HomeMy WebLinkAbout11-12-2008 Planning Commission Packet
CITY OF SARATOGA PLANNING COMMISSION
AGENDA
DATE: Wednesday, November 12, 2008 - 7:00 p.m.
PLACE : Council Chambers/Civic Theater, 13777 Fruitvale Avenue, Saratoga, CA
T YPE: Regular Meeting
ROLL CALL:
Commissioners Joyce Hlava, Rishi Kumar, Robert Kundtz, Susie Nagpal, Linda Rodgers, Yan Zhao and Chair Manny
Cappello
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE:
MINUTES:
Minutes from the Regular Planning Commission Meeting of October 22, 2008
ORAL COMMUNICATION:
Any member of the Public will be allowed to address the Planning Commission for up to three minutes on matters not
on this agenda. The law generally prohibits the Planning Commission from discussing or taking action on such items.
However, the Planning Commission may instruct staff accordingly regarding Oral Communications under Planning
Commission direction to Staff.
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS- PLANNING COMMISSION DIRECTION TO STAFF:
REPORT OF POSTING AGENDA:
Pursuant to Government Code 54954.2, the agenda for this meeting was properly posted on November 6, 2008
REPORT OF APPEAL R IGHTS:
If you wish to appeal any decision on this Agenda, you may file 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:
PUBLIC HEARINGS:
All interested persons may appear and be heard at the above time and place. Applicants/Appellants and
their representatives have a total of ten minutes maximum for opening statements. Members of the Public
may comment on any item for up to three minutes. Applicant/Appellants and their representatives have a
total of five minutes maximum for closing statements.
1. APPLICATION CUP08-0013 (503-49-051) Gaitonde - 20865 Saratoga Hills Road - The applicant
requests approval of a Conditional Use Permit for the installation of a generator to provide an emergency
backup power supply for an existing single-family residence. The generator is to be located adjacent to the
east side of the residence. The generator will be surrounded by an insulated redwood fence enclosure,
which would screen the generator from view as well as provide noise reduction. The lot is 13,419 gross
square feet in size and is zoned R-1-12,500. Conditional Use Permit approval by the Planning Commission
is required pursuant to Saratoga Municipal Code Section 15-80.030(k). (Rina Shah)
2. APPLICATION ADR08-0011 (389-17-046) - Dalal, 18774 Dundee Avenue - The applicant requests
Conditional Use Permit (CUP) and Administrative Design (ADR) approval to construct a new single-story
detached recreation room within the required rear setback. The structure is approximately 693 sq. ft. Per
Saratoga Municipal Code (SMC) Section 15-80.030 (d) (1), a CUP is required for a cabana, recreation
1
room, or similar structure to be located within a required rear setback. The maximum height of the
proposed accessory structure will be not exceed 10 ft. The net lot size on 18774 Dundee Avenue is 10,000
sq. ft. and the site is zoned R-1-10,000. (Michael Fossati)
3. APPLICATION PDR 08-0019 (397-19-005) Brozicevic/Kochhar - 15360 Best View Ct. - The applicant
proposes to construct a new two-story, single-family dwelling with a total floor area of approximately
6,361 square-feet. The height of the proposed home is less than 26 feet. The applicant proposes to remove
17 trees protected by City Code. The lot is currently vacant and is approximately 58,340 square feet in area.
The site is zoned R-1-40,000. (Cynthia McCormick)
4. APPLICATION# PDR08-0033(503-78-004)- 21888 Villa Oaks Lane - The applicant requests Design
Review approval to construct a 5,825 square foot two-story single-family residence with a basement and an
attached three car garage. The residence would be approximately 24.5 feet tall. The net lot size is
approximately 1-acre and the site is zoned HR (Hillside Residential). (Chris Riordan)
5. APPLICATION# ZOA07-0001 -(City Wide) Zoning Ordinance Amendment & Negative Declaration-
Regulations Related to Fences, Walls, and Hedges & Negative Declaration (Chris Riordan)
DIRECTORS ITEM:
COMMISSION ITEMS:
COMMUNICATIONS:
ADJOURNMENT TO NEXT MEETING:
- Wednesday, December 10, 2008 at 7:00 p.m. in the Council Chambers/Civic Theater
13777 Fruitvale Avenue, Saratoga, CA
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), if you need special assistance to participate in this
meeting, please contact the City Clerk at (408) 868-1269 or ctclerk@saratoga.ca.us. Notification 48 hours prior to
the meeting will enable the City to make reasonable arrangements to ensure accessibility to this meeting (28 CFR
35.102-35.104 ADA Title II).
