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HomeMy WebLinkAbout05/14/1997Minutes of a Regular Meeting Approved 5/28/97 Town of Los Altos Hills PLANNING COMMISSION Wednesday, May 14, 1997, 6:00 p.m. Council Chambers, 26379 Fremont Road cc: Cassettes ( 3 ) #9-97 ROLL CALL AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE The Planning Commission meeting was called to order at 6:10 p.m. in the Council Chambers at Town Hall. Present: Chairman Doran, Commissioners Cheng, Schreiner, Finn (arrived at 6:58 p.m.), Gottlieb, Stutz & Jinkerson Staff: Curtis Williams, Planning Director; Sheryl Proft, Assistant Engineer; Suzanne Davis, Planner; Lam Lonberger, Planning Secretary 2. PRESENTATIONS FROM THE FLOOR -none PUBLIC HEARINGS 3.1 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, and variance to allow grading across a property line. 3.2 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, and variance to allow grading across a property line. Commissioner Schreiner stepped down from the public hearing due to the proximity of her residence to the proposed projects. Chairman Doran stepped down from the public hearing due to missing the previous two meetings. This item was introduced by the Planning Director, commenting on the previous public hearing, asking for non repetitive information. OPENED PUBLIC HEARING 4 Planning Commission Minutes Approved 5/28/97 May 14, 1997 Page 2 4 Bob Owen, 445 S. San Antonio Road, applicant's representative, discussed the changes to the exterior elevations of the proposed houses on lots 2 and 3. Further discussion related to the following: driveways approved with the subdivision; lining up the structures on lots 2 and 3 to create less bulk; roofing materials (wood shake) and colors for both houses; the use of wood, brick, and stone with a mix of stucco on lot 3; and stucco siding with brick trim for lot 2. Ramona Chown, 13822 Page Mill Road, quoted the Design Guidelines regarding projects limited to less than the ordinances allow. She requested the projects be reduced in size and in height to conform more to the neighborhood, and requiring further exterior changes. John Germino, attorney, representing Mr. and Mrs. Handley residing at 13818 Page Mill Road. He stated they expressed concerns regarding ingress/egress, and the existing paved width of Moon Lane. Moon Lane is a private street owned by Mr. Moon who's whereabouts are unknown. He requested the road be brought up to Town standards by widening the road to a 20 foot minimum so that two way traffic can be accommodated, although he did not know who would pay for the improvements. Tim Chown, 13822 Page Mill Road, was interested in building houses which were consistent with the neighborhood. He noted the steep hillside and the visibility of the lots. He did not feel it was appropriate to maximize the properties, asking for justification if the projects were approved. Dot Schreiner, 14301 Saddle Mountain Drive, felt the projects as designed will impact the neighborhood. She discussed Design Guidelines, the subdivision conditions of approval (minimum disturbance to the topography and the excessive proposed combined total of 4500 cubic yards of cut), and lot 3 using all available development area with paving in the setbacks. She asked for less grading, the heights to be lowered, and stepped up the slope. There are only a few rural areas left in town. Valerie Chown, 13822 Page Mill Road, discussed colors, elevations (appearance), the view from her property, requesting the houses be wood siding, not stucco. She provided a photo board showing the area with the proposed houses set into the pictures. She requested a smaller footprint, reduced heights, and extensive landscaping. The Site Development Policy was quoted, in particular 1) do what is best for the site, 2) sensitive to the neighborhood, and 3) opportunity to reduce the maximum numbers. She noted color as well as landscaping were very important. She asked that the Design Guidelines are applied and enforced. Annika Bredo, 13820 Page Mill Road, requested smaller, wooden houses to fit into the neighborhood. Bob Owen stated there was no problem proposing more trees. However trees can be planted on both sides of a property line. Planning Commission Minutes Approved 5/28/97 May 14, 1997 Page 3 4 CLOSED PUBLIC TESTIMONY Commissioner Cheng would like to see the houses lowered in height She also felt the Handley's concern regarding the road width was more related to the subdivision and not with these applications. Mr. Owen responded he does not want to drop the pads any lower, however he could change the roof pitch to