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HomeMy WebLinkAbout09-23-1968 Planning Commission Minutes (2) CITY OF SARATOGA PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES TI~: Monday, 23 September 1968, 7:30 P.M. PLACE: City Council Chambers, Fruitvale Avenue, Saratoga, California TYPE: Regular Meeting I. ROUTINE ORGANIZATION The meeting was called to order by Vice-Chairman Johnson. A. ROLL CALL Present: Commissioners Crisp, Johnson, Kraus, Lively, and Smith. Absent: Commissioners Metcalf and Norton. B. MINUTES Commissioner Smith moved, seconded by Commissioner Kraus, that the reading of the minutes of the 10 September 1968 meeting be waived and that they be approved as distributed to the Commission subject to the following correc- tion: page 1. .paragraph 2. .under II. A. V-320. .change the word "Commissioner" to read "Chairman"; motion carried unanimously. II. PUBLIC HEARINGS A. C-118 - B. T. Galeb and Milan Popoviah, Zorka Avenue and Ted Avenue - Request for Change of Zoning from "R-l-10,000" (Single-Family Residential) to "R-M-3,000" (Multi-FamilY Residential) Chairman Johnson opened the hearing at 7:34 P.M. The Assistant Planner, Mr. -Gary Bonfiglio, stated the Notices of Hearing had been mailed and published. He further stated that. the following communications had been received relative to C-118: 1) A statement of reason submitted by the applicant; 2) Letters in opposition were filed by Lewis Townsend, 20349 Zorka Avenue, Harry E. & Jean M. Blomquist, 12430 Ted Avenue, M~. & Mrs. John B. Moohey, 12385 ... Ted Avenue, F~. & Mrs. Gordon R. Smith, 12384 Ted Avenue, Mr. & Mrs. Ra~L~ond Sheets, 12444 Ted Avenue, -Mr- & Mrs. Robert H. Gregg, 20140 Cherry Lane, ~s. John R. Stuntz, 20170 Cherry Lane, Maline L. & Barny A. Hazle, 20160 Cherry Lane, R. C. Utley, '20351Zorka Avenue, Helen M. Silva, 12414 Ted Avenue, Gerald L. & Marie Cunha, 12460 Ted Avenue, Mrs. L. Jean Reagan, 20161 Cherry Lane, Walter S. Bogden, 12471DeSanka Avenue; 3) Letters'filed in opposition by R.V. Fagon, President of Saratoga Park Woods Homeowners Association, Frank J. Ziegel, Director of Northwest Saratoga Homeowners Association, and Fred B. Smith, President of the Brookview Homeowners Association; and · 4) Two petitions filed in opposition to the proposed Change of Zoning - one containing 124'signatures and the other 37-signatures. -1- Planning Conmission Minutes - 23 September 1968 - Continued II. A. C-118 - Continued I,~. Eddy, representing the applicant, stated that 1) Mr. Galeb is only trying to improve this property 2) there are sub-standard homes on this property at present and 3) some very attractive plans have been designed by Mr. Elliot (architect). Mr. Elliot, architect for the applicant, stated that 1) the proposed development would provide three di. fferent.~ means of access roads thus providing a good traffic pattern 2) ~. Galeb is trying to improve the area and at the same time develop something that will be compatible with the R-1 area located in back of the subject parcel 3) the present plan places a single-story apartment approximately seventy-five-feet away from the nearest single-family residence 4) the proposed structures will face inward to a mall; thereby, routing the traffic into the site itself and eliminating the necessity of the tenants parking in the street 5) Mr. Galeb has an agreement with the Southern Pacific Railroad to use part of their right-of-way to plant a row of trees to act as a buffer 'r between the railroad tracks and the proposed development 6) there wil~ be fifty-nine units with parking under the buildings 7) Ted Avenue will have a park-like view looking directly onto the landscaped pool area and 8) Mr. Galeb is concerned about maintaining the integrity of the R-1 area adjacent to the subject property. Mr. Henry Stelling, Real Estate Broker, stated that 1) he was in favor of the proposed development 2) Mr. Galeb would like to develop this property and thus improve the entire area 3) at present there is an old orchard and some sub-standard homes on the property 4) the freeway originally scheduled to cross this property has been routed another way 5) this property would have been subdivided along with the rest of the area if it had not been for the subject freeway plans and 6) the reluct- ance of the Planning Commission to re-zone additional property for R-M until some progress is shown in areas already zoned R-M is understandable but it should be pointed out that Mr. Galeb owns this property outright. ~. B. T. Galeb stated that 1) for years he and his neighbors have been working together to improve this area and it surprises him to see so much opposition at this opportunity for improvement.2) the proposed develop- ment would have been another step in that direction and if his neighbors can come up with a better plan for the subject property he, too, will sign the petition opposing the apartments 3) the apartments would be programmed in an orderly procedure 4) the construction of the subjecz apartments would be up-grading the surrounding property 5) the traffic pattern that is planned would improve the traffic situation 6) the neighbors have consistently urged that this piece of property be improved and 7) the proposed development would be an asset to the City as well as to the neighborhood. ~. Sam Hernandez, owner Laurel Motor Court, stated that 1) everybody should see this area tO understand what does exist 2) the sub-standard housing on the property was originally built for fruit pickers and is now being used as rental units and 3) the proposed apartment development would enhance the appearance of the entire conm~unity. ~. John Mooney, 12385 Ted Avenue, stated that 1) he was opposed to ~he proposed apartments since the biggest traffic burden would be on Ted Avenue and 2) the following recommendation was made in the Conclusive Report'of the Problem Uses Committee. .in Section II. .Item D: "The City should designate the exact locations in the General Plan giving careful consideration to physical boundaries so as not to infringe into adjacent single- family residential areas. Careful consideration should .be given to prevent any undue burden on, or impair the safety of adjacent residential streets." -2- Plannin~ Commission Minutes - 23 September 1968 - Continued II. A. C-11____~8 - Continued Mrs. Ilia Sheets, 12444 Ted Avenue, stated that 1) she lived across the street from the proposed development 2) in April, 1968 Mr. Galeb asked her to get the neighbors?together for a meeting to discuss this proposal 3) on September 13, 1968, ~. Galeb's daughter and wife were notified that a petition was being circulated