HomeMy WebLinkAbout7.1Minutes of a Special Meeting
Town of Los Altos Hills
PLANNING COMMISSION
Thursday, May 08, 2014, 7:00 P.M.
Council Chambers, 26379 Fremont Road Los Altos Hills, CA 94022
ITEM 7.1
Note: This document contains links that work in combination with the online version of the
Minutes. http://www.losaltoshills.ca.gov/city-government/planning-commission/reports
1. ROLL CALL AND PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Present: Chair Abraham, Commissioner Couperus, Commissioner Mandle,
Commissioner Partridge, Commissioner Tankha
Staff: Debbie Pedro, Community Development Director; Richard Chiu, Public
Works Director; Nicole Horvitz, Assistant Planner; Jaime McAvoy, Planning
Secretary
2. PRESENTATIONS FROM THE FLOOR
There were no presentations from the floor.
3. PUBLIC HEARINGS
3_1 LANDS OF SEGO & ZHUO; 13140 Avila Court, File 4107-13-ZP-SD-GD; A
request for a Site Development Pen -nit for a new 9,981 square foot two story
residence (maximum height 27') and a 925 square foot swimming pool with a spa.
A ten foot wide off-road pathway easement and the construction of a native path is
required along a portion of the west property line. In addition, the applicant is
proposing to remove one (1) 14" heritage oak tree. CEQA Review: Categorical
Exemption per Section 15303 (a) & (e) (Staff- Nicole Horvitz).
Ex Parte Communications: Commissioners Couperus, Partridge, and Tankha
reported that they had not spoken with anyone regarding this project.
\ Commissioner Mandle reported that she had met with applicant Mike Sego. Chair
Abraham reported that he had also spoken with Mr. Sego.
Assistant Planner Nicole Horvitz presented the staff report.
Planning Commission Special Meeting Minutes
May 8, 2014
Commissioner Tankha mentioned the 2005 Master Path Plan Update, and how the
Pathways Committee had decided to remove this off-road path as it had become
redundant. She inquired if this had been considered when the Committee voted to
uphold their decision to request a Pathway easement at this segment of the property.
Community Development Director Debbie Pedro deferred to the Pathway
Committee Chair, who spoke later in the meeting.
Commissioner Mandle asked what the process would be, should the Commission
decide to remove or relocate the pathway. Director Pedro said relocating the
pathway would be appropriate as long as the pathway connection remains, but to
remove it completely would mean a General Plan amendment that requires City
Council approval.
The Commission engaged in discussion over the pathway system, its accessibility,
and its necessity.
Director Pedro informed the Commissioners of their options for ruling tonight, and
that their decision needs to be based on the Master Path Map. If they decide the
pathway should go on the property but not be constructed at this time, they should
ask for an in -lieu fee. If they decide the pathway should go on the neighboring
property, they should ask the applicant for an in -lieu fee.
Chair Abraham opened the PUBLIC HEARING.
Applicant Mike Sego, spoke on behalf of his project/request and provided a
powerpoint presentation.
Commission asked questions of the applicant.
Andrew Cheng, Los Altos Hills, next door neighbor, shared Mr. Sego's concerns
over the obtrusiveness of the proposed pathway easement.
Chair Abraham asked Mr. Cheng which option would be worse; to put the
pathway on his property or Mr. Sego's property? Mr. Cheng stated he could not
answer that, as both options were undesirable.
Peter Deng, Los Altos Hills, stated his discomfort when walking on a pathway that
is close to a resident's home.
Commission asked questions of Pathways Committee (PWC) Chair Joseph
Kleitman. Mr. Kleitman discussed the PWC's recommendations and why they
were made.
Mr. Sego and Ms. Zhuo gave their closing statements.
Chair Abraham closed the PUBLIC HEARING.
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May 8, 2014
Commissioner Tankha stated her support of the pathway system, but recognized
how this path could be intrusive. She expressed concerns regarding the privacy of
residents.
Commissioner Partridge emphasized that this was part of the General Plan. He
suggested taking a narrower easement, perhaps only five (5) feet, and that the
Commission require the easement without the construction of the pathway to give
time to consider an update and whether or not this is the best location for the
pathway. He supported the acquisition of the easement but was willing to look at
options.
