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HomeMy WebLinkAbout07/17/1967CITY COUNCIL TOWN OF IAS ALTOS HILLS MINUTES OF A REGULAR MEETING t July 17, 1967 Mayor Albert T. Henley,called the meeting to order at 8:02 P.M. in the Council Chambers of the Town Hall, 26379 Fremont Road, Los Altos Hills, with the following members answering Roll Call: Councilmen Aiken, Benson, Davey, Fowle, Mayor Henley. Absent: Hone. Commissioner Laurence Dawson represented the Planning Commission. The minutes of the adjourned regular meeting of July 11, 1967 APPROVAL were corrected as follows: Page 6: Para, 71 Line 7, the number OF of signatures on the petition should be 730. Page 6s Para. 9, MINUTES delete the name of Mrs. R. L. Jones, 10791 Magdalena Road. (Mrs. Jones inquired as to the effect of the Palo Alto contract on the properties on the Palo Alto side of the hill.) Upon motion by Councilman Aiken, second by Councilman Benson, the minutes of July 11, 1967 were approved as corrected. Communication from the American Institute of Architects an- COMMUNI- nounced its first "Community Design Award Program!', to recog- CATIONS nize community leaders who have made an effort to improve the (1) environment in their areas. Awards are to be announced at a banquet at the Palo Alto Hills Golf and Country Club December 7, 1967. Mr. Morse, City Manager, stated that four letters arrived late to be included on the agenda, and inquired whether it was the pleasure of the Council to hear the letters. The Council agreed to hear the letters. Letter of July 12, 1967, from Ralph A, Cowden, 26799 Cowden (2) Lane, expressed concern of work being done on property at 26771 Elena Road relative to the Town's Grading Ordinance, and asked to be advised as to the current disposition of the parcel. Letter of. July 14, 1967, from John G. and Elizabeth T. Ronsiek, (3) 13023 Vista del Valle Court, called attention to violations of the Grading Ordinance on the property at 26777 Elena Road and - thE Health Department's requirement for location of the house. Request was made that any variances requested for the property be denied, and expressed hope that the Council would invoke legal penalties for ordinance violations. Letter of July 14, 1967, from Mrs, Donald A. Miller, 13076 Vista (4) del Valle Court, called attention to work being done on the property at 26777 Elena Road, questioning whether a permit was issued for the recent bulldozing. Mrs. Miller questioned present location of the septic lines. Mrs. Muller strongly recommended review of the lot by the Planning Commission and Council, and legal action if violations of the ordinances have occurred. Letter of July 14, .1967, from Jean L. Erodi,, 26600 Elena Road, (5) was an inquiry as to whether or not preparation of two :,(2;) building sites, two (2) driveways and a swimming,pool.site was legal on the lot 'across the street from her. property'; Mayor Henley deferred discussion of the ;property at;26777 'Elena Road to New.Business. Letter from M. R. Johnson, dated June 30, 1967, requested a (6) one-year extension of the Tentative Map Approval of the M. Stedman property .(Page Mill Road and Three Forks Lane), Mr. Morse explained that this matter should have been an item 6n*the agenda (the approval of the Tentative Map expires .July 189 1967), but the correspondence .was not in his hands at the time the agenda was compiled. He requested the Council's consideration of the request. The Mayor deferred discussion of the request to Report of the City Engineer. Letter from Wallace Stegner, dated July 12, 1967, indicated (7) his support of the Towns regulation with regard to slope density. Latter of July 17, 1967, from Stanley W. Corbett, liT, was (8) read. Letter questioned the Santa Clara County Health Depart. ment's authority to require owners of new homes to sign a statement regarding formation of assessment districts and connectionto sewers. He requested the Council to direct the Health Department to'stop requiring such a signed statement, Letter of Mr. Preston C. Burchard, July 17, 1967, requested (9) the Town to have the Santa Clara County Health Department to make public a list of current alleged violations of the ordi- nances governing septic systems in the. Town He also re- quested the Council to have the Health Department have avail-. able answers to questions contained in his letter. He fur- ther requested information from the City Attorney regarding what recourse and processes of law are available to home- owners who dispute the findings of the Health Department., Letter of July 17, 1967, from Dr, and Mrs. Sylvin Rubin,, (10), stated opposition to the formation of Sewer Assessment District No. 2,. Dr. and Mrs. H. T. Hahn., residents in Page Mill Estates Sub-. (:11) division, in letter of July 13, 1967, expressed interest in the sewage disposal problem, and commendedthe Council inits efforts with regard to the Palo Alto Sewer contract., Patition, containing forty-eight (48) signatures, was re-.. (12) ccived July 17, 1967,,stating opposition to formation of pro -- posed Sewer, Assessment District No. 5 (Page Mill Estates area)„ -2- Mayor Henley announced that Council's Standing Committees should'be revised to include Councilman Benson. He submitted revised lisi'of Committees with Councilman Benson indicated ,where Mr Gordon <B'. Bowler had served. The City Managerannounced that the Junipero Serra Fxeeway,will open'Tuesday, July -18,. h1967;_.ceremonies to be'he'ld at the Bl ..; , Monte'-Intercange. „,: Mr. James, K. Beit. Chairman of the Moody, AltAmont, Page Mill Study Compsittee,.,reviewed the Report, copies of report were presented ';earlier to Councilmen. Mr. Ball explained that the Committee was appointed by the Mayor.in 1966 with,the basic idea to study an area of the .Town through the residents. He (commented on statistical data contained in the report; a record .;copy. of which is on file in the. office. of the Town.,Hall.;'Kr: Bell indicated that addi- tional copies of the report will be available later. Mr. Bell and his'.Committee were ykleended- congrgtulat ions and thanks by the Mayor .for a most `'comprehensive' report. Mayor Henley stated that due to the time schedule, he would hears no .comments from the Floor. Councilman Aiken requested time to make a'statement regard- ing misinformation relative to the law "requiring the public and developers to connect to sewer s. iyithin -a certain dis- tance. Councilman Aiken, stated that Section 5009 of the Health.: acid Safety.,Code of the State, of California provides for connoctions'to sewers if,property,is within 1501 of a sewer -line and within. -a. peiiod,of :thirty (30) days, provided, however,and Only if . the -bonds .for;<the assessment district