HomeMy WebLinkAbout06-26-1985 Planning Commission Minutes CITY OF SARATOGA PLANNING COMMISSION
MINUTES
DATE: Wednesday, June 26, 1985 - 7:30 p.m.
PLACE: City Council Chambers, 13777 Fruitvale Avenue, Saratoga, CA
TYPE: Regular Meeting
ROUTINE ORGANIZATION
Roll Call
Present: Commissioners Burger, B. Harris, J. Harris, Peterson and
Siegfried
Absent: Commissioner Schaefer
Minutes
The following change was made to the minutes of June 12, 1985: On page
4, the third sentence in the fifth paragraph should read: "Commissioner
Siegfried commented that in the original discussion about the size of
this house, he thinks the Commission was very specific in saying that
the square footage could be 6175, but they did not Want to see other
things, as time goes along, that will increase the perception."
Commissioner J. Harris moved to waive the reading of the minutes of June
12, 1985 and approve as amended. Commissioner Burger seconded the
motion, which was carried unanimously.
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS - None
CONSENT CALENDAR
1. GF-352 - Resolution Adding Video Rental Facilities as a Permitted
Use in the C-V Zoning District
Commissioner Burger moved to approve the item listed above on the
Consent Calendar. Commissioner J. Harris seconded the motion, which was
carried unanimously 5-0.
PUBLIC HEARINGS CONSENT CALENDAR
2. UP-583 - Public Storage, Inc., Request for Modification of Use
Permit Approval to allow an existing underground gaso-
line storage tank at'12299 Saratoga-Sunnyvale Road
The public' hearing was opened at 7:38 p.m. Commissioner J. Harris moved
to close the public hearing. Commissioner Burger seconded the motion,
which was carried unanimously. Commissioner J. Harris moved to approve
the Public Hearings Consent Calendar listed above. Commissioner Burger
seconded the motion, which was carried unanimously 5-0.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
3. A-1095 - Nino Gallo, Request for Design Review Approval for a
new, two-story single family residence over 26 ft. in
height and over 4,800 sq. ft. in size at 20107 Mendel-
sohn Lane, in the R-1-20,000 zoning district; continued
from June 12, 1985 (to be continued to July 10, 1985)
It was directed that this matter be continued to July 10, 1985.
4a. A-1097 - James and Roxanne Axline, Request for Design Review
4b. SDR-1600- and Tentative Building Site Approval to remove an
existing residence, construct a two-story, single
family residence and exceed the 3,500 sq. ft. on site
allowable floor area standard at 20170 Thelma Avenue,
in the R-1-10,000 zoning district; continued from June
12, 1985 (to be continued to July 10, 1985)
Planning Commission Page 2
Minutes - Meeting 6/26/85
A-1097 AND SDR-1600
It was directed that this matter be continued to July 10, 1985.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
5a. E-1-85 - J. Lohr Properties, Inc., Consider a Draft Environ-
5b. SD-1584 - mental Impact Report and Request for Tentative Map
Approval for a 28-1ot subdivision on 10.2 acres in
the R-1-12,500 zoning district at the northwestern
corner of Via Escuela Drive and Glen Brae Drive; con-
tinued from June 12, 1985
This item was discussed later in the evening after the applicant had
arrived.
Staff stated that they now have the information for the final EIR
relative to' the location of the Monte Vista fault. They commented that
the work done by the applicant's consultant, and confirmed verbally by
the City Geologist, indicates that the fault does not traverse the site.
They added that, therefore, they would recommend that the Commission
certify the EIR as complete. They reported that the Commission had
reviewed an alternate layout of the subdivision at their last study
session, and they should determine which plan is most suitable for the
development of the site.
The public hearing was reopened at 7:52.
Richard Wild, representing the applicant, was present to answer
questions. He confirmed that their consultant has made a review of the
Monte Vista fault and has determined that it does not traverse the site.
Commissioner Siegfried moved to close the public hearing. Commissioner
Burger seconded the motion, which was carried unanimously. Commissioner
Siegfried moved to certify E-1-85 as complete. Commissioner Burger
seconded the motion, which was carried unanimously 5-0. Chairman
Peterson clarified that the project was not being approved at this time.
Staff explained the alternative map that had been submitted, discussing
the street layout. They also discussed the recommended location of the
single-story homes in the original proposal.
