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HomeMy WebLinkAbout08-25-2004 Planning Commission Minutes MINUTES SARATOGA PLANNING COMMISSION DATE: Wednesday, August 25, 2004 PLACE: Council Chambers/Civic Theater, 13777 Fruitvale Avenue, Saratoga, CA TYPE: Regular Meeting Chair Garakani called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. ROLL CALL Present: Commissioners Garakani, Hunter, Nagpal, Rodgers, Schallop, Uhl and Zutshi Absent: None Staff: Director Tom Sullivan, Associate Planner Christy Oosterhous and Assistant Planner Ann Welsh PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE APPROVAL OF MINUTES – Regular Meeting of July 28, 2004. Motion: Upon motion of Commissioner Nagpal, seconded by Commissioner Hunter, the Planning Commission minutes of the regular meeting of July 28, 2004, were adopted with corrections to pages 2 and 9. (4-0-3; Commissioners Garakani, Rodgers and Uhl abstained) ORAL COMMUNICATION Ms. Muriel Mahrer, 13577 Myren Drive, Saratoga: • Explained that she has been a resident of Saratoga since 1955 and that she is here this evening with complaints and suggestions. • Said that the integrity of her neighborhood has been compromised by a huge addition next door, with a new addition that is just seven feet from their joint property lines. • Stated that she is upset and feels that the process did not look out for her interests. She now faces a view of a huge wall from four windows in the portion of her home that she spends the greatest time. • Urged the amendment to the Code that would not allow an addition without a minimum of a 20-foot setback without a hearing process. • Opined that this particular approval should have gone to the Planning Commission and not through an administrative process. • Said that she had requested a row of trees to screen this addition from her property and that she is asking the Planning Commission to ensure that protective row of trees. • Stated that four new windows now look into her home and said that she had asked that the glass on those windows be frosted to ensure her privacy. • Asked that this item be placed on the next agenda and urged the Planning Commission to visit the property. Saratoga Planning Commission Minutes of August 25, 2004 Page 2 • Provided photographs and copies of letters she has sent to the City on this subject. Chair Garakani cautioned Ms. Muriel Mahrer that the Commission couldn’t discuss this matter this evening. Director Tom Sullivan asked if the Commission would like for staff to prepare a report on this matter for the next agenda to outline the approval process. Chair Garakani asked why this particular application did not come to the Planning Commission. Director Tom Sullivan replied that it would have to have been appealed in order to come before the Commission. Commissioner Hunter asked Ms. Muriel Mahrer if she felt that she had had the option to appeal. Ms. Muriel Mahrer said that she felt discouraged from doing so as she was told that what was approved was permissible under the existing regulations. Director Tom Sullivan asked if there is a consensus that a report is desired on this matter. The entire Commission expressed support for the provision of a written staff update at the next meeting. REPORT OF POSTING AGENDA Director Tom Sullivan announced that, pursuant to Government Code 54954.2, the agenda for this meeting was properly posted on August 19, 2004. REPORT OF APPEAL RIGHTS Director Tom Sullivan announced that appeals are possible for any decision made on this Agenda by filing an Appeal Application with the City Clerk within fifteen (15) calendar days of the date of the decision, pursuant to Municipal Code 15.90.050(b). CONSENT CALENDAR There were no Consent Calendar Items. *** PUBLIC HEARING - ITEM NO. 1 APPLICATION #04-178 (510-09-018, 044, 043) HEIKALI, 14410 & 14416 Big Basin Way, 20506 Saratoga-Los Gatos Road: The applicant requests Design Review approval to renovate the facades of the above-noted contiguous commercial structures. The façade changes include raising the parapet, painting and resurfacing, removal of existing ornamentation on the structure and replacement and opening up of windows and doors. The property is located in the CH-1 zoning district and is designated CR-retail commercial in the General Plan. (ANN WELSH) Saratoga Planning Commission Minutes of August 25, 2004 Page 3 Assistant Planner Ann Welsh presented the staff report as follows: • Advised that the applicant is seeking Design Review approval for a façade change for an 11,836 square foot commercial property on the southwest corner of Big Basin and Saratoga-Los Gatos Road. • Described the proposed exterior changes as