are sold under the 1933`Bond Act. Mr. Emmanuel H. Pearl read his report which is included as apart of the ;record .copy -of the Minutes.. The Mayor expressed the thanks. of,the Council to Mr. Pearl and • announced he•would, hear no comments from the Floor. Mr. Charles A. Walter, Chairman of the Citizens Committee Study- ing$ewexs.in-LosAltoa Hills, summarized the report submitted earlier to :the Council. He stated that four of the ;even mem- bers.of the Committee,had signed the report; that two minority reports have been'submitted. (These reports are attached to the record copy of the minutes.) Mr. Walter stated that sewage disposal in the Town is a community problem,I,apd of- fered t Vservices of the Committee to work with the engi- neers in an effort to find a solution to the problem. Mr. Walter further stated that, if it is the desire of the Council, the Committee would meet to discuss the contract -3- ANNDUNCB- MBNTS (1) REPORT OF M.A.P.S. COMMITTEE DISCUSSION OF SEWERS BY EMMANUEL H. PEARL REPORT OF THE SEWER CONKITTEE between Los Altos Hills and the City Of Palo Alto for sewers. SEWER. - He suggested that the Council consummate the Sewer Contract. with COMMITTEE the City of Palo Alto, but stated that he felt the signing should REPORT be delayed until Sewer Assessment District No. 3 has been esta- (Cont'd) blished. The Mayor offered thanks to Mr. Walter and the Committee for the time and effort put into the study. Councilman Aiken and Fowle also extended.. thanks:. to the Committee. Councilman Fowle expressed thanks to the signers of the minority report for their position. Following, discussion of the proposed sewer service, contract, CONSIDERA- relative to Mr. Waiter's recommendation to delay signing - TION OF, the contract until Sewer Assessment District No. 3 i esta- PALOALTO. blished, Councilman.Fowle-,offered the following motion, that SEWER -SER - due to the status of Sewer Assessment District No. 3,, sign- VICE,CON- ingofthe contract be put over until*agandad, by; the City TRACT Engineer, the Staff, or any. m=_mber of..the Council. The motion, was seconded by Councilman Benson. A.substitute :.- motion� by Councilman Aiken„ lost for lack of .second. Dis- cussion followed.. The Questionwas cslled,and_motion,was carried unanimously by Roll Call Vote. Absent: None. Councilman Davey inquired of the City Manager whether this action placed the contract,.in jeopardy. The..Manager answered that he could not anticipate the action of any Council. The Meeting was recessed at 9:50 P.M. and reconvened at 10:00 P.M. Arthur: S. Alter, in his letter of July 6, 1967, offered his RESIGNATION resignation as City Treasurer, effective July 17, 1967. OF THE CITY TREASURER Councilman Fowle noved acceptance of Mr. Alters: resignation as City Treasurer with extreme thanks for a job well done. Councilman Aiken seconded the motion. Motion was passed unanimously. Councilman Fowle moved, in view of the fact the Council does not wish to make an .appointment of City. Treasurer at this tineandthe fact that the Town isrequired to have a treasurer, that Mr. Morse be. appointed Treasurer Pro Tem, pending appointment of 'a City Treasurer. The motion was seconded by Councilman Aiken and passed unanimously. The City Manager read his memorandum:of July 13, 1907, to DISCUSSION the Councilinwhich he forwarded information explaining OF SANTA the County. Housing Authority's proposed program to operate CLAM COUNTY a lease -subsidy program within Los Altos Hills. HOUSING.; AUTHORITY -4- CouncilmanDavey commented that the Council endorsed the Santa SANTA CLARA Clara County.Hcusi.nglAuthority., although its functiondid not COUNTY apply: to the -Town- The Council concurred that no action MOUSING'; Should be taken„ as- this _,program would not applyto the Town.. AUTHORITY' The, suggestion was-made:that the Mayor communicate to Mr;. (Cont'd)' Donald C..Kjel's�trup,,Secretary Pro Tem of the SantaClara County Housing;Authority},that the Los Altos -Hills -City. Council had recommended its establishment (by resolution)'; and had shown an interest in the matter.. and is still' interested. -but that the program is not workable in the type of community such as Los Altos Hills.. Mayor Henley' announced that if there was no motion to adopt the resolution„ or'objection stated to his writing�a-letter .. as: suggested' by, Councilman:Davey;• there would be no further action.. The City, Manager' stated' that a letter,. dated June 5i, 1967,,, DISCUSSION fromiDaniel'. I(. Clark,,: City Clerk of Newark,. forwarded'a•, OF REGIONAL policy' statement', adopted by, the City Council -of -Newark GOVERNMENT` concerning�regionali-government'.. STATEMENT-' BY' City, oN No intsrest.was= expressed -by -the Council and no action NEWARK' was^taken.. Commissioners Laurence Dawson explained the problems^of CONSIDERATION completion of'pathways along- pezipheral'roads where con- OF`PLANNING% sideration has to tie:given�by other jurisdictions.. He COMMISSION; stated that the Planning :Commission -adopted -a resolution RECOWUNDA- "requesting:the -cooperationlof Parks and RecreationtDepart- TION RB:: ment, and the. Department: of� Public Works 'of -'Santa- Clara.Coun-- PERIPHBRAli- ty in.planning, and building paths: along each of the pert= ROADS,&- pheral.roads '�of' Los+Altos; Hills that lie within the-juris-- VOLUNTARY; diction �Of-:Santa Clara--. County.F' Commissioner -'Dawson stated EASEMENTS, . that. the Planning Commission also approved the acquisition - of voluntAry,easements to provide pathways.. Thee-City;Manager explained that determination has =been made by,the-City Attorney that they Town can_use-public funds for appraisals of voluntary easements;. Hefurther-explained that this would befor-fixed recorded easements.. Councilman. Davey moved the -adoption of the -resolution as- adopted by,the--Planning Commission.. The motion was seconded by Councilman Fowle: and passed unanimously.. BUCMORB •�. Commissioner Dawson�reported that the Planning: Commission ROBERT recommended approval.of`the request for variance,, stating; (V=284 -67)i - that 'the house was constructed 75" from they property line.. Variance fcr� Pool and Councilman-Aikenmoved approval of the variance-asrecommen- Recreation ded' by the Planning. Commission.. Notion was seconded by Room Councilman Benson and passed unanimously.. -5- • Jr' Oo i4tman pow1q',suggested that the Zoning Ordinance be re- - �Shcwiih regard -to setback requirements for swimming pools. Commissioner Dawson.' reported that the Planning Commission r - commended approval of the reduction of three feet (3'). Upon Motion by Councilman _Aikent second by Councilman Fowles theCouncil'- unanimously approved the request of Gale Engle as recommended by