in opposition to the pro- posed Change of Zoning 4) De Sanka will, in all probability, not be extende~ as presently anticipate~; thereby, eliminating that street as a possible access road 5) there is no designated left-turn-lane at Se'a Gull 6) the main concern is the additional traffic that will be routed down the streets in front of the ~ermanent residences7) they bought their home because it was in a rural area and 8) the people in the area are opposed to the sub-standard housing but do not feel they should be threatened with apartments they do not want in order to eliminate the existing undesirable situation. Jean Hoist, 19723 Sommerville Court, stated that 1) there is really no place for Senior Citizens to reside in Saratoga 2) this proposed develop- ment would be ideal for these people who'have been paying taxes on their homes in this area for years 3) these people would not create a lot of traffic and most of them have no small children and 4) this would be a · great opportunity to do something for people that have been forgotten in Saratoga. Mr. Carl Anderson, 12400 Ted Avenue, stated that 1) he just recently purchased his home 2) his main objection is to the traffic problem and not the proposed apartments 3) the additional cars in the area will present problems because of the small children living in the neighbor- hood and 4) the left turn off of Sea Gull is difficult now and this problem will be greater with the added traffic. Mrs. Gordon Smith, 12384 Ted Avenue, stated that 1) these units would not be suitable for retirement apartments since .they are two and three bedroom units and 2) with the mortuary being built across the street the traffic problem will become especially dangerous for children living in the apart- ments and surrounding area. ~line L. Hazel, 20160 Cherry Lane, stated that Mr. Caleb may o~a all the property for the proposed apartments, but he, also, owns the adjacent shopping center property which has several empty units and there can be only one thing worse and that is empty apartments. Mr. Galeb stated that when these neighbors purchased their property they were aware that this property would be developed in.'some way in 'the future. M~. Richard G. Greene', 12350 Goleta ~venue stated that south of this property and south of the railroad tracks some lovely homes have been built and suggested perhaps some homes of this type could be built on the subject property. I'~. Jim Navel, 12072 Ingrid ~ourt, stated that after listening to B~th sides .of the story he will probably go along with the majority of the people oppos- ing said application and will submit a letter stating his objections prior to the next meeting of the Commission. ~. Harold A. Beaudoin, 13204 Pierce Road, stated that 1) Ehe development of this area is not only the problem. of ~. Galeb, but of the property o~mers in the entire area 2) there was a suggestion nmde that this property be subdivided and lovely homes built on it as was done with the property south of the subject parcel 3) those homes were. laid out as.part of a sub- division and at a time when Mr. Galeb was precluded from doing this because of a proposed freeway 4) Mr. Galeb ~s told at one time that his property would be zoned for light industrial and this would have caused a lot of c for this property would be and 6~ the t~i~°~i ~eaw th~ best problem, but a safe traffic flow could be worked out and 7) if the freeway had been realized..this area would not have been as attractive as the proposed apartments. -3- P!annin~.~. Co~,mnission Minutes - 23 September 11.968 - Continued II. A. C-118 - Continued _~I'. john Stuntz, 20170 Cherry La.-nc, stated that 1) he was concerned that if the R-M zoning is approved for this property it will set a precedent for R-M zoning in this area and could e:ztend do~,m to Cherry Lane and the railroad tracks and 2) he disputed the traffic flow shown on the architect's ·plan. Com~missioner Crisp noted that there ~,.~ere approximately one-hundred people present in connection with this application. Commissioner Johnson (8:26 P.M.) closed the hearing for the evening, directed C-118 continued to the ne:,=t regular meeting and referred same to the Subdivision Committee for study. Commissioner Smith advised that the Subdivision Con~mittee meets each MOnday afternoon for anyone wishing to meet with them to discuss this matter further. B. D'P-154 - Grand Development Company, Propsect Road - Request for Use Permit to Allow Automobile Supply Store Continued from 10 September 1968 The hearing was re-opened at 8:27 P.M.. The Assistant Planner stated that the app!icant's representative, ,'.'~. Frank Neilsen, submitted a letter list- ing the merchandise that will be stocked in the store. ~-. Neiisen ~,~s present but made no further comments. No one else wished to comment. The Assistant Planner read the Staff Report dated 23 September 1968 recomaending that a Use Permit (UP-154) be granted for an Automobile Supply Store. At 8:38 P.'.'~I., Commissioner Smith moved, seconded by Co~mmissioner Crisp, to close the hearing relative to bi~-i54; motion carried unanimously. Con~nissioner Smith moved, seconded by Conunissioner Crisp, that the Staff Report of 23 September 1968 relative to UP-154 be adopted and the Use Permit for Automobile Supply Store be granted subject to the conditions stated in said report and in accordance with Eyhibits "C" and "D" attached to the sub- ject Staff Report; motion carried unanimously. C. L~-155 - ira Kirkorian (Colony Heights), Saratoga Avenue - Request for Use Permit to Allow Model Home Sales Office The Chairman opened the hearing at 8:39 P.M. The Assistant Planner stated the Notices of Hearing were n~iled. He then read the Staff Report of 23 September 1968 recomending that a Use Permit (bT-155) for a Model Home Sales Office be granted. No mer~joer of' the audience wished to speak. Co~nissioner Crisp moved, seconded by Commissioner Kraus, to close the hearing relative to UP-155 at 8:42 P.M.; motion carried unanimously. Coranissioner Smith moved, seconded by Commissioner Crisp, that the Staff Report dated 23 September 1968 be adopted and the Use Permit (UP-155) be granted for a Model Home Sales Office subject to the conditions stated in said report; motion carried unanimously. -4- Planning Com. mission Minutes - 23 September 1968 - Continued II. D.' L~-156 - jeanne M. Christiansen, Pierce Road and Saratoga-Sunnyvale Road - Request for Use Permit to Allow a Day Care Nursery The Chairn~zn opened the hearing relative to UP-156 at 8:43 P.M. The Assistant Planner stated that the N'otices of Hearing were ~iled. He then read the following co:nm. unications