including the removal of existing ornamentation, replacement of windows and doors and other exterior elements. Interior improvements will include seismic and ADA upgrades. Commissioner Hunter expressed concerns with the terminology of “modernizing” this property. Pointed out that the Village Guidelines equals an historic feeling for the Downtown. Said that updating this project is okay but to say it is being modernized is of concern. Questioned why that particular term was used. Assistant Planner Ann Welsh: • Said that the Village Guidelines give lots of different directions. The applicant is upgrading their property to keep it current with current retail guidelines. • Said that the historic significance of this particular property is more nostalgic than actually being of any historic significance. • Advised that Leslie Dill reviewed this property and application. She found that the façade elements were not historic or integral to the character of this building. Historic elements are non-existent for this building. Ms. Dill’s conclusion was that this structure is not of great historic value. Commissioner Uhl asked if the Heritage Preservation Commission endorses the recommendations made by Ms. Leslie Dill regarding this proposal. Assistant Planner Ann Welsh replied that the Heritage Preservation Commission saw a previous draft of the proposed façade changes. They wanted additional character added. Commissioner Uhl asked staff if the applicant did add additional character to the design. Assistant Planner Ann Welsh: • Said that the applicant was directed to a previous project, for which the Planning Commission had held a Study Session. They were shown the progression of changes for that site. • Stated that the applicants came back with revised plans that incorporated additional light fixtures, cornices atop pediments, slate kick plates and a toned down/more subdued paint color scheme. • Reported that, in her view, these changes represented added character but it is up to the Commission to determine if it is sufficient. Commissioner Uhl asked if the colored elevations depict the updates. Assistant Planner Ann Welsh replied yes. Commissioner Hunter asked about the accent colors. Commissioner Uhl pointed to the sample board and said there are dark brown and green accent colors with four different field colors. Commissioner Hunter: Saratoga Planning Commission Minutes of August 25, 2004 Page 4 • Said that this property represents the entrance to the Village and that this is one of the most visible buildings into the Village. • Reported that when her son saw the elevation she was reviewing, he asked her “where are they putting the strip mall?” • Pointed out that there is no articulation to the roofline to help give the building pizzazz. • Reminded that this used to be a very handsome building that has become run down over the years. Assistant Planner Ann Welsh said that this issue is very subjective and that the Design Guidelines can be interpreted a lot of ways. The nostalgia of the building is more a matter of discussion for the Planning Commission. Commissioner Hunter pointed out that no representative for this project participated in the Planning Commission’s site visit. She asked way no one was there as this is not usual. Assistant Planner Ann Welsh said she would defer to the applicant for a response. Commissioner Hunter pointed out that a Study Session was held on the Laundry Building. Assistant Planner Ann Welsh: • Said that she had advised the applicant and property owner that the Planning Commission wanted a Study Session. However, they are interested in expediting the project in order to get the building occupied and felt their design was in line with the requirements. • Stated that certain elements now covered up would be uncovered and highlighted, resulting in the original structure being unearthed. They are removing some elements but also uncovering others. Commissioner Hunter said that the proposed very large windows make her very nervous when the tenants for the space are unknown. Director Tom Sullivan reported that the new uses would have to be similar to previous uses. A restaurant would not be permitted because the site cannot meet parking demand for a restaurant. The uses would be similar to historic uses so that the existing non-conforming parking situation can be continued. If the uses were to change, parking issues would have to be revisited. Commissioner Nagpal sought clarification on what historic uses have to be retained. Director Tom Sullivan replied retail and office. Assistant Planner Ann Welsh clarified that the office uses would be upstairs. Commissioner Rodgers asked staff what issues