The public hearing was opened at 7:59 p.m.
Mr. Wild discussed the original and alternate maps, indicating that they
had a slight preference for the original map and accepted the conditions
placed. =
Dr. R. Wood, 19661 Junipero Way, indicated that he preferred the original
map. He 'referenced his letter that he had submitted and expressed
concern relative to the elevation of the lots. He explained that his
lot was set down about 5 ft., and Mr. Lohr has agreed to lower the two
houses behind him 2-1/2 ft. Dr. Wood asked that the Staff Report be
conditioned to reflect that.
Commissioner Burger moved to close the public hearing. Commissioner B.
Harris seconded the motion, which was carried unanimously.
Discussion followed on the two plans. There was a consensus that the
original plan was preferable. Commissioner Burger stated that she had
concern with the alternate plan because of three streets coming out onto
Via Escuela in such a short span. She commented that she would like to
see lots 1, 10, 14, 17 and 28 conditioned as one-story homes.
Commissioner Siegfried commented t'hat a sprawling one-story house on a
corner lot may be more imposing than a reasonable two-story house.
Discussion followed on the height limitations in the subdivision.
Mar~V Kirkeby, the engineer, discussed the grading and pad elevations in
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Planning Commission Page 3
Minutes - Meeting 6/26/85
SD-1584
the subdivision.
It was directed that this matter be continued to July 10, 1985, with the
applicant submitting a clear indication of pad elevation and relative
heights for Plan #1. Commissioner J. Harris indicated that she would
feel comfortable with the statement in the Staff Report that the five
lots discussed previously may be two-story, but they will be considered
on a case-by-case basis. There was a consensus to that effect.
6. SUP-8 - Nadine McCullough, 14985 Quito Road, Request for
Second Unit Use Permit to allow two (2) existing
Second Units on two (2) separate parcels in the
R-1-40,000 zoning district; continued from February
27, 1985 (to be continued to September 25, 1985)
It was directed that this matter be continued to September 25, 1985.
7a. SUP-12 - Charles Bolander Trust, 14231 Douglass Lane, Request
7b. V-678 - for Second Unit Use Permit to allow an existing,
detached, one-story second unit and Variance Approval
to maintain a 3.5 ft. rear yard setback and 3 ft. side
yard setback where 35 ft. and 15 ft. are required
respectively and to provide two (2) covered parking
spaces where three (3) are required, in the R-1-20,000
zoning district; continued to June 26, 1985 (to be con-
tinued to September.25, 1985)
It was directed that this matter be continued to September 25, 1985.
8. C-222 - City of Saratoga, Consider Amending Certain Zoning
Regulations of the City of Saratoga pertaining to
uses, site coverage, accessory structures, dis-
tance between structures and setbacks in the R-l,
HC-RD and NHR zoning districts; continued from
June 12, 1985
The City Attorney explained the changes that have been made to the
ordinance.
The public hearing was opened at 7:45 p.m. No one appeared to speak on
this issue. Commissioner Burger moved to close the public hearing.
Commissioner Siegfried seconded the motion, which was carried
unanimously.
Discussion followed on the Site Review Committee reviewing use permits
for the cabanas, recreation rooms and similar structures. Commissioner
Burger stated that she feels the Site Review Committee could handle
those applications, and there was a consensus to that effect° She moved
to adopt Resolution C-222, with the change in Section 3.7-1(a)1, making
the Site Review Committee the body that would grant the use permit for
the items indicated in that paragraph and the other corresponding
sections. Commissioner B. Harris seconded the motion, which was carried
unanimously 5-0.
9. A-913 - Charles Masters, Request Modification of Design
Mod. Review Approval for a new, 29.5 ft., single family
residence on a hillside lot which exceeds the 6200
sq. ft. standard at Lot 24, Tract 6665 Congress Hall
Lane in the NHR zoning district
Staff explained the application, recommending denial. They described
the lot and the grading. Commissioner J. Harris gave a Land Use
Committee report, noting the oak trees that partially screen the
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Planning Commission Page 4
Minutes - June 26, 1985
A-913
structure. She stated that they are far enough away that landscaping
could be provided near the proposed home for additional screening. She
discussed the orientation of the other homes in the area.
The public hearing was opened at 8:22 p.m.