filed in opposition to the pro- posed Use Permit 1) a petition with sixty signatures 2) a letter from O. Farasyn and Marierose Farasyn and 3) a letter from Crystal S. Schafer. Mr. George Meukow, real estate .broker representing the applicant, seated that 1) Pier'ce Road is clearly indicated on the General Plan as a Collector Street 2) there is a circular driveway on 'the property that will allow smooth flow of traffic 3) there is no other facility of this type in Saratoga 4) there are some half-day pre-schools, but no 'all c!ay care centers 5) the people in the area were invited to meet and discuss this matter but they showed no interest in doing so 6) people living directly behind other care centers have indicated they have no complaints 7) the subject property is about 20,000 square-feet in size and is more than adequate for the proposed use 8) the State Welfare will decide how many children can be cared for in this home and 9) there is a maximum of forty children allowable. Commissioner Crisp stated that it seemed the existing sanitary facilities would be inadequate for forty-children. Mr. Meukow explained that no improvements can be made until the representative from 'the State Welfare makes a study and submits a report indicating exactly how many children can be cared for at the subject property. Commissioner Smith stated that the Subdivision Committee would want to see the report from the State~Welfare Department prior to making any final recommen- · ~latio~-. relative to the proposed nursery school. Chairman johnson requested Mr. Meukow to mail a copy of the State Welfare and the Fire Marshal's report'to the Planning Department for review by the Subdivision Committee and the Planning Commission. ,.Mr. Charles Eckert, 12841 Pierce Road~ stated that 1) the road in front of his house is approximately six-yards wide and the traffic moves at between forty and forty-five miles per house 2) it is a well traveled road 3) he represents the sixty people who signed the petition opposing this application 4) this is an unsuitable location for ~sa'id use 5) this is an extremely dangerous intersection 6) there is no' traffic light at the Pierhe Road and Highway 85 intersection 7) the applicant proposes a sign on Highway 85 to advertise the proposed nursery and this would be another hazard to traffic and 8) this proposed use would be detrimental to the community. ~. Robert E. Satterfiled, Senior, 12811 Pierce' Road, stated that 1) he !ive~ across the street from the subject property 2) he prefers the area be left residential and not become eon~ercial 3) he has traveled across the world in his line of work and 'would like very much to settle dox. m in this neighborhood, but would move if the nursery school is .permitted and 4) he would not be permitted to put a hamburger stand on the corner of his property. Chairman johnson explained that a nursery school is allowed in a residential area as a conditional use, .'b"u't a hamburger stand would not be. ~. Taylor Hathaway, 13090 Paramount Drive, stated that 1) he was a teacher 2) Pierce Road is already overcrowded at peak traffic hours by school buses and other traffic and 3) a residence used for private gain is not in keeping with this particular area and could devalue the property nearby. -5- Planning Commission Minutes - 23 September 1968 - Continued II. D. UP-156 - Continued Chairman Johnson, in answer to an inqui. ry from Mr. Earl W. Pingrey, stated that any additional coF~n~unications could be submitted at the interr mission. The letters subraitted at intermission were filed by r.~. Earl Pingrey, 12856 Pierce Road and r,~s. ~[ar~aret M. Valentine, 12980 Paramount ~ive, in opposi- tion to the proposed application. ~. Joseph C. R.on~eo, 12848 Pierce Road, stated that 1) there is a septic tank on this property with the creek behind it 2) the children will create a noise problem and 3) the existing and additional traffic would rake this a very undesirable location. ~s. Romeo, 12848 Pierce Road, stated that 1) the children would not be safe with the traffic problem being what it is 2) property values would decrease with this type of business in the neighborhood 3) the applicant already has one successful nursery school and 4) the mothers would be dropping their children at the same time the men in the neighborhood are going to work and at the same time the school buses would be coming do~ this road. At 9:11 P.M. Chairman Johnson closed the hearing for the evening, directed UP-156 continued to the next regular meeting and referred same to the Sub- division Committee for study. E. ~-157 - john H. and Catherine Wolf, Saratoga Avenue - Request for Use Permit to Allow a Home for the Elderly The hearing realtive to UP-157 was opened at 9:12 P~M. The Assistant Planner stated that the Notices of Hearing were mailed and then read a petition with one-hundred-and-thirty signatures filed in oppostion to the proposed use and submitted by ~k. Ed Demeri, 12371 Saratoga Creek Drive, Board of Directors for Saratoga Park Woods Home O~mer's Association. ~s. Wolf, the applicant, x~s present and explained that !) she would like a Use Permit for fifteen guests 2) she planned to extend the garage into the back yard 3) the patients would be living on the premises and 4) she did not feel this would be a detriment to the neighborhood. Comanissioner Smith advised that a lodging house cannot have more than three paying guests in a residential area. ~-. Dell Hathaway, 12511 Saratoga Avenue, stated that 1) he would violently oppose living next door to this type of use 2) the traffic in this area is a~a~v very bad 3) there have been two serious accidents in this area and this type of use would increase the hazard because traffic would be created by visiting relatives.. ~s. Grens, 12526 Radoyka ~ive, stated that 1) they moved to this area so that their children would have a play area in a rural atomsphere and 2) if a use. of this Eype were permitted there would ,be complaints about the noise ma''~ by the children and she is opposed to said use for that reason. Chairr~an Johnson, at 9:15 P.M., closed the hearing for the evening, directed UP-157 continued to the next re,~u~a'r meeting and referred same to the Sub- division Con~n~ittee for study. He further advised the applicant to n~ake an appointment with the Subdivision Co~ittee if she wished to discuss this matter further. -6- Planning Commission Minutes - 23 September 1968 - Continued III. BUILDING SITES AND SUBDiVISIO~S A. SD-759 - Pete Rajkovich, Prospect Road - Subdivision Approval - 112 Lots - Continued from i0 Se]~ten~.ber 1968 Commissioner Smith recommended that SD-759 be continued to allow time for further study of this application. Chairman Johnson so directed. B. SDR-767 - M.V.S. Company, Saratoga Avenue - Building Site Approval - I Lot - Continued from 10 September ].968 .