HomeMy WebLinkAbout06/10/1998�w Minutes of a Regular Meeting Approved 623/98
Town of Los Altos Hills
PLANNING COMMISSION
Wednesday, June 10, 1998, 6:30 p.m.
Council Chambers, 26379 Fremont Road
cc: Cassettes ( 3 ) #11-98
ROLL CALL AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
The Planning Commission meeting was called to order at 6:40 p.m. in the Council
Chambers at Town Hall.
Present: Chairman Gottlieb, Commissioners Schreiner, Aurelio (arrived 6:50 p.m.)
& Jinkerson
Absent: Commissioner Cheng
Staff: Curtis Williams, Planning Director; Sheryl Proft, Assistant Engineer;
Suzanne Davis, Planner; Lori Smith, Planning Secretary
2. PRESENTATIONS FROM THE FLOOR
PASSED BY CONSENSUS: To add a discussion regarding a letter from Betsy Bertram
under NEW BUSINESS.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
3.1 LANDS OF RUINER, 28500 Matadero Creek Lane (151-97-
ZP-SD-GD); A request for a Site Development Permit for a new
two-story residence, second unit, cabana and pool, with a total
floor area of 7,507 square feet, and a maximum height of 26 feet
(continued from May 27, 1998).
This item was introduced by the Planning Director who made two corrections to the report:
(1) the square footage of the residence is actually 7,400 square feet; and (2) the revised
development area is 11,299 square feet, not 12,999 square feet as indicated in the letter
from the architect. He further provided an overview of the meeting with the applicants,
their architect, and some of the Via Ventana neighbors.
OPENED PUBLIC HEARING
Planning Commission Minutes Approved 6/23/98
June 10, 1998
Page 2
Bob Ramer, 10632 Magdalena Avenue, Los Altos Hills, applicant, commented on the
meeting with staff and the Via Ventana group. Design changes included the following:
the number and shape of rear elevation windows; added trellises at two locations in the rear
of the house; the planting of live oak clusters around the perimeter of the development;
added a wing -wall near the garage to provide a curve and transition to the house; the
selection of darker earth tone colors (gray, brown or beige tones for the paint color, stone
and roofing, with a light reflectivity value of 40 or less); an open trellis on the cabana
rather than a roof; and the revised plans showing the fifth parking space along the
driveway.
Pong Ng, 1513 Fairway Drive, Los Altos, project architect, was available for questions.
Dr. Merideth Warshaw, 27977 Via Ventana Way, liked the trellis idea. She would like to
review the color choices and be involved with the landscaping plan. The Planning Director
noted condition #2 indicates a more restrictive light reflectivity value than usual.
Gerald Thomas, 27933 Via Ventana Way, appreciated the efforts of the applicants and
staff. However, he was still concerned that a formal approval was not received by the
Matadero Creek Architectural Review Board. As neighbors, they have always relied on
the Board's opinion.
The Planning Director clarified that plans were delivered to three of the Board members
and they were aware of the meeting date. He was under the opinion that the Board was in
support of the revisions made to the plans. Staff has always tried to route plans to the
Board, although the town is not required to obtain their opinion.
Pong Ng, project architect, provided some history of the process with the review board.
They had previously met with the Board noting that the only thing they were not
comfortable with were the numbers. So the project went before the City Council for a
decision.
CLOSED PUBLIC HEARING
Commissioner Jinkerson stated that at the May 27" meeting there was a consensus for
continuance so the applicant could meet with the neighbors as previously discussed and
seek comments from the Board. All items have been addressed. They should not hold up
this project for formal comments from the Board. Commissioner Schreiner agreed. She
thanked the applicants for their patience. Chairman Gottlieb was pleased with the
accomplishments made between the applicants and neighbors. She would like to make
sure the Via Ventana Way neighbors receive a notice regarding the Site Development
hearing for the landscaping plan.
Planning Commission Minutes
June 10, 1998
Page 3
Approved 6/23/98
MOTION SECONDED AND PASSED: Motion by Commissioner Jinkerson and
seconded by Commissioner Schreiner to approve the Site Development Permit for a new
two-story residence, second unit, cabana and pool, Lands of Romer, with the following
additions/changes to the conditions of approval: add to #2, that notice of site development
hearing for landscaping be provided to all affected neighbors on Via Ventana Way; and
add to #4, that paint colors shall be earth tones of gray, beige or brown .... and shall exhibit
a light reflectivity value of 40 or less. Roofs shall use materials which have a light
reflectivity value of 40 or less and shall be of a color tone consistent with the paint colors
and with little variegation.
AYES:
Chairman Gottlieb, Commissioners Schreiner & Jinkerson
NOES:
None
ABSENT:
Commissioner Cheng
ABSTAIN:
Commissioner Aurelio
This item will appear on the City Council agenda July 1, 1998
3.2 LANDS OF ALLISON, 11030 Magdalena Avenue (71-98-ZP-SD); A
request for a Site Development Permit for a new one-story 5,401
square foot residence with a 1,306 square foot attached garage, and
pool. The maximum height is 21 '/z feet. The existing development
on the site will be demolished.
