide additional information on MDA and MFA numbers as requested by staff. C ' • C C • u M. YM • 1� 1. u! a1Ml� 5.1 The Planning Commission representative for March 1st will be Commissioner Doran. ME 0 ►!-A !► 6.1 Scheduling of additional meetings for the Lands of Vidovich review. The next meeting was scheduled for February 25th at 10:00 a.m. The staff and Commissioners will meet at the front gates of the site. 6.2 Joint Planning Commission/City Council meeting March 29, 1995 at 4:30 p.m. OLD BUSINESS 7.1 General Plan -scheduling of work sessions. Due to the heavy planning schedule, any further scheduling of special meetings will be postponed pending Council direction. 7.2 Final discussion -Open Space and Scenic Highways Elements. Discussion ensued regarding the Open Space Element noting the "Introduction" and "Definition" have been revised. A listing of all historical sites, using a graph was thought to be a good idea. The Open Space Element will be forwarded along with an older version to the City Council for direction to see if the Council would like more of the flavor of the older version and/or do they want more detail then they have included. Discussion ensued regarding the Scenic Highways Element noting there were two additional pages added as mentioned in the previous meeting. Chairman Schreiner will provide a cover sheet to accompany both elements. The Land Use Element meeting schedule may be postponed until there is a new Planning Director. The Commission will review the element individually, preparing changes, etc. Vr Planning Commission Minutes Approved 3/8/95 February 22, 1995 Page 9 7.3 Report from subcommittees. No current information to report at this time. 8. APPROVAL OF MINUTE4 8.1 Approval of the February 8,1995 (5:00 p.m.) Minutes. The minutes will be continued to the next meeting to provide more detail. 8.2 Approval of the February 8, 1995 Minutes. MOTION SECONDED AND PASSED BY CONSENSUS: Motion by Commissioner Stutz, seconded by Commissioner Doran and passed by consensus to approved the minutes of February 8,1995 with changes to page 5, paragraph 3. 9, REPORT FROM THE SITE DFULOPMENT COMh=E MEETING None. 10. ADTOLmNMENT The meeting was adjourned by consensus at 10:25 p.m. Respectfully submitted, LaniLonberger(� Planning Secretary iI