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HomeMy WebLinkAbout05/22/1996Minutes of a Regular Meeting Approved 6/12/96 Town of Los Altos Hills PLANNING COMMISSION Wednesday, May 22,1996,7:00 p.m. Council Chambers, 26379 Fremont Road ROLL CALL AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE The Planning Commission meeting was called to order at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers at Town Hall. Present: Chairman McMahon, Commissioners Gottlieb, Stutz & Schreiner Absent: Commissioners Cheng and Doran Staff: Curtis Williams, Planning Director; Sheryl Proft, Assistant Engineer; Suzanne Davis, Planner; Susan Manca, Planner; Lani Lonberger, Planning Secretary 2. PRESENTATIONS FROM THE FLOOR -None 3. CONSENT CALENDAR Items appearing on the Consent Calendar are considered routine and will be adopted in one motion, except for any item removed for separate consideration elsewhere on the agenda. The Chairman will ask the Commission and the audience for requests to remove these items. 3.1 LANDS OF PORAT, 27201 Moody Road (76 -96 -SD); A request for a modification to the approved Site Development Permit for a change in exterior materials. Commissioner Schreiner requested the Lands of Porat be removed from the consent calendar for discussion as she was concerned with the color of the new material on the structure, and with condition #2, requesting at least two replacement trees instead of just one. There was a correction to the staff report, page 2, as follows: net lot area 1.87; average slope 40%; and lot unit factor .67. OPENED HEARING Bill Maston, 384 Castro Street, Mountain View, project architect, was in agreement to increasing the number of oak trees (condition #2). The color scheme of the structure will be in the gray tones. They were aware of the reflectivity, color board. The original house is gray and white. Chairman McMahon noted that the end of the garage area is very prominent from Moody Road. She asked if they would consider some gable omamentation. Mr. Maston would prefer not adding ornamentation as it would not fit the style. He suggested working with staff to add planting to help screen the structure. CLOSED HEARING Planning Commission Minutes Approved 6/12/96 May 22,1996 Page 2 MOTION SECONDED AND PASSED: Motion by Commissioner Schreiner and seconded by Commissioner Finn to approve the modification to the approved Site Development Permit for a change in exterior materials, Land of Pond, with the following amendment to condition #2: the pine tree to be removed shall be replaced with a minimum of three 24 -inch box native evergreen trees. Planting shall be added at the northeast end of the detached garage for screening (vertical growing trees, shrubs and/or vines are recommended). AYES: Chairman McMahon, Commissioners Gottlieb, Finn, Stutz & Schreiner NOES: None ABSENT: Commissioners Cheng & Doran 4. PUBLIC HEARINGS If you challenge the proposed action(s) in court, you may be limited to raising only those issues you or someone else raised at the public hearing described below, or in written correspondence delivered to the Planning Commission at, or prior to, the public hearing. All applications approved or denied at tonight's Planning Commission meeting are subject to a 21 day waiting period during which any member of the City Council may initiate a Council review, or any member of the public may appeal the Planning Commission decision. 4.1 LANDS OF TAAFFE, 12308 Concepcion Road (12060 Elise Way) (72 -95 -CUP); A request for a Conditional Use Permit renewal for a construction equipment and storage yard (continued from April 24, 1996). The Planning Director introduced this item noting conditions of approval had been added according to concerns raised at the previous meeting. He discussed time limitations on previous projects (Westwind Barn and Full House Farm). He further discussed the types of services provided to the Town by the Taaffe Company over the years which included help with seasonal flooding, earthquake assistance, log jam in Adobe Creek, and a mud slide on La Paloma Road. OPENED PUBLIC HEARING Linda Taaffe, 26645 Purissima Road, Jim Taaffe's daughter, questioned a map submitted to the Planning Director. It was noted that construction of a residence on lot 3 could be entertained. The Planning Director noted that the map which was submitted with this application, a site plan map, shows the area currently being used for storage and puking facilities. Ms. Taaffe commented when the use permit was first issued there was a time limit placed on it as the Town anticipated