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HomeMy WebLinkAbout01-10-2001 Planning Commission Minutes MINUTES SARATOGA PLANNING COMMISSION DATE: Wednesday, January 10, 2001 PLACE: Council Chambers/Civic Theater, 13777 Fruitvale Avenue, Saratoga, CA TYPE: Regular Meeting Chairman Page called the meeting to order at 7:42 p.m. ROLL CALL Present: Commissioners Bernald, Jackman, Kurasch, Patrick, Roupe and Chairman Page Absent: Barry (excused) Staff: Planner Mark Connolly PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE APPROVAL OF MINUTES – December 13, 2000. Motion: Upon motion of Commissioner Patrick, seconded by Commissioner Roupe, the Planning Commission minutes of December 13, 2000, were approved (6-0-1; Commissioner Barry was absent) with minor corrections as follows (deleted language stricken, new language underlined): • Page 3 – Commissioner Kurasch expressed…. Added that massing mass and bulk is more evident on one side of the structure than the other. • Page 12 – (4-3; Commissioners Barry Bernald, Jackman and Chair Page voted against). • Page 14 – Commissioner Bernald… Added that the design of the enclosed porch is in keeping with this Julia Morgan roofline and allows reasonable use of the structure. However, she agreed that the covered porch entry is not in keeping with the design but could support the project nevertheless. Stated her support. • Page 14 – Motion: Upon motion of Commissioner Barry, seconded by Commissioner Jackman, the Commission approved V-00-017 to grant a Variance that includes all existing square footage in the structure. (7-0) (6-1; Commissioner Kurasch voted against) ORAL COMMUNICATIONS There were no oral communication items. REPORT OF POSTING AGENDA Mr. Mark Connolly, Planner, announced that, pursuant to Government Code 54954.2, the agenda for this meeting was properly posted on January 5, 2001. Saratoga Planning Commission Minutes of January 10, 2001 Page 2 TECHNICAL CORRECTIONS TO PACKET Mr. Mark Connolly, Planner, provided the following technical corrections to the packet: • Item No. 1 – The maximum FAR is 3,040. One gas fireplace is included. Condition No. 17 is not applicable and should be stricken. • Item No 3 – The year on page nine of the Resolution should read 2001. On page 13, the numbering of the conditions omits No. 4. The conditions will be properly renumbered. • Item No. 4 – The address for this project is incorrect in the report and should read 14700. The fact that the proposed new structure is a two-story also should be added to the description. This project incorporates three gas fireplaces and one wood-burning fireplace. Commissioner Bernald inquired whether all public noticing was correct for these projects. Mr. Mark Connolly, Planner, replied yes. Commissioner Kurasch pointed out that for Item No. 5 the number of stories is also not specified in the staff report. Asked if this project was properly noticed. Mr. Mark Connolly, Planner, replied that Item No. 5 was properly noticed as a two-story structure. PUBLIC HEARING - ITEM NO. 1 DR-00-050 (517-09-025) – NAZZAL/KENNEDY, 14499 Oak Street: Request for Design Review approval to demolish an existing 2,020 square foot two-story residence and construct a new 2,873 square-foot two-story home in its place. Maximum height of the structure will be 26 feet tall. The property is 8,200 square feet in size and is located within an R-M zoning district. Mr. Mark Connolly, Planner, presented the staff report as follows: • Stated that this project seeks approval for the demolition of an existing 2,020 square foot two-story single family residence and the construction of a 2,873 square foot two-story residence. The maximum height will be 26 feet. The Heritage Preservation Commission reviewed this project, although it is not include on the register, and recommended two Conditions of Approval. One, that the construction plans be reviewed and approved by the HPC. Second, that the HPC has the opportunity to review the color and material boards. Commissioner Roupe asked if the existing structure on this site has already been demolished and if so what approvals were necessary prior to the demolition. Mr. Mark Connolly, Planner, advised that usually a demolition is not allowed prior to the approval of plans. In this case, the demolition was approved by staff in advance of final plan approval. Commissioner Roupe asked if the basement light well meets setback requirements. Mr. Mark Connolly, Planner, advised that per the UBC (Uniform Building Code), the light well can encroach on the setbacks. Commissioner Roupe stated that while the report states that the average site slope is two percent, the site seems to exceed a two- percent slope. Saratoga Planning Commission Minutes of January 10, 2001 Page 3 Mr. Mark Connolly, Planner, advised that the slope for the building pad site is two percent while the slope for the entire site is nine percent. Chairman Page advised the Commission that Commissioner Jackman is recusing herself from consideration of this application as it is located near her own property. Commissioner