are before the Planning Commission, façade improvements, landscaping and parking? Assistant Planner Ann Welsh replied that the exterior improvements are up for consideration by the Planning Commission. A building permit is pending to do the interior renovations that include seismic and ADA upgrades. The only interior improvements that might impact the exterior are skylights. An enclosed mechanical equipment room at the corner of the property would have to be screened if it were to be found visible. Saratoga Planning Commission Minutes of August 25, 2004 Page 5 Commissioner Uhl asked staff for a rundown on the steps taken in reviewing the new Fire Station. Director Tom Sullivan reported that there were two public hearings before the Planning Commission, whose actions were appealed to Council. There were Public Safety Committee meetings. Once compromises were reached, a third public hearing before the Planning Commission occurred. Commissioner Uhl asked how that project compares to this one. Assistant Planner Ann Welsh replied that the scope was much larger for the Fire Station as it involved the demolition and reconstruction of the previous Fire Station while this project represents a façade update. Commissioner Hunter added that the public is also paying for the Fire Station through a bond. Commissioner Nagpal asked about a landscape plan. Assistant Planner Ann Welsh pointed out that the landscaping is part of the site plan, which is sheet A- 0-5. The landscaping plans include re-landscaping the existing landscape areas at the corner. Commissioner Hunter asked if the building would house five different businesses. Assistant Planner Ann Welsh replied that there is a lot of flexibility as to how the space is ultimately divided between tenants. Chair Garakani opened the Public Hearing for Agenda Item No. 1. Mr. Joe Barbano, Young & Borlik Architects, Project Architect, 261 Hamilton Avenue, Palo Alto: • Said that they are creating a very dynamic retail environment from what is currently a dilapidated building. • Said that they considered three different design options and worked with staff to add character to the building. They plan to restore some original elements and have refined their colors. • Reported that they took a lot of time studying the downtown to see what colors were there and found that muted colors were prevalent. • Stated that they plan to unify the center but still give each unit its own identity. • Said that they are trying to respond to the desire to make this building into a nice entrance to the downtown and provide a destination for everyone. • Said that he felt their design meets the requirements of the Village Design Guidelines. • Apologized for missing the site visit, saying that they were unaware their participation was required. Commissioner Hunter questioned the proposed name for the building, the Art Centre. Mr. Joe Barbano said that this is a working title and tentative name. Commissioner Hunter asked how much larger the windows would be and how many tenants are anticipated for the building. Mr. Joe Barbano: Saratoga Planning Commission Minutes of August 25, 2004 Page 6 • Said that there are currently five tenant spaces. • Added that the windows facing Saratoga-Los Gatos Road would bring more light into the buildings. • Reported that an existing concrete block area that faces Big Basin Way used to be windows. • Stated that they want to keep a separate identity for the three separate buildings. Commissioner Zutshi asked if there is a reason why the applicant does not want to restore the building as it presently is. Mr. Joe Barbano said that their design is more honest to the building and offers more simplicity. Commissioner Zutshi stated that ornamentation gives character and distinction too. Mr. Joe Barbano said that there would be distinction when the buildings are occupied by tenants that bring life to the area. Commissioner Uhl stated that the project looks like a strip mall and asked the applicant to explain how it is different from a strip mall. Pointed out that downtown Saratoga is not conducive to a strip mall. Asked how Mr. Joe Barbano responds to this. Mr. Joe Barbano pointed out that the original building was a very plain building. Commissioner Uhl said he agreed. Commissioner Rodgers pointed out that all three buildings appear to have the same height. Mr. Joe Barbano said that the flower shop building is not currently as tall as the other two buildings. Commissioner Uhl said that the three are pretty close to the same size, which may be what gives it a strip mall appearance. Said that this building design is not unique at all but that no one is saying that it should be