HomeMy WebLinkAbout07-05-1995 City Council Minutes MINUTES
SARATOGA CITY COUNCIL
TIME: Wednesday, July 5, 1995 - 7:30 p.m.
PLACE: Civic Theater, 13777 Fruitvale Ave.
TYPE: Regular Meeting
Pledge of Allegiance
1o PaLL C/~LL
The meeting was called to order at 7:30 p.m. Councilmembers
Jacobs,,Moran, Tucker, Wolfe, and Mayor Burger were present.
Staff Present: City Manager Peacock, Public Works Director
Perlin, Planner Walgren, Attorney Riback.
2. CEREMONIAL ITEM - None
3. REPORT OF CITY CLERK ON POSTING OFAGENDA
Pursuant to Government Code 54954.2, the agenda for this meeting
was properly posted on June 30.
4. CO~jNICATIONS FROM COP~4ISSIONSi~ND THE PUBLIC
A. ORAL COPEMUNICATIONS (limited to 15 minutes)
1) Update on the status of the installation of the
fiberoptic cable television system - Bill
Haggarty, South Bay Cablevision
Bill Haggarty, South Bay Cablevision, presented an update on the
status of the installation of the fiberoptic cable television
system in Saratoga. He stated that one of the most important
aspects of the new system is the expanded channel capacity,
capable of delivering in excess of eighty standard video channels
with the ability to increase the capacity to hundreds of channels
in the future. Mr. Haggarry announced that the Bravo channel has
returned, along with the E-Entertainment, Court TV and the Cable
Health Network.
Councilmember Moran thanked Mr. Haggarty on behalf of the
residents of Saratoga for the return of the Bravo channel. In
response to Mayor Burger's inquiry about the possibility of
getting the History Channel, Mr. Haggarty stated that they have
received a number of requests for it and the possibility existed
for the next round of updates.
Jeff Schwartz, San Marcos Road, addressed the Council regarding
the West Valley College football practice field. He stated that
the City of Saratoga approached him about a year ago to get the
neighbors together to discuss problems. The neighbors did get
together and negotiated for several months in good faith. The
College negotiated a detailed agreement which has been
disallowed. A number of conditions were agreed to by the parties
at the table in order to get everyone to confer; and it was
decided that if the negotiations were unsuccessful the evidence
for a criminal complaint would be carried out. The City Manager
later said it wasn't agreed that there would be a criminal
complaint; it was agreed that there would be formal action taken
by the City. However, there wasn't any taken. Negotiations
broke down and the City Manager then talked with the College
board members. When asked what the outcome was the City Manager
City Council Minutes 2 July 5, 1995
said he was waiting for a legal analysis by the City Attorney.
Approximately four months have passed and nothing has been
received from the City Attorney or the City Manager. Mr.
Schwartz asked the Council to recognize that they did what the
City asked a year ago rather than go to court, which would
involve the city as well as the college. He stated his
frustration with delays and being ignored.
Mr. Schwartz stated that they will not go through another year
with uninterrupted schedules of loud intrusive events'which are a
violation of the law which the Co~mcil unanimously adopted. He
urged the Council to cooperate in reaching a solution.
Mayor BUrger thanked Mr. Schwartz~ and reported that the Council
met in closed session and in open session reported that the City
Manager was requested to attempt to get the parties together
again at the table. She stated the City Manager attempted to get
the parties back at the table and was unsuccessful for further
productive discussion. She stated she was not aware of any
further activity and suggested Mr. Schwartz get an update as of
this date from the City Manager or the City Attorney.
Councilmember Wolfe thanked Mr. Schwartz for his representation
of the neighbors. He stated that the neighbors are entitled to
quiet enjoyment and timely conununication. Mr. Wolfe suggested
that he and Mayor Burger meet with the interim President of the
college.
Following a brief discussion, there was consensus that the
Council should meet to discuss the issue.
B. WR/TTEN CO~4UNICATION8 -. None
5. CONSENT CALENDAR
A. Previously-Discussed Items - None
B. New Items
1) Planning Commission Actions, 6/28 - Note and
file.