- Commissioner Smith recommended that SDR-767 be continued to the next regular meeting. Chairman johnson so directed. C. SDR-773 - Don Orlando, Verde Vista and. Boyce Lane - Building Site Approval - 3 Lots - Continued from 10 September 1968 Comnissiomr Smith reco~'~ended that SDR-773 be continued to allow time for further review of the revised map. Chairman Johnson so directed. D. SDR-776 - George R. Flatt~r~ AsDesi Drive - Building Site ADproval - 1 Lot The Assistant Planner stated that the applicant had reviewed the proposed conditions and expressed satisfaction with same. Co~issioner Smith moved, seconded by Commissioner Crisp, that the Building Site Com.~ittee Report of 23' September 1968 relative to SDR-776 be adopted and that the tentative .map (Exhibit "A", filed 5 September 1968) be approved subject to the conditions set forth in said report; motion carried unani- mou sly. E. SDR-777 - Michael Pestana.~ Wild Oak Way - Buildin~ Site Approval - 1 Lot Cormnissioner Smith reviewed the subject application. The applicant was present and expressed satisfaction with the proposed conditions of approval. Connnissioner Smith moved, seconded by Commissioner Crisp, that the Building Site Comm~ittee Report (with special attention to the Note included in the report) of 23 September 1968 relative to SDR-777 be adopted and that the tentative m~2p (Exhibit "A", filed 13 September 1968) be approved subject to the conditions set forth in said report; motion carried unanimously. IV. DESIGN REVIEW A A-290 - Wells Fargo Bank Saratoga-Los Gatos Road - Identification Signs - Final Design Review - Continued from 10 September ].968 Commissioner Lively briefl~ reviewed this application and stated that the Design Review Committee met with the applicant. After the Planning Commission read the Staff Report dated 23 September 1968 Commissioner Lively moved, seconded by Commissioner Kraus, that the subject Staff Report be adopted and that Final Design Approval be granted for A-290 subject to the conditions stated in said report; motion carried unanimously. -7- ,Planning ConLmission Minutes - 23 September 1968 - Continued IV. B. Wells Fargo Bank, Sarato~a-Sunnvvale - Request of Citizens re Exterior of Bank Building Commissioner Lively stated that 1) recently several interested business- men inquired'about the exterior finish of the Wells Fargo Bank Building 2) the Design Review Committee met with these gentlemen who requested that a letter be written to the Wells Fargo Bank suggesting that the following recommendations for change or modification be considered: 1. Additional Quarry tile between planters at entry. 2. Five (5) planters and four (4) supporting columns be faced with adobe brick or slumpstone. 3. Paint plaster soffit a light tan. 4. Apply 2" x 10" Redwood below gutter of entire cornice. 5. Install light standards in planting areas in front to match standards in Blaney Plaza. The Assistant Planner then 1) read a copy of the letter submitted to Wells Fargo dated 20 September 1968 and now filed in A-276 2) explained that the City Attorney had been contacted and he had replied it was admissable to request the Wells Fargo Bank to consider these changes but the City cannot require that the modifications be made and 3) advised' that Wells Fargo consented to the proposed changes provided their budget permitted. V. CITY COUNCIL REPORT Commissioner Smith gave a summary of items reviewed and action taken at the City Council meeting of 18 September 1968, with emphasis on items of particular interest to the Commission. VI. OLD BUSINESS None VII. NEW BUSINESS None VIii. COMMUNICATIONS A. WRITTEN 1. Letter From Mr. Clarence Neale Requesting Additional Uses in Neale's Hollow on Saratoga-Sunnyvale Road The Assistant Planner read a communication received from Mr. Clarence Neale stating he has tenants for the additional uses and would like the Planning CommissiOn to approve them. Commissioner Smith stated that 1)- some ofi~the'uses requested by Mr. Neale have previously been denied by the Planning Commission 2) some of the uses will not be permitted in the new C-V Zone and 3) Fn~. Neale has requested the City Council to consider Neale's Hollow for C-V Zoning. Chairman Johnson 1) referred this matter to the Subdivision Co~mitte 2) authorized the Committee to prepare a letter (for signature by Chairman Johnson) stating all the facts and comments relative to this matter to Mr. Neale. -8- Planning Conmission Minutes - 23 September 1968 - Continued VIII. A..2. WILSON PETITION The As'sistant'Pianner stated that a petitio~ ~ms submitted by residents on Pierce Road opposing the proposed Change of Zoning in the Foothill Lane, Ashley Way and Pierce Road area. Commissioner Crisp explained that the Planning Commission at a previous meeting discussed this matter. He further explained that the General Plan Committee submitted a report dated 26 August 1968 (in file.' C-111 and C-113) and the Subdivision Committee followed up with their report dated 26 August 1968 (in filed C-lll and C-113) concurring with the General Plan Committee Report. Commissioner. Smith explained that 1) the City Council has scheduled -their second public hearing relative to C-111 and C-113 for 16 October . 1968 2) the General Plan Committee and the Subdivision Committee did not consider the area discussed in the petition at the time they wrote their report and made their recommendations and 3) the petition was submitted in the interim between the Planning Commission meeting of 26 August 1968 and the schedlued City Council meeting. Chairman Johnson advised that the General Plan Committee would meet on Saturday, 5 October 1968 at 9:00 A.M. to discuss this matter and prepare an addendem to their report of 26 August 1968 and explain why the area mentioned'in the petition was not considered when preparing their report. B. ORAL 1...GL~STS Chairman Johnson' acknowledged, with pleasure, the presence of Councilman Dwyer, Mr. Bob Ewing, President of the Chamber of Commerce, Mr. Cole Bridges, Vice-Presidenct of the Chamber of Commerce, FIrs. Owens and FIr. Franklin of the Good Government Group, ~s. Ottenbe~g ~f the League of Women Voters and FIr. Jim Magel of the Prides Crossing Homeowner's Association. 