Ron Dick, the designer, referenced his letter dated June 12, 1985,
explaining the changes that have been made'to the design and the
grading. He indicated that the home is now 29-1/2 ft. in height;
however, he felt that they can reduce it to 27-1/2 ft.
Charles Masters, the applicant, discussed the other homes in the area,
indicating that they would not be impacted by this home. He indicated
that he would like to have the present height of the home.
Commissioner Burger expressed concern about the lots to the southeast
and below the Masters property, relative to the impact from the pool and
recreation area. Mr. Dick explained that he feels the oak trees screen
that area. She also asked why the home was positioned so far back from
Congress Hall Lane, thereby not making use of a large portion of the
flat pad. Mr. Dick commented that they had used the basic pad area,
noting that the area narrows drastically as it comes up to Congress Hall
Lane.
Commissioner J. Harris moved to close the public hearing. Commissioner
Burger seconded the motion, which was carried unanimously.
Commissioner Peterson stated that he would like to follow the Staff
recommendation on 27-1/2 ft. and indicated that he would like to
compromise on the grading. Commissioner Siegfried pointed out that that
would raise the structure because the applicant has taken a lot of the
grading out from under to get his 18" of clearance under the pad.
Discussion followed on the grading and the height of the home.
Commissioner J. Harris commented that she has a problem with the height
of this home because of the visibility that this area has from the
entire Parnas and McBain & Gibbs area, and the fact that there is a
house next to it that is much smaller and 7 ft. lower.
Staff clarified that the City Geologist would review the project before
any work was accomplished and there is no geotechnical reason for not
doing the amount of proposed grading; however, Staff feels that the land
should be retained and utilized as it exists.
Commissioner Peterson stated that he could support a height of 27-1/2
ft., 7219 sq. ft. floor area, and the cut and fill, based on the
discussion. Commissioner Siegfried agreed, stating that there would be
a roof line that is equal. to or slightly lower than the existing house
that is next to it.
Commissioner Siegfried moved to approve A-913 Mod., deleting Condition
No. 14 relative to grading. Regarding the findings, he stated that the
reduction in the height to 27-1/2 and allowing 2200 cubic yards of
grading reduces the home equal to or below the home next to it. Finding
#2 and #4 are made very much on the same basis, that the reduction in
the height of the home and the reason for the grading is to further
allow for the setting of that home into the hillside. He added a
condition requiring additional landscaping, subject to Staff approval,
to provide screening on the eastern and northeastern sides, stating that
this would help make the findings #2 and #4. Commissioner B. Harris
seconded the motion, which was carried unanimously 5-0.
10. A-1053 - Robert and Gay Bohn, Request for Design Review
Mod. Approval for a new, two-story single family resi-
dence over 6200 sq. ft. (7,317 sq. ft. according to
the applicant) in the NHR district at 14124 Pike Road
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Planning Commission Page 5
Minutes - Meeting 6/26/85
A-1053
Staff described the history of the project and the present proposal,
stating that they were still unable to make the findings and recommend
denial.
The public hearing was opened at 8:55 p.m.
Robert Bohn, the applicant, explained that the City Council had voted
down the height limit and referred the project back to the Commission
with a reduced roof line, for their review. He questioned the Staff's
calculations, which include 1500 sq. fto of attic and open space on the
second floor level. He noted that this space is not intended for
livable area. He commented that he had discussed moving the bedrooms on
the west side of the house back over the garage, which would use up some
of the attic space, if the Commission is concerned about it. He
described the other homes in the area. Mr. Bohn submitted photographs
of his lot.
Commissioner Burger moved to close the public hearing. Commissioner J.
Harris seconded the motion, which was carried unanimously.
Commissioner J. Harris stated that she appreciates Mr. Bohn's concern
about the way the square footage is measured. However, she feels that,
given the height of the house, the Commission. must consider that,
whether it is looked at in real numbers or not, it is going to be a very
bulk apearance. She added that in her mind that is a very visible lot
and the home is going to completely fill up the lot. She stated that
she feels that is incompatible with the rest of the neighborhood.
Commissioner Peterson agreed, stating that he feels the house is too
large. Commissioner Burger agreed with the other Commissioners. She
stated that, even though an area may be counted into the square footage
that is not considered.living space, i.e. garage, it does contribute to
the perception of bulk of the home. She added that this is a very large
home for the size lot. Chairman Peterson discussed the measurement of
square footage. Commissioner Siegfried agreed that the home is too
large and impacts the neighbors.