Commissioner Mandle agreed with Commissioner Partridge. She stated that the
location of the easement on the property was more of an issue than the distance
from the home. She supported the suggestion of moving the easement to the
neighbor's property and reducing the size.
Commissioner Couperus discussed the location of the pathway and that many off-
road paths in Town are close to homes are built at the setback line. He supported
Commissioner Partridge's recommendation to request a smaller easement and hold
off on construction until necessary.
Chair Abraham agreed with Commissioner Mandle's suggestion to have the
applicant pay an in -lieu fee, and that the Town request for an easement when new
development occurs on the Lands of Cheng.
MOTION MADE AND SECONDED: Commissioner Counerus moved to
approve a request for a Site Development Permit for a new 9,981 square foot two
story residence (maximum height 2T) and a 925 square foot swimming pool with a
spa, and the removal of one (1) 14" heritage oak tree. In addition the Planning
Commission requests a five (5) foot pathway easement where ten (10) feet is
usually required, but would not require the path to be built at this time. The motion
was seconded by Commissioner Partridge.
AYES: Commissioner Couperus, Commissioner Partridge
NOES: Chair Abraham. Commissioner Mandle, Commissioner
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ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
MOTION FAILED 2-3.
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May 8, 2014
MOTION MADE AND SECONDED: Commissioner Mandle moved to approve
a request for a Site Development Permit for a new 9.981 square foot two story
residence (maximum height 27') and a 925 square foot swimming pool with a spa
and the removal of one (1) 14" heritage oak tree. The applicant shall pay an in -lieu
fee as the Planning Commission finds this segment of the pathway is more suitable
to be located on the neighboring propegy based on topography, lower elevations
and reduced privacypacts. In addition, Conditions 28 and 29 shall be removed
and Condition 23 shall be modified to comply with any revised Wildland Urban
Interface Map developed during the course of this project. The motion was
seconded by Commissioner Tankha.
AYES: Chair Abraham. Commissioner Mandle. Commissioner
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NOES: Commissioner CoUerus, Commissioner Partridge
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
MOTION CARRIED 3-2.
3_2 DISCUSSION OF FLOOR AREA DEFINITION (Title 10, Chapter 1, Article 2 of
the Los Altos Hills Municipal Code) (Staff- Nicole Horvitz).
Assistant Planner Nicole Horvitz presented the staff report.
Scott Stotler, Stotler Design Group, provided an example of a house that exceeds
the 17' criteria, and shared why he thought the ordinance should be changed.
Chair Abraham opened the floor to public comment.
Daryl Harris, RH Associates, stated that the new interpretation is not a
clarification, but a change to the way the code has been enforced over the years.
Manjal Schroff, Los Altos Hills, said that his home was used as Mr. Stotler's
example as his home is currently under review. He expressed concern that this
would affect his current application.
Terry Couture, works in Los Altos Hills, stated that these standards need to be
clear to those buying the lots as inconsistency can cause property values to decline.
Bob Sendor, Los Altos Hills, stated his support of maximizing the utility of the
land.
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May 8, 2014
Joe Kleitman, Los Altos Hills, felt that what was being proposed tonight was a
change in policy. He suggested that as a community, we look at whether or not we
want to make changes that would allow larger and bulkier homes.
Charles Ho, Los Altos Hills, had recently moved into Town. He requested the
Commission allow the design of tall ceilings, as he was hoping to put them in his
new house.
Jolon Wagner, Los Altos Hills, stated that she felt the newer large houses were
very imposing and do not fit in the neighborhood as seen from the street.
Bob Owen, Owen Signature Homes, stated that this change will force people to
build two story houses to maximize their space when people have been leaning
towards single story houses.
David Jackson, Turn Key Construction, agreed with Mr. Owen, that this will
force people to build bulkier two-story houses.
Chair Abraham closed the PUBLIC HEARING.
Commissioner Partridge clarified that they are not policy setters. This was
brought to them not for change, but for clarification of the policy. He stated that he
was not ready to adopt the change being proposed by the applicant at this time.
Commissioner Mandle wanted to make clear that the Planning Commission made
a clarification, not a change to the ordinance, and stated that she was not
comfortable making a change at this time. She did not agree that these restrictions
would lower the value of properties.
Commissioner Couperus said that the Planning Commission clarified, not changed
the ordinance. The original intent of the ordinance was to control bulk. He was
not in favor of the change being proposed by the applicant.