2) Heritage Preservation Commission Minutes, 5/9;
6/13 - Note and file.
3) Commission Attendance Reports
4) ResolUtion 95-30.0~ transferring $600 from
Heritage Preservation Trust Fund toAdvance
Planning to provide for hosting of conference
5) Resolution 95-34 summarily vacating Trail Easement
on Lot 6, Tract 7770 (Chadwick)
6) Notice of Completion, CIP 9503 (Quito-westmont-
sousa Traffic Signal)
7) Award of Contract to set survey Monuments, Tr.
6781, CIP 8505 (Teerlink Ranch)
8) Resolution 95-33.1 amending Resolution 95.33
authorizing permanent positions as previously
authorized
City Council Minutes 3 July 5, 1995
Councilmen~Der Wolfe requested that Item 3 be removed from the
Consent Calendar for discussion. Councilme~3er Tucker requested
that Item 6 be removed from the Consent Calendar for discussion.
TUCKER/MORANMOVED TO APPROVE ITEMS 1, 2, 4, 5, 7, and 8 OF THE
CONSENT CALENDAR. Passed 5-0
DISCUSSION OF CONSENT CALENDAR ITEMS:
(3 There was a brief discussion about attendance at
commission meetings. Mr. Wolfe commended the
volunteers for their participation on the committees.
It was suggested that Mayor Burger contact the
Chairperson of the comm'ittees that have members with an
absentee rate of over 50%.
WOLFE/MORANMOVED TO APPROVE ITEM 3 OF THE CONSENT C~T~NDAR.
Passed 5-0
(6) Councilmember Tucker stated that a ceremony to
celebrate the completion of the traffic signal would
have been appropriate but noted that it was already in
operation. Mr. Perlin stated that there was a lack of
interest from San Jose.
MORAN/TUCKERMOVED TO APPROVE ITEM 6 OF THE CONSENT C~x~NDAR.
Passed 5-0
C. CLAIMS AGAINST THE CITY - None.
Mayor Burger moved the agenda to Item 7A.
7. OLD BUSINESS
A. Request from Local Governments for Superfund Reform for
City to participate in Superfund Reform Legislation
(continued from 6/21)
MORAN/TUCKERMOVED TO NOTE i~ND FILE THE CORRESPONDENCE AND NOT
T/&KE PART. Passed 5-0
Mayor Burger moved the agenda to 8C.
8. NEW BUSINESS
C. Ordinance HP-23 designating Almond Hill as Heritage Landmark
TUCKER/JACOBS MOVED TO INTRODUCE ORDINANCE BY TITLE ONLY, WAIVING
FURTHER READING '(FIRST READING). Passed 5-0
9. ROUTINE MATTERS
A. Approvml Of Minutes - 6/13; 6/21; 6/27
There was consensus to approve the Minutes of the June 13, 1995
meeting.
Corrections to the Minutes of the June 21, 1995 meeting were
noted as follows: Page 6: 4th paragraph from bottom, third
line: "proposed" should read "revised". Page 4: 2nd paragraph,
second line: delete "Vice Chair of the Library Commission".
There was consensus to approve of the Minutes of the meeting of
June 21, 1995 as amended.
City Council Minutes 4 July 5, 1995
There was consensus to approve the Minutes of the June 27, 1995
meeting.
B. Approval of Warrant List
TUCMER/JACOBSMOVED TO APPROVE THE WARRANT LIST. Passed 5-0
Mayor Burger moved the agenda bac~[ to Item 6A.
6. PUBLIC HEARINGS - 8:00 pm.
A.' Appeal of denial of thz~e applications at 14300
Saratoga Ave.: Lot Line Adjustment approval to merge a
20 ft. wide property strip to the main parcel;
variance approval to al].ow the proposed cumulative
building square footage (including accessory
structures) to exceed tt~e allowable for this property,
to allow a 25 ft. tall t~o-story garage (one-story, 15
ft. in height maximumpermitted) and to allow the
second story addition to exceed the 26 ft. main
structure height limit kq 4 inches; and Design Review
approval to add 2,204 sq.ft. of first and second floor
area to an existing two-story residence listed on
Saratoga's Heritage Inventory. The subject property is
29,770 sq. ft. in area and is located in an R-1-10,000
zoning district. (LL-93-008, V-93-020, DR-93-
032)(Appellant-applicant, Heath)
~: Planner Walgren presented the staff report on this
item.