Commissioner J. Harris moved to deny A-1053 Mod. Commissioner B. Harris
seconded the motion, which was carried unanimously 5-0. The appeal
period was noted. Mr. Bohn stated that he would like to submit some
alternatives and have them considered at a study session. Commissioner
Siegfried moved to reconsider the vote, and Commissioner J. Harris
seconded the motion. The motion was carried unanimously 5-0, and it was
directed that this matter be continued to a study session on .. August 6,
1985 and regular meeting of August 10, 1985.
11. A-1101 - Mr. and Mrs. Sudin Vittal, Request for Design Review
Approval for a new, two-story single family residence
on a hillside lot which exceeds the 6,200 sq. ft.
standard at 15265 Montalvo Heights Court in the R-1-
40,000 zoning district (to be continued to July 10,
1985)
It was directed that this matter be continued to July 10, 1985.
Break - 9:15 - 9:30 p.m.
12. A-1103 - Parnas Corp., Request for Design Review Approval to
construct a two-story single family residence, which
exceeds the 6,200 sq. ft. allowable floor area stan-
dard on a hillside lot, and approval of grading in
excess of 1000 cubic yards on Lot 20, Tract 6665,
Congress Hall Lane, in the NHR zoning district
Staff described the application, stating that they were unable to make
the findings and recommend denial. Commissioner Burger gave a Land Use
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Minutes - Meeting 6/26/85
A-1103
Committee report, stating that the landslide which had occurred on the
site is visible to the naked eye on the eastern side of the lot. She
described the lot, indicating that there are a large number of oaks on
the perimeter of the lot.
The public hearing was opened at 9:34 p.m.
Wendell Roscoe, the designer, gave a presentation on the project,
addressing the grading and the circular driveway. It was clarified that
the height is 28 ft., and Mr. Roscoe indicated that he could reduce the
roof pitch. It was noted that the Commission does not have a plan which
shows that the circular driveway connects with the driveway going to the
garage in the back, as indicated by Mr. Roscoe. There was a consensus
that the Commission would like to. see a plan with one curb cut. Staff
commented that if there is a single curb cut they feel there would be
changing of the contours and an area in front of the house will be
modified substantially.
Commissioner Burger moved to close the public hearing. Commissioner J.
Harris seconded the motion, which was carried unanimously.
There was a consensus to bring the matter to a study session. Chairman
Peterson noted that there seems to be a consensus for a height of
approximately 26 ft. and a possible slight reduction in square footage.
He added that the major concern is the driveway, i.e. the way it will
look, the grading, and how the driveway will affect the landscaping in
the front. The applicant was requested to bring suggestions to the
study session relative to these concerns. It was also suggested that
the applicant make the findings that staff was unable to make. It was
directed that this matter be continued to the study session of July 16,
1985 and the regular meeting of July 24, 1985.
13. V-701 - David Smith, Request for Variance Approval to permit
construction of a garage addition with a 5 ft. side-
yard setback from building line and 3.67 ft. side
yard setback to the overhang, where 7.8 ft. is
required in the R-1-10,000 zoning district at 13675
Quito Road
The application was explained by Staff. They stated that they feel
there are other alternatives to the location of the garage addition
which would not require a variance; therefore they are unable to make
the findings and recommend denial. Commissioner J. Harris gave a Land
Use Committee report, noting the mature birch trees on site and the
screening provided by oleanders on site and large oak trees on Quito
Road.
The public hearing was opened at 9:58 p.m.
Dave Smith, the applicant, explained the proposal, addressing the trees
on site. The height and slope of the addition were discussed.
Commissioner Burger moved to close the public hearing. Commissioner J.
Harris seconded the motion, which was carried unanimously.
