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HomeMy WebLinkAbout04/23/1997Minutes of a Regular Meeting Approved 5/14/97 Town of Los Altos Hills PLANNING COMMISSION Wednesday, April 23, 1997, 7:00 p.m. Council Chambers, 26379 Fremont Road co: Cassettes ( 3 ) #7-97 1. ROLL CALL AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE The Planning Commission meeting was called to order at 7:08 p.m. in the Council Chambers at Town Hall. Present: Commissioners Cheng, Schreiner, Finn, Gottlieb, Stutz & Jinkerson Absent: Chairman Doran Staff: Curtis Williams, Planning Director; Sheryl Proft, Assistant Engineer; Suzanne Davis, Planner; Lam Lonberger, Planning Secretary 2. PRESENTATIONS FROM THE FLOOR -None. 3 PUBLIC HEARINGS 3.1 LANDS OF SOLLOWAY, 11471 Page Mill Road (27-97-MISC.); A request to determine the future proposed width of Buena Vista Drive. This item was introduced by Ms. Proft commenting on the road right-of-way policy relating to width on other private roads, in particular Moon Lane, Miraloma Way, and Central Drive OPENED PUBLIC HEARING Elizabeth Wilson, 7175 Red Holly Court, San Jose, new buyer of 11471 Page Mill Road, explained the determination of road right-of-way width was needed so they could move forward with their architectural design plans. Art Lachenbruch, 11820 Buena Vista Drive, reviewed the plans and felt this was a reasonable request which will also preserve the Waal atmosphere. Planning Commission Minutes Approved 5/14/97 April 23, 1997 Page 2 Moosa Malek, 26801 Altamont Road, owner of the lot at the end of Buena Vista Drive for nine years, said it will ultimately be developed. The accessibility to the lot appears to be from Buena Vista Drive. CLOSED PUBLIC TESTIMONY Discussion ensued regarding factoring in the long term possibilities, easements taken outside of the road right-of-way; and a 40 foot width being adequate for a two lane road. MOTION SECONDED AND PASSED: Motion by Commissioner Stutz and seconded by Commissioner Finn to uphold the previously implied determination that the future planned right-of-way width for Buena Vista be 40 feet wide. AYES: Vice -Chair Gottlieb, Commissioners Cheng, Schreiner, Jinkerson, Finn & Stutz NOES: None ABSENT: Chairman Doran 3.2 LANDS OF ROSENBAUM, 10560 Blandor Way (210-96-ZP-SD-GD); A request for a Site Development Permit for a new residence, pool and spa (continued from April 9, 1997). The Planning Director introduced this item noting the receipt of a letter from Marilyn Clemmensen, the uphill neighbor, withdrawing objections after a meeting with the architect and geotechnical engineer. OPENED PUBLIC HEARING Murdo Morrison, 3645 Jefferson Avenue, Redwood City, project architect, discussed the proposed project which replaces the existing home with a reduction of 494 square feet of development area. He provided a model of the project explaining their desire to protect the hillside with changes in the elevation. He also provided a site plan and described changes to the driveway. The basement will provide a family room, shower, mechanical room and storage. The exterior will consist of varied materials with stone accents. Further discussion ensued regarding the Fire Department requirement for the connection of the driveway to Blandor Way width of 70 feet (existing width 35 feet, and the request by staff for the applicant to work with the Fire Department to reduce the driveway entrance width to the greatest extent feasible. The assistant engineer felt they could change the material to prevent visual impact. Mr. Morrison also provided a memo in response to the staff report recommendations. Planning Commission Minutes Approved 5/14/97 April 23, 1997 Page 3 4 Marilyn Clemmensen, 10566 Blandor Way, uphill neighbor, reiterated her previous concerns regarding the roof area and interference with their view, the impact of the demolition and construction on the hillside above their site and below their home, and the construction pollution caused by this project. She was satisfied with the responses received from the project architect and by the project geotechnical consultant. She voiced support of the project as the house plans and designs were keeping with the hills and the environment. CLOSED PUBLIC TESTIMONY Commissioner Jinkerson agreed with the staff report regarding the residence and pool being lowered to ensure the basement is completely below natural grade. He felt the driveway design could be circular with plantings in the center. Commissioner Finn agreed with the previous comments to reduce the impact of the driveway and perhaps reduce the residence and pool by only two feet rather than four feet. Commissioner Cheng preferred recommendation #1 as stated in the staff report with a redesign of the driveway to reduce the size. Commissioner Schreiner was concerned with the amount of pavement for the driveway although the applicant can work with staff and the Fire Department to reduce this area. She felt the basement should be wholly underground. Commissioner Stutz commented on protecting the hillside as noted in a memo from the architect, suggesting lowering the residence and pool by two feet. She was concerned with the number of lights being proposed requesting a substantial reduction (work with staff) in the number and the wattage proposed (stated in condition #7). She was in support of the design. Commissioner Gottlieb also liked the design of the project, however she felt the basement should be totally underground. She would like to see the basement and pool reduced by one foot. The Planning Director commented on the