the Planning Commission. ZONING ORDINANCE E"NGLE , GALE (V-285•67) Variance for Pool Storage Building. The City Manager reported that the Palo Alto School District .REPORT ON was presently having an appraisal made of the Little League_ NEGOTIATIONS property and further negotiations will be held on receipt of WITH PALO. the appraisal. " ALTO. SCHOOL DISTRICT The Manager stated the .request was made to have the improve- ments in Tract No. 4158, completed to date,, approved. .Appro- val has been recommended by the City Engineer. Resolution No. 404, accepting ir„provemer.ts in Montebello Heights, Tract No, 41580 was presentee and read by the City Attorney. . Upon motion by Councilman :Fowler second by Councilman Davey;. the Council adopted Resolution No. A04 by Roll Call Vote. Absents None. . The City Manager explained that the Troas•arex°s report will be submitted at the next meeting; that due to closingcntrios beingmadefor the fiscalyear, itis not yet available. Mr. M. Bennedson,-Engineer, Charles S. McCandless Company, presented copies of the preliminary --'raft of a report for the Council to study prior to completion of the final report. The Mayor announced that he has written several persons in- viting them to serve on the Citizens Drainage Committee, but has not heard from all of them. The Clark was requested to contact the persons who have not responded. CouncilmanAikencommented to Mr, Bennedson that his remarks at -a previous`meeting, relative to retaining an outside engi- neering firm to conduct a study on alternative methods of sewage disposal, were not intended as a criticism on the Charles S. McCandless Company.. Mr. .Benne son statae that this was under- stood by the Company.. Robin D,"Faisant,-.City Attorney, referred to communications read earlier regarding grading on the property at 26777 Elena Road.. He stated that An inspection was made of the site by him. the City Engineer,.the City Manager and the Building Inspector. and it was determined that there had been a violation of the Town is Grading Ordinance.. He reported that a temporary restrain- ing order was signed toobtair c-.:porary injunction; that this matter is now in the hands of the Sheriff's Department for ser- vice. 6 - ACCEPTANCE OF Ra'ROVS,- MENTS IN MONTEBELLO, HEIGHTS_ TRACT NO. 4158 REPORT OF THE CIIY TREASURER REPORT OF CITY E.NGL. NEER Drainage Report DRAINAGE COhIMITTFE REPORT OF THE CITY ATTOR:r The City Manager brought to the attention of the Council the CITY b(ANA- Tequest of M. R. Johnson for an extension of time to file a GER'�S'iRERT final map for the former Stedman property (Page Mill Road near SLOPE nThree Forks Lane). Councilman Benson moved approval of a one- M,R. JOHN$ON year extension, to -July 18, 1968.- The motion was seconded Request for by Councilman Aiken, and passed unanimously. Extension of 4.00 P.M., Thursday, July 20th at which time the Council would Time to File The City Manager reported that Mr. Tom Gamboa, developer of Final Subd, Rose Hill Estates, has requested building permits for lots Map in his subdEvision. He was required to install sewers as part of the tract improvements. All installations have been..com- ROSE HILL pleted, and the question of when sewers will be available has ESTATES - The following persons spoke relative to the authority of the Request for arisen. Temporary Mr. Gamboa was informed, by the Health Department, that to Septic Tank secure a Building Permit, the Town will have to request the Permits Health Department to issue a septic tank permit. Mr. Gamboa stated that he has sold nine lots and would like to -be issued temporary septic tank permits until such time as the sewer connections may be made. Following discussion. the Mayor stated that he did not feel the Council was in a position to act on the matters and that he doubted the propriety of the Council suggesting to the Health Department that temporary septic tank permits be issued. At the suggestion of Councilman Aiken, the matter was referred to the Staff and the Mayor for investigation and consultation with the Health Department;. Mr. Morse reported that he had contacted five engineering ENGINEERING firms regarding a study of "slope density" for the Town, that STUDY -. he has received replies from three firms, to date,. namely SLOPE Engineering Sciences, Inc„ Metcalf and Eddy and Jenks & DENSITY Adamson. The Mayor announced that the meeting would be adjourned to 4.00 P.M., Thursday, July 20th at which time the Council would discuss the matter of an engineering firm for the "slope den. sity".study and the City Manager's Memorandum regarding a Planning Consultant. He explained that, after the meeting has been called to order, it would be adjourned to an Execu- tive --Session re: personnel. The following persons spoke relative to the authority of the PRBSENTA- Santa Clara County Health Department and sewers and assess- TIONS FROM ment districts in the Town:. Wanes B. Anderson, P. weisbart, THE FLOOR C. Towle, F. Olgiati, D. Spencer, McGruder, Messrs.. P. C. Burchard, A. Helgesson, and John Parker. Mr. Burchard rczj"c[c '. =F- -ars to his letter, read under -7- U Mrs' ",J, Ronsiek questioned theCoUncil on whether there were vp0L1TloNs penalties for ordinance violations ' and W,h6thar ihe,Co'uncil takes 2§777 .E this,lena action. I swered- The, Mayor an that there are penalties and -Road t0iihe Council does.take thls�ae ion. Mrs. RonslekAsked wh"ih6r. the Council'Plws to'pazspenalties on the violations on 9 the prop . a I Xty a I t 26177 Si6na�Road. The mayor answered that the Council did not plan 'to do so. Bills, in the amo6ot,'of.$3167,.931,, were presented by Coun- WARRANTS CA in Yowiu for payment'. He moved approval' of the bills, as presented. Motion was,. seconded by, C6umanMken, and d i 1. passed by a' Roll tail Vote. Absent:_ None; Councilman Fowle commented that jhejelshbuld,be some thought Orkqitpusl. given to the establishment -of a second This matter was NEW BY, referred to the, Planning Commission. Co4licilmon Council not heard the Sawn "oom- in6ritewer Reports. 6ajb Davoy,6cmiiefited that,the ,Council -had -had y -E.-She ' suggest62.r the Cojjncft'schbdule a MITTER - public meetingt or two,meetings''for th' MINORITY I e Sower Comm ttOe to 1099 discuss and enamor questions on both the minority REPORT reports. The1meet 1n9 shouldb6 widely publicized and under the -direction 1 of the I he rcouncil. Mr. Walto,r, Chairman' of the Sewer. committee, agreed.with this suggestion. Mr. P. C. Burchaid suggested that: the Engineer's ies�ifbility Report be erited at the same f time. s Mr. L. Helgessork�,commented on the ethics'iof the American Engi- EMINSSRS �ntlrl ng!fees,w when ti8n with" r6dard,-�io oers quoting h Si Dan- neering Assoc.. " , ", 'I, L ' p .