Commissioner Tankha could see both sides of the argument. She reminded the
architects that there are options in the process when one has constrained lots.
Chair Abraham suggested forming a study committee to analyze the different
metrics of the designs that are requesting the allowance. Commissioner Tankha
agreed.
MOTION MADE AND SECONDED: Commissioner Couperus moved that the
Planning Commission not accept any amendment and continue with current text
that was recommended to the City Council. The motion was seconded. by
Commissioner Mandle.
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AYES: Commissioner Couperus. Commissioner Mandle
Commissioner Partridge
NOES: Chair Abraham, Commissioner Tankha
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
WOKONfORIJINMIOMS
Chair Abraham called for a recess at 9:46 P.M.
The meeting reconvened at 9:51 P.M.
The Commission now considered item 5.1
5.1 Review of proposed horse crosswalk and associated signage on Purissima Road
near Town Riding Arena (Staff- Richard Chiu).
Public Works Director Richard Chiu presented the staff report.
Commissioner Partridge asked questions to clarify the position of the signs, and
where they would be facing. He further inquired about any other warning signs in
the area, as there are baseball fields at that location.
Commissioner Mandle brought up a previous discussion regarding the removal of
advance signs on Fremont Road because one could see the crosswalk sign from the
advance sign. She inquired as to how that would apply here.
Mr. Chiu said there was a chance of further investigation to see what the distance
looks like from the crosswalk to the sign. Commissioner Mandle then requested
the Town consider a double sided sign at the crosswalk, as opposed to the advance
sign.
Chair Abraham opened the floor to public comment.
Michael Wagner, Los Altos Hills Horseman's Association (LAHHA), had
originally brought this request to the Town's attention. He agreed with
Commissioner Mandle that double sided as opposed to advanced signs, would be a
better fit, and explained why he felt a sign would be beneficial at this location.
Jolon Wagner, LAHHA, spoke in support of the requested signage.
Rosemarie Nahm, Los Altos Hills, requested the Commission at least consider a
"slow down" sign at this location due to the Little League fields.
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May 8, 2014
Commission discussion ensued.
Commissioner Couperus agreed the traffic in the area has increased.
Commissioner Mandle agreed that traffic has increased, but did not see the need
for a "horse crossing ahead" sign. She then stated her preference for a two-sided
sign.
Commissioner Partridge supported the ladder crossing and the sign at the
crossing, but did not see the necessity for the horse crossing sign.
Commissioner Tankha stated her preference for two signs rather than four.
Chair Abraham stated his support of the ladder crosswalk on the street, but did not
support any additional signage.
MOTION MADE AND SECONDED: Commissioner Couperus moved to
forward a recommendation to the City Council to install the ladder crossing and 2
two-sided horse crossing, non -reflective signs on wooden posts, and requested that
additional signage be removed. The motion was seconded by Commissioner
Tankha.
AYES: Commissioner Couperus, Commissioner Mandle
Commissioner Partridge, Commissioner Tankha
NOES: Chair Abraham
ABSENT: None
MOTION CARRIED 4-1.
3.3 DISCUSSION OF PROPOSED CONSTRUCTION TIME LIMIT ORDINANCE
(Staff- Steve Padovan).
MOTION MADE AND SECONDED: Commissioner Partrid2e' moved to
continue this item to the next Planning Commission meeting_ due to the lateness of
the hour. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Mandle.
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AYES: Chair Abraham, Commissioner Couperus, Commissioner
Mandle, Commissioner Partridge, Commissioner Tankha
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
MOTION CARRIED 5-0.
4. OLD BUSINESS
This item was not considered.
5. NEW BUSINESS
5_2 Review of no parking signs on Sunhills Drive at Mora Drive and at West Loyola
Drive (Staff- Richard Chiu).
Public Works Director Richard Chiu presented the staff report.
Chair Abraham opened the floor to public comment.
Rosemarie Nahm, Los Altos Hills, liked Commissioner Couperus' idea of
permitted parking instead of no parking, as people may have company and they will
need to park on the street. She has also requested that a review of the area as a
whole, not just Sunhills Drive, be conducted.
Robert Yuen, Los Altos Hills, requested more signs so that they cannot be missed.
Edward Crystal, Los Altos Hills, reported that on weekends people in the
neighborhood have a difficult time parking as the street is overrun with people
trying to get to the hiking trails.