there would be growth and perhaps the business would not coexist peacefully with the new residents. There was a provision that once M. J. Taaffe Company was dissolved that the land would be used for residential use. She expressed a desire not to have the construction yard in their back yard. She asked if the permit was restricted to one lot (lot 4) or could the permit be used on the Taaffe's personal property. Jim Sandman, 26545 Purissima Road, neighbor, requested restriction on equipment, parking area, and structures in accordance with the MDA/MFA formula. Ben Taaffe, 26654 Purissima Road, applicant, was available for questions. Commissioner Schreiner referred to a letter from James Taaffe noting equipment operations were not restricted to the yard site. Ben Taaffe responded that he does have an office at his Planning Commission Minutes Approved 6/12/96 May 22,1996 Page 3 4W residence. Some of the welding work was taking place at his residence property although he would prefer doing this work on the job site. The Planning Director noted that Mr. Taaffe and any member of his family could use the garage for a workshop. However, it should not be used by his employees. This is a separate issue from the application being presented. Hugh Much, 13101 La Paloma Road, noted restroom facilities needed to be addressed if the permit is approved. Jim Taaffe, 26645 Purissima Road, asked if he was responsible for this permit and if this was an original permit or a renewal. Mr. Jim Taaffe is the owner of lot 3. CLOSED PUBLIC TESTIMONY It was noted that lot 4 is subject to the MDA/MFA requirements. However, the Planning Director noted that the lot does not have what would be considered paved areas. He further addressed some of the concerns raised by neighbors noting a condition was added regarding a restroom on site (#6). He further clarified the issue regarding James Taaffe's liability and responsibility stating the original 1977 use permit which he signed had a clause noting the permit ran with themselves and their respective successors and assigns. Given James Taaffe is no longer an owner of the property, the permit does not bind him. The current owners of the property are responsible. This application is for a complete renewal of a use permit. Current use permits do not have similar language. Commissioner Schreiner discussed the lack of any fire requirements. It was noted that the fire marshal had reviewed the application without requirements. Commissioner Gottlieb would like to see the wording in Finding #1 strengthen or referred to the code section as noted in a previous report. A possible continuance fence on lot 4 was discussed, however, it was felt that other property owners who were concerned with safety had the option to fence their own property. MOTION SECONDED, AMENDED AND PASSED: Motion by Commissioner Firm, seconded by Commissioner Stutz, and amended recommending to the City Council renewal of the conditional use permit for an existing construction equipment and vehicle storage yard, Lands of Taaffe, for a 20 year period, with Staff making changes/additions to Finding #1, adding some of the language as stated in code section 10-703(h) of the Zoning Code. AYES: Chairman McMahon, Commissioners Schreiner, Gottlieb, Stutz & Firm NOES: None ABSENT: Commissioners Cheng & Doran This item will appear on the City Council agenda June 19, 1996 for public hearing. 4.2 LANDS OF LOHR, 12121 Oak Park Circle (Lot 7) (78-96-ZP-SD-GD); A request for a Site Development Permit for a new residence, tennis court and pool. Ms. Davis introduced this item answering questions regarding the storm drain easement (accessed from Lot 8C) and the path easements (not on Lot 7). She clarified that the fill material on the site is from construction of roads within the subdivision. She also clarified condition #21, fire requirements (width of driveway). The Commission was provided with Planning Commission Minutes Approved 6/12/96 May 22,1996 Page 4 an overview of the area indicating the pathways. The assistant engineer answered questions regarding storm drain easement access. OPENED PUBLIC HEARING Steve Lohr, 586 Lagunita Drive, Stanford, applicant, discusses access to the storm drain easement which is accessed off of lot 8C. There is a temporary access on lot 7 and a portion of lot 6 to get to the storm drain easement to they can build on lot 4. The fill currently on lot 7 was a stockpile of organic material which will be moved off. He further commented that the house was designed for a specific client. They have stepped the house down, with