- . I, ,,, Association I - Aie inquiiep.whother the Council.�planned sizeStudy resekjtpropqpa a .11 select `slope. 'd to se ax, kik� for the 910 - dons ty study on - , i4iAil the L�-� . - 40- th.,beijs;o prior e -am of the irm or th�f quoted. He I dked his- assistance, a the matter. % Mayor Henley stated that the, decision will be made on the qualificaijonsp but that the'cost will be considerod. He asked Mr. Helgesson to meet with Mr.' Moise to discuss the matter MU=ING ADJOURNED: 11:50P.M. to: 7; THURSDAY, JULY 20, 1967 at 4t00 P.M. at the Tom Hall, NEXT REGULAR MRBTING- Monday, August 7, 1967 at 7.45 P.M. ctfu ly s ubmitted, RAN City Clerk 7/17/67 Tom of Los Altos Hills first, I would like to clarify the status of the County Health Daportrnt and Dr. Turner, the County Health Officer, serving se the Los Altos Hills Tem Health Ultiear. We are the Health Department and Dr. Tartar is the Health Officer by virtue of a request by the Tows Cooncil formulated in secerdonee with applicantu prooisions of the Stets Health and Safety Code. The action taken was identical to that taken by wary other city in the State located in a county with an established county health department with the eacept Loo of the Cities of San Jose, Berkeley, Albany and Vernon. This is appropriate sine each ofty or county te.Advot eakes his proportionate tax: contribution to the fumctiomina of the county health departrat. Notwithstanding the may contrary statements eede ly the sewer opponents, w is the County Health Department are confident that we have provided a sewage disposal controlliag agency far superior to that which any +ussteur Sroup could was, apptoacb. Nee the wall figure quoted by the opponents, 22 percent failures, constitutes in our minds a high degree of success in view of the Severally adverse moll and topographic cosditime. The sever opponents have been most free amd quite inaccurate with regard to ell of their presentations relating to the Hater Qeality Control Board and San Francisco Lay. Since it is their purpose to discredit savers, it may be they feel that the end Justifies the rens ad to these lwccureclea are forSiv- able. Howevm , it way be more charitable to credit these inaccuracies to thelt lack of real ktu Ledgr on the subject. - Is a latter to the editor, one of the sever opponents included a statement that "450 billion gallons of sewage are pumped tutu the Say every day". In the official report of the Sea Francisco My eaetsecl Yater Quality Central 4etd roseeM their r.eenty dgtM policy (,Irma U, 1067) it to stated that. ad I par, 'ebres hrserd ad ewer eight million gslloec at ger @sage ad tadeurhel mast" ave dl.abagme daily brise dey.wastber to the heel Motors d &0e OF Spot= free 77 ONWAr00r OmmW oyster'. Obviously the waiter I$ soserbec is eesara Of 1,000 then Is error. Chars Nen base I d KKeaaats by the sugar Oppresses ragedhM as palliated a". I amid lite to pots sees tree the eMeed report, oft pmtlq of the water of ten tramcieec bey has ereeitly Imposed teen theadsd"i" WM misted 17 yews ager. It has Men atated a member d time. enc three of as sem are truly farlliog with tin may and with apo sengp PMUene Is ihr sten see attaot, that for • amahar of yrsrs the "waters been bosime teerotalMly boost is polity. This sous rt of seems deep that ughr pal/q sed"O ds 4" s be required or Imposed. eat to state that tin prep to a eeortoel or to imply that water taditioss ewe worse" is a false strumae. The serer oppoaaats baso rde the slstsmwt. d I recall, t►at Cecos ad raatac order$ have Nes Cawed MOLDS& ell of the eOMO Clens Caney e..h.grer aed they Ass Nos ordered to cosec diesbaMLM tate the M• this statement is again a fates one saw" only Mohacs is to bolster see of the ori-owoemeeo ehhab is itself has DS tignifiewt Oasis or color. /trot, rely the Cities of heeywato, S" .lore, and Yilpitcs are seder Cosec ad moist orders. seesdly. Moab w0we aro net preitire actioss bat • deer! that the dioshareer "a" ►U Violation d or or mora ropireme"s ret by tab More ad that be eshrtt as acceptable time "bodule for correetiM there ViolatioDS. It ebreld be poLsted eat that &hr Mamhetfo ropirem nt• got by the WN fw a pOrtiwtar discharger lmeldo a asMsr of 4 physical red chemical characteristics obieh the disabuse.+ efflsemt or the M"Ivks - y - voter son pact. as Indices to s r! eery of toes otaeatgd, .t aa► pol""W t&m e.patltetee a 'violative of eb wlolrenettee. If She Violations of a pgble- star raplrd,m t pertlsts, eb Iced OW ad Isagacaaly am some a soma eggaa od Mlat grace. It is at" pfttamt to eb /&atom to reatbm Nm em+ INob mews cook V is fast rayraet tb languages Of a minae ed le"M edm es abt tb" o" raoofac adotlnd poise ad, obtain Nope pYetts art as receipt at federal Crests-la-eld for Necessary conservation ad lnerwmems. He ewer opponents opal rotor Slimy cbct the tom ~be a BOB peptic tai *Tots=" wits cm peptic tai stand.ads and rapingaaes so Who. a Monitory eeglow" or otMr eerpseas to swim par approve pmcod owmlw lmtaltatfam ad to rnprrles mimaaamac so tboss "Stam. Tb flexr Mounting apsersl Act to the Rate Mtw Cot "Wan tbct mpoe P "Osa" to Mmaoep Scamp stoat them too a Public now mm first db a scI of sorb p,ma to the Mgiand Mese" lty Omcrel .east blab them alto as coosehme mot ad,"% the discam o my tab Sines. !b Bonn* "tree the got" Qpaltty *MOM Based and we ape else the aetb$Mp to 9"" tytttq a "nobwo of comp ham Iadly dwelling.. in the w Promised, OF anon We vola W bon ode bF Merl resolution to the eoePnctlre ma ty baits dopRwts ablob here eseeb- &low pptla tai Progress send' paclalmtory, by tb speed. Only Nd, ass/seal Miter Quality contest Mod or the own" to shoo It toxo w a mnleat W the authority to P.r.lt and MOtWO indls deal peptic tai trullotlmp ad tblo does act include the town Council of W Aloe Bills. IN Ounce CISH Oaaap• the anly agency %blob bpe baa given this unlrer U as county Malth O4aremW. The Osaltb Mprtmot baa boo accused et ecars tasetec. It Olde b mil 4 to cab a elect* or two to Place this ldso late its papas Pwgetttse. so Malt\ officer ha* the legal and oral roapaoiblliry to protect aM l+two 00 Poona boltb of the annuity ad eu 1eddSa eb oltd"tlgm of boom Mosess. It soy be well to give the tlwisawy tettdtue gw '60ne w dM oum f• M dwdehtwetitg of out ate M weoatS Oriel 4setorl tRttt also. o wwot d tier. Sometimes we atf aha end 'yetwtisim. 