Councilmember Moran asked for a history on the ordinance
pertaining to the 15 feet on the garage or accessory unit. Mr.
Walgren explained that the City first adopted the zoning
ordinance in 1960 for W maximum of 12 feet; the height was
further reviewed if the building was in a rear yard setback or
other criteria that might apply. In the early 90s the ordinance
was modified to allow accessory buildings to go up to a maximum
of 15 feet height in certain circumstances and findings to
approve that excess height are that the height is necessary to
achieve architectural compatibility with the main residence.
Councilmember Moran noted that the square footage allowed Mr. and
Mrs. Heath was 4,400 square feet because of the large lot in a R-
1-10 zone. She questioned what square footage would be allowed
to a neighbor or nearby property in the R-l-10 at the maximum.
Mr. Watgren responded that a 10,000 square foot parcel is
permitted 3,200 square foot total floor area, including garage
and accessory buildings.
Discussion continued regarding the square footage to be added to
the Heath residence. Mr. Walgren pointed out that the Planning
Commission was willing to approve a variance to allow up to 5,008
square feet, which is the 4,400 square foot cap plus the 608
square feet of historic structures that are not readily used.
The Planning Commission was willing to give the applicant credit
for the three buildings identified, which total 608 square feet.
In response to Mayor Burger's corm~,.ent that the rendering on the
wall was inaccurate compared to the plans in her possession, Mr.
Walgren explained that the rendering shown is an older plan and
City Council Minutes 5 July 5, 1995
is not the current plan before the City Council. He stated that
the plans before the Council show the garage is connected by a
breezeway but is not physically part of the main residence.
Mayor Burger referred to the November 1994 minutes of the
Heritage Preservation Commission wherein it was stated that the
HPC supported the project design; "a two story garage addition is
preferable to maintain architectural consistency with the
existing house."
Mr. Walgren responded that the input from the Heritage
Preservation Commission was a major issue of discussion at the
May 24 meeting. He stated that the HPC recommendation indicated
that the two story design was appropriate for the older residence
and they were happy to see the rehabilitation; it supported the
two car garage as compatible with the main residence; but he
said their recommendation was not meant to imply that a one story
garage was not compatible.
Councilmember Wolfe stated that the placement of the garage not
being attached brings attention to the huge tree. He questioned
if all the trees would remain intact.
Mr. Walgren stated that the applicant has worked with the city
arborist to ensure that the oak tree in the back is not damaged.
The city arborist has recommended a minimum ten foot setback from
the Douglas fir in the front. The original plan showed that tree
being removed; the garage has subsequently been moved back but
not the full ten feet the arborist recommended. As part of the
recommendation to eliminate the second story garage and reduce
the square footage, we further recommended a minimum 10 foot
setback be maintained from the Douglas fir tree.
In response to Councilmember Tucker's question, Mr. Walgren
stated that the HPC was viewing plans for a two story garage, and
did not view a plan with a one story garage.
Mayor Burger and councilmembers reported that they visited the
site and talked with the owners and neighbors.
Mayor Burger opened the public hearing at 8:20 p.m.
The applicant, Mark Heath, 14300 Saratoga Avenue, addressed the
Council. Mr. Heath stated that he has lived in Saratoga for 35
years, and have lived in this house for six years. He stated
that he and his wife plan to raise their children in the house,
and they knew the home would need renovation and an addition to
meet the needs of his growing family. He reported that as soon
as they purchased the home they began improving the yard and the
home, saving the trees and planting 21 more trees. Prior to
applying to the City they went to the HPC for their input on the
project. The HPC was in support of the project. He stated they
submitted plans for the breezeway and the plans were returned,
· stating that it wasn't an adequate connection. Mr. Heath stated
plans were submitted with the full connection. They encountered
problems when meeting with the HPC stating that it was fully
connected but hit the tree; so the tree would have to be removed.