lower the height 1-1 'h feet. Commissioner Stutz suggested on lot 2 to replace the stucco with wood siding. On lot 3, she was concerned with the patio on the right side of the house and the grading associated with it. Also on lot 3, there was not much outdoor area and too many walls in the back. Commissioner Jinkerson supports the Design Guidelines relating to not using the maximum numbers allowed. He felt the projects should be reduced 1000 to 1100 square feet. He would not say both houses have to be wooden as this is subject to the taste of the individual. He would like to see smaller houses, lowered, fitting into the land. Commissioner Gottlieb discussed the subdivision conditions of approval and the roof line not stepping down with the topography. If it was, the retaining walls would not be necessary. She also stated two homes built at similar elevations could appear to be one continuous structure when viewed from off site. Commissioner Cheng felt grading over the property line was necessary and Commissioner Stutz felt there was no problem grading for the driveway although it would be more attractive if the houses were not on the same plain (one set back approximately 20 feet). MOTION SECONDED AND PASSED: Motion by Commissioner Jinkerson and seconded by 0*1 Commissioner Gottlieb to deny the request for a Site Development Permit for a new residence, and variance to allow grading across a property line, Lands of Wythe & Vita, lot 3, and to deny the request for a Site Development Permit for a new residence, pool and spa, and variance to allow grading across a property line, Lands of Wythe & Vita, lot 2. AYES: Vice -Chair Gottlieb, Commissioners Stutz, Cheng & Jinkerson NOES: None ABSENT: Commissioner Firm 3.3 LANDS OF ZHU & XU, 12580 Miraloma Way (194-96-ZP-SD-GD); A request for a Site Development Permit for a new residence (continued from January 22, 1997). Commissioner Cheng stepped down from the public hearing due to the proximity of her residence to the proposed project. Commissioner Stutz has listened to the tapes of the previous January 22, 1997 meeting. Commissioner Gottlieb was outside the area allowed to be able to hear and vote on the proposed project. Letters from Roger Cruickshank and Tina Darmohray & Charles Marker were received and provided for review. The Planning Director verified that the story poles reflected the accurate change in height (pad and finished floor lowered two feet). OPENED PUBLIC HEARING Planning Commission Minutes Approved 5/28/97 May 14, 1997 Page 4 Tong Wong, 22362 Homestead Road, Cupertino, applicant's representative, discussed the realignment of the redwood trees for a more natural feel. They will be removing some of the newly planted trees to address neighbors concerns regarding a wall of trees. He further discussed the changes to the project as noted in the staff report, and a change to the proposed colors (dark beige with light brown trim). Jolee Horne, 575 S. Rengstorff, Mountain View, project landscape architect, discussed the changes to the landscape plan with emphasis on addressing the neighbor's concerns. Tina Darmohray, 12171 Hilltop Drive, neighbor, stated the proposed two story house will have a serious impact on the privacy and views of their outdoor and indoor living areas. Selecting some natural materials, such as stone or wood, for the exterior of the structure would help blend it into the environment. The revised plan includes a future pool. The addition of a pool would increase the impermeable surface on the south side of the property which will increase runoff into the creek which borders their property. Robert Incerpi, 24500 Voorhees Drive, was only concerned with the eventual height of the trees. He noted they have lowered and stepped the project. CLOSED PUBLIC TESTIMONY 4 Commissioner Finn commented on the changes to the plan, although they have not relocated the second story. He would like to see the stucco mitigated. Commissioner Schreiner commented on the bulk in the middle of the structure and the height still 26 feet. She would like to see a lower profile in this neighborhood. Commissioner Gottlieb felt they have done a good job in the back area, however the structure is still too bulky and massive in the front. Also, the roofline should be lowered. Commissioner Stutz commented on the height of the chimneys which should not be any higher than 2-3 feet above the ridgeline. The portico height should be reduced to 14 feet and she felt the front pillars should be reduced in size and moved back. Commissioner Jinkerson also felt the chimneys and portico were too high. He would like to see more of