MOTION MADE AND SECONDED: Commissioner Mandle moved to accept
the Traffic Safety Committee and staffs recommendations to install two (2) no
parking signs on Sunhills Drive at Mora Drive and West Loyola Drive. The motion
was seconded by Commissioner Tankha.
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AYES: Chair Abraham, Commissioner Couperus, Commissioner
Mandle, Commissioner Partridge, Commissioner Tankha
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
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5.3 Planning Commission Summer Calendar.
Community Development Director Debbie Pedro suggested moving up the
regular July meeting to June 24, and holding a special meeting at another date in
July. The Commission agreed to the June 24 meeting, but did not decide on a date
for July.
6. REPORTS FROM THE CITY COUNCIL MEETINGS
6.1 Planning Commission Representative for April 17 - Commissioner Couperus
Commissioner Couperus presented a report on the April 17th City Council
meeting.
6.2 Planning Commission Representative for May 15 - Commissioner Tankha
6.3 Planning Commission Representative for June 19 - Commissioner Mandle
6.4 Planning Commission Representative for July 17 - Commissioner Partridge
7. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
7_1 Approval of April 3, 2014 minutes.
MOTION MADE AND SECONDED: Commissioner Mandle moved to approve
the April 3, 2014 minutes. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Couperus.
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AYES: Chair Abraham, Commissioner Couperus, Commissioner
Mandle, Commissioner Partridge, Commissioner Tankha
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
MOTION CARRIED 5-0
8. REPORTS FROM FAST TRACK MEETINGS - APRIL 22, APRIL 29, 2014.
8.1 LANDS OF PATEL, 27200 Deer Springs Way; File #336-13-ZP-SD-GD; A
request for Site Development Permit for a 8,009 square foot two-story new
residence (maximum height 27') with a 3,046 square foot basement, 765 square
foot pool, 441 square foot pavilion and removal of one (1) heritage oak. CEQA
review: Categorical Exemption per Section 15303(a) (Staff- Cynthia Richardson).
(CONTINUED FROM MARCH 18, 2014 FAST TRACK HEARING).
8.2 LANDS OF GRANT, 13334 La Cresta Drive; File #35-14-ZP-SD; A request for a
Site Development Permit for a 714 square foot second story addition (maximum
height 21'), and an interior remodel. CEQA review: Categorical Exemption per
Section 15303(a) (Staff- Nicole Horvitz).
8.3 LANDS OF PARK, 14495 Miranda Road; File # 410-13-ZP-SD; A request for a
Site Development Permit for a 1,276 square foot single story addition to the main
residence (maximum height 17) and a 464 square foot addition to the secondary
dwelling unit. In addition, the applicant is proposing to remove the existing
swimming pool along the front of the residence, and construct a new pool at the
rear of the property. CEQA review: Categorical Exemption per Section 15303(a)
and (e) (Staff- Nicole Horvitz).
9. REPORTS FROM SITE DEVELOPMENT MEETINGS - APRIL 8, APRIL 15 2014.
9.1 LANDS OF DOUGLAS HAHN & TRANG BUI LIVING TRUST, 24597
Voorhees Drive; File # 402-13-ZP-SD; A request for a Site Development Permit
for landscape screening g for a 5,644 square foot new residence with a basement
approved on June 26, 2012. CEQA review: Categorical Exemption per Section
15304 (b) (Staff- Nicole Horvitz).
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9.2 LANDS OF KASHANI, 27011 Dezahara Way; File # 228-08-ZP-SD; A request
for a Site Development Permit for hardscape improvements and a secondary
driveway access off of Dezahara Way. CEQA review: Categorical Exemption per
Section 15303 (a) (Staff- Cynthia Richardson).
9.3 LANDS OF LEE LIVING TRUST, 24380 Summerhill Avenue; File # 30-14-ZP-
SD; A request for a Site Development Permit for a landscape screening plan for a
new residence with a basement and swimming pool approved at the Fast Track
hearing on March 19, 2013. CEQA review: Categorical Exemption per Section
15304 (b) (Staff -Nicole Horvitz).
10. ADJOURNMENT
The meeting adjourned at 11:14 P.M.
Respectfully submitted,
Jaime L. McAvoy
PlanningSecretary
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