Staff had nothing further to add to the report.
OPENED PUBLIC HEARING
Gary Kohlsaat, 531 Santa Cruz Avenue, Los Gatos, project architect, described the design
elements and was available for questions. Commissioner Schreiner asked if the pavement
in the front setback could be reduced. Mr. Kohlsaat responded that it was approved by the
fire department and it met their requirements.
Ms. Davis clarified that the fire department has to use a portion within the setback for
turnaround. They have reduced some of the pavement from the original submittal.
Mr. Yeh, 24056 Jabil Lane, voiced concern regarding the septic system and the common
property line. He also stated he did not receive a notice of this project. He made mention
of a fence which he thought was on his property. However, the site plan indicates the
fence is on the applicant's property.
CLOSED PUBLIC HEARING
Planning Commission Minutes
June 10, 1998
Page 4
Approved 6/23/98
Commissioner Aurelio agreed with staff recommendations. Commissioner Jinkerson
would like the chimneys to conform with UBC height minimums. Commissioner
Schreiner was still concerned with the pavement in the setback (circular driveway)
although she complimented the design of the house. She asked if the amount of pavement
could be reduced or perhaps plant trees in the middle. Sandy Humphries, Environmental
Design Committee, stated usually it is hard on trees to have concrete surrounding them. It
was also noted there were no neighbor concern.
MOTION SECONDED AND PASSED: Motion by Commissioner Jinkerson and
seconded by Commissioner Schreiner to approve the Site Development Permit for a new
one-story residence with an attached garage, and pool, Lands of Allison, with the following
additions/changes to the conditions of approval; the applicant shall work with staff to
increase the landscape area and, if possible, reduce the amount of pavement within the
front setback; the chimneys shall be the minimum height required by the Uniform Building
Code; and the pines along the rear property line shall be retained.
Commissioner Aurelio stated he could support the driveway as shown. He would not want
to hold up the project by objecting to the motion.
AYES: Chairman Gottlieb, Commissioners Aurelio, Jinkerson & Schreiner
NOES: None
ABSENT: Commissioner Cheng
This item will appear on the City Council agenda July 1, 1998.
3.3 LANDS OF HILL, 13870 La Paloma Road (114-97-ZP-SD); A
request for a Site Development Permit for a new 5,432 square foot
residence and 837 square foot attached garage with a maximum height
of 23 feet.
The Planning Director introduced this item noting the receipt of a letter from Bill Whitney.
OPENED PUBLIC HEARING
Erin Haws, 2067 Colusa Way, San Jose, discussed the following: condition #10 (the
existing pool); #18 (existing driveway); previous submittal; and design changes. He would
like to maintain the gable on the right side of the house which is being requested to be
deleted. They have reduced the footprint of the house, bring the mass area down.
Bill Whitney, 13890 La Paloma Road, reviewed his letter submitted to the Commission
regarding the non -conforming secondary structure, drainage, construction vehicles, height
of chimneys, screening, and lighting.
Planning Commission Minutes
June 10, 1998
Page 5
Approved 6/23/98
4 The Planning Director was asked to clarify the La Paloma policy with the height
restrictions imposed on other homes and the one story appearance.
CLOSED PUBLIC HEARING
Commissioner Schreiner preferred staff recommendation 42 which requires the gable on
the right side of the house be deleted to match the roofline on the left side. She was in
favor of #11 which requires that the existing buildings within the setbacks not be used for
purposes other than the original uses (non -habitable structures). She felt Dr. Hill has
complied with the previous requests. Commissioner Jinkerson agreed with condition #1
which asks for a revision in the ceiling height of the entry to less than 17 feet or to have the
area counted twice. He was also in favor of deleting the gable on the right side to match
the one story appearance on the other three sides. He felt the bam and sheds in the
setbacks should be restricted to non -habitable uses. Commissioner Aurelio agreed with the
previous comments noting La Paloma Road is certainly not a rural area. He would prefer
the removal of the non -conforming structures. It was clarified that condition # 11 requires a
disclosure statement indicating that the existing buildings within the setbacks shall not be
used for purposes other than for storage or stables, and shall not be converted to habitable
space.
MOTION SECONDED AND PASSED: Motion by Commissioner Jinkerson and
seconded by Commissioner Aurelio to approve the Site Development Permit for a new
residence and attached garage, Lands of Hill, with the following additions/changes to the
conditions of approval: delete the gable at the south end of the second floor and modify
the roofline to be similar to the north end, other than a small eyebrow dormer or other
dormer of similar size; and reduce the height of the chimneys to the minimum height
required by the Uniform Building Code.
AYES: Chairman Gottlieb, Commissioners Schreiner, Jinkerson & Aurelio
NOES: None
ABSENT: Commissioner Cheng
This item will appear on the City Council agenda July 1, 1998
Brief break at 8:35 p.m.
3.4 LANDS OF BOWERS, 25518 Hidden Springs Lane (19-98-ZP-SD-
GD); A request for a Site Development Permit for a new two-story,
5,469 square foot residence, 27 feet in height, and a 438 square foot
detached garage, 17 feet in height.