the structure on the first floor to reduce the bulk. Chairman Doran agreed there was mass in the front entrance and the height of the chimneys should he reduced. MOTION SECONDED, AMENDED AND PASSED: Motion by Commissioner Firm, seconded by Commissioner Gottlieb, and amended to approve the Site Development Permit for a new residence, Lands of Zhu and Xu, with the following additions/changes to the conditions of approval: the height of the roofline be reduced by 1 foot; height of the portico reduced to 14 feet; the width of the pillars be reduced to 2 feet; the pillars be inset 3 feet from the location shown on the plans; the turret element on the front elevation be reduced in height, mid -distance from the second story roof and the 14 foot high portico; and the height and width of the chimneys be reduced to a maximum of 3 feet above the roofline (or minimum height per UBC), and to reduce the width of the chimneys. The landscape plan will be reviewed at a site development hearing. Planning Commission Minutes Approved 5/28/97 May 14, 1997 Page 5 46 AYES: Chairman Doran, Commissioners Jinkerson, Schreiner, Stutz, Gottlieb & Finn NOES: None This item will appear on the City Council consent calendar June 4, 1997. Brief break at 8:18 p.m. 3.4 LANDS OF ROGEZ, 25561 W. Fremont Road (31-97-ZP-SD-GD); A request for a Site Development Permit for a new residence, pool and spa. The supplemental geotechnical review from Cotton, Shires & Associates was provided for review. The noted conditions in the staff report are unchanged. The status of the subdivision improvements were discussed. Ms. Davis clarified that the second story balcony encroaching into the setback would be required to be reduced. OPENED PUBLIC HEARING Abigail Ahrens, 477 S. San Antonio Road, Los Altos, applicant's representative, discussed the old world design concept using smaller buildings and the existing improvements to be demolished which include a pool, pond, pool house, tennis court and residence. The applicants would like to keep the improvements within the Santa Clara Valley Water District easement until such time SCV WD is ready to demolish them. Also, the applicants would like to keep the pond. It was pointed out a comer of the structure is located in the pond area. Ms. Ahrens questioned condition #9 regarding light fixtures. Staff has asked for the minimum fixtures to meet UBC requirements. Von Haws, 2067 Colusa Drive, San Jose, project architect, stated they will square off the balcony to reduce the size. He further clarified the height of rooms with high ceilings (12 feet). Vince Vargas, 7 Cypress Court, would like to see demolition of the existing improvements done now and not prolonged as it has been an eyesore from his property. The Town improvements for drainage and creek improvements are also desirable as soon as possible. The Planning Director discussed the Water District improvements which do not have to be completed prior to construction. The pool house, 2/3 of the tennis court and a portion of the pool and deck are within setbacks and would need to be removed. The assistant engineer stated the subdivision improvements (sewer, water, path, joint driveway) and the Town storm drain project stand on their own. Both the City Engineer and City Council are working with SCVWD regarding the subdivision improvements. Non -conforming development must be removed (demolished) as part of the subdivision improvements. Condition #20 states all subdivision conditions of approval and subdivision improvements shall be constructed and approved by the City Engineer prior to issuance of any building permits. Planning Commission Minutes Approved 5/28197 May 14, 1997 Page 6 Dr. Paoli, 420 Cypress Drive, voiced concern regarding the final subdivision map and the location of the actual property lines. The assistant engineer stated the final map would be approved prior to issuance of building permits. Diane Barrager, Pathway Committee, requested a IIB path along Fremont Road. It was noted the request is a part of the subdivision conditions. CLOSED PUBLIC TESTIMONY Commissioner Finn commended staff on a good job on a complicated project. He agreed with the conditions of approval. Commissioner Schreiner liked the house design as it fits the site well. Care needs to be taken with development on lot 1 so the lots do not impact each other. Commissioner Jinkerson was concerned with the number of carriage lights proposed. He also agreed that the existing structures should be demolished now. Commissioner Gottlieb stated construction parking needs to be contained on the site and traffic should access from Edith Road, not from Fremont Road. MOTION SECONDED, AMENDED AND PASSED: Motion by Commissioner Finn, seconded by Commissioner Cheng and amended to approve the Site Development Permit for a new I residence and pool, Lands of Rogez, with the following additions/changes to the conditions of approval: add to condition 916 that all construction parking shall be on-site. AYES: Chairman Doran, Commissioners Schreiner, Jinkerson, Stutz, Gottlieb, Cheng & Finn NOES: None This item will appear on the City Council consent calendar June 4, 1997. 