2. EXPRESSION OF SYMPATHY The entire Planning Commission' expressed their sympathy to FIr.. and FIrs. Stanley M. Walker on their recent loss. .IX. ADJOURNMjZNT The Chairman declared the meeting adjourned at 10:03 PoM. Respectfully s~tted~/~~ ~ alker, Secre Saratoga Planning Commission j -9- CITY OF SARATOGA PLANNING COMMISSION # MINUTES TI}~: Monday, 23 September 1968,· 7:30 P.M. PLACE: City Council Chambers, Fruitvale Avenue, Saratoga, California TYPE: Regular Meeting I. ROUTINE ORGANIZATION' · The meeting was called to order by Vice-Chairman Johnson. A. ROLL CALL Present: Commissioners Crisp, Johnson, Kraus, Lively, and Smith. Absent: Conmissioners Metcalf and Norton. B. MINUTES Commissioner Smith moved, seconded by Commissioner Kraus, that the reading of the minutes of the 10 September 1968 meeting be waived and that they be approved as distributed to the Commission subject to the following correc- tion: page 1. .paragraph 2. .under II. A. V-320. .change the word "Commissioner" to read "Chairman"; motion carried unanimously. II. PUBLIC HEARINGS A. C-118 - B. T. Galeb and Milan Pop.ovish, Zorka Avenue and Ted Avenue - Request for Change of Zoning from "R-l-10,000" (Single-Family Residential) to "R-M-3,000" (Multi-Family Residential) Chairman Johnson opened the hearing at 7:34 P.M. The Assistant Planner, Mr. Gary Bonfiglio, stated the Notices of Hearing had been mailed and published. He further stated that the following communications had been received relative to C-118: 1) A statement of reason submitten by the applicant; 2) Letters in opposition were filed by Lewis Townsend, 20349 Zorka Avenue, Harry E. & Jean M. Blomeuist, 12430 Ted Avenue, Mr. & Mrs. John B. Mooneyj 12385 Ted Avenue, ~. & M~s. Gordon R. Smith, 12384 Ted Avenue, ~. & Mrs. Raymond Sheets, 12444 Ted Avenue, -Mr. & Mrs. Robert H. Gregg, 20140 Cherry Lane, Mrs. John R. Stuntz, 20170 Cherry La~e, Mal'ine L. & Barny A. Hazle, 20160 Cherry Lane, R. C. Utley, 20351Zorka Avenue, Helen M. Silva, 12414 Ted Avenue, Gerald L. & Marie Cunha, 12460 Ted Avenue, Mrs. L. Jean Reagan,- 20161 Cherry Lane, Walter S. Bogden, 12471DeSanka Avenue; 3) Letters·filed in opposition by R.V. Fagon, President of Saratoga Park Woods Homeowners Association, Frank J. Ziegel, Director of Northwest Saratoga Homeowners Association, and Fred B. Smith, President of the Brookview Homeowners Association; and 4) Two petitions filed in opposition to the proposed Change of Zoning - one containing 124~signatures and the other 37-signatures. -1- Planning Commission Minutes - 23 September 1968 - Continued II. A. C-118 - Continued ~. Eddy, representing the applicant, stat. ed that 1) Mr. Caleb is only trying to improve this property 2) there are sub-standard homes on this property at present.and 3) some very attractive plans have been designed by Mr. Elliot (architect). Mr. Elliot, architect for the applicant, stated that 1) the proposed development would provide three different.~ means of access roads thus providing a good traffic pattern 2) Mr. Galeb is trying to improve the area and at the same time develop something that will be compatible with the R-1 area located in back of the subject parcel 3) the present plan places a single-story apartment approximately seventy-five-feet away from the nearest single-family residence 4) the proposed structures will face inward to a mall; thereby, routing the traffic into the site itself and eliminating the necessity of the tenants parking in the street 5) Mr'. Galeb has an agreement with the Southern Pacific Railroad to use part of their right-of-way to plant a row of trees to act as a buffer '~ between the railroad tracks and the proposed development 6) there will be fifty-nine units with parking under the buildings 7) Ted Avenue will have a park-like view looking directly onto the landscaped pool area and 8) Mr. Galeb is concerned about maintaining the integrity of the R-1 area adjacent to the subject property. Mr. Henry Stelling, Real Estate Broker, stated that 1) he was in favor of the proposed development 2) Mr. Galeb would like to develop this property and thus improve the entire area 3) at present there is an old orchard and some sub-standard homes on the property 4) the freeway originally scheduled to cross this property has been routed another way 5) this property would have been subdivided along with the rest of the area if it had not been for the subject freeway plans and 6) the reluct- ance of the Planning Commission to re-zone additional property for R-M until some progress is shown in areas already zoned R-M is understandable but it should be pointed out that Mr. Galeb owns this property outright. ~. B. T. Galeb stated that 1) for years he and his neighbors have been working together to improve this area and it surprises him to see so much opposition at this opportunity for improvement.2) the proposed develop- ment would have been another step in that direction and if his neighbors can come up with a better plan for the subject property he, too, will sign the petition opposing the apartments 3) the apartments would be programmed in an orderly procedure 4) the construction of the subject apartments would be up-grading the surrounding property 5) the traffic pattern that is planned would improve the traffic situation 6) the neighbors have consistently urged that this piece of property be improved and 7) the.proposed development would be an asset to the City as well as to the neighborhood. Ms. Sam Hernandez, owner Laurel Motor Court, stated that 1) everybody should see this area tO understand what does exist 2) the sub-standard housing on the property was originally built for fruit pickers and is' now being used as rental units and 3) the proposed apartment development would enhance the appearance of the entire community. .Mr. John Moohey, 12385 Ted Avenue, stated that 1) he was opposed to the proposed apartments since the biggest traffic burden would be on Ted Avenue and 2) the following recommendation was made in the Conclusive Report'of the Problem Uses Committee. . .in Section II. . .Item D: "The City should designate the exact locations in the General Plan giving careful consideration to physical boundaries so as not to infringe into adjacent single- family residential areas. Careful consideration should be 'given to prevent any undue burden on, or impair the safety of adjacent residential streets." Planning Commission Minutes - 23 September 1968 - Continued II. A. C-118 - Continued Mrs. Ilia Sheets, 12444 Ted Avenue, stated that 1) she lived across the street from the proposed development 2) in April, 1968 Mr. Galeb asked her to get the neighbors together 'for a meeting to discuss this proposal 3) on September 13, 1968, Mr. Galeb's daughter and wife were notified that a petition was being circulated in opposition to the pro- posed Change of Zoning 4) De Sanka will, in all