Certificate of Posting of Agenda: I, Abby Ayende, Office Specialist for the City of Saratoga, declare that the
foregoing agenda for the meeting of the Planning Commission of the City of Saratoga was posted on November 6,
2008, at the office of the City of Saratoga, 13777 Fruitvale Avenue, Saratoga, CA 95070 and was available for
public review at that location. The agenda is also available on the City’s website at www.saratoga.ca.us
If you would like to receive the Agenda’s via e-mail, please send your e-mail address to planning@saratoga.ca.us
NOTE: To view previous Planning Commission meetings anytime, go the City Video Archives at
www.saratoga.ca.us
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MINUTES
SARATOGA PLANNING COMMISSION
DATE: Wednesday, October 22, 2008
PLACE: Council Chambers/Civic Theater, 13777 Fruitvale Avenue, Saratoga, CA
TYPE: Regular Meeting
Chair Cappello called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.
ROLL CALL
Present: Commissioners Cappello, Hlava, Kumar, Kundtz, Nagpal, Rodgers and Zhao
Absent: None
Staff: Director John Livingstone, Senior Planner Chris Riordan, Assistant Planner
Cynthia McCormick and Assistant City Attorney Jonathan Wittwer
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
APPROVAL OF MINUTES – Regular Meeting of October 8, 2008.
Motion: Upon motion of Commissioner Hlava, seconded by Commissioner Kumar,
the Planning Commission minutes of the regular meeting of October 8,
2008, were adopted with edits to pages 12 and 13. (70)
ORAL COMMUNICATION
There were no Oral Communications.
REPORT OF POSTING AGENDA
Director John Livingstone announced that, pursuant to Government Code 54954.2, the
agenda for this meeting was properly posted on October 16, 2008.
REPORT OF APPEAL RIGHTS
Chair Cappello 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 1590.050(b).
CONSENT CALENDAR
There were no Consent Calendar items.
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Saratoga Planning Commission Minutes of October 22, 2008 Page 2
***
PUBLIC HEARING ITEM NO. 1
APPLICATION #PDR080025 (50324046) – The Inn at Saratoga, 20645 Fourth Street:
The applicant requests Design Review approval for a 2,052 square foot addition to the west
elevation of the existing fivestory Inn at Saratoga. The project will include a new meeting
room on the fourth floor totaling 1,066 square feet and two additional guest rooms on the fifth
floor totaling 2,052 square feet. The lot is 29,839 square feet in size and is zoned CH1.
(Chris Riordan)
Mr. Chris Riordan, Senior Planner, presented the staff report as follows:
• Reported that the applicant is seeking Design Review approval and Modification to the
existing Conditional Use Permit approval with a Variation of Standards.
• Described the project as including a 2,052 square foot horizontal addition to the existing
The Inn at Saratoga.
• Said that a hotel is a conditional use in the CH1 zoning district and that this addition
requires a Modification to the existing Conditional Use Permit.
• Stated that this is an existing fivestory building that slopes down from Big Basin Way
towards Saratoga Creek. It appears to be a twostory as seen from Big Basin Way.
• Said that a 1,066 square foot addition will be added to the fourth floor (the ground floor as
viewed from Big Basin Way). A 986 square foot addition is proposed for the fifth floor that
is consisting of two additional guest rooms and a small office (appears to be the second
story when seen from Big Basin Way).
• Explained that the exterior materials would match the existing materials of The Inn.
• Stated that the hotel was originally constructed approximately 21 years ago as a fivestory
building, with two stories facing Big Basin Way and five stories facing Saratoga Creek.
• Reported that the Zoning Code has since changed thereby limiting buildings facing the
Creek to three stories.
• Added that the maximum height in the CH1 district is 35 feet. As constructed the height of
this hotel is approximately 41 feet as measured from average grade. The height of the
addition, as measured from average grade would be 37 feet. The addition is three feet
shorter than the existing elevation on Big Basin Way and will not exceed the existing two
story height standard.
• Stated that staff is recommending approval of a Variation of Standard to allow this height
to be granted.
• Said that a mansard roof for the addition would encroach by 2 feet, 9 inches, into the
airspace above the City parking lot for an approximate length of 62 feet. A condition of
approval is required to obtain an encroachment permit through the Public Works
Department subject to Council approval.