89e0*10 Age Y sopmusA ma� potent" is 4timd as "soutit is PossthtRy. an N Seawater. so Somme to tha obligations sof rmyw.uUitl" « the ewte offioso wmelaw levet of a trwr anew of too new appo w". ib new Ur W tem In 064 and M tb Sam desiring a .over osmo"ion Seco. a "Mots theeat to • oser tptowt SIR at wattle in tee tote" W opponent sap M tasty eie salts person" sostrs" atest. A problem of personal lose or Sensed gab News that of tea swMMs". wbeene hat been gab to an rtyyhatt ever .cors': last your too so" Sweetmeat Sots an a"hatu to tha typeu fowl wasMttiel". a" Poet N to .d trim w tree baseman we an rwluts. With W atm sitanue, ave bMeft we sppatmat. It to mwf to nle ars'* had Lob toe now AO loop at thaMtwd a0ngtca; armcer, the lospiet 4 weepy bn u rites and own mRw leve sot Is down to lel► wt• wit two • tot" ogees me ee■nuy. The Stwbd waw iosel.sa in to t7Pr0ia lover tettroe w" mot Pontiac to their sopors. to ine rly emetic siseaoss Mur is tett iswmtr7 we agent torgottes. t ao*Aw of Our "any "sheet• io0lm"M WStwra. teoteuiaso sM alrlue ptMa ars ping fab sews tAsrs tont of testa Siaawso w owing" ad eenratR OWNS M $" *a Clare County Miehar team • Po"iNa iafesties son octan. be "no~ own placed .oast coat"l. My public health Pers" *0 welt swreciat0 tet toflommss and Pon**%* effect of to preset" of ll "Ofirwea 0000 of t7peoig feat Y w d.)Sfely community vol Nitaly welvs a" psSe9u roars is tau nos w0rs n"towatwt s• ogtte two are a must of punks memo amid M rtjegelly slyest to were wufaim. I amu propme as W merlat.n tmeead y N4 Two 0rr61 see now of the sent -ewer r<^b be melon" to dos" tree llje. ab w ger a w or moody onium Ver altt.reey sees m dw41.a tam pefrb war of ingestion of this 11eetta-lemstlmt hsHlse@V dgesrms ere wit bomb It rY pent ed eeddwl and Pause bei► pals. 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' a r ser apimtr tot torsi" arra we Non rl be 400wo`so aeeaa" on Rete ser to spite anti tom. w nod Molder U a Moae out u Ye an to w mmegt .tam ptmlmeet. 7aH owN M mrmYt" yet t ie ane ase eras '"090911e . IN tin met ce simtse bars tws" tea hd sm walk a Vele art K 40101. st-7/N/a7 6 11� tletr"61cal tKNt 446 74"If N"tb am t♦gtit`fwo ce"t OW46 own"". U�trSMrs,. >Mbf, [obLLc boalth'tagLoont Wta boBroo Ceooty Mltb tl.pOee�nt. $"italotloNr. C6o►e of se...t�. Hlii!-�7: both Cteillga me Ottiew skit" -row/tem for preparation of oetorld In 400 toobolralvqirl Soottery zeas . Otftan ot':Caemtraot6N QII tnMYatn[.. IMl• .. ,y1, 1iAlllOhio t1 Ntlleatki tr<enftif+N►-�t, . Mitt -;aportnantmimwr- asi" Y.c dpwrr Tmiigmaimer. i ofpeb►tewtts P36-M Asaiftonc Prd%semr Ipatt-ti n) Cita *4120ariah"/octant S" Jose siito • tfl7-Sf .A Mcholpt at/Nyto7: of ift1' to CYwNs 7bonitty. wiveral. *8 Tampa Nil�gar of toleoee to taattaty. ta{iNec"_ Haser6 untuwoity a jlofessiarl Afti►lAtfN• Registered Protaasiemal Cirilk%mita1 taSioear - Coliforsts. Diplomat. Artisan Academy of EmiroemNtal tr4imaers ►cllw, Arrican Pub1Lc tNltb Association 7lsebar, Arricaa Society of CLr11 tot/aaers Life Member, Amaritae Yater Yorks AssocisCLN member, Nater Pollution Control federstim 7/11/67 O �i CITIZENS COMMITTEE STUDYING SEWERS IN LOS ALTOS HILLS INTRODUCTION: This Committee was appointed by the Mayor to study the overall question of sani- tary sewering as problem in the Town of Los Altos Hills. In order to arrive at a logical conclusion, the Committee set out to investigate the need for sewers, the cost, advantages and disadvantages, and their alternatives. Each of these areas was studied extensively, although not necessarily in the order stated. CONCLUSIONS: It is the conclusion of this Committee that the residents of the Town of Los Altos Hills should have sewers made accessible to them, specifically, the Committee recommends that the Town immediately proceed with thefinancingand construction of the trunk system as proposed in the City Engineer's Report. It would then possi— - ble to form relatively small assessment districts to provide a collection system in the areas requiring sewers. The Committee does not feel it is necessary or desirable to attempt to sewer the entire Town at once. Indeed, we strongly recom- mend a built-in protection for homeowners who do not have a need for sewers.. Specifically, we feel that the need for the trunk line system is a community -wide. problem and its cost should be spread on a community -wide basis. Following the construction of the trunk line system, individual areas could form assessment districts to construct collection systems, only as the need became evident. The cost collector systems within an assessment district. is shared only by the bene- fiting property owners. We recommend that property owners be permitted to defer their personal hook-ups until failure of their septic tank systems occur unless they are required to hook up by the Health Department. This would permit the homeowner to defer the cost of his actual connection until he receivedthe direct benefit. He would, however, have paidthe assessment for the collection system which would be his 'insurance' if and when his septic tank system fails. It is. the opinion of the Committee that routine maintenance of the septic tank system, such as pumping of a septic tank, should not be considered a failure. REPORT OF CITIZENS COMMITTEE STUDYING SEWERS IN LOS ALTOS HILLS - CONT'D. OTHER RECO141ENDATIONS: The Committee strongly recommends additions and/or changes to the Town ordinances to implement our earlier recommendations as well as to strengthen enforcement procedures. Specifically, we recommend the following: 1. A change in the ordinance requiring hook-up to sewers which are within 200 feet of the lot. This is required to permit the 'delayed hook-up plan' previously des-- cribed. This change should only apply to existing septic tanks. No new construc- tion should be permitted on septic tanks if it is feasible to obtain sewers. 2. A new ordinance should be passed requiring that failures of septic tank systems be reported to the Town and a permit be issued for their repair. This is sug- gested to assure that adequate repairs are made and a legal solution applied to the problems. 3. Ordinances requiring Health Department approval of septic tank plans be strengthened by upgrading the requirements of septic tank systems. Since it is evident that many areas of the Town will continue to be built using septic tanks, greater restrictions should be placed on field changes which are allowed during construction. Inspection procedures should be tightened to assure that systems are properly installed and functioning before approval is given. 4. We feel that consistent and speedy enforcement of the existing regulations concerning overflowing septic tanks or leakage of drainfield effluent should be made. The Committee was shocked at the apparent number of cases which have existed for years and have not been corrected. 