kept as it is. Mr. Joe Barbano said that storefront materials could be changed. For instance wood siding instead of metal could be used. Director Tom Sullivan pointed out that the Fire Station has wood windows. Commissioner Uhl said that he did not believe that major changes are required but just some tweaking to give the project unique character. Commissioner Nagpal said that she would like to hear the thoughts about how this project as proposed meets the requirements of the Village Design Guidelines for issues such as pedestrian character and the preservation and/or enhancement of the historic quality of the Village. Mr. Joe Barbano said that they are creating a walkway, using colored concrete, opening up the façade along the parking lot side to create additional entrances, adding benches and an information kiosk. Commissioner Nagpal cautioned that this is a pretty critical building to the downtown and that she wants to see more character than is proposed here. Saratoga Planning Commission Minutes of August 25, 2004 Page 7 Commissioner Uhl stressed the need to preserve and enhance the architectural character of the Village. Chair Garakani asked the applicant if they are open to suggestions. Commissioner Uhl asked if they could accommodate suggestions to enhance the design. Mr. Joe Barbano replied if that’s what it takes. Commissioner Rodgers pointed out that the proposed benches are plastic, which is not in keeping with those existing in the downtown that are made of wood or iron. Mr. Joe Barbano agreed that the benches could be changed to something that is more appropriate. Commissioner Rodgers asked about street trees. Director Tom Sullivan replied that these are City trees. Commissioner Rodgers asked how they would be protected during construction. Director Tom Sullivan cautioned that this area does not want to be blocked off. Commissioner Uhl asked why the applicants did not support the idea of a Study Session. Mr. Joe Barbano replied that it was a time issue and that they had worked diligently with staff on their proposal. Mr. Steve Borlik, Project Architect: • Reminded that this is one property and that there is some desire to preserve this single building theme yet break it up into components. • Said that they have raised the parapet to hide equipment and that heights vary a bit. • Reported that cornice moldings have been picked to give the buildings individual character. • Stated that their original colors proposed offered too much contract that staff felt was too much. • Assured that the issue of color is completely open. Commissioner Uhl said that he likes the idea of the middle structure being a bit higher as well as the suggestion to use wood windows. Said that minor changes are needed to break it up a little. Mr. Steve Borlik: • Said that they worked with staff for a long time. • Reported that when they realized the July meeting was full, they were offered a Study Session to be held tonight. However, their client wanted to move forward with the application. • Assured that they are not interested in putting a strip mall in that corner. They are taking a minimalist approach in design. • Said that they had tried to accentuate what had originally been done with different windows and doors. • Reminded that the eight-foot wide pedestrian walkway opens all three spaces to the sidewalks. Saratoga Planning Commission Minutes of August 25, 2004 Page 8 • Advised that he spent the morning walking the Downtown. Commissioner Hunter said that just because something was allowed in the past does not mean it would be allowed now. The Commissioners serve as stewards of the community too. She reminded that Palo Alto, where the architectural firm is located, also cares a great deal about its community. Commissioner Uhl said that this project is not there yet. It is not unique enough yet for this critical corner. Mr. Steve Borlik said that they are open to different window treatments and that they followed the guidelines as written. Commissioner Hunter said that it was unfortunate that the applicants did not meet with the Planning Commission at its site visit. Mr. Steve Borlik said that due to the written information they received, they were unaware that attendance was required or even recommended. It appears from the written documentation that it is intended that the applicant make its case during the public hearing itself. Commissioner Uhl said he could understand the desire to get this project built fast. Commissioner Rodgers said that she likes the concept of taking the building back by removing artificial architectural elements. Mr. Steve Borlik said that they are willing to meet on site with the Commissioners