Jackman stepped down from the dais. Commissioner Bernald inquired about the purpose of the light wells. Mr. Mark Connolly replied that the light wells provide light and ventilation for the basement level. They are limited to 36 inches in depth. Commissioner Patrick pointed out that according to page four of the plans, the basement has a light well with egress stairs on both the west and east sides while on page two of the plans it shows egress on one side and not the other. Mr. Mark Connolly clarified that the stairwell depicted on the west side is incorrect and will be removed from the building plans. He added that the applicants have worked with staff. Staff has limited the applicant to single family standards although the property is zoned for multiple family residential. The surrounding area is all single family. Chairman Page opened the Public Hearing No. 1 at 8:03 p.m. Mr. James Kennedy, Applicant, 540 N. Santa Cruz Avenue, Los Gatos: • Advised that this project has been revised three times and that he has worked extensively with staff. • Agreed that a single-family residence fits better on this street. • Said that he went below the allowable FAR, as he did not want too much bulk and mass. • Added that they have kept the second story small and did include a basement. • Asked for a change in building material from siding to stucco. Commissioner Patrick asked Mr. Kennedy whether the Heritage Preservation Commission had the opportunity to see the existing home on this site prior to its demolition. Mr. James Kennedy replied that he was uncertain whether the HPC had seen the structure prior to its demolition. Commissioner Patrick asked whether the fireplace would be gas or wood burning. Mr. James Kennedy advised it would be gas. Commissioner Roupe pointed out that this proposal at 2,873 is less than the maximum allowable FAR of 3,040. Mr. Dave Sorensen, 14493 Oak Street, Saratoga: • Advised that his property is to the east of this site. • Stated his main concern is an oak tree located at the rear of the property. Saratoga Planning Commission Minutes of January 10, 2001 Page 4 • Inquired about proposed fencing and stated his preference for a landscape buffer over a six-foot high redwood fence. Commissioner Bernald inquired what separates the properties now. Mr. Dave Sorensen replied that there is nothing there now. Mr. John Allen, 14500 Oak Street, Saratoga: • Said that he lives across the street and is glad that this project is not a multi-family project. • Added that his only request is that cultured rather than flat stone be used on the façade. Commissioner Bernald asked Mr. Allen about his preference between stucco and wood siding. Mr. John Allen advised that he is not opposed to stucco. Said that he prefers a more natural façade for the lower three feet or so with stucco above that point. Chair Page asked Mr. James Kennedy what sort of stone he planned to utilize on the façade. Mr. James Kennedy advised that he is flexible. He was considering washed river rock or perhaps brick. Commissioner Kurasch suggested that more articulation should be added on the front façade. Mr. James Kennedy said that just using siding is monotonous. A stucco and siding combination is preferable. Motion: Upon motion of Commissioner Roupe, seconded by Commissioner Bernald, the Public Hearing for Agenda Item No. 1 was closed at 8:12 p.m. (5-0-1-1; Commissioner Barry was absent and Commissioner Jackman abstained) Commissioner Patrick stated her opposition to stucco, saying that she prefers the use of wood siding with river rock. Expressed her concern that the original building was demolished prior to the Heritage Preservation Commission’s review. Added that she found the west elevation to be very blank. Commissioner Bernald stated her concurrence with Commissioner Patrick’s comments with the exception to her concerns about the west elevation. Commissioner Roupe said that he supports this project overall and does share the concern over this building being demolished so early in the process. Suggested adding a condition that a landscaping program be developed between the applicant and the neighboring property owner to the east. Commissioner Kurasch concurred with the comments made by Commissioner Roupe. Added that she does not see brick as being compatible and that river rock would be more consistent with the house and the neighborhood. Suggested a wainscoting effect using river rock below and wood siding above. Chairman Page concurred. Added that no stucco should be used. Asked staff to provide a Director’s Item at the next meeting with an explanation on how the demolition approval occurred in this situation. Saratoga Planning Commission Minutes of January 10, 2001 Page 5 Motion: Upon motion of Commissioner Bernald, seconded by Commissioner Patrick, the Commission approved DR-00-050 with the following conditions: • Use of a combination of river rock and wood siding rather than stucco; • Development of a landscape plan together with staff and the adjacent neighbor to the east; and • Limiting any fireplace(s) to