the siting not impacting neighbors. There is a portion (wing) of the structure going back behind the garage for a buffer from some of the freeway noise. In discussing the house design as compared to the other homes within the subdivision, the proposed materials include a stone veneer to break up the stucco, and the architectural style has been varied from that of other homes on the street in an effort to keep the houses from looking alike. Commissioner Gottlieb asked why the need for a retaining wall on such a flat lot. She suggested lowering the garage and bringing the roof elevation down which would eliminate the need for the retaining walls and reduce the bulk and mass of the structure. Since the house is close to the road, she also suggested a slight angle of the house on the site. This would also reduce pavement for the back-up (use natural slopes with minimum disturbance). Mr. Lohr responded noting that the retaining walls were minimal, varying from six to 18 inches. The retaining walls were for safety and to keep the driveway slope down. CLOSED PUBLIC TESTIMONY Commissioner Finn felt they could step the garage. As long as there is no stucco on this house, he was in favor of the project. Commissioner Gottlieb felt they had done a good job keeping the circular driveway out of the setback, however she felt there was no need for retaining walls on a flat lot. She felt the garage could be dropped more to eliminate the retaining walls. She also reiterated her thoughts on angling the house. Chairman McMahon and Commissioner Schreiner agreed with a slight rotation of the house. Mr. Lohr was concerned with the rotation of the house as the back area would be exposed to more freeway noise. After review of the possibility of rotation, it was felt it would not be beneficial. MOTION SECONDED, AMENDED AND PASSED: Motion by Commissioner Finn, seconded by Commissioner Gottlieb and amended to approve the Site Development Permit for a new residence, tennis court, pool and spa, Lands of Lohr, with the following changes/amendments to the conditions of approval: garage shall be dropped down (two feet) so there is no curb or wall around the backup area, and the stucco siding shall be changed to wood or other materials. AYES: Chairman McMahon, Commissioners Stutz, Schreiner, Gottlieb & Finn NOES: None ABSENT: Commissioners Cheng & Doran This approval is subject to a 21 day appeal period. Planning Commission Minutes Approved 6/12/96 May 22,1996 Page 5 4.3 LANDS OF RINGOLD/ZARUCKI, 12004 Adobe Creek Lodge Road (48-96- ZP-SD-GD); A request for a Site Development Permit for a new residence, pool and cabana. Commissioner Gottlieb stepped down from the public hearing due to a business conflict in interest. Ms. Davis introduced this item. She provided the Commissioner with a memorandum regarding a request from the Santa Clara Valley Water District to review the subject application since Adobe Creek bisects the property. An additional condition has been added stating the plans shall be reviewed and approved by the Santa Clara Valley Water District, and any required permits obtained, prior to acceptance of plans for building plan check. It was noted that there was some fill on the property that was done to keep development out of the flood plain. The City Council previously stated that the height may be measured from the grade that was created as part of the subdivision improvements. The height of the residence and pool house were measured from the existing grade. OPENED PUBLIC HEARING John Barksdale, 4151 Middlefield Road, Palo Alto, project architect, discussed the following: flag lot access off of Adobe Creek Road, facing Moody Road; steep hill; engineered, compacted fill; a partial two story house; the pool and cabana location; the house site three feet above natural grade for positive drainage; purpose of retaining walls; and the use of dark charcoal gray flat roof tiles, stucco siding material, wood windows (other colors for the structure have not been chosen). As a part of the subdivision improvements approximately three feet of fill was added. Commissioner Schreiner was concerned with the amount of pavement in the setback for the circular driveway, and the impact on the three lots on each other in this rural area. They seem to be sitting on top of each other. She would prefer not having the houses in a row. Mr. Barksdale responded noting discussions with the Fire Marshal regarding fire department requirements. Regarding the impact on the other lots, he commented that due to the creek and conservation easement plus the steep