and apologized for misunderstanding the importance of that step. They were under the impression that they were not supposed to be there. Chair Garakani closed the Public Hearing for Agenda Item No. 1. Commissioner Hunter said that she is distressed by this project as she feels that this is one of the most important corners in the Village. She loves it too much to just put up whatever comes before us. Commissioner Nagpal said that the applicant should be given specific guidelines from the Commission and questioned whether a Study Session is required at this point. Chair Garakani sought comments and suggestions from the Commission on how each feels about the project and what can be done to correct concerns. Commissioner Hunter said that this is a very square box, a modern contemporary building. The historic Village that is Saratoga’s is one of the few such left in the Santa Clara Valley and must be retained. Chair Garakani said there are two choices, to leave the building as it is today or come up with some scheme to fix it. Asked if the Commission is supportive of the modernization of this building. Commissioner Rodgers: • Said that what is there now is sad and dilapidated. Saratoga Planning Commission Minutes of August 25, 2004 Page 9 • Questioned what elements should be emphasized since the historic significance of the building is in question. • Said that a square box would not meet the needs. • Suggested that more aspects could be incorporated to better blend in this project but she is not prepared to give that tonight. Commissioner Nagpal suggested that the applicant now revise their plans to incorporate what has been said this evening. Commissioner Uhl reiterated that the project needs to be more unique, have more character, incorporate different building heights, and incorporate wood windows and perhaps circular window elements. The project needs to be more unique and exciting as this is an important corner of Saratoga’s Village. However, this project is not all that far off. Commissioner Schallop pointed out that there is no majority to approve this project tonight and suggested that the applicant be given the option to receive a vote tonight, a continuance and/or the scheduling of a Study Session. Chair Garakani re-opened the Public Hearing for Agenda Item No. 1. Chair Garakani asked the applicants if they want a vote or a continuance this evening. Mr. Steve Borlik said that he respectfully asks for a Study Session. Commissioner Uhl said it is important to save some historic character of the building. Commissioner Hunter pointed out that it was previously known as the Hogg Building. Director Tom Sullivan suggested that the project be continued to a date uncertain. The project would be re-advertised and an on-site Study Session would be scheduled. Commissioner Uhl asked how the process could be accelerated. Director Tom Sullivan replied that the only way is to vote on the proposal tonight. Commissioner Hunter said that she wants the owner to be proud of this building. Mr. Steve Borlik asked if the project could return to the next meeting. Commissioner Nagpal pointed out that there are Study Sessions already set for the two September meeting nights. Mr. Steve Borlik said that if no vote is taken this evening, this project is delayed another month and a half. Director Tom Sullivan said that staff could schedule a separate Study Session, which would be scheduled as soon as possible upon coordination of schedules. He said that other projects already advertised couldn’t be bumped from the schedule. Saratoga Planning Commission Minutes of August 25, 2004 Page 10 Mr. Steve Borlik said he does not want to sit still for two months. Commissioner Uhl said that Director Sullivan would set the Study Session within the next two weeks. Commissioner Nagpal suggested that the architects revise their plans based upon this evening’s comments prior to the Study Session. Commissioner Uhl suggested that the Study Session discussion could occur during the site visit. Director Tom Sullivan suggested that the continuance could be to the Public Hearing on September 22nd. Motion: Upon motion of Commissioner Nagpal, seconded by Commissioner Zutshi, the Planning Commission continued consideration of Application #04-178 (façade renovations to commercial structures located at 14410 & 14416 Big Basin Way and 20506 Saratoga-Los Gatos Road) to the Planning Commission meeting of September 22, 2004, by the following roll call vote: AYES: Garakani, Hunter, Nagpal, Rodgers, Schallop, Uhl and Zutshi NOES: None ABSENT: None ABSTAIN: None *** PUBLIC HEARING - ITEM NO. 2 APPLICATION #03-112 (517-21-004) CHENG, 20045 Mendelsohn Lane: The applicant