A report was done on the tree because they weren't certain of the
age and historical significance. It was decided to move the
house because the tree was 100 years old and a rather significant
tree, making the garage an accessory structure again. The plans
were resubmitted with the breezeway and went to the Planning
Commission. Mr. Heath reported that they have sent letters to
the neighbors and talked with them about the plans and have
almost unanimous approval With the plans.
City Council Minutes 6 July 5, 1995
Mr. Heath stated that in looking back at his appearance at the
Planning Commission meeting, he may have misstated his feelings
by saying that he was not willing to give in. He clarified that
the plans utilize all aspects of the home and lot and are
aesthetically pleasing but he stated he is open to suggestions on
the plans. In reviewing the current plans, most of the additions
and remodelling are confined to the back to minimize the impact
on the historical structure.
Using overheads, Mr. Heath reviewed the square footag~ breakdown.
He stated that the current total was 4,248 square feet, and is
requesting a total of 5,364 square feet. He stated that the
proposed variance findings are crucial to the project. He noted
the two.story accessory structure_is an exceptional circumstance
created by the fact that the existing home is a heritage resource
and the heritage tree is located immediately adjacent to the
dwelling. He said he submitted an earlier plan for the garage
and the second story would be constructed as partof the main
structure; however, the design would require the removal of the
tree and impair the architectural integrity of the home. At the
request of the HPC the entire addj. tion was moved away from the
main structure, thereby creating a new accessory structure. This
detachment was made solely to preserve the existing heritage
resource. The HPC supports the alternative design which can only
be made possible if variances are granted. He stated that unless'
a variance is granted, the family will be deprived of their
opportunity to construct an addition'to the home in the same
manner as other property owners who are not under the constraints
associated with heritage preservation. Mr. Heath stated that a
variance would not be granting a privilege, rather an avoidance
of a penalty for a heritage preservation.
He noted that there were a lot of special circumstances involved
that have not been addressed and if the factors are ignored and
ruled strictly by the code, the lot and house are being treated
unfairly and may even meet with demise.
In response to Councilmembers' questions, Mr. Heath stated that
his home was on the heritage resource list. The accessory
structures A, B and C have been deemed by the HPC as historically
relevant. Mr. Heath stated that the greenhouse is wooden and the
potting shed is wooden with corrugated plastic. He noted that he
was considering remodelling the workshop and making it into a
carport. He stated that the carriage house is currently being
used as a guest house. Mr. Heath explained that the planned
addition over the garage will be a bonus room for the fanlily. In
response to Councilmember Wolfe's question, Mr. Heath stated that
the bonusroom did not include kitchen facilities.
MAYOR BURGER CLOSED THE PUBLIC HE~ING AT 8:35 P.M.
Councilmember Moran thanked Mr. Heath for the detailed
presentation and the updated documents. She stated that she felt
the Heaths were making a concerted effort to preserve some of the
heritage of Saratoga. She noted their home was a charming home
and felt the community would benefit from any efforts to save its
heritage, improve it and make it a better home for his family.
She expressed her appreciation for' Mr. Heath's cooperation and
openness to suggestion. Ms. Moran commended Mr. Heath's
balancing family needs with the community needs.
Councilmember Moran reviewed a prior offer made by a Planning
Commissioner to reduce the size of the garage, make it the 15
foot limit to replicate the roofline on both structures,
eliminate the second story square footage in that area of the
remodelling to have a two bay garage attached to the house and
City Council Minutes 7 July 5, 1995
would therefore be 10 feet away from the tree. She stated she
was willingto agree to the idea of granting the variance for the
small adjustment in the roof height, as it was reasonable and the
Planning Comanission was willing to go along with, it also. She
noted that she was not certain of the wording on a variance
finding, but to grant this 608 square foot discrepancy so that
the Heaths would have an opportunity to preserve the currently
standing historic building on the property, though they are
charming buildings and are not visible by the public or
accessible by the public, it seems reasonable that if the Heaths
are going to keep them the city should do everything it can to
provide incentive to keep these historic structures.