Commissioner Burger commented that she could make findings #1 through #4
that Staff was unable to make. She moved to approve V-701, making the
following findings: #1 and #2 - The placement of the home on the lot is
at such an angle that construction of the garage as recommended would
visually impact the entire plan so it would not look proper. It would
impact the birch trees because of their location, and they may be non-
ordinance size but they greatly contribute to the beauty of the front
yard. She added that it does represent a practical difficulty to remove
those. #3 - It is a common privilege to have a two-car garage in order to
keep cars off the street and properly housed, and #4 - By virtue of the
fact that it is a common privilege it is not a special privilege. She
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Planning Commission Page 7
Minutes - Meeting 6/26/85
V-701
added that Condition #2 should read that the height of the addition
shall not exceed 15 ft. Commissioner Siegfried seconded the motion,
which was carried unanimously 5-0. Mr. Smith asked approval to have the
overhang area extended back to the rear of the existing garage. There
was a consensus to grant this approval, and it was noted that the
exhibit should be changed to reflect that.
14. GF-3.44.1 - City of Saratoga, Consider Recommending Approval of
Text Amendments to the Second' Unit Ordinance which
would generally relax the development regulations
of this ordinance for new and existing second units.
These amendments would be reviewed per Ordinance
NS-3 and would have to be reviewed and adopted by
the City Council.
The City Attorney noted the changes made by the Commission at their last
study session. Chairman Peterson pointed out that the Commission had
agreed upon a limit of five second units per year in the R-1-10,000
zoning district, and that change should be added to the ordinance.
The public hearing was opened at 10:14 p.m.
Doug Adams stated that he feels existing units should be grandfathered
into the ordinance by having them registered and inspected. He
commented that within the existing units there is a special group which
are pre-1962. He explained that in 1962 Saratoga adopted the Uniform
Building Code, which states that buildings in existence at the time of
adoption of the code may have their existing use or occupancy continued
if such use or occupancy was legal at the time of the adoption and the
continued use is not dangerous to life. He asked that the use of this
special group of legal existing units be continued.
Shelley Williams, 11951 Brookridge Drive, recommended that the
Commission and Council accept what is in existence at the present time,
and then give a reasonable time to bring those properties up to code
that are presently not up to health and safety codes. He stated that he
agrees with having only one second unit per lot on new properties.
Regarding item E regarding variances on new units, he commented that
there are unusual lots in the City. He indicated that he feels item H
is difficult, and feels that once a property has been created into a
second unit and brought up to code, it should be allowed to continue.
Jean Johnston commented that so many existing second units were built
without permit. She stated that .she was concerned with impact on
neighborhoods by existing units, specifically traffic problems. She
also expressed concern as to rental of these units to other than senior
citizens. She stated that she feels there shoul~ be follow-up
inspections to ensure that the ordinance is regulated. She added that
she feels each existing unit should be handled on an individual basis.
The City Attorney summarized the changes to Harriet Handler.
Commissioner Burger moved to close the public hearing. Commissioner J.
Harris seconded the motion, which was carried unanimously.
Commissioner J. Harris referenced the letter from the Good Government
Group which states that they oppose second units on R-1-10,000 lots.
She stated that she feels that looks and appearances from outside are
the least of her concern. She explained that she is concerned with the
extra traffic, parking, and the impact it would have on the
neighborhood, and none of those things would be mitigated by staying
within the existing appearance of the house or by keeping it to 600 sq.
ft. Therefore, she will be voting against the amendment.
Discussion followed on whether the 5 units per year in the R-1-10,000
zoning district are included within the 20 total or in addition to that.
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Minutes - Meeting 6/26/85
GF-344.1
The City Attorney stated that the ordinance now reads that if there is a
use permit granted to legalize an existing second unit, it is not
included; if it is a new unit it is included. Therefore, it depends on
whether it is an existing or new unit within the R-1-10,000 district.
Commissioner Siegfried clarified, in response to Mrs. Johnston's
comments, that while the senior citizen has to be in one or the other of
the structures so that in fact the second unit could be occupied by
someone who is not a senior citizen, there is a second requirement on
the second unit. That is, there'can be no more than two people in a
unit.
Commissioner Burger moved to approve GF-344.1, with the changes relative
to the limit of five units. Commissioner B. Harris seconded the motion,
which was carried 4-1, with Commissioner J. Harris dissenting.
Commissioner Siegfried added that he was voting for the amendment;
however, he has never been terribly much in favor of the ordinance. He
explained that it was mandated by State law that if the City did not
adopt a Second Unit Ordinance the City might. end up with a State
ordinance applying to it. He indicated that he shares Commissioner J.
Harris' concerns about the opening up to the R-1-10,000 district, and he
would hope that when this comes before the City Council they will take a
very close look at that.