requests Tentative Parcel Map approval to subdivide a parcel located at 20045 Mendelsohn Lane into three parcels. Parcel 2 and 3 would include a new building site. An existing single-family residence is located in the proposed building envelope of Parcel 1. The existing parcel is 2.63 acres or 114,563 square feet. The proposed net parcel sizes include Parcel 1 would be 35,289 square feet, Parcel 2 would be 21,400 square feet and Parcel 3 would be 20,284 square feet. The property is zoned R-1-20,000. (CHRISTY OOSTERHOUS) Associate Planner Christy Oosterhous presented the staff report as follows: • Advised that the applicant is seeking approval of a Tentative Parcel Map to subdivide a parcel into three parcels. • Explained that there is an existing single-family residence on Parcel 1. • Said that of the original parcel, which is 1.77 acres, Parcel 1 would consist of 35,289 square feet; Parcel 2 would consist of 21,400 square feet and Parcel 3 would consist of 20,284 square feet. The property is zoned R-1-20,000. • Added that Design Review approval would be required in the future to construct single-family residences on Parcels 2 and 3. • Said that a Creek Protection Easement is in place that limits construction near the creek. Additionally, the Coopers Hawk that nests on the property would be protected. • Said that no trees would be impacted and that existing trees do not prevent the development of these parcels. Saratoga Planning Commission Minutes of August 25, 2004 Page 11 • Stated that the project meets and exceeds the minimum lot sizes. The width, depth and frontage requirements are met and exceeded. The building envelopes are ample. • Recommended approval. Chair Garakani opened the Public Hearing for Agenda Item No. 2. Mr. David Cheng, 20045 Mendelsohn Lane, Saratoga: • Said that he has resided here since 1995. • Advised that his engineer, Jitka Cymbal, from Westphal Engineering, is available for questions. • Stated he too is available for any questions from the Commission. Ms. Jitka Cymbal, Project Engineer, Westphal Engineering: • Said that they are dividing a property, half of which is currently undeveloped. • Stated that they are creating two additional parcels from one. • Added that eventually two more homes would be constructed. • Said that she has nothing to add to the staff report but is available to answer any questions. Commissioner Zutshi asked if there is a water problem. Ms. Jitka Cymbal said that there are no flooding records. The FEMA map shows this property as being ranked the same as the rest of Saratoga in regards to flooding potential. Commissioner Rodgers asked about the requirement for rolled curb at Saratoga-Los Gatos Road. Ms. Jitka Cymbal said that this is a Public Works condition. The Public Works Department is currently studying the issue and is not yet sure what the end result will be. The suggestion was made to have an in-lieu fee paid to meet the final requirement. Mr. Jeff Thurman, 20017 Mendelsohn Lane, Saratoga: • Said that he has no objections. • Said that in the last eight years, there have been no water problems. Chair Garakani closed the Public Hearing for Agenda Item No. 2. Commissioner Nagpal said that she has no problems with this project. There is a lot of land here, the slopes are consistent and the project meets requirements. She asked if there would be any non- conforming setbacks with the existing house. Associate Planner Christy Oosterhous replied no. Commissioner Nagpal said that the access road will serve these three parcels and that she supports the application. Commissioner Schallop had no comment. Commissioner Rodgers asked if the addresses would be the same. Saratoga Planning Commission Minutes of August 25, 2004 Page 12 Director Tom Sullivan replied no. New addresses would be assigned for the two new parcels during the issuance of building permits. Commissioner Hunter thanked Mr. Cheng for his thoroughness, which had all the neighbors in support. She said he did a fine job and expressed her pleasure that the Coopers Hawk nest would be protected. Wished Mr. Cheng luck with his project. Commissioner Zutshi said she had no comment but recognized that a lot of work was done. Commissioner Uhl agreed that the neighbor comments were great and the project well handled by Mr. Cheng. Chair Garakani agreed. Motion: Upon motion of Commissioner Hunter, seconded by Commissioner Nagpal, the Planning Commission approved a Tentative Parcel Map (Application #03-112) to subdivide a parcel, located at 20045 Mendelsohn Lane, into three parcels, by the following roll call vote: AYES: Garakani, Hunter, Nagpal, Rodgers, Schallop, Uhl and Zutshi NOES: None ABSENT: None