hill, the building area is inhibited. The second story orientation is away from the adjacent site and Moody Road. As noted in the staff report, the house has been angled so it is only touching the setbacks at two points. Jean Struthers, Environmental Design Committee, noted comments made by the committee stated in Attachment 5 of the Staff Report. She asked that the pool equipment not be by the conservation easement, and to add a condition not allowing invasive non- native species to be planted new the conservation easement. She further discussed the "shadow" problem with a second floor possibly shadowing the neighbors, and the review and minimizing outdoor lighting. Tom Griffiths, Pathway Committee, clarified pathway request which is to restore native path on the surface of the old dirt road so it meanders through the area (back of the property) or construct a IIB path on the property line. The Committee's preference would be to have a meandering path; worst case, a IIB path. CLOSED PUBLIC TESTIMONY Planning Commission Minutes Approved 6/12/96 May 22,1996 Page 6 obw Discussion ensued regarding the following: the size of the cabana; fire department requirements; limiting the number of outdoor lights; the lighting plan to be reviewed and approved by the Site Development Committee with the landscape review, in addition to staff review, prior to the landscape plan review; deleting condition #23; moving the pool equipment out of the conservation easement (moving to the west side); stucco shall not be used for the structure on lot 1, a five foot setback for the cabana from the conservation easement; and the use of non-invasive species by conservation easement. MOTION SECONDED AND FAILED: Motion by Commissioner Finn and seconded by Commissioner Stutz to approve the Site Development Permit for a new residence and pool, Lands of Ringold & Zamcki, with the following changes/amendments to the conditions of approval: no invasive plantings within the proximity of the conservation easement; all lighting to be down lights or shielded except two lights at the front door; lighting to be approved by the Site Development Committee along with the landscape plan; move the cabana five feet from the conservation easement; and the pool equipment shall be moved to the west side of the cabana. AYES: Chairman McMahon, Commissioner Finn NOES: Commissioners Schreiner & Stutz ABSENT: Commissioners Cheng & Doran ABSTAIN: Commissioner Gottlieb Commissioner Schreiner preferred a redesign to address some of the concerns of the design of the house and the impact on the neighboring lots. She was concerned with the three houses in a row, noting more work could be done. She suggested possibly a change in materials and lowering the second story to reduce the impact on neighbors. Commissioner Stutz suggested using the previous motion adding that the applicant investigate the use of more Waal materials and/or a color to help the house blend into the site. The roof material was acceptable. Mr. Barksdale discussed the design and the differences from the other houses in the area MOTION SECONDED, AMENDED AND PASSED: Motion by Commissioner Stutz, seconded by Commissioner Finn and amended to approve the Site Development Permit for a new residence and pool, Lands of Ringold & Zarucki, with the following changes/amendments to the conditions of approval: no invasive plantings within the proximity of the conservation easement; all lighting to be down lights or shielded except two lights at the front door; lighting to be approved by the Site Development Committee along with the landscape plan; move the cabana five feet from the conservation easement; pool equipment shall be moved to the west side of the cabana; and the exterior materials shall be changed from stucco to wood, stone, brick and/or other materials or the exterior paint color shall not exceed a light reflectivity value of 30. AYES: Chairman McMahon, Commissioners Schreiner, Fina & Stutz NOES: None ABSENT: Commissioners Cheng & Doran ABSTAIN: Commissioner Gottlieb This approval is subject to a 21 day appeal period. ( Brief break at 9:12. p.m. Planning Commission Minutes Approved 6/12/96 May 22,1996 Page 7 4.4 LANDS OF MORSEY, 13081 Alta Lane South (214-95-ZP-SD-GD); A request for a Site Development Permit for a new residence, pool and spa. Ms. Marten introduced this item noting the receipt of three additional letters from neighbors (Beatts, Flack and Lee). She has added an additional condition of approval recommended by the Town Geologist. All current structures on the property site will be