• Advised that the area where the addition would go is currently landscaped. The applicant
would be relocating the landscape material to fill in other underlandscaped areas on site.
• Recommended that the Planning Commission grant Design Review approval and
Modification to the Conditional Use Permit with a Variation of Standards.
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Saratoga Planning Commission Minutes of October 22, 2008 Page 3
• Made two changes to the draft resolution. On page 4 the word “none” should be stricken.
On page 5, under Condition 11, “The City The City” appears twice and one reference
should be stricken.
Commissioner Zhao asked how the elevation is shorter than existing.
Planner Chris Riordan said that the addition is three feet shorter. This addition juts out from
the hotel.
Commissioner Hlava asked about the neighbors from across the creek and their complaints
about noise from the operation of systems at The Inn. Will any of that change with this
addition? Will there be more noise? Will the systems be relocated?
Planner Chris Riordan advised that the applicant says that there is no greater use of HVAC
systems with this addition than is currently used so no change is planned.
Commissioner Rodgers asked if the requirement to file for an encroachment permit with the
Public Works Department should be recorded as a permanent condition. Does it go with the
property?
Director John Livingstone said that recordation of that condition is not required. They have to
do it. It goes to Council. It would be unreasonable to record it.
Planner Chris Riordan added that this project could not be built without that encroachment
permit being issued.
Commissioner Rodgers asked what might happen 50 to 100 years down the road when it’s
time to redo this inn. What would prevent any dispute about this encroached space?
Director John Livingstone assured that Council would properly evaluate and document its
action.
Chair Cappello opened the public hearing for Agenda Item No. 1.
Mr. Lee, Applicant and Owner, The Inn at Saratoga:
• Said that the hotel has had this same compressor for 20 years and he has never had
complaints about the noise of its operation.
• Added that this addition is not resulting in an increase in noise as the amount of use of the
HVAC system would not increase.
• Stated that there would be no night meetings held in the new meeting room and they are
only adding two guest rooms.
Mr. Craig Aubrey, Owner, Sam Cloud Barn:
• Said that he had some concerns about this application.
• Pointed out that 2,000 square feet of landscaping is being removed including some mature
trees and shrubs.
• Added that this site is located next to their building, which is a registered historic building.
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Saratoga Planning Commission Minutes of October 22, 2008 Page 4
• Expressed some concern that landscaping be put back in and said he would like to be
involved in the decisions on said relandscaping.
• Said that the entrance from Saratoga is approximately nine feet from their building and
there is currently no ADA access.
• Added that they were required to put in ADA access and bathrooms with their own
remodel.
• Advised that their main concern is parking and that this addition would create more
burdens for parking at the Third Street lot given the fact that the applicant has removed
three parking spaces around The Inn.
• Stated concern that people coming to his building will not have anywhere to park during
the day.
• Asked that a condition be imposed that the parking situation would be worked out.
Ms. Katherine Brockett, Resident on Brookwood Lane:
• Explained that the back of her house backs Mr. Lee’s Inn.
• Stated that the idea of expanding The Inn is great. If it is successful that would bring more
traffic into the Village and that too is great.
• Said that before this addition is approved, she wants to talk about the sound of the
compressor.
• Reported that it runs 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year.
• Assured that adding another 2,000 square feet will make it run more.
• Advised that the noise from this is a huge issue for her and for her neighbors.
• Asked that the City work with Mr. Lee to baffle the system to make the noise less bad.
While the daytime is not as bad, the evenings can be pretty annoying.
Ms. Nancy Kessler, Resident on Brookwood Glen:
• Questioned where participants attending meetings in this new room will go for breaks.
• Explained that noise from the patio area causes noise impacts.
• Advised that she too can hear the noise from the compressor.
Mr. Lee, Applicant and Owner, The Inn at Saratoga:
• Reported that he is the one who planted the landscaping that he now has to take out to
construct his addition there.
• Advised that there is no place for more trees.
• Informed that he too complained about parking when Craig Aubrey came before this
Commission.
• Added that the use of the meeting space would be occasional and not continuous. They
will occur only in the daytime.
• Reminded that he has 40 dedicated parking spaces that is sufficient to serve meetings in
his space and for nighttime parking for guests. In the daytime, this parking is empty.
• Pointed out that they typically only have between 40 and 50 percent occupancy.