gas. (5-0-1-1; Commissioner Barry was absent and Commissioner Jackman abstained) Chairman Page advised that there is a 15-day appeal period. Commissioner Jackman rejoined the Commission for Agenda Item No. 2. *** PUBLIC HEARING – ITEM NO. 2 DR-00-048 (510-06-014) – ONG, 19051 Austin Way: Request for Design Review approval to demolish an existing 3,855 square foot single-story residence and construct a new 6,393 square foot two-story residence with a 1,198 square foot basement. The subject parcel is 62,291 square feet. Maximum height of the structure will be 24 feet tall. The subject parcel is located in an R-1-40,000 zoning district. Mr. Mark Connolly, Planner, presented the staff report as follows: • Advised that this application seeks approval to demolish a 3,855 square foot single-story structure and construct a new 6,393 square foot two-story structure with a maximum height of 24 feet. The site is 62,291 square feet and the zoning is R-1-40. The Arborist has recommended the preservation of as many trees on site as possible. The light wells will be limited to 36 inches. There is access to the site from Highway 9. A neighbor has written to request that the Highway 9 access be used during construction. However the City has a policy of not accessing off of a major arterial if another access is available. Advised that this project meets all requirements. Commissioner Bernald asked whether the lowering of the entry element is reflected in the plans. Mr. Mark Connolly, Planner, replied that the entry is now three feet lower than the original plans. Commissioner Bernald asked why the three chimneys have spark arresters if the fireplaces are not all wood burning. Mr. Mark Connolly said that he would have to defer to the architect and/or applicant. Chairman Page stated that the tree report does not include all the trees on the site. Mr. Mark Connolly said that there are 27 trees on the property in total. Commissioner Roupe stated that it appears that a new 1,100 square foot basement will be added. The staff report states that there is an existing basement when there is not one. Asked staff to please include any basement square footage in future staff reports. Saratoga Planning Commission Minutes of January 10, 2001 Page 6 Commissioner Patrick stated that the light wells are bigger than allowed and suggested adding to the Conditions of Approval language that clearly states that light wells “shall not exceed 36 inches.” Mr. Mark Connolly, Planner, advised that this restriction is not a Code issue but rather a Director’s standard. The standard has been established to prevent large terraces from being installed, which would present a two-story element rather than a hidden basement. Chairman Page opened Public Hearing No. 2 at 8:29 p.m. Mr. Con Ong, Property Owner/Applicant, 19051 Austin Way, Saratoga: • Made himself available for any questions. Commissioner Roupe inquired whether it might be possible to eliminate the bay window effect from the basement. Mr. Scott Stottler, Stottler Design Group: • Advised that the stairway in the light well is three feet wide. The light well provides ventilation, light and emergency egress. Said that the design would not work with the elimination of the bay window, as it would impact the floorplan above. Added that the use of steps is safer than the use of a ladder feature from the light well. Commissioner Bernald asked why the three chimneys have spark arresters. Mr. Scott Stottler advised that there are three fireplaces, one wood burning and two gas. The detail used on the plan is a common detail. Assured that they will revise the plans to depict only one wood- burning fireplace with spark arrester on its chimney. Commissioner Patrick cautioned that she did not believe that wrap around stairs are safe within the light well. Mr. Scott Stottler assured Commissioner Patrick that the Code requirements would be met including the use of tempered glass wherever necessary. Reiterated that the light well serves the function of providing light as well as egress. Mr. Raymond Nasmeh, Applicant’s Representative, 12029 Saratoga-Sunnyvale Road, Saratoga: • Advised the Commission that tempered glass will prevent any potential injury from the use of the light well stairway. Chairman Page asked how utilities enter this property. Mr. Scott Stottler advised he could not answer this question and the project engineer is not present this evening. Mr. Tom Keeble, 19041 Austin Way, Saratoga: • Advised that his letter has been misunderstood. He is only asking that access to the site occur from Highway 9 during demolition and construction in order to prevent damage to mature landscaping and the surface of the road. Added that garbage collection regularly accesses this site from Highway 9. Saratoga Planning Commission Minutes of January 10, 2001 Page 7 • Inquired about the status of a large Redwood tree on the property and whether it would be retained. • Asked that the allowable hours of construction be made clear to the contractor. • Said that he had no problems with the design of this home. Chairman Page