demolished. ft)771�1:1 �71�1.1R[N:I:I\.71�(r Kal Morsey, 13081 Alta Lane South, applicant, discussed the history of the project. He presented photos of the type of house design he was looking within the Town limits. He was willing to compromise as he has been in the design process for a year. The noted that the current access goes through the middle of his property; he preferred a shorter access. Ann Stewart, 13075 Alta Lane South, lower neighbor who shares the driveway with the applicants, was concerned with access and with maintaining the access area and protecting her property during construction. She would not mind having the driveway to herself. Roger Kohler, 721 Colorado Avenue, Palo Alto, project architect, discussed the site plan with the limited building area due to the setbacks and access, the low MDA/MFA figures due to the easements, lot slope and setbacks, the lack of development area for a one story structure and a pool, the minimum impact to the area, and the two middle sections of the structure being one story. He complimented the two geologist working on the project, Neilson and Cotton. He further noted that the retaining walls will be covered with a natural stone or a stucco stone material. Howard Lee, 12933 Atherton Court, down slope neighbor, discussed four items noted in his letter: (1) drainage, land movement and erosion concerns; (2) connection to sewer system; (3) solid rear elevation of the residence looking right over their property; and (4) the appropriate placement of sanitary facilities and the debris box, both from the perspective of Alta Lane neighbors, and also from the perspective of downslope and downwind neighbors. Alan Huntzinger, 2443 Ash Street, Palo Alto, project civil engineer, discussed the concerns presented by Mr. Lee, the geotechnical report prepared by Neilson, the pool retaining walls, drainage, sewer access, restriction on development, sharing the driveway with the other neighbor (the Beaus), and a letter addressed to the assistant engineer regarding the revised drainage outfall from this property. Jean Struthers, 13690 Robleda Road, resident and Environmental Design Committee, discussed flooding, the slow growing Blue oak trees, fast growing Valley oaks, care during construction, retaining wall helping the look of the site, care with the color of the retaining wall, importance with plant covering on the retaining wall, care with lighting, and tree locations not on the site plan. Mark Magdal, 1000 San Antonio Road, Palo Alto, project engineer, discussed the project, the process, the architect and civil engineer's qualifications, the low visibility of the project, light and airy design (no bulky appearance), one story design not desirable, meeting with Tony Carrasco, driveway access, and the fire department requirements for Ltum around Planning Commission Minutes Approved 6/12/96 May 22,1996 Page 8 4 David Skelton, 3221 Barrett, Kensington, voiced support of the project. Ruby Lee, 12933 Atherton Court, would like to see both ends of the rear elevation to assess the impact on their property. She was also concerned with the safety of the slope, suggesting evaluating the entire slope. Valerie Beatts, 13171 Alta Lane South, downhill neighbor, provided the Commission with a letter outlining concerns including drainage and the status of the easement. CLOSED PUBLIC TESTIMONY Discussion ensued clarifying easements clarifying that the 20 foot easement is uphill and the 24 foot easement is downhill. To answer Mrs. Beatt's question regarding the 20 foot easement, the Planning Director responded that she has access rights to utilize that easement. Regarding maintenance, he was not aware of an existing maintenance agreement. Mrs. Beatts has right of easement across to her property. It was noted that the barn is actually the shed/stable. Commissioner Schreiner asked what would happen, development area wise, if the Morseys have a driveway going down to the Stewarts and to the Beatts. Ms. Mares commented on the driveway calculations noting that the lower driveway did not diminish their development area figures. Discussion ensued regarding the house design. Commissioner Gottlieb commented on the following items: the house will be 17.5 feet higher than the original house; impacting the neighbors (Flacks); visible lot; the design not meeting the Design Guidelines; excessive lights; possibly moving the pool close to the house; reduction of mass; the second story not meeting the Design Guidelines; flat lot house; setting in the second story; and not being in favor of extending the pad out. She