Councilmember Moran stated that she felt the massive bulk of the
garage facing Saratoga Avenue would not enhance the house, and
with the changes, the design review findings would be easier to
make and the variance problems would be solved as well. She
stated it was difficult for her to recommend a variance as large
as the one Currently in question.
Councilmember Jacobs stated that the purpose of a variance is to
allow someone to do something with their property which they
could do but for the fact that some other impediment exists
preventing them from doing it. He stated that he felt the
Planning Commission in exempting 600 square feet of historic
structures took a leap in doing that, and stated that special
circumstances might be claimed because they are historic
structures, but could not justify regarding the main house and
the living structure to get over 4,400 square feet because the
addition of the garage does not constitute the preservation of
the historic structure that already exists. Basically 300+
square feet of living space is being added, and while it is
convenient to have it, you could justify having any number of
additional square feet beyond the 386 that you are attaching
already. He stated he dichn't see legally how findings can be
made to support the addition of the garage. In that regard he
stated he would have to agree with the Planning Commission who
stretched things as far as they could. For that reason
Councilmember Jacobs stated he couldn't support the addition over
the garage, but would support a one story garage.
Councilmember Tucker commended the Heaths for their efforts in
preserving the unique and beautiful property. She discussed the
issue of the need for a gate in the front of the property for
safety and security reasons and suggested the Council look into
the matter further. She stated that it was difficult for her to
rule in favor of the extra square footage. She agreed to
preserving the stone cottage, the house, and the office and
allowing the extra to bring it up to 5,008.
Councilmember Wolfe conunented that the three structures being
removed would be improving the condition of the lot and
decreasing the fire hazards. Their improvements would not
present a deterrent to the neighborhood. He stated he felt the
Heaths were not making an unreasonable request, and would be
inclined to approve their request.
Councilmember Moran stated that she was concerned with the
massive size of the garage.
~ llm Tucker stated she supported the recommendation of
Counc' ember
tha Planning Commission, to deny the variance because there are
no ~findings to allow the extra square footage; but to allow a one
st6ry garage.
City Council Minutes 8 July 5, 1995
Mayor Burger stated that she felt the proposed garage structure
does echo the home; it not only enhances the integrity of the
home but it preserves it and the home owners should be rewarded
for their efforts in preservation. She stated that the Council
should be focusing on the square footage. She expressed concern
that a potential second unit would be above the garage and it is
within the purview of the Council to either reduce the garage to
a two car garage; allow the garage to be built to the height and
square footage that'has been submitted except there will be no
livable space above the parking area of the garage, ~nd in order
to accomplish that, a second unit could be prohibited or lower
the roof line to some extent so there is not the full livable
space above the garage. Mayor Burger commented that she did not
want to,thank property owners on one hand for their efforts in
preservation and then impose artificial limits to keep them from
accomplishing their goals on the other. She remarked that it
negates all that the Council is trying to accomplish.
Councilmember Jacobs stated that Mr. Heath was not being
penalized for preserving historical structure, but was being
rewarded by getting 600 square feet of usable space that is not
being counted. Hepointed out if Mr. Heath levelled the
structures, he would only be allowed 4,400 square feet, not 5,008
square feet.
Councilmember Jacobs stated he did not disagree with allowing
adjustment for the garage roof, but expressed concern with
allowing usable square footage be]~ond what would be legally
allowed. Councilmember Jacobs explained that a variance does not
allow you to go beyond the maxim~n that your neighbor would be
allowed if there were no special circumstances for your neighbor.
Mayor Burger emphasized that the other neighbors were not
attempting to preserve a heritage resource home. She stated she
felt a one story garage on the site does a disservice to the
splendor of the existing home.
Councilmember Jacobs pointed out that he would not disagree if
altering the roofline would improve the architectural integrity
of the structure. He stated that essentially adding a second
story is not required to maintain the architectural integrity of
the property.
Councilmember Tucker stated that she felt the Planning Commission
and City Council by granting the extra 608 square feet have been
more than reasonable because the home is a heritage resource but
not designated a heritage landmark, and someone could purchase
the property, keep the square footage and change the entire
facade. She stated that the Co~cil is confined by the law in
the findings to be made.