probability, not be extended as. presently anticipated; thereby, eliminating that street as a possible access road 5) there is no designated left-turn-lane at Sea Gull 6) the main concern is the additional traffic that will be routed do~ the streets in front of the permanent residences7) they bought their home because it was in a rural area and '8) the people in the area are opposed to the sub-standard housing but do not feel they should be threatened with apartments they do not want in order to eliminate the existing undesirable situation. jean Hoist, 19723 Sommerville Court, stated that 1) there is really no place for Senior Citizens to reside in Saratoga 2) this proposed develop- ment would be ideal for these people who have been paying taxes on their homes in this area for years 3) these people would not create a lot of traffic and most of them have no small children and 4) this would be a great opportunity to do something for people that have been forgotten in Saratoga. "- ~M~. Carl Anderson, 12400 Ted Avenue, stated that 1) he just recently purchased his home 2) his main objection is to the traffic problem and not the proposed apartments 3) the additional cars in the area will present problems because of the small children.'living in the neighbor- hood and 4) the left turn off of Sea Gull is difficult now and this · problem will be greater with the added traffic. Mrs. Gordon Smith, 12384 Ted Avenue, stated that 1) these units would not be suitable for retirement apartments since they are two and three bedroom units and 2) with the mortuary being built across the street the traffic problem will become especially dangerous for children living in the apart- ments and surrounding area. Maline L. Hazel, 20160 Cherry lane, stated that Mr. Galeb may own all the property for the proposed apartments, but he, also, owns the adjacent shopping center property which has several empty units and there can be only one thing worse and that is empty apartments. ~. Caleb stated that when these. neighbors purchased their property they were a~are that this property would'be developed in·some way in the future. Mr. Richard G. Greene, 12350 Goleta Avenue stated that south of this property and south of the railroad tracks some lovely homes have been builz and suggested perhaps some homes of this type could be built on the subject property. ~. Jim Navel, 12072 Ingrid Court, stated that after listening to bgth sides of the story he will probably go along with the majority of the people oppos- ing said application and will submit a letter stating his objections prior to the aext meeting of the Commission. i/~. Harold A. Beaudoin~ 13204 Pierce Road, stated that 1) the development of this area is not only the problem of ~. Galeb, but of the property o~..~ers in the entire area 2) there was a suggestion made that this property b~ ~ subdivided and lovely homes built on it as was done with the property south of ~he subject parcel 3) those homes were laid out as part of a sub- division and at a time when Mr. Galeb ~,~s precluded from doing this because of a proposed freeway 4) Mr. Galeb was told at one time that his property would be zoned for light industrial and this would have caused a lot of traffic 5) I,~. Galeb and his neighbors must now decide what the best use for this property would be and 6)° the traffic will be a big problem, but a safe traffic flow could be worked out and 7) if the freeway had been realized this area would not have been as attractive as the proposed apartments. -3- Planning Conm~ission Minutes - 23 Septf:?.nber 1968 - Continued II. A. C-!18 - Continu~:d N~. john Stuntz, 20170 Cherry lane, stated that 1) he was concerned that if the R-M zoning is approved for '~ihis property it will set a precedent for R-M zoning in this area and could extend dox.m to Cherry ~ne and the railroad tracks and 2) he disputed the traffic flow shox.m on the architect's plan. Coma~issioner Crisp noted that there were approximately one-hundred people present in connection with this application. Coma~issioner Johnson (8:26 P.i,I.) closed the hearing for the evening, directed C-!i8 continued to the next regular meeting and' referred same to the Subdivision Committee for study. Commissioner Smith advised that the Subdivision Con~ittee meets each Monday afternoon for anyone wishing to meet with them to discuss this matter further. B. L~-154 ~ Grand Development Company, Propsect Road - Request for Use Permit to Allow Automobile Supply Store - Continued from 10 September 1968 The hear~n~ was re-opened at 8:27 P.M. The Assistant Planner stated that the app!icant's representative, ~,~, Frank Nellsen, submitted a letter list- ing the merchandise that will be stocked in the store. ~z. Nei!sen ~.~s present but ~de no further co~ents. iqo one else wished to comment. The Assistant Planner read the Staff Report dated 23 September 1968 recommending that a Use Permit (~-!54) be granted for an Automobile Supply Store. At 8:38 P.M., Co~issioner Smith moved, seconded by Commissioner Crisp, to close the hearing relative to b~-!54; motion carried unanimously. CoF~missioner Smith moved, seconded by Cox~issioner Crisp, that the Staff Report of 23 Septem~Der 1968 relative to ~-154 be adopted and the Use Permit for Automobile Supply Store be granted subject to the conditions stated in said report and in accordance with Exhibits "C" and "D" attached to the sub- ject Staff Report; motion carried unanimously. C. OT-].55 - ira Kirkorian (Colony Heights), Saratoga Avenue - Request for Use Permit to Allow Model Home Sales Office The ChairF~n opened the hearing at 8:39 P.M. The Assistant Planner stated the Notices of Hearing were n~iled. He then read the Staff Report of 23 September 1968 recomending that a Use Permit (UP-155) for a Model Home Sales Office be granted. No rae~Der of the audience wished to speak. Commissioner Crisp moved, seconded by Co~issioner ~aus, to close the hearing relative to ~3-155 at 8:42 P.M.; motion carried unanimously. Con~nissioner Smith moved, seconded by Commissioner Crisp, that the Staff Report dated 23 September 1968 be adopted and the Use Permit (b~-155)'be granted for a Model Home Sales Office subject to the conditions stated in said report; motion carried unanimously. -4- Plannin~ Comn~ission Minutes - 23 September 1968 - Continued II. D. /,J.P-156 - jeanne M. Christiansen, Pierce Road and Saratoga-Sunnyvale Road - RequeSt fo~: Use Permit to Allow a Da~ Care Nursery The Chairn~n opened the hearing r~la iv o ~. = ,.