advised that any trees removed would have to be replaced. Asked if Mr. Keeble has any objection to the use of stucco on this home. Mr. Tom Keeble replied that he had no problem with the use of stucco and that it was appropriate for this home. Mr. Mark Connolly said that nothing would preclude construction access from the Highway 9 access to the property. Commissioner Roupe advised that as Highway 9 is a State roadway, it is not clear whether use for construction access would be permitted by the State. Mr. Raymond Nasmeh, 12029 Saratoga-Sunnyvale Road, Saratoga: • Stated that not all access can occur off of Highway 9. Commissioner Bernald asked Mr. Nasmeh what his role is in this application since he is a Real Estate Agent. Mr. Raymond Nasmeh advised that he makes it a practice to help his clients through the City approval process. Mr. Mike Garakani, 19061 Austin Way, Saratoga: • Said that he like the architecture. • Expressed concern about use of Austin Way for 18-wheel vehicles. • Added that the Redwood tree on this property is huge and would likely have to be removed, as it appears to be located directly where the new home will be constructed. Mr. Raymond Nasmeh advised that the large Redwood tree would be preserved. Mr. Tom Keeble asked if an insurance bond could be required for the road. Chairman Page advised that such a bond would be required. Motion: Upon motion of Commissioner Patrick, seconded by Commissioner Bernald, the Commission closed Public Hearing No. 2 at 8:52 p.m. (6-0-1; Commissioner Barry was absent) Commissioner Bernald expressed concern over the rear elevation, the wrap-around stairwell, the need to protect trees, the entry feature and the missing pages in the tree report. Chairman Page agreed and recommended a continuance to allow for more complete drawings and information. Saratoga Planning Commission Minutes of January 10, 2001 Page 8 Commissioner Roupe agreed. He added that someone should also look into the feasibility of Highway 9 access to site during demolition and construction. Stated that the information provided is insufficient. Commissioner Kurasch agreed with the recommendation for a continuance. Said that the Arborist’s report is a problem. Agreed that low-lying limbs on neighboring trees can be impacted by this project during construction access. Commissioner Jackman agreed that more detail is necessary, including the feasibility of accessing the site via Highway 9. Said that the entrance of the driveway from Austin Way might have to be moved in order to save a large oak tree. Commissioner Patrick concurred. Stated her unhappiness with the plans in that they are not clear. Said that she will not approve the light well design as presented. Said that she did not believe that it would be a good idea to access the site from Highway 9. Motion: Upon motion of Commissioner Roupe, seconded by Commissioner Kurasch, the Commission continued consideration of DR-00-048 to a date uncertain. (6-0-1; Commissioner Barry was absent) *** PUBLIC HEARING - ITEM NO. 3 UP-00-014 & DR-00-053 (386-35-069) – CHURCH OF THE ASCENSION, 12033 Miller Avenue: Request for Use Permit and Design Review approval for the demolition of an existing 2,568 square foot, single-story Church of the Ascension parish office building and the construction of a new approximately 3,000 square foot single-story office building in the same location. Additionally, two temporary modular office units have been requested south of the church sanctuary and 45 feet north of Ascension Drive. They will be removed following construction of the new church office. The site is 7.24 acres and is zoned R-1-10,000. Mr. Mark Connolly, Planner, presented the staff report as follows: • Advised that this proposal includes the demolition of a 2,567 square foot office building and the construction of a 3,000 square foot replacement building. The project will include the addition of six parking spaces. The applicants also seek approval for the placement of two modular units on the south side of the church to be removed following the completion of construction. The subject parcel is seven acres. Advised that staff can make findings to support this project and recommends approval. Chairman Page asked whether the church has an existing Use Permit Mr. Mark Connolly, Planner, replied yes. Commissioner Kurasch asked whether any new uses are proposed that would generate additional traffic. Mr. Mark Connolly, Planner, advised that this is actually a very small addition and it will have not impact on traffic. The additional parking spaces are to support existing uses. Saratoga Planning Commission Minutes of January 10, 2001 Page 9 Mr. Jack Christensen, Architect, stated he was available for questions. Commissioner Jackman questioned why only a half basement is proposed instead of a full basement. Mr. Jack Christensen replied cost. Commissioner Patrick pointed out that neighbors have written to request that the temporary units be located 200 feet to the south, closer to Prospect Avenue. Asked why the proposed placement was selected. Mr. Jack Christensen