Commissioner Jinkerson stepped down from the public hearing due to the proximity of his
�, residence to the proposed project.
Planning Commission Minutes
June 10, 1998
Page 6
Approved 6/23/98
The Planning Director introduced this item by noting a letter from Bev Brockway,
requesting that the four pistachio trees be preserved, if at all possible, for screening and
privacy. He also provided the Commissioners with a copy of the subdivision conditions of
approval for review.
OPENED PUBLIC HEARING
Glen Cahoon, 296 Kansas Way, Fremont, project designer, discussed the property and
design elements with the aid of an overhead presentation. Items discussed: existing trees,
the removal of two pistachio trees in the area of construction; landscape screening; nestling
the house into the site by stepping down the slope; house going across contours; drainage
and swale issues; review of drainage again with landscape plan; profile section review; and
the basement design to reduce cut and/or relocate the basement. The Planning Director
suggested staying under two levels only for the basement, no higher than 12 feet. Mr.
Cahoon continued by explaining the new grasscrete material which will be used.
CLOSED PUBLIC HEARING
Discussion ensued. The assistant engineer clarified the location of the conservation
easement. Commissioner Schreiner voiced difficulty with this project as it relates to fitting
on contours, stepping down, the excessive grading, the impact on the downhill neighbor,
cut and grading for the basement, and tree protection. She would like a redesign to address
these issues. Commissioner Aurelio discussed the excessive export from the site (grading
for the site would include 2,500 cubic yards of cut and 200 cubic yards of fill). He was not
sure the architecture was compatible with this site. He would like to see something that fits
the site better. Chairman Gottlieb stated this was a beautiful piece of property but this
design does not take advantage of the site. The roofline does not step, the house needs to
come down with the slope (refer to Design Guidelines), and the grading needs to be
reduced.
Mr. Cahoon felt there could be a certain amount of redesign although with few options
available. He can shift and reduce the basement. To accommodate a redesign, he will have
to completely change the design.
Chairman Gottlieb suggested going along the contours which would bring down the
roofline. This is a lovely home for a flat lot. Commissioner Schreiner referred to the
Design Guidelines (the structure should be stepped down the hill utilizing one story
building elements). She asked for the house to fit the land. The Planning Director
suggested the applicant look at a combination of the suggestions.
Planning Commission Minutes
June 10, 1998
Page 7
Approved 6/23/98
4W Stan Gamble, project contractor, commented that there was no public opposition. He felt a
redesign would not improve the situation as this is not the greatest site. Regarding the
export, it is a short haul to deposit the dirt at the Quarry.
MOTION SECONDED AND PASSED: Motion by Commissioner Schreiner and
seconded by Commissioner Aurelio to continue the Site Development Permit for a new
residence, Lands of Bowers, for a redesign. The applicant was directed to consider all
previous comments and concerns, working with staff on preliminary plans to see what
could be accomplished in a design change.
AYES: Chairman Gottlieb, Commissioners Aurelio, Jinkerson & Schreiner
NOES: None
ABSENT: Commissioner Cheng
This item will be re -notice for a future public hearing.
4. OLD BUSINESS
4.1 Report from subcommittees. Commissioner Jinkerson reported on a meeting with
the Environmental Design Committee. The Committee is working on the preparation of a
kbrochure regarding native plantings.
5. NEW BUSINESS
Discussion ensued regarding a letter from Betsy Bertram addressed to the Planing
Commission (with copies to the City Council) commenting on the Lands of Ramer, May
27, 1998 public hearing. The Planning Commission clarified their position on the project
and why a continuation was requested. They agreed to respond in writing to Mrs. Bertram
for clarification of the facts.
6. REPORT FROM THE CITY COUNCIL MEETING
6.1 Planning Commission Representative for June 3r°, Commissioner Jinkerson,
reported on the following items: Lands of Wong; Lands of Dorian; Lands of Kwong;
Lands of Ewald; report on removal of graffiti; Lands of Gorham appeal; and campaign
reform.
6.2 Planning Commission Representative for June 17' - Aurelio
09
Planning Commission Minutes Approved 6/23/98
June 10, 1998
Page 8
�w 7. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
7.1 Approval of the May 27, 1998 minutes
PASSED BY CONSENSUS: To approve the May 27, 1998 minutes, expanding
paragraphs on pages 3 and 5, with Commissioner Cheng absent.
8. REPORT FROM THE SITE DEVELOPMENT HEARING JUNE 2 AND 9 1998
8.1 LANDS OF CLEVENGER, 14400 Kingsley Way (99-98-ZP-SD);
A request for a Site Development Permit for a landscape plan.
Approved with conditions June 2, 1998.
8.2 LANDS OF GRIFFITHS, 13630 Roble Alto Court (38-98-ZP-SD);
A request for a Site Development Permit for a swimming pool.
Approved with conditions June 2, 1998.
8.3 LANDS OF LASSEN, 14840 Manuella Road (93-98-ZP-SD); A
request for a Site Development Permit for a swimming pool and spa.
Approved with conditions June 9, 1998.
`r 9. ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was adjourned by consensus at 10:45 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Lan Smith
Planning Secretary
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