Councilmember Moran concurred with Councilmember Tucker's comment
about the designation as a historical landmark which would
require review by the HPC and woukd limit change on the outside.
If the 608 square foot variance is gding to be granted it should
be attached to the structures in ~estion because it would focus
the efforts on trying to preserve the structures. She stated
that one of the conditions that designation for historic landmark
be sought on those structures. She said she understood Mayor
Burger's concern and if the Council accepts the Planning
Commission recommendation, she is hopeful it will pay off because
the structures will be preserved.
Councilmember Wolfe suggested re~lesting a copy of the request
for the HPC to designate the home as a historic site so no future
City Council Minutes 9 July 5, 1995
changes Can be made.
MORAN/WOLFE MOVED TO APPP~)VE APPELLANT' S REQUEST FOR A LOT LINE
ADJUSTMENT. Passed 5-0
MORAN/TUCKER MOVED TO GRANT THE VARIANCE ON THE FOUR INCHES
ADDITIONAL HEIGHT TO THE EXISTING HOUSE.
Paesed 5-0
MORAN/JACOBS MOVED TO DENY THE VARXJ%NCE ON THE TWO $~ORY GARAGE.
OPPOSED: WOLFE/BUI~c~.R Paseed 3-2-0
MORAN/JACOBS MOVED TO APPROVE THE GARAGE AT CME STORY NOT TO
EXCEED 15 FEET, THAT THE STAIRWAY HE REMOVED, AND THAT THE GARAGE
BE CONSTRI3CTED SO IT IS AT LEAST 10 FEET 'A~AY FROM THE DOUGLAS
FIR TREE
OPPOSED: WOLFE/BURGER Passed 3-2-0
MORAN/JACOBS MOVED THAT THE MAXIMUM SQUARE FOOTAGE OF THE REMODEL
BE A MAW/MUM OF 5,008 SQUARE FEET, WHICH INCLUDES THE 608 SQUARE
FOOTAGE FOR THE HISTORICAL STRUCTURES ON SITE, WHICH E THE
HISTORICAL PUMP HOUSE, THE HISTORICAL CARRIAGE HOUSE AND
HISTORICAL OFFICE/HAYBA~N.
OPPOSED: WOLFE/BURGER Passed 3-2-0
Mayor Burger clarified that the series of motions are not. to be
construed as final action. Staff and City Attorney are directed
to bring back resolutions.
Councilmember Moran suggested that applicant work with staff to
accomplish the changes rather than consulting with the Planning
Commission and if there are major changes the applicant return to
the Council. City Attorney Riback stated that the changes weren't
substantial enough to warrant returning to the Planning
Commission.
City Manager Peacock stated that the key element is the revised
exhibits to indicate how the plan has been changed to accommodate
the decision of City Council. If staff has questions, they can
be brought back to the City Council.
A discussion ensued regarding fencing on the property, wherein it
was recommended that the applicant look into the matter further.
Mayor Burger thanked the applicants for appearing. She stated
that staff has been directed to prepare the resolutions for final
approval at the July 19, 1995 City Council meeting.
Ma]For Burger returned the agenda back to Item 8B.
8. NEW BUSINESS
B. E1 Paseo de Saratoga C~taaercial Center - Draft Negative
Declaration
City Manager Peacock stated that the detailed study and the
background material was only made available from the City of San
Jose for extensive study last Friday. Following Planner
Walgren's presentation, the item can be reviewed in detail.
Planner Walgren reviewed the status report regarding the
redevelopment of the E1Paseo Saratoga Commercial Shopping
Center.
City Council Minutes 10 July 5, 1995
In response to Councilmember Tucker's question, Mr. Walgren
stated that level of service reports and supplemental reports
concerning traffic have been received. Public Works Director
Perlin has been communicating directly with the traffic
consultants, with an additional study for Quito and Cox.
Michelle Yesnee, David Powers and Associates, Environmental
Consultant responsible for preparing the initial study for the
City of San Jose, addressed the Council. She discussed the three
issues associated with hazardous materials on the si~e: (1)
possible leakage from the gas station; (2) the site was
previously farmed prior to development of the shopping center,
leaving a potential for pesticides and other agricultural
chemical residue; (3) discolorat~)n of some soil near_Quito Road,
and (4) asbestos in some of the existing structures. Ms. Yesnee
clarified that the asbestos problem is related'to the buildings
scheduled to be demolished.