agreed with the Staff Report regarding entering the property from the existing access. Commissioner Schreiner noted several items in the Design Guidelines which were not followed (pages 5, 8, 13, 19). Commissioner Stutz would not be voting on the project as the road was blocked when she went to review the property. She agreed that the house will be visible from Wildcrest Drive, and she does not want the pad extended. She suggested dark, smoked windows to lessen the impact of the floor to ceiling windows. Commissioner Finn realized that the lot was constricted. A two story structure would be acceptable with the foot print of the second story smaller than the first story to articulate the vertical feel of the house. The pad should not be extended. He did not mind the number of windows proposed. He suggested a redesign. Chairman McMahon would have preferred cross sections of the project. She commented on the flat two story walls which are contrary to the Design Guidelines. The architecture is extremely formal which conflicts with the rural atmosphere. She suggested a redesign. MOTION SECONDED AND PASSED: Motion by Commissioner Schreiner and seconded by Commissioner Gottlieb to continue the Site Development Permit for a new residence and pool, Lands of Mersey, for redesign with the following recommendations: reduce the size of the second story and nestle it into the footprint of the first story to reduce the bulk and mass of the proposed new residence and redesign the style of the residence to reflect a less formal design; relocate the proposed driveway to utilize the existing driveway entrance; reduce the number and height of the proposed retaining walls; eliminate the extension of the flat pad proposed on the lot; and investigate the possibility of reducing the number of windows or utilizing windows that would reduce emitted light. 4 Planning Commission Minutes Approved 6/12/96 May 22,1996 Page 9 4 AYES: Chairman McMahon, Commissioners Finn, Gottlieb & Schreiner NOES: None ABSTAIN: Commissioner Stutz ABSENT: Commissioners Cheng & Doran This item will be re -noticed for public hearing. 5. REPORT FROM THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING 5.1 The Planning Director noted the following items were discussed at the May 15th City Council meeting: Lands of Wolken; Lands of Teng; accepting final map, Lands of Lindy; recommended list of proposed roads with paths on both sides; recommendation for updating the Master Path Plan; and proposed levying of increases in fees, deposits, charges for services and other assessments. 5.2 Planning Commission Representative for the June 5th meeting -Chairman McMahon. OLD BUSINESS 6.1 Report from subcommittees. 6.2 Review policy for secondary dwelling units and accessory structures. This item will be continued to the next meeting. 4 7.1 Site Analysis meeting (Lands of Sherlock) June 12, 1996 at 6:30 p.m. The Planning Director had previously provided the Planning Commissioners with a memo regarding the original Site Development Permit approval for the Lands of Parikh, 26875 Elena Road, which included a letter from the applicant's civil engineer outlining the differences between the calculations submitted for planning review (1,409 cubic yards of cut) and the corrected grading quantities (2,860 cubic yards of cut). Due to the significance of the error in grading quantities, the Planning Commissioners (4/1) requested further review of the project. This item will be on the next available agenda. The Planning Director further discussed the Lands of Powers noting that the applicants and the neighbors (the Skidmores) have not been able to reach an agreement. The Planning Commission had previously requested that the Powers work with the neighbors to mitigate concerns. The appeal period has been extended and the item will appear on the City Council consent calendar June 5, 1996. 8. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 8.1 Approval of the May 8, 1996 minutes. PASSED BY CONSENSUS: To approve the May 8, 1996 minutes. 4W Planning Commission Minutes Approved 6/12/96 May 22,1996 Page 10 4W 9. REPORT FROM THE SITE DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE MEETING OF MAY 21, 1996 9.1 LANDS OF HONG, 26370 Ginny Lane; A request for a Site Development Permit for landscape and related improvements. Approved with conditions. 9.2 LANDS OF ABRAMO, 13981 Fremont Pines Lane; A request for a Site Development Permit for a landscape plan. Approved with conditions. 10. ADJOURNMENT The meeting was adjourned by consensus at 11:16 p.m. Re spectfully submitted, Secretary 4