3.5 LANDS OF WARE AND CATES, 13961 Fremont Pines Lane (34-97-ZP-SD); A request for a Site Development Permit for a major addition and remodel. Staff had nothing further to add. Commissioner Schreiner questioned the status of Fremont Pines Lane regarding dedication of road right-of-way which was answered by the assistant engineer. OPENED PUBLIC HEARING Steve Schwanke, 75 Arbor Road, Menlo Park, project architect, was available for questions. Diane Barrager, Pathway Committee, requested a IIB path along Fremont Pines Lane. CLOSED PUBLIC TESTIMONY Planning Commission Minutes Approved 5/28/97 May 14, 1997 Page 7 4W Discussion ensued regarding a possible three story element, next door neighbors obtrusive pavement, and the number of proposed outdoor lights. MOTION SECONDED AND PASSED: Motion by Commissioner Cheng and seconded by Commissioner Finn to approve the Site Development Permit for a major addition and remodel, Lands of Ware and Cates, subject to the conditions of approval. AYES: Chairman Doran, Commissioners Stutz, Gottlieb, Schreiner, Jinkerson, Finn & Cheng NOES: None This item will appear on the City Council consent calendar June 4, 1997. 3.6 LANDS OF HSIAO, 13001 La Cresta Drive (22-97-ZP-SD-GD); A request for a Site Development Permit for a new residence. The Planning Director introduced this item responding to a letter from the applicant regarding the grandfathered development area figures. Although the applicants are only proposing 7,562 square feet of development area, they do not want to lose the remaining 1,165 square feet which can be used for future decks and patios. He suggested giving the applicants no more than 6 months to submit hardscape plans in order to retain the 1,165 square feet. Commissioner 40 Gottlieb asked if the driveway could be designed without the two foot retaining wall. The assistant engineer responded the applicants are working to meet fire department requirements although there may be a chance to reduce the retaining wall slightly. Commissioner Jinkerson's suggestion regarding a disclosure statement so the carport will not be allowed to be enclosed in the future was discussed with the Planning Director. The assistant engineer discussed drainage and the geotechnical report. OPENED PUBLIC HEARING Chung Pong Ng, 1513 Fairway Drive, Los Altos, project architect, was available for questions. CLOSED PUBLIC TESTIMONY Discussion ensued regarding the proposed retaining wall, a three stall carport, and outdoor lighting. It was suggested to schedule a discussion regarding carports some time in the future. MOTION SECONDED AND PASSED: Motion by Commissioner Gottlieb and seconded by Commissioner Cheng to approve the Site Development Permit for a new residence, Lands of Hsiao, with the recommended conditions of approval, noting the applicant has up to six months to submit hardscape plans in order to use up to the remaining 1,165 grandfathered development area figure, and work with staff to reduce the driveway retaining wall. 6V LA Planning Commission Minutes Approved 5/28/97 May 14, 1997 Page 8 4 AYES: Chairman Doran, Commissioners Stutz, Gottlieb, Schreiner, Jinkerson, Finn & Cheng NOES: None This item will appear on the City Council consent calendar Jane 4, 1997. 3.7 LANDS OF FREMONT HILLS COUNTRY CLUB, 12889 Viscaino Place (19- 94 -CUP); Review of a Conditional Use Permit for operation of a country club. Commissioner Gottlieb stepped down from the public hearing as she is a member of the Fremont Hills Country Club. Commissioner Schreiner disclosed she had contacted Wes Henderson regarding this application who in turn sent a letter to the manager of the Fremont Hills Country Club. Bob Blasing, the manager, responded by mail to Mr. Henderson's concerns. A copy of these letters were provided to the Commission for review. OPENED PUBLIC HEARING Bob Blasing, Fremont Hills Country Club manager, was available for questions CLOSED PUBLIC TESTIMONY Discussion ensued regarding the suggestion for green with white lettered street signs to replace the nice custom ones the club keeps putting up and getting vandalized. Mr. Blasing