~ e to UP-156 at 8:43 P.M The Assistant Planner stated that the Notices of ttearing were mailed. He the,n read the following com.munications filed in opposition to the pro- posec! Use Permit .1) a petition with sixty signatures 2) a letter from O. Farasyn and Marierose Farasyn and 3) a letter from Crystal S. Schafer. Mr. George Meukow, real estate broker representing the applicant, stated that 1) Pierce Road is clearly indicated on tl~e General Plan as a Collector Street 2) there is a circular ~]riveway on the property that will allow smooth flow of traffic 3) there is no other facility of this type in Saratoga 4) there are some half-day pre-schools, but no all day care centers 5) the people in the area were invited to meet and discuss this matter but they showed no interest in doing so 6) people living directly behind other care centers have inc]icated they have no complaints 7) the subject property is about 20,000 square-feet in size and is more than adequate for ~he proposed use 8) the State Welfare will decide how many children can be cared for in this home and 9) there is a maximum of forty children allowable. Commissioner Crisp stated that it seemed the existing sanitary facilities would be inadequate for forty-children. }~. Meukow e}=plained that no improvements can be made until the representative from ti~e State Welfare makes a study and sub;nits a report indicating exactly how many children can be cared for at the subject property. Commissioner Smith stated that the Subdivision Committee would want to see the report from the State Welfare Department prior to making any final recommen- .datioh..-.. relative to the proposed nursery school. Chairman Johnson requested ~'Er. Meukow to mail a copy of the State Welfare and the Fire Marshal's report.to the Planning Department for review by the Subdivision Committee and the Planning Commission. M~. Charles Eckert, 12841 Pierce Road stated that 1) the road in front of his house is appro~imately six-yards wide and the traffic moves at between forty and forty-five miles per house 2) it is a well traveled road 3) he represents the sixty people who signed the petition opposing this application -.) this is an unsuitable location for '.sa'id use 5) this is an extremely dangerous intersection 6) there is no traffic light at the Pierce Road and Highway 85 intersection 7) the applicant proposes a sign on Highway 85 to advertise the proposed nursery and this would be another hazard to traffic and 8) this proposed use would be detrimental to the community. Mr. Robert E. Satterfiled, Senior, 12811 Pierce Road, stated that 1) he live~ across the street from the subject property 2) he prefers the area be left residential and' not become commer. cia. 13) he has traveled across the world in his line of work and would like very much to settle do~a in this neighborhood, but would move if the nursery school is .permitted and 4) he would not be permitted to put a hamburger stand on the corner of his property. Chairman Johnson, explained that a nursery school is allowed in a residential area as a conditional use, b"u't a hamburger stand would not be.. ~. Taylor Hathaway, 13090 Paramount Drive, stated that 1) he was a teacher 2) Pierce Road is already overcrowded at peak traffic hours by school buses and other traffic and 3) a residence used for private gain is not in keeping with this particular area and could devalue the property nearby. -5- · Planning Commission Minutes - 23 SeDtember 1968 - Continued II. D. UP-156 - Continued Chairman Johnson, in answer to an inquiry from Mr. Earl W. Pingrey, stated that any additional communications could· be ~ubmitted at the inter- 'mission. The letters submitted at intermission were filed by ~. Earl Pingrey, 12856 Pierce Road and ~s. ~argaret M. Valentine, 12980 Paramount Drive, in opposi- tion to the proposed application. ~. Joseph C. Romeo, 12848 Pierce Road, stated that 1) there is a septic tank on this property with the creek behind it 2) the children will create a noise·problem and 3) the existing and additional traffic would make this a very undesirable location. }~s. Romeo, 12848 Pierce Road, stated that 1) the children would not be safe with the traffic problem being what it is 2) property values would decrease with this type of business in the neighborhood 3) the,applicant already has one successful nursery school and 4) the mothers would be dropping their children at the same time the men in the neighborhood are going to work and at the same time the school buses would be coming doom this road. At 9:11 P.M. Chairman Johnson closed the hearing for the evening, directed UP-156 continued to·the next regular meeting and referred same to the Sub- division Committee for study. E. ~jP-157 - John H. and Catherine Wolf, Saratoga Avenue - Request for Use Permit to Allow a Home for the Elderly The hearing rea!tive to UP-157 was opened at 9:12 PoM. The Assistant Planner stated that the Notices of Hearing were mailed and then read a petition with · one-hundred-and-thirty signatures filed in oppostion to the proposed use and submitted by ~. Ed Demeri, 12371 Saratoga Creek Drive, Board of Directors for Saratoga Park Woods Home O~mer's Association. ~s. Wolf~ the applicant, was present and explained that 1)· she would like a Use Permit for fifteen guests 2) she planned to extend the garage into the back yard 3) the patients would be living on the pr~mises and 4) she did not feel this would be a detriment to the neighborhood. Commissioner Smith advised that a lodging house cannot have more than three paying guests in a residential area. ~. Dell Hathaway, 12511 Saratoga Avenue, stated that 1) he would violently oppose living next door to this type of use 2) the traffic in this area is already very bad 3) there have been two serious accidents in this area and this type of use would increase the hazard because traffic ~ouid be created by visiting relatives. ~s. Grens, 12526 Radoyka ~ive, stated that 1)· they moved to this area so · that their children would have a play area in a rural atomsphere and 2) if a use. of this type were permitted there would be complaints about the noise made by the children and she is opposed to said use for that reason. Chairr~n Johnson, at 9:15 P.M., closed the hearing for the evening, directed UP-!57 continued to the next regular meeting and referred same to the Sub- division Con~ittee for study. He further advised the applicant to make an appointment with the Subdivision Committee if she wished to discuss this matter further. -6- Planning~ Commission Minutes - 23 September 1968 - Continuec~, IIi. BUILDING SITES AND SUBDIVISIO~,fS A. SD-759 - Pete Rajkovich, Prospect ]load - Subdivision Approval - 112 Lots - Continued from 10 Se~.