MISCELLANEOUS
15. V-609 - Ralph Renna, 15041 Sobey Road, Review of Lighting
Plan; continued from June 12, 1985
Staff explained the history of this application. They stated that when
the plans for the lighting were submitted for a building permit it was
determined that there were lights proposed that were essentially
inconsistent with the Planning Commission's intent. Staff recommended
denial of the plan, with direction that a plan be resubmitted that meets
with that intent. (Commissioner Siegfried left the meeting at 10:45
p.m.)
Randy Hess, attorney for the applicant, questioned the need for a
variance for the wall. He explained that originally the wall was over 6
ft. high on the neighbor's side of the property. The applicant had
backfilled that side of the property so that both sides of the property
are now 6 ft., and the wall is not over 6 ft.
The City Attorney commented that there was a variance granted for the
wall, and what is now before the Commission is the lighting plan. He
explained that Staff has determined that the light on that portion of
the wall that was measured at 6 ft. would therefore be higher than 6
ft., and a further variance would be required. He stated that the
lighting was to be subject to further review and approval by the
Planning Commission. He added that a condition of the variance was
that Mr. Renna backfill on the other side of the wall. Therefore, the
variance was granted for the wall which originally measured 6-8 ft. and
backfill was done as required by the variance. He explained that, from
Staff's point of view, it was a 6 ft. wall, measured from natural or
finished grade, whichever is lowest, and it doesn't shrink to a 5 ft.
wall because of backfill required by the variance.
Mr. Hess commented that he does not think that a wall 6 ft., measured
from either side of the dirt, is a 7 ft. wall because there is a portion
of the retaining wall underneath the dirt. He explained that Mr.
Renna's home is in a valley, and he was required to grade and raise the
dirt on his property up several feet. He stated that the wal 1 is now in
a valley and is 6 ft.
The City Attorney commented that if the wall is 6 ft. and it has a 1 ft.
light, it still is over 6 ft.
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V-609
Mr. Hess indicated that the lights around the home are all low-voltage
lights and do not shine into any neighbors' homes. He commented that it
is evident that it is not the case in Saratoga that a light is
considered as part of the wall, and he submitted photographs of homes in
the vicinity which have lights that are well over 6 ft. tall. He added
that Mr. Renna's lights are for his security and his aesthetics.
Discussion followed on Mr. Renna's lights and those of other homes in
the area. Mr. Hess pointed out that there are approximately 20 homes in
the area with lights that are over 6 ft., some of which are up to 10 ft.
high.
Mr. Hess explained that Mr. Renna had originally requested a variance so
he would not have to backfill his neighbor's yard, which he eventually
did. He stated that he was denied.that variance for having a fence over
6 ft. and within a very short time a variance was granted on Sobey road
to theMagnum property for a fence which appears to be well over 8 ft.
tall. He added that all Mr. Renna is asking that the Commission give
him what everybody else on Sobey Road has. It was clarified that there
will be 59 lights, 12 ft. apart.
Commissioner Burg.er pointed out that the minutes from July 1983 state
that the lighting plan will be submitted for Planning Commission review,
with the intent that it would be permitted in 4 or 5 ft. sections of the
fence, and not be allowed on any portion of the fence 6 ft. or higher.
The photographs submitted by Mr. Hess of other lighting in the area were
discussed. The City Attorney commented that some of those fences were
around recreation courts and many of the lights were on fences that were
set back. He explained that if a fence is within the setback or if
there is a structure within a setback, the 6 ft. height limitation does
not apply. He added that there is no way to determine, just based on
the pictures, whether the lights are at the front of the property or on
lower portions of the walls. He commented that, with respect to those
fences that are at the property line or within the setback, and, based
upon the pictures, appear to be 6 ft., again they may have been put in
later. We don't have enough information with respect to each property;
there could have been a variance or an approval at the time; it could
have been put in later after there was an approval of the other
structure; it could have been done illegally, or they could be legal.
There is no prohibition against the lighting per se; we are dealing with
a fence at a property line, which has a 6 ft. height limit on it.
Commissioner Peterson stated that his major problem is that he looks at
the plan , sees 60 lights, and light pollution comes to his mind. He
commented that he does not understand why the applicant needs 60 lights
around a house. He added that the purposes in the R-1 district speak
rather directly to the ordinances controlling illumination and glare,
and he feels that 60 lights, even if they are 25 watt, is just far too
much light pollution.