was in agreement to the suggestion. Commissioner Schreiner questioned the overflow parking, the lower coral to accommodate the horses year round, and the elimination of the sampling of the creek. Richard Sereni, 26941 Purissima Road, stable manager, discussed the drainage situation and the amount of rain over the past two years. The upper lot is not full most of the time and can be used for the horses and trailer parking. Also, in the winter there are less events and less possibility of a parking overflow problem. MOTION SECONDED AND PASSED: Motion by Commissioner Schreiner and seconded by Commissioner Jinkerson to recommend to the City Council approval of the revised conditions of approval for Fremont Hills Country Club conditional use permit, with review required again in 2 'h years (August 1999), Lands of Fremont Hills Country Club, with the following additions/changes to the conditions of approval: provide and maintain adequate signage at all entry points and directional signs. AYES: Chairman Doran, Commissioners Stutz, Schreiner, Jinkerson, Finn & Cheng NOES: None This item will be scheduled for public hearing by the City Council Jane 4, 1997. Planning Commission Minutes May 14, 1997 Page 9 Approved 5/28/97 3.8 LANDS OF VIDOVICH AND WISE, Lot 11 Quarry Hills and 24301 Elise Court (32 -97 -LLA); A request for a Lot Line Adjustment. Staff had nothing further to add to the staff report. OPENED PUBLIC HEARING CLOSED PUBLIC HEARING MOTION SECONDED AND PASSED: Motion by Commissioner Jinkerson and seconded by Commissioner Finn to recommend approval to the City Council, subject to the applicant's submittal of grant deeds and plats (prepared by a registered engineer or licensed surveyor) prior to the Town's recordation of certificates of compliance. AYES: Chairman Doran, Commissioners Stutz, Gottlieb, Schreiner, Jinkerson, Finn & Cheng NOES: None This item will be scheduled for public hearing by the City Council June 4, 1997. 3.9 Amendments to Sections 10-1.502 (Development Area), 10-1.503 (Floor Area), 6W 10-1.504 (Height) and 10-1.505 (Setback lines) of the Los Altos Hills Zoning Ordinance to Reflect Adopted Site Development Policy, and Amendments to Article 10-2.10 (Outdoor Lighting) of the Los Altos Hills Site Development Code to Add a Purpose Statement and Clarifying Language; and Proposed Negative Declaration (continued from April 30, 1997). This item was continued to the June 11, 1997 meeting. 4. OLD BUSINESS 4.1 Report from subcommittees. Commissioner Schreiner reported on the Housing Element Committee meeting. NEW BUSINESS 5.1 Outdoor lighting policy continued to the June 11, 1997 meeting. 6. REPORT FROM THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING 6.1 Planning Commission Representative for May 7th - The Planning Director ( reported on the following items: adoption of policy regarding secondary dwellings and accessory structures; resolution requesting the Santa Clara County Board of Supervisors to Planning Commission Minutes May 14, 1997 Page 10 Approved 5/28/97 4 redirect $100,000 of the Town of Los Altos Hills' Community Development Block Grant Funds to the City of Los Altos for allocation to eligible projects and services; request for a change to the final map to revise the building setbacks to meet current Town standards, Lands of Shukov; Lands of Breetwor; Lands of Purissima Hills Water District (Sprint Spectrum); and Planning Commission approved items pulled by City Council. 6.2 Planning Commission Representative for May 21' - Commissioner Gottlieb 7. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 7.1 Approval of the April 23, 1997 minutes PASSED BY CONSENSUS: To approve the April 23, 1997 minutes. 7.2 Approval of the April 30, 1997 minutes PASSED BY CONSENSUS: To approve the April 30, 1997 minutes. 8. REPORT FROM THE SITE DEVELOPMENT HEARINGS OF APRIL 29 MAY 6 AND 13. 1997 8.1 LANDS OF FONG, 26756 Palo Hills Drive; A request for a Site Development Permit for a landscape and outdoor lighting plan. Approved with conditions April 29, 1997. 8.2 LANDS OF GOLDBERG, 12012 Emerald Hill Lane; A request for a Site Development Permit for a landscape and outdoor lighting plan. Approved with conditions May 6, 1997. 8.3 LANDS OF RAYNOR, 12799 Dianne Drive; A request for a Site Development Permit for a minor addition and remodel. Approved with conditions May 6, 1997. 8.4 LANDS OF PARIKH, 26875 Elena Road; A request for a Site Development Permit for a landscape plan. Approved with conditions May 13, 1997. 9. ADJOURNMENT The meeting was adjourned by consensus at 10:25 p.m. Respectfully submitted, / am Louberger4 Planning Secretary