~tember 1968 Connnissioner Smith recon~m. ended that SD-759 be continued to allow time for further study of this application. Chairman Johnson so directed. B. SDR-767 - M.V.S. Company, Saratoga Avenue - BUilding Site Approval - 1 Lot - Continuec] from 10 September 1968 CommisSioner Smith reconunended that SDR-767 be continued to the next regular meeting. Chairman Johnson so directed. C.. SDR-773 - Don Orlando, Verde Vista and Boyce Lane - Building Site Approval - 3 Lots - Continued from 1O September 1968 Comanission~r Smith recommended that SDR-773 be continued to allow time for further review of the revised map. Chairman johnson so directed. D. SDR-776 - George R. Flatter, Aspesi Drive - Building Site Approval - 1 Lot The Assistant Planner stated that the applicant had reviewed the proposed conditions and expressed satisfaction with same. Co~issioner Smith moved, seconded by Con~issioner Crisp, that the Building Site Committee Report of 23' September ].968 relative to SDR-776 be adopted and that the tentative map (Exhibit "A'~, filed 5 September 1968) be approved subject to the conditions set forth in said report; motion carried unani- mous ly. E. SDR-777 - Michael Pestana~ Wild Oak Way - Building~ Site Approval - i Lot Commissioner Smith reviewed the subject application. The applicant was present and expressed satisfaction with the proposed conditions of approval. Connnissioner Smith moved, seconded by Commissioner Crisp, that the Building Site Committee Report (with special attention to the Note included in the report) of 23 September 1968 relative to SDR-777 be adopted and that the tentative map (Exhibit "A", filed 13 September 1968) be approved subject to the conditions set forth in said report; motion carried unanimously. IV. DESIGN REVIEW A. A-290 - Wells Fargo Bank, Saratoga-Los Gatos Road - Identification Signs - Final Design Review - Continued from 10 September ].968 Commissioner Lively briefly reviewed this application ahd stated that the Design Review Committee met with the applicant. After the Planning Commission read the Staff Report dated 23 Sept'ember 1968 Commissioner Lively moved, seconded].by Commissioner Kraus, that the subject Staff Report be adopted and that Final Design Approval be granted for A-290 subject to the conditions stated in said report; motion carried unanimously. -7- Plan:~.i:~q C;o.::~:::i.~:~:i. on :~[in~:t~.s - ?q Se,~tc~ber i.968 - Continued IV. B. Wells Far~%o Ban!~ SaraCoqa-Sunnvvale - Request of Citizens re E:<terior of Bank Bu'i].c~in~ Commissioner Lively stated that I) recently several interested business- men inquired about the exterior finish of the Wells Fargo Bank Building 2) the Design Review Committee met with these gentlemen ~o requested that a letter be x~itten to the Wells Fargo Bank suggesting that the foiiowiag recommendations for change or modification be considered: 1. Additional Quarry tile between planters at entry. 2. Five (5) planters and four (4) supporting colu~s be faced with a~obe brick or slumpstone. 3. Paint plaster soffit a light tan. 4. Apply 2" :,.: I0" Redwood below gutter of entire cornice. 5. Install light standards in planting areas in fron~ match standards in Blaney Plaza. The Assistant Planner then 1) read a copy of the letter submitted W.e!!s Fargo dated 20 September 1968 and now filed in A-276 2) explained ~ .... t[~e City Attorney had been contacted and he had replied i~ was admissable to request the Wells Fargo Bank to consider these changes but the City canno~ require that the modifications be ~de and 3) advised' that Wells Fargo consexited ~o the proposed changes provided their budge~ permitted. V CiTY COD~'CiL ~PDOR~p Cozaissioner Smith gave a s~m~ary of items reviewed and action taken at the City Council meeting of 18 September 1968, with emphasis on items of par=icutar interest to the Commission. VI. OLD BUSINESS None VII. NEW EUSDiESS None VIii. COi'e.fD~ICATiONS A. %.RiTTEN i. Letter From I.'~. Clarence Neaic Xequeszing Additional Uses in Neale's Hoi]_o,~x on ca:'~to~-Sunnvva].e Road ' The Assistant Planner read a communication received from ><~. Clarence i~eaie stating he has tenants for the additional uses and would like Ehe Planning Com~ission to approve them. Commissioner Smith stated that' I). some off'the' uses requested by ~,~eale have previously been denied by the Planning Commission 2) some of the uses will not be permitted in the new C-V Zone and 3) b~r. Naale .~ requested the City Council to consider Neale's Hollow for C-V Zoning. Chairman Johnson 1) referred this matter to the Subdivision Committe 2) authorized the ComitBee to prepare a letter (for signature by Chairmap. johnson) stazing all the facts and comehis relative ~o =his r~azter ~o Mr. Neale. -g- ~ ~ !-;~LSON PETZ':T!ON Ti~e Assistant 'l>ianner :~tateci that a petition was submitted by residents c,n Pierce Road oppos~n~ ti~e-groposed Change of Zoning in the Foothill ~ne, Ashley Way and Pierce i{oad area. Con~'-nissioner Crisp expla-inee that 'the Planning Commission at a previous meeting discussed 'this nmttcr. He f.urther explained that the General 'P!a':: Con:n:ittee submitted a re~ort da~ed 26 August 1968 (in file' C-ill and C-1.!3) and the Subdivision Com~aittee followed up with their report dated 26 August 1968 (in filed C-ill and C-ii3) 9oncurring vTiti~ the General Plan Cora:nittce Re oft. P Commissioner Smith explained that 1) the City Council has scheduled +'~,:,ir second ~ublic hearin.~, relative to C-ill and C-Ii3 for i6 October 1968 2) the General 'Plan Committee and the Subdivision Comm~ittee did not consider =ha area discus~zed in the petition at the' time :hey ~o~e their report and m~de their recor~mendations and 3) the ~etition ~s submitted in the interim betv~ean the Planning Com~,ission meeting of 26 August 1965 and the schediued City Council meeting. Chair~n Johnson advised that the General Plan Com_mittee would meet on Saturday, 5 October 1968 at 9:00 A.M.. to discuss this ~tZer and ~repare an addendem to their report of 26 August 1968 and explain why the area mentioned' in ~h~ petition was not considered when preparing their report. B. i. GLESTS ...... p~n johnson a "nowlegged, with pleasure, the presence of CounCilman D~er, 1~2. Bob Ewing, President of the Cha~er o~ ....... x~ Bole Bridges, Vice-Presidenct of the Chamber of Co~.erce, Y~s. Owens and I.hr. Franklin of the Good Government Group, ~'~s. Ottenbe~ ~ the League of Women Voters and >~. jim ~.~e~ of the Prides Cr.ossing Homao~er's Association. 2. EXPREES!Oi, i OF SYMPAT~I' .'. The entire Planning Co~anission expressed their sympathy 'Co ~Z~. and !~s. Stanley M..Walker on their recent loss. The Chairman declared the meeting adjourned at i0:03 P.M. Respectfully submitted -9-