intent of the code regarding basements, adjoining grade, geological considerations, and an acceptable compromise. John Nielsen, project geotechnical consultant, when questioned, commented on the space between the existing retaining wall and the basement which will be back filled so the basement serves as the new retaining wall. This will provide a long term contributor to the stability of the hillside. The assistant engineer suggested instead of having the retaining wall a part of the basement, have the wall part of the first floor. Dr. Nielsen felt structurally, it could be worked out. MOTION SECONDED AND PASSED: Motion by Commissioner Jinkerson and seconded by Commissioner Finn to approve the Site Development Permit for a new residence, pool and spa, Lands of Rosenbaum, with the following changes/additions to the conditions of approval: the residence shall be lowered two feet to insure the basement is only one foot above natural grade; the pool shall be lowered to only one foot above grade; and the applicant shall work with staff to reduce outdoor lighting (condition #7). Planning Commission Minutes Approved 5/14/97 April 23, 1997 Page 4 AYES: Vice -Chair Gottlieb, Commissioners Stutz, Schreiner, Cheng, Jinkerson & Finn NOES: None ABSENT: Chairman Doran This approval is subject to a 21 day appeal period. 3.3 LANDS OF WYTHE & VITU, 13824 Moon Lane (lot 3) (Page Mill Road) (46-96-ZP-SD-GD); A request for a Site Development Permit for a new residence. 3.4 LANDS OF WYTHE & VITU, 13826 Moon Lane (lot 2) (Page Mill Road) (47-96-ZP-SD-GD); A request for a Site Development Permit for a new residence, pool and spa. Commissioner Schreiner stepped down from the public hearing due to the proximity of her residence to the proposed projects. Ms. Davis introduced the following two items, noting notice of the site development requests was previously mailed, setting a hearing for April 23r°. While discussion will be held tonight, final action on the projects will not be taken at least until the April 30" meeting since the variance to allow grading across a property line was not included with the earlier notice. It was agreed to hear both site development requests together. OPENED PUBLIC HEARING Bob Owen, 445 S. San Antonio Road, Los Altos, project representative, commented on the site which has been vacant for a number of years. He acknowledged the concerns expressed by some of the neighbors regarding the size of the development, colors, etc. He proposed to change the exterior of the house on lot 3 to wood and stone instead of stucco. He discussed the slope, following contours, the two story portions of the houses, digging the houses into the site, lining them for an appearance of one house rather than two, neighbors looking over the houses, the use of earthtone colors to fit into the neighborhood, and landscaping to help with screening. Also, no skylights are being proposed since most neighbors are higher than the project site. When asked if they could change the roofline on lot 2, he responded the change would create more bulk. Also, the eaves will be 12-18 inches. Mr. Owen also provided signed documents from six neighbors who do not oppose the projects. He will provide a rendering of the new design for lot 3 for the next meeting. Planning Commission Minutes Approved 5/14/97 April 23, 1997 Page 5 Valerie Chown, 13822 Page Mill Road, previously provided the staff with a letter outlining concerns. She referred to the Site Development Policy Statement and the Town's Guidelines for Residential Design and Land Use, quoting excerpts from both. The four goals set forth in the guidelines directly address her concerns: retaining and enhancing the open natural atmosphere of Los Altos Hills; designing a home to fit the site and be unobtrusive in the neighborhood; minimize the appearance of bulk; and design for applicant's, the Town's, and neighbor's needs. She asked the Commission to consider the following: reduction of MDA/MFA; one story, low profile or horizontal design; reduction in height; choice of exterior materials (darker colors) and roof colors (non - reflective); compatible design for Moon Lane; landscaping; and rock facades on the concrete bridges and visible walls. Din Anderson, 27820 Saddle Court, voiced appreciation for Mr. Owen's efforts in discussing the projects with the neighbors. She referenced her letter (copy in staff report). She emphasized the importance of landscaping, choice of colors, especially the roof, lighting and working together to achieve houses which will blend into the hillside with the use of brown colors rather than grays. Landscaping should be significant enough in size and groupings and native looking to help blend the homes as rapidly as possible into the environment. Tim Chown, 13822 Page Mill Road, reiterated concerns previously mentioned. He commented on the low visibility of the existing houses in the area asking for the justification for the proposed houses not fitting into his environment. Ramona Chown, 13822 Page Mill Road, was impressed with the development of the Design Guidelines. The houses being proposed for Moon Lane are not only the largest houses but the largest on the smallest, steepest lots on the road. She would like the Commission to uphold the Design Guidelines. Dot Schreiner, 14301 Saddle Mountain Drive, applauded the heroic efforts of the residents on Moon Lane and the surrounding area to try to preserve something that is rapidly disappearing in this Town. She discussed the uniqueness of Moon Lane and the topography which dictates smaller, more