replied that there is power available on that side and restrooms are conveniently located. This placement is the most appropriate. Mr. Don Johnson, 19997 Seagull Way, Saratoga: • Advised that he is a 27 year resident of Saratoga. • Said that the location for the trailer placement was made because it is the simplest and easiest to run power to this location. Placement elsewhere on site creates concerns about cost. • Said that these office buildings will not have restrooms and three people will work from them five days a week. They will be able to access the restrooms in the adjacent church. • Added that there will be no use of these modular buildings after 5 p.m. They will only be used for office use. • Additionally, by placing the modular buildings in this location, there will be minimum repairs to the site required upon their removal. • Said that he had the opportunity to speak with four of the five neighbors who wrote to the City. They have no real hard feelings but rather are just concerned. One concern expressed with the temporary property value impact. Added that existing landscaping will well screen these trailers but that they could put in additional screening if necessary. Chairman Page asked how power would be provided to the modular buildings. Mr. Don Johnson replied that the termination would be from the main junction box in the church over to the trailers. Commissioner Kurasch asked how long the modular buildings would be on site. Mr. Don Johnson replied that construction would begin in June and take approximately 10 months. Commissioner Kurasch suggested including an end date for the use of the modular buildings. Mr. Jack Christensen cautioned that it is difficult to construct anything on a firm time line. Assured that as soon as occupancy of the new office building occurs, these temporary trailers will be removed from the site. Commissioner Kurasch asked if Mr. Christensen could recommend a maximum amount of time for the placement of these modular buildings on the site. Mr. Jack Christensen said that as long as an extension could be granted if necessary. Saratoga Planning Commission Minutes of January 10, 2001 Page 10 Motion: Upon motion of Commissioner Bernald, seconded by Commissioner Kurasch, the Commission closed Public Hearing No. 3 at 9:10 p.m. (6-0-1; Commissioner Barry was absent) Commissioner Roupe stated that he had no problem with this application but that perhaps the trailers could be oriented in another direction or painted some innocuous color, preferably an earth tone. Commissioner Kurasch stated that she had no other objections but felt there might be an advantage to having an expiration date for use of the modular office trailers. Mr. Mark Connolly advised that such a deadline could be incorporated into the Conditions of Approval. Commissioner Kurasch suggested that the applicants work with the neighbors on the placement of the temporary units. Commissioner Jackman said that the church would push the project along. Said that placing the temporary units closer to Prospect would be unsightly. The proposed placement is more obscured by screening. Said that this is a good project. Commissioner Patrick said that she had no objection but was sorry to see the farmhouse go. Commissioner Bernald and Chair Page concurred. Motion: Upon motion of Commissioner Jackman, seconded by Commissioner Bernald, the Commission approved UP-00-014. (6-0-1; Commissioner Barry was absent) Motion: Upon motion of Commissioner Roupe, seconded by Commissioner Patrick, the Commission approved DR-00-053. (6-0-1; Commissioner Barry was absent) Chairman Page advised that there is a 15-day appeal period. *** PUBLIC HEARING - ITEM NO. 4 DR-00-049 (517-08-024) – HUNTER, 14700 St. Charles Street: Request for Design Review approval to demolish an existing 1,427 square foot single-story residence and construct a new 2,707 square foot two-story residence with a 1,020 square foot basement. Maximum height of the proposed structure is 22 feet tall. The property is 7,261 square feet in size and is located within an R-1-10,000 zoning district. Mr. Mark Connolly, Planner, presented the staff report as follows: • Advised that this is an application for the demolition of a 1,427 square foot single-story residence and construction of a 2,707 square foot two-story residence with a 1,020 square foot basement on a 7,261 square foot site. This proposal fits in the area architecturally and staff is recommending approval. The project meets all zoning requirements. Saratoga Planning Commission Minutes of January 10, 2001 Page 11 Commissioner Roupe asked whether the Heritage Preservation Commission had made comments on this project. Mr. Mark Connolly, Planner, advised that the HPC had reviewed the plans in May and approved both the demolition and the plans for the new structure. The original structure had been altered too many times to have any historic significance. Commissioner Jackman asked whether the driveway access would be from 6th Street. Mr. Mark Connolly, Planner, replied yes. Chairman Page noticed that the