Mr. Hess indicated that Mr. and Mrs. Renna are agreeable to reducing the
number of lights so there will be 1 light for every 24 ft. on the side
wall, which will reduce the amount of light substantially. Commissioner
Peterson questioned why the lights have to be on top, and Mr. Hess
indicated that it was from an aesthetic viewpoint and there is more
expense involved if it is behind the wall.
Mr. Renna clarified that the walls bordering the driveway are 30".
Commissioner Burger stated that she could understand why the applicant
would want some light along the driveway; however, she has a lot of
trouble with that light on a high wall along the perimeter.
Commissioner J. Harris commented'that as the lights go back along the
property line, one neighbor will see the interior lights on the opposite
wall and the other neighbor will see the lights from the opposite wall.
Therefore, she does not understand how they can possibly be blocked off
so no one sees them. Commissioner Burger stated that she would be able
to support a light every 24 ft. on the walls that are 30" high, that is,
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Minutes - Meeting 6/26/85
V-609
along the driveway, not on the per.imeter, but in the inside of the lot.
However, she cannot support any of the lighting that would require a
variance on a 6 ft. wall. Commissioners J. Harris and B. Harris agreed.
Commissioner Burger moved to approve the lighting plan for V-609, as
modified to delete the lights in every area except where delineated in
the discussion, and with the further condition that the lighting as
approved be alternative posts, so it would be every 24 ft. Commissioner
J. Harris seconded the motion, which was carried unanimously 4-0. The
appeal period was noted.
16. Tract 6781, Teerlink Ranch, M~. Eden· Road, Determination Rela-
tive to Undergrounding of Existing Overhead Electric Service
Line
Staff explained the request. They described the area and stated that
their usual recommendation would be to require the undergrounding.
However, because of the location and the damage that would be done to
the area, they do not have a problem with the request. Discussion
followed on the Paul Masson property. Commissioner Burger gave a Land
Use Committee report, stating that it was difficult to even see the
poles and wires, and it was the consensus of the committee that they
would rather see the poles and ·wires stay than scar the hillside.
Commissioner Burger moved to grant the request from Lea Engineering to
not underground the Paul Masson service through Tract 6781 westerly of
the cul-de-sac of Heber Way. Commissioner J. Harris seconded the
motion, which was carried unanimously 4-0.
C OMMUN I CAT I ON S
Written
1. Letter from McBain & Gibbs, Regarding Amendment to CC&R's for
height restriction on Lots 5, 6 and 12, Tract 6628. Staff stated that
they feel there are some errors in the letter, indicating that they have
no recollection of a 23 ft. height on Lot 5 or a discussion with Mr.
McBain relative to Lot 12. Bob McBain, the applicant, addressed the
lots in question, specifically Lot 12. The other lots in the area were
discussed. It was noted that the Planning Commission would still have
control over' the homes on these lots at the Design Review stage.
Commissioner B. Harris stated th'at she feels that conceptually the
applicant is trying to convey to the Commission that his sense of
concern is similar to that of the Commission regarding the design, and
the numbers mentioned by the applicant are certainly within the
guidelines. She added that as long as the Commission still has the
right to deny the Design Review if it is not acceptable, she has no
problem. Chairman Peterson noted that the Planning Commission will be
looking at the Design Review very carefully. Staff pointed out that
when the applicant was before the Commission relative to a change to the
CC&Rs concerning two-stories, it was the Commission's decision at that
time that the height limitation be substituted, and that limitation was
21 ft. Commissioner B. Harris moved to recommend to the City Council
that the CC&Rs be amended relative to Lot 12 only, that the height
limitation not exceed 21 ft., with a maximum elevation of 981.
Commissioner Burger seconded the motion, which was carried 4-1, with
Commissioner J. Harris dissenting. The applicant was requested to
submit a copy of the amended language of the CC&Rs to the Commission.
Oral by Commission
1. Tentative Agenda for the Planning Commission Retreat
(disussed by Chairman Peterson)
ADJOURNMENT
Commissioner Burger moved to adjourn the meeting. Commissioner J.
Harris seconded the motion, which was carried unanimously. the meeting
,
tary