informal type homes with a road which cannot be widened much more than 20 feet. She was pleased with the change of material for lot 3 although lot 2 is an imposing stucco structure. She was concerned with both houses facing the road having a facade of 30-31 feet (as the grade goes down, the houses appear to be going up). She felt the tone of the street will be determined by these two houses on these visible lots . Also of concern was the retaining wall at the pool area on lot 2 noting the pool will have three retaining walls. Annika Bredo, 13820 Page Mill Road, asked that the structures fit into the neighborhood and the designs adhere to the Design Guidelines. She prefers to see both houses wood 4 and one story. Planning Commission Minutes Approved 5/14/97 April 23, 1997 Page 6 Ray Rooker, 12819 Viscaino Road, friend and Realtor who sold the land to the applicants, commented on the following; putting stone facing on concrete bridges would increase the look, suggesting staining the concrete; the narrow site; public will be above so they will not see massiveness; the houses will not be noticed as the existing larger houses constructed on the ridge line will dominate the aesthetics of the valley. He also felt the roof material and color would be equally as important as the siding materials as this would be the predominant view. David Ewald, 13830 Page Mill Road, noted he will be looking up at these projects. He realized the applicants have a right to develop and would encouraged retaining the rural flavor of the area (possibly one story structures). CLOSED PUBLIC TESTIMONY Commissioner Gottlieb asked if the house on lot 2 could be stepped for a lower profile. Also, the pool design fights with the land. She suggested possibly a lap pool. She would like to see a lower profile with a mixture of wood and stucco with a less formal cottage style facade to blend in more with the surrounding area. Mr. Owen stated he will take neighbors and Commission comments into consideration. MOTION SECONDED AND PASSED: Motion by Commissioner Cheng and seconded by Commissioner Jinkerson to continue the request for Site Development Permits for lots 2 and 3 to April 30' to allow proper noticing of the variance request, and for a full Commission, discussing any new information prior to a vote. AYES: Vice -Chair Gottlieb, Commissioners Stutz, Schreiner, Finn, Jinkerson, & Cheng NOES: None ABSENT: Chairman Doran Brief break at 9:30 p.m. 4. OLD BUSINESS 4.1 AMENDMENTS TO SECTIONS 10-1.401 AND 10-1.505 OF THE ZONING ORDINANCE REGARDING: 1) Non -conforming Structures; and 2) Pavement in Setbacks; and Proposed Negative Declaration (continued from March 26, 1997). Commissioner Firm disclosed he had listened to the tape from the previous meeting regarding this matter. The Planning Director noted changes made to the proposed ordinance as directed at the previous meeting. Planning Commission Minutes Approved 5/14/97 April 23, 1997 Page 7 iI L PASSED BY CONSENSUS: To continue this item to the April 30' meeting for a full Commission. 4.2 Report from subcommittees. Commissioner Jinkerson reported that the Communications Committee met on April 15" and W. 4.3 Planning Commission Schedule. The next Planning Commission meeting will be held on April 30' at 7:00 p.m. 5. NEW BUSINESS 5.1 Landscape Screening Review. The Planning Director introduced this item noting a memo from Dexter Hake, Environmental Design and Protection Committee expressing concern regarding reviewing landscape plans prior to framing of the house. MOTION SECONDED AND PASSED: Motion by Commissioner Jinkerson and seconded by Commissioner Stutz to review landscape and outdoor lighting plans at a Site Development hearing with notice to neighbors within 500 feet of the project site. AYES: Vice -Chair Gottlieb, Commissioners Cheng, Stutz, Jinkerson & Schreiner NOES: Commissioner Finn ABSENT: Chairman Doran 5.2 Vacation Schedule PASSED BY CONSENSUS: To cancel the August 13 meeting. 6. REPORT FROM THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING 6.1 Planning Commission Representative for April 161h, Commissioner Jinkerson, reported on the following: consent calendar with the Lands of Wu & Chen, Lands of Rose, and Lands of Addition pulled for public hearing; adopt policy regarding correspondence sent by residents to Planning Commission and/or standing committee members be copied to Council; Lands of Sarmf (Pacific Bell Mobile Services); and proposed policy regarding secondary dwellings and accessory structures. 6.2 Planning Commission Representative for May 7th - Commissioner Cheng. 4W Planning Commission Minutes Approved 5/14/97 April 23, 1997 Page 8 7. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 7.1 Approval of the April 9, 1997 minutes. PASSED BY CONSENSUS: To approve the April 9, 1997 minutes. REPORT FROM THE SITE DEVELOPMENT HEARINGS OF APRIL 15 & 22 1997 8.1 LANDS OF WEN, 27860 Fawn Creek Court (105-96-ZP-SD); A request for a Site Development Permit for a minor addition and remodel. Approved with conditions. 8.2 LANDS OF SANDER, 14298 Saddle Mountain Drive; A request for a Site Development Permit for a landscape plan. Approved with conditions. 8.3 LANDS OF LAU & LIANG, 12894 La Cresta Drive; A request for a Site Development Permit for a landscape plan. Approved with conditions. 8.4 LANDS OF LISTWIN & AREY, 14170 Ballert Ranch Road; A request for a Site Development Permit for a pool and landscape improvements. Approved with conditions. 9. ADJOURNMENT The meeting was adjourned by consensus at 10:45 p.m. Ry s bmitted, Lani Lonberger Planning Secretary M