footprint for the new home is closer to the roadway and asked staff whether it still meets required setbacks. Mr. Mark Connolly, Planner, replied that the required setbacks are met. Commissioner Patrick pointed out that the proposed light wells are 3.5 feet wide. Mr. Mark Connolly advised that the approved plans would depict no more than 36-inch light wells. Chairman Page opened Public Hearing No. 4 at 9:23 p.m. Mr. David Britt, Britt-Rowe, Project Architect: • Thanked staff and said that he had nothing to add to staff’s presentation. • Said that while the building is now closer to the south side neighbor they took great care to mitigate privacy concerns. This space is just garage. The living portion will be further from this neighbor than it was originally. Commissioner Jackman asked if a drainage plan has been prepared. Mr. David Britt replied that a Grading and Drainage plan, prepared by a licensed civil engineer, was submitted to the City. Commissioner Patrick asked if there are wood burning fireplaces. Mr. David Britt stated that only gas fireplaces would be used. Ms. Betty Riley, 20792 Pamela Way, Saratoga: • Said that she likes the design of the new home but wanted to be certain that all required setbacks are met with this project. Marilyn and Walter, Marchetti, 20701 St. Charles, Saratoga: • Said that this will be an attractive home. • Added that she hoped to protect the existing trees that provide nice screening. • Suggested that the street address for this property should be 6th Street rather than St. Charles since the front door faces 6th Street. Saratoga Planning Commission Minutes of January 10, 2001 Page 12 Mr. David Britt assured the Marchettis that they intend to use the Arborist’s guidelines in order to protect the trees on site. Said that the address for this property was originally 6th Street and was changed to St. Charles long ago. Motion: Upon motion of Commissioner Patrick, seconded by Commissioner Bernald, the Commission closed Public Hearing No. 4 at 9:30 p.m. (6-0-1; Commissioner Barry was absent) Commissioner Kurasch said that this home has a nice design. While it may be a little large for the lot, it is nicely done. Commissioner Jackman said that this project is a good use of space and that she likes the plans. Commissioner Patrick concurred with Commissioner Kurasch. Commissioner Bernald concurred and said the house is charming. Commissioner Roupe and Chairman Page concurred. Motion: Upon motion of Commissioner Patrick, seconded by Commissioner Jackman, the Commission approved DR-00-049. (6-0-1; Commissioner Barry was absent) Chairman Page advised that there is a 15-day appeal period. Commissioner Bernald excused herself and departed the meeting at 9:32 p.m. *** PUBLIC HEARING ITEM NO 5 DR-00-043 (397-04-026) – FORMICO, 14456 Sobey Road: Request for Design Review approval to demolish an existing 4,417 square foot single-story residence and construction of a new 5,693 square foot residence in its place. The maximum height proposed is 25 feet, 10 inches. The parcel is approximately 61,855 square feet located in an R-1-40,000 zoning district. Mr. Mark Connolly, Planner, presented the staff report as follows: • Advised that this is an application for the demolition of a 4,417 square foot single-family residence and construction of a new 5,693 square foot two-story residence with a maximum height of 25 feet 10 inches. This is a 62,000 square foot site that is zoned R-1-40. Advised that staff finds the grading plan to be inadequate and is recommending a continuance of this item. Chairman Page opened Public Hearing No. 5 at 9:35 p.m. Ms. Linda Formico, 14456 Sobey Road, Saratoga: • Advised the Commission that she received a call at 7:35 p.m. this evening advising her that staff would be recommending a continuance. • Asked the Commission to proceed this evening. • Informed that her husband would be here this evening were he not on business travel. Saratoga Planning Commission Minutes of January 10, 2001 Page 13 • Said that they purchased this property a year ago last October. • Said that there are currently three separate structures on the property, a 2,400 square foot home, a two-car garage and a 1,500 square foot workshop. All will be removed and replaced with a single two-story structure. The new structure will include a 1,000 square foot basement. • Advised that they are proposing a Mediterranean design as there are quite a few in the area and it is an architectural style they like. Advised that the adjacent home is of a Mediterranean style. • Said that of the 53 homes in their immediate area, approximately 65 percent of them are two-story. • Advised that their lot is 1.5 acres and privacy has been taken into consideration. The upstairs windows facing their neighbors are glazed bath windows with the exception of one that looks at the front of their neighbor’s house. • Said that they have obtained their neighbors’ support and that the home they are proposing is 1,000 square feet less than is allowed. There will be one gas fireplace. • Advised that with their Grading and Drainage