5. We recommend that the Town diligently pursuethe problem of ground water drainage which has definitely contributed to the failure of existing septic tank systems, as well as spreading the effect of septic tank systems which failed for other reasons. We feel that considerably more attention must be paid to drainage -' problems in site plan approval for all new construction. -2- REPORT OF CITIZENS COMMITTEE STUDYING SEWERS IN LOS ALTOS HILLS - CONT'D. 6. Finally, we propose that this Committee continue in existence to advise the Council on the implementation of its recommendations. Specifically, we feel ''hat we should, in conjunction with outside consultants, develop and support a plan for financing a. sewer system. PRESENT DISPOSAL METHODS: Except for a few areas of the Town already on sewers, .the present method of disposal is through the use of individual septic tank-drainfield systems. The use of such a system is subject to the approval of the Santa Clara County Health Department. The design of these systems, including the amount of drainfield required, is speci- fied by code. The supervision of installation, as well as final inspection and approval, is performed by Health Department personnel. Evidence presented the Committee indicates that, in the proper invironment, a properly designed and main- tained system will operate satisfactorily for many years. Unfortunately, this has not prevented many failures in Los Altos Hills. SEPTIC TANK FAILURES: The failure of a septic tank drainfield system is evidenced in one of two ways. The first, 'backing -up' of the plumbing facilities is the most drastic from the standpoint of the homeowner. The second, is the surfacing of the effluent from the drainfield. Although this ray not create a nuisance from the standpoint of the homeowner (indeed the homeowner may not know it has happened) it presents a far more serious nuisance to the community as a whole. The full impact of these failures will be discussed later. The direct cause of failure, in either case, is the inability of the drainfield to properly disperse the effluent into the ground. All of the experts heard by the Committee agree up to this point. There is, however, divergent opinion as to why drainfield fails to perform. Some testimony indicated that any drainfield will eventually clog given enough time. Other testimony indicates that poor ( basic design, poor construction practices or poor maintenance practices are the cause. Much of the evidence centered on the soil found in Los Altos Hills. Cer- tainly it is agreed that none of the soil is ideal for septic tank drainfields -3- REPORT OF CITIZENS COMMITTEE STUDYING SEWERS IN LOS ALTOS HILLS - CONT'D. 1.� and that some is very poor. The only clear pattern which seems to emerge is that failures increase with the age of the installation and the density of development in the area. Ground water, either standing on or flowing through drainfield, also contributes greatly to the failure rate. THE EFFECT OF SEPTIC. TANK SYSTEMS FAILURES --TO THE HOMEOWNERS: As mention@d previously, the 'backing -up' of plumbing facilities is the most serious failure from the standpoint of the homeowner. While this problem may seriously in- convenience the homeowner, it is not considered a health hazard by the Health De- partment. The homeowner, however, at the minimum, finds life unenjoyable. At the extreme he may find his house uninhabitable. This has occurred in varying degrees to many persons in. the course of the extremely wet winter experienced this year. THE EFFECT OF SEPTIC TANK SYSTEMS FAILURES --TO THE COMMUNITY: As indicated above the strictly internal failure of a septic tank system is not con- sidered a community problem, except when the aggregate number of failures becomes large enough and well ]mown enough to affect property values. On the other had, failures of the type evidenced by the surfacing of the effluent immediately become a community problem. At the least, this would constitute a nuisance in that it may permeate the area with a bad odor and provide a breeding place for insects. The Health Department has clearly stated, on numerous occasions, and the majority of this Committee agrees, that water -borne diseases such as salmonella, typhoid, and hepatitis can be transmitted by the effluent of faulty septic tank systems. The fact that this has not yet occurred in Los Altos Hills doe not diminish the clear danger that it could occur. Since the vast majority of the people who live in the Bay Area, or come from other urban areas, are used to sewage systems, the imminent danger of septic tank fail- ure has undoubtedly prevented the appreciation of the property values as experienced elsewhere in the Hay Area. IMPROVED SEPTIC SYSTEMS: The Committee has received a report from a consultant on septic tank systems. This report proposes that the Town hire a designer, a consultant, and a full time engineer to undertake the design of the new septic tank systems to be installed within the Town, and the upgreading of systems which may fail. In addition, he proposes that _4_ REPORT OF CITIZENS COIR-0ITTEE STUDYING ST-VMRS IN LOS ALTOS HILLS - CONTINUED the Town undertake the maintenance of all existing systems within the Town. while all members of the Committee are agreed that septic tank systems probably could be designed more efficiently and constructed more carefully, the majority of the Com- mittee did not feel that this consultant offered a strong enough plan to insure a permanent solution to the problem. The proposal did not offer sufficient evidence to guarantee that people with present day problems would not have to spend many dol- lars for a temporary solution and still eventually pay for their share of a sewer system. The basic concern of the majority of the Committee was that none of the systems designed by this consultant have been in service long enough to insure a prolonged life. It is also questionable whether it is legal or desirable for the Town to assure design and maintenance responsibility for private property. TRUNK LINE SEWER SYSTEM: The City Engineer has prepared an engineering report concerning the feasibility of constructing a trunk line sewer system within the Town of Los Altos Hills. This re- port proposes a trunk line system designed to serve the entire Town at its ultimate development under existing zoning. As pointed out, in the Engineer's Report, natural gravity flow will take part of the Town's sewage to Palo ;.Ito and pant to Los Altos. An agreement already exists with the City of Los Altos which would enable us to con- nect to their disposal system. In order to implement completely the trunk system outlined in the Engineer's Report; an agreement has been negotiated with Palo Alto permitting discharge of sewerage into its system and through its treatment plant. The Committee cannot pass judgement as to the provisions of this contract. It was negotiated at arms -length