In response to Councilmeraber Tucker's question, Mr. Peacock
explained that the two major issues in the previous proposal were
building height, and traffic patterns. He stated that the
height of buildings for the current shopping center proposal will
not exceed 45 feet high and the traffic will be more evenly
distributed throughout the day in the commercial center as
opposed to an office/residential complex.
Mike Decor, Helios Properties, owner of the E1 Paseo Shopping
Center. He explained that the largest store in the center would
be the Lucky grocery store, with most stores being 40,000 square
foot maximum stores such as Sportmart, Marshalis, Ross,
bookstores, office supplies, etc. Discussion continued regarding
potential stores for the center, wherein Mr. Decor answered
questions.
A lengthy discussion ensued regarding the potential traffic
impacts. Public Works Director Perlin briefly discussed the
traffic impact report. He stated that the City of San Jose has
been responsive to his concerns and the traffic study that has
been completed meets the criteria for analyzing a project of this
type. Mr. Perlin pointed out that Cal Trans can alter the ramp
signals so that traffic flows more efficiently along Saratoga
Avenue.
Councilmember Jacobs expressed concern about the traffic impacts
for Saratoga Avenue which is a residential street. He stated it
poses problems between the center and the freeway in terms of
volume and speed of traffic.
Councilmember Tucker asked the consultant if any consideration
was given to creating a more "neighborhood friendly" landscaping
to make the area more inviting. Mr. Decor responded that the
landscape setback will be increased from 10 to 25.
Councilmember Tucker commented that the inside parking was more
favorable.
Councilmember Jacobs requested that the record reflect his
concerns about traffic issues. He stated that a successful
shopping center at the proposed location will undoubtedly have
more traffic impact than 1%. Saratoga residents will have similar
concerns for traffic safety, bike safety and volume of traffic.
Highway 85 has already increased the traffic in the area, posing
a problem.
Discussion continued regarding traffic impacts.
City Council Minutes 11 July 5, 1995
Mayor Burger suaunarized Council's concerns:
Concerns that indication that traffic impacts
represents only 1%
* 25'Additional landscape setback
* No "big box" retailers
Evaluation on traffic on Quito and Cox
* Hazardous materials concerns
10. CITY COUNCIL ITEMS
A. Agenda it~ for adjourned regular meeting with Public
Safety Commssion July 25
(1) Update on items being worked on currently by the
Commission.
(2) Emergency Preparedness Task Force on
earthquake preparedness. (Moran)
B. Other
Councilmember Tucker presented information on Our Urban Forest.
She stated she would be supportive of anyone who wanted to pursue
it.
Mayor Burger reported that Jack Lucas, who is the representative
on the Traffic Authority, clarified that the median strip on
Highway 85 is wide enough for light rail. He asked her to pass
the information on to City Council and staff.
Mr. Jacobs invited everyone to the Town Hall meeting on Saturday
morning, from 10 a.m. to 12 noon, in the Community Center Multi
Purpose Room, focusing on the city parks system.
Mr. Perlin stated that he put together a packet of materials
regarding the parks system which will be delivered Thursday
morning. Mayor Burger reminded everyone to bring the Parks
Master Plan to the meeting. Councilmember Wolfe asked to be
excused from the Saturday meeting.
Mayor Burger reminded everyone of the Farmers Market on Saturday
from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Mr. Peacock asked Councilmembers to bring budget documents to the
Tuesday evening meeting.
Councilmember Moran requested information on the legal costs for
1994-95 and anticipated budget for legal costs for 1995-96 be
provided for the next budget meeting.
11. ADJCK/RNMENT to Town Hall Meeting at 10:00 a.m. on July 8 in
Community Center Multi-Purpose Room, 19655 Allendale, then
to 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, July 11, at Administration Meeting
Room,.13777 Fruitvale Avenue.
Res ectfully submitted,
h 1
Recording Secretary