Plan, the proposed cut is 451 cubic yards and the proposed fill is 57 cubic yards. They will export 393 cubic yards. Commissioner Patrick said that these are good plans. Inquired how wide the window wells will be, as the stairs appear to be four feet wide. Commissioner Roupe expressed concern that he cannot reconcile the square footage for this project as none of the numbers appear to add up. Chairman Page asked staff what the square footage of the home will be. Mr. Mark Connolly, Planner, replied the total square footage is 5,693 and that 6,400 square feet is the maximum allowed. Commissioner Roupe conceded that the house is well below the maximum allowable. Commissioner Kurasch asked Ms. Linda Formico how the siting of the house was determined. It is closer to the street than the current structure. Ms. Linda Formico replied that she and her husband want their kids in the rear yard in a safe play space. She is expecting their third child. Added that they will have a pool, grass and volleyball court in the rear yard. Chairman Page added that the property is well screened by existing landscaping. Commissioner Jackman added that the house is still 41 feet from the front property line. Mr. Mark Connolly, Planner, clarified that any interior height above 15 feet is counted into the square footage. Commissioner Kurasch asked whether staff is still recommending a continuance for this application. Mr. Mark Connolly, Planner, replied no, not with the additional information provided this evening by Ms. Formico. Saratoga Planning Commission Minutes of January 10, 2001 Page 14 Motion: Upon motion of Commissioner Roupe, seconded by Commissioner Jackman, the Commission closed Public Hearing No. 5 at 9:50 p.m. (5-0-2; Commissioners Barry and Bernald were absent) Commissioner Jackman stated that the project is compatible with the area, less than the allowable square footage and that she has no problems with the application. Commissioner Patrick said that she is in favor with a reduction in the light well. Commissioner Roupe concurred. Commissioner Kurasch concurred. Said that the house is a bit massive and that she recommends a landscape plan to help relate the house to the street. Chairman Page said that he found the project to be appropriate. Motion: Upon motion of Commissioner Patrick, seconded by Commissioner Roupe, the Commission approved DR-00-043 with the reduction in light wells and with the added condition that a landscape plan be developed for the front of the house to help relate the structure to the street. (5-0-2; Commissioners Barry and Bernald were absent) Chairman Page advised that there is a 15-day appeal period. *** DIRECTOR ITEMS None COMMISSION ITEMS 1. January 23, 2001, PC/HPC/City Council Joint Meeting Chairman Page advised that a Joint Planning Commission/Heritage Preservation Commission and City Council meeting will be held on January 23, 2001. He asked the Commissioners if anyone had any items to propose for the agenda for that meeting. Commissioner Kurasch suggested an update on the status of the Commission as well as Planning staffing. Included would be the effects of the Director vacancy on the scheduling of items such as the Housing Element Update and the Commission Retreat. Commissioner Jackman said that it would make sense to wait for the Retreat until a new Director is hired. Commissioner Patrick added that since three Commissioners’ terms expire in April, it might be more appropriate to have the Retreat following the new appointments. Added that one topic for the Joint Study Session might be to look into jurisdiction and authority for the Heritage Preservation Saratoga Planning Commission Minutes of January 10, 2001 Page 15 Commission to better highlight their power over issues such as the demolition of the house from tonight’s Agenda Item No. 1. Commissioner Kurasch concurred, adding that it would be good to hear what the HPC’s expectations are. Chair Page suggested discussion over what is happening on Bowman Road. Commissioner Jackman suggesting evaluating the size of basements in the area and perhaps establishing guidelines. Expressed a need to know more about geology and what impact there is to the land with these large basements being added to many new homes. Commissioner Patrick added that it might be a good Retreat topic to discuss where the dirt from these basement excavations is being exported. 2. SABIC, 18817 Devon Avenue, DR-00-019 Mr. Mark Connolly, Planner, advised the Commission that this application for the construction of a two-story residence had a small expansion, which exceeds the original approval by 5 inches. Staff finds that this has no impact and the project still meets all minimum zoning requirements. No Commissioners expressed any concern over this small change to the approval. COMMUNICATIONS None. WRITTEN None. ADJOURNMENT TO NEXT MEETING Chair Page adjourned the meeting at 10:02 p.m. to Wednesday, January 24, 2001, at the Council Chambers/Civic Theater, 13777 Fruitvale Avenue, Saratoga, CA. MINUTES PREPARED AND SUBMITTED BY: Corinne A. Shinn Minutes Clerk