ABSTAIN: None *** PUBLIC HEARING - ITEM NO. 3 APPLICATION #01-002 (397-05-006) BRIZGYS, 14529 Evans Lane: The applicant requests Tentative Parcel Map approval to subdivide a 120,661 square foot lot (2.77 acres) with an existing residence into two separate building sites. The existing residence would be retained on Parcel 2. Parcel 1 would include a new building site. Parcel 1 is 40,001 square feet and Parcel 2 is 68,920 square feet. The property is zoned R-1-40,000. (CHRISTY OOSTERHOUS) Associate Planner Christy Oosterhous presented the staff report as follows: • Advised that the applicant is seeking a Tentative Parcel Map approval to subdivide a parcel into two. Parcel 1 will consist of 40,001 square feet and include a new building site. Parcel 2 will consist of 68,920 square feet and has an existing residence. The property is 2.5 acres net and the zoning is R-1-40,000. The land use is Low Density Single Family Residential. • Explained that access is from an access easement from the public right-of-way. • Said that a condition of approval for Lot 1 will require that the site development plan reduce perception of bulk and work with the slope through a stepped down/terraced designed house. • Reported that one tree (#37) is not expected to survive. Additional analysis will be done when the lot is developed. • Said that the lot size meets and exceeds minimum dimensions. The lots are regular in shape and rectangular. There are ample building envelopes. • Recommended approval. Saratoga Planning Commission Minutes of August 25, 2004 Page 13 Commissioner Hunter asked staff to clarify that a house could be built on the new parcel as far off as 25 years from now. Director Tom Sullivan replied correct. The approval of this new parcel lasts forever. Commissioner Hunter asked if the building envelope could be changed. Associate Planner Christy Oosterhous said that the building pad could be relocated within the building envelope. Director Tom Sullivan said that setbacks could change. If so, the envelope could change. Commissioner Hunter asked if a Geotechnical report was prepared. Associate Planner Christy Oosterhous replied yes. Commissioner Nagpal asked if these are build able lots. Associate Planner Christy Oosterhous said that the lots have clearance. Commissioner Rodgers asked about the address numbers. Director Tom Sullivan said that the street address assigned is based upon which street emergency vehicles access a parcel, or where the lot meets the public road. Associate Planner Christy Oosterhous suggested that the applicant could clarify this. Chair Garakani opened the Public Hearing for Agenda Item No. 3. Mr. Ray Brizgys, Applicant and Property Owner, 14529 Evans Lane, Saratoga: • Said that he has lived in Saratoga for eight or nine years now. • Said that the property is from his in-laws. • Advised that most of the property is not developed. Parcel 1 is undeveloped. • Said he was available for questions. Chair Garakani asked from what street would Parcel 1 be accessed. Mr. Ray Brizgys replied Cordwood Court. This is a flag lot. He added that his own access for Lot 2 is from Evans Lane, for which he has an easement from his neighbor. Chair Garakani closed the Public Hearing for Agenda Item No. 3. Motion: Upon motion of Commissioner Rodgers, seconded by Commissioner Nagpal, the Planning Commission approved a Negative Declaration for the Tentative Parcel Map application for property located at 14529 Evans Lane, by the following roll call vote: AYES: Garakani, Hunter, Nagpal, Rodgers, Schallop, Uhl and Zutshi NOES: None Saratoga Planning Commission Minutes of August 25, 2004 Page 14 ABSENT: None ABSTAIN: None Motion: Upon motion of Commissioner Zutshi, seconded by Commissioner Hunter, the Planning Commission approved a Tentative Parcel Map application for property located at 14529 Evans Lane, by the following roll call vote: AYES: Garakani, Hunter, Nagpal, Rodgers, Schallop, Uhl and Zutshi NOES: None ABSENT: None ABSTAIN: None *** DIRECTOR’S ITEMS There were no Director’s Items. COMMISSION ITEMS Director Tom Sullivan suggested that the language concerning the site visit notification to applications be modified to encourage attendance by the applicant during the Commission’s site visits. COMMUNICATIONS City Council Minutes from Regular Meeting on July 7, 2004, Special Meeting on July 26, 2004 and Joint meeting on July 6, 2004. ADJOURNMENT TO NEXT MEETING Upon motion of Commissioner Hunter, seconded by Commissioner Schallop, Chair Garakani adjourned the meeting at 8:43 p.m. to the next Regular Planning Commission meeting of September 8, 2004, at 7:00 p.m. MINUTES PREPARED AND SUBMITTED BY: Corinne A. Shinn, Minutes Clerk