with Palo Alto officials and the terms were the best obtain- able by our officials, authorized to do the negotiating. It is the essential missing link for providing sewers in the sewer assessment district now in the process of forma- tion. The Committee therefore recommends that the contract be signed at a time con- sidered appropriate, if adequate financing is arranged. It is the Committee's opinion that unless this is done many property owners now desiring sewers will be deprived of them by those who do not presently desire them. Should the signing be too long delayed, it is problematical if as favorable a contract could be negotiated in the future. SEWER COLLECTION SYSTEM: In addition to a trunk line system a sewer system must also include a collection i 1 system. This is a network of smaller pipes designed to bring sewage from individual households to the trunk systems. The householder is then responsible for the line between his house and the collection system. The householder will also be required -5- REPORT OF CITIZENS COMMITTEE STUDYING SEWERS IN LOS ALTOS HILLS - CONT'D. to pay a connection fee which essentially is a charge 'to buy capacity' in the facilities in either Los Altos or Palo Alto. DATED: June 30, 1969 k) Respectfully submitted, CHARLES A. WALTER, Chairman Mrs. G. Boege Mrs. Richard Towle Mrs. Seth Anders9n--. ._._ F E. A. Breyman Preston C.Burchar -a/ . Martin E. Packard -6- R3COMENDATIONS FOR IMPROVED SEPTIC SYSTEHS At the first meeting of the Sewer Conuittee, the following outline was suggested as a study guide: . 1.. There is there a septic tank failure at present and why? a) dThat are the alternatives 1) Sewers a. Costs, advantages and disadvantages 2) Others a. Costs, advantages and disadvantages This report follows that outline. 1. :'There is there a septic tank failure and why? - Should read, where are there septic system failures and why? The committee found it difficult to determine where there are septic system failures. The Health Department admits that its map is not accurate as it in- cluded all known failures, repaired or otherwise, over a several year period. He did not acquire any firm indication of a substantial degree of failures in tL•e town. However, there are septic systems that have failed and a solution. for those and failures in the Future is essential. Careful consideration of why septic systems have failed is important. It was generally believed that poor soil was the basic cause of septic system failure. Yet, the majority of the septic systems function quite well in our "poor soil". Testimony presented to the committee indicates, in fact, that "poor soil" could well be the least of the causes of failure. Poor design, poor inspection, poor construction, poor maintenance, poor planning, poor follow through on subdivision requirements, and excess ground water, sin;il.y or in combination, appear to have caused more failures than can be attributed to "poor soil". a. Khat are the alternatives? 1. Sewers - costs, advantages and disadvantages There are still too many unknowns about the cost of sewers to put an actual pricetag on thea. The following is !mown: In new subdivisions they will most likely be less expensive than in developed areas; in the Fremont Hills area the total cost of converting to sewers will be in excess of $3,000; the cost may be slightly less in other developed areas, depending upon topography. There is only one real advantage to sewers - they have the appearance of pro- viding a convenient solution to the problem. Although they supposedly require little attention once installed, it is -worth noting that the"little attention" costs $60,000 a year if we have 1500 haoes using sewers. The life span of sewers is considered another advantage - however, the pollution of Bays, rivers and lakes is causing serious consideration of means of sewage disposal other than sewers. There are many disadvantages to sewers. They include the following: high cost; increase in Bay pollution; probable further assessments to improve disposal plants; inevitable landscape damage during construction; increase in taxes due to increase in property value; removal of moisture from the soil; and the length of time before a sewer system can be installed. -1- 2. Laprovcd Septic Systems - Costs, advantages and disadvantages. The costs of improved septic systems for most residents would be substantially less than the costs of sewers. Por new subdivisions, the cost of a complete improved septic system per homesite would be less than the cost eP sewers per honesite. The few existing residents who might require entirely new systems would save several hundred dollars. The majority of existing residents would sav= up to the total cost of sewers. The advantages for improved septic systems include: less expensive; very little disruption for installation; they would not increase Bay pollution; those septic systems that have failed could be corrected before this winter; retention of moisture in our soil; no increase in taxes due to increase in proaerty value; a long life span; they would not force unnecessary costs on any residents. The disadvantages of improved septic systems are: the need for regular maintenance - not a major problem if handled by the town or a sanitary district; the need to have a man available with the necessary training to design improved syste_is. The resistance to the idea by the County Health Department and those residents who have had, or now have major septic systen problems could be considered a disadvantage. 7/3/67 -nam -2- Respectfully submitted, Carolyn R. Towle (Mrs. R. :J.) MINORITY REPORT OF SEWER COMMITTEE �j SE:,lFRS OR SEPTIC TANKS? June 28, 1967 Our general viewpoint is that no standardized solution seems to fit the waste -disposal problem in Los Altos Uills. We object to the myth that "all areas need sanitary sewers." Most members of the Sewer Committee at some time during the discussions felt that we could accept a compromise solution to our problems--townwide financial support of trunk lines combined with small assessment districts for collection systems, and hookup necessary only upon failure of a septic system. Also, at the time of the last election there seemed to be a consensus of town opinion that areas without problems should not have sewers forced upon them. Now; in the shape of the proposed contract with Palo Alto, we have a solution which will shortly compel the formation of inclusive assessment districts in order to pay off the contract. We feel that vie must indicate our disagreement with any such solution and therefore we are filing this minority report... The virtual unanimity of the Sewer Committee was strained to the breaking point before the contract annoyncgment by mounting pressures for sewers. Foremost was the unfortunate attempt by the County Health Department to connect the typhoid outbreak at Stanford with septic tank problems in Los Altos Hills. The emotional atmosphere in which Assessment District #3 was launched added to the pressure on the Committee and on the Council. The Committee members, with a wide spectrum of viewpoints, started on their hearings with a sincere attempt to be objective and with a clear statement by the Health Department that it was against their policy to scare people into agreeing with them. We met at regular intervals and looked over per- tinent information up to, but not including, the contract with Palo Alto. We cannot see how the Committee could have done any less or concluded any sooner, and we commend Chairman Walter's patience and fairness. Our basic viewpoint, however, differs from the majority. '-fie believe that it is extremely unwise to abandon any functioning; septic systems in order to connect with sewage disposal plant',5 which are`, polluting the bay. We are in sympathy with the Water Control $gard!s objegtive of establishing secondary treatment plants and cleaning up the Bay, but we feel that eventually the population problem will force us to use 311 valid waste disposal methods -- sewers and improved septic systems --in order to keep the whole pollution problem within bounds. Why should we compound the "population explosion" with a "sewer eyplosion"? Los Altos Hills has the opportunity to be the very first community to call a halt in the name of common sense. Common sense will also help us to evaluate the hazard to health. Septic systems are a local waste disposal which takes care of some health problems not solved by present sewage plants. Hepatitis, a serious contemporary scourge, is not eliminated in present sewage treatment plants, but is effectively buried in a properly constructed septic system. Large scale �) typhoid epidemics are usually traced to contamination of water supplies by sewage inadequately treated. We have not been informed of any actual case of typhoid transmitted by an overflowing septic system. The point here is: 'Minority Report (cont'd.) 6/28/67 what is the actual hazard to public health rather than the theoretical hazard and we conclude that sewers are a greater hazard. In case of a national or regional disaster an area served by septic systems will be much safer than one served by a non-functioning sewer system. We conclude that the health argument is perpetuated by public health officials mainly because health is the only legal basis for enforcing sewers. Oe feel that the present availability of improved septic systems and the acre minimum in Los Altos Hills give us the means and the space to solve our own problem and keep our independence. As an alternative to wholesale sewering of Los Altos Hills, we would like to suggest one more solution, realizing there are several: The boundaries of Sewer Assessment District #3 could be changed to encompass only the lowest portion of Fremont Hills that is having a present day septic system failures, and these homes could be sewered through the trunk line serving the school in the same way that a group of people were taken in to the trunk lines near Foothill College, Purissima School and Bullis School. Since the Fremont Hills school line was financed by taxpayers with the idea of future use by residents as_a rebate to Palo Alto School District, some of the residents being Palo Altans, we do not see how Palo Alto can refuse us the use of this line. Since Los Altos is agreeable to adding a district at a time to its sewer system, Summerhill and Hilltop areas could be served by extension of the Magdalena trunk line. This plan would take care of the more developed areas seeming to have the greatest concentration of septic system failures and leave the major part of the residents to take care of their waste disposal as now provided for by present ordinances, which should be strergthened and enforced. In this connection we see everywhere evidence that septic systems are not given a chance to work properly because ground water is not diverted around drainfields. Drainswhichwere required of subdividers in lot plans were sometimes never installed. The requirement of the Health Department that lot owners in new subdivisions must agree not to oppose the formation of sewer assessment districts, in return for approval of septic tanks, leaves the subdivider in an awkward position and has undoubtedly hampered development. Some subdividers have shown interest in improved septic systems and would undoubtedly accept these as an alternative to installing sewers. The developer deserves a stable policy from the Town but this policy should not result in sewers being forced on neighboring residents by subdividers. 'We also feel it is very poor policy for the Health Department to issue permits for temporary septic tanks. We hope that the Council will seriously consider this minority viewpoint of the sewer committee. In the practical solution offered, it is a. variation of and not a contradiction of the majority report favoring trunk lines and small assessment districts and might be reconciled by further meetings. At the last meeting of the Sewer Committee however, the Councilmen present indicated they felt the solution advocated by the proposed report was not possible, and therefore we have discussed other alternatives. Respectfully submitted, /s/ Elizabeth Ross Anderson 6/28/67 -nam /s/ Preston Burchard _2_ i July 3, 1467 Town Council Town of Los Altos Hills Los Altos Hills, California Dear Sirs and Madam. Careful evaluation of the testimony given. to the Sewer Comm. ittee shows that the best solution to the sewage problem in Los Altos Hills is the improved septic system plan. To condemn all septic systems because up to one-fifth have failed to some degree is an unfortunate mistake. With the knowledge that poor design, poor inspection, poor construction, poor maintenance, poor planning, poor follow through on subdivision requirements, singly or in combination, have been major causes of septic system failures, there is no basis fox the assumption that improved septic systems can not work. Our town has the opportunity to take careof its sewage without increasing Bay Pollution. We have an obligation to do this. Sewers are no longer -a satisfactory solution. It is possible that sewers can not even be considered a long range solution. The enclosed report is respectfully submitted for Council considera- tion, with the hope that it will shed new light on possible solutions to our sewage disposal needs. Sincerely, /s/ Carolyn R. Towle CAROLYN R. TOILS (Mrs. R. `'d. Towle)