• Assured that there would be no increase in the current noise levels with this addition.
Commissioner Nagpal asked Mr. Lee if he could enclose his compressor.
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Saratoga Planning Commission Minutes of October 22, 2008 Page 5
Mr. Lee said that space is needed for air. He added that trees he planted have grown to block
sound. He bought this hotel 16 years ago and planted screening trees at that time. Those
mature trees now effectively block the sound.
Commissioner Nagpal asked Mr. Lee if he has a landscape plan.
Mr. Lee said that there is no land available for more landscaping. He added that he is only
removing landscaping from the area where the addition would be constructed. He assured
that he would do anything possible to improve the appearance of the hotel site.
Commissioner Nagpal asked Mr. Lee if there is ADA access to the hotel.
Mr. Lee said yes, from the front entrance.
Commissioner Nagpal asked if there is ADA access from the Third Street parking area. She
asked staff if this project reduces the moratorium for parking.
Planner Chris Riordan replied correct.
Commissioner Rodgers asked if this applicant is exempt from having to provide any additional
parking as part of the parking moratorium, which was a fiveyear plan. She expressed doubt
that Mr. Lee had as many dedicated parking spaces as he claims. W here are they and how
many are there?
Mr. Lee said he has 40 dedicated spaces in his parking lot.
Chair Cappello advised that Mr. Lee restriped his lot for 40 spaces.
Commissioner Rodgers said that there appears to be a difference of opinion between Mr. Lee
and staff and that the City claims that some of the parking spaces are located within the
parking district lot. However, he is exempt from needing to provide additional parking with this
application so it is not an issue at this point.
Mr. Lee said that users of the meeting space would have to come to the main entrance rather
than the Third Street lot, which is usually full any way.
Commissioner Rodgers asked if he has Inn only parking marked on the Third Street lot.
Mr. Lee said no. Those spaces are only for common uses.
Commissioner Rodgers asked if the bathrooms located near the conference space are ADA
compatible.
Mr. Lee replied yes.
Commissioner Kumar asked how many people the conference room could accommodate.
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Saratoga Planning Commission Minutes of October 22, 2008 Page 6
Mr. Lee said 40.
Commissioner Kumar asked Mr. Lee if he feels there would be parking issues. Is there
enough parking?
Mr. Lee said there is no problem in his own lot. It is usually less than 50 percent occupied. It
sometimes fills up with special meetings. However, hotel guests use the parking at night while
meeting attendees would use this parking in the daytime. He added that some attendees
come together in cars and reminded that there are 40 spaces available.
Commissioner Kumar asked if there would be a separate HVAC zone for the new space.
Mr. Lee said that they would be extending the existing line.
Commissioner Kumar asked Mr. Lee if there would not be an increase in the use of HVAC.
Mr. Lee replied only if completely booked while they are usually only about 50 percent
booked.
Commissioner Hlava said that a lot of work was done fitting in landscaping when the Barn was
reviewed for renovation. She said that the view would change significantly as seen from the
Barn with the removal of landscaping from The Inn.
Mr. Lee reminded that the building wall would be right next to the parking lot. There is no
space to put in landscaping except perhaps for some low growing shrubs. He added that if
there were any land remaining available for landscaping he would put some in there.
Chair Cappello said that the Commission is asking for a landscape plan.
Director John Livingstone said that Condition 9 involves taking and relocating landscaping
material that is being removed to an area that is currently less densely landscaped.
Commissioner Hlava expressed concern over the possibility that someone using a wheelchair
cannot go to the Village restaurants using the Third Street entrance without having to go
around. She questioned the possibility of installing a ramp.
Mr. Lee said that if a ramp were required by law, he would provide it. However, they have
been operating okay for 16 years now without one. He added that he has one handicapped
accessible room that is located downstairs.
Commissioner Hlava advised that her husband was in a wheelchair for several years so she is
sensitive about accessibility.
Commissioner Rodgers:
• Reported that she has gone to meetings with friends using wheelchairs.
• Recounted that there had been times when they have had to carry people upstairs and
downstairs.
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• Stated that this is just not acceptable for a meeting room for the public.
• Added that if there is an emergency, she wants people to be able to get out using the
nearest exit, which is that exit on Third Street.
• Said that she does not understand why Mr. Lee is not interested in putting in a ramp there.
It is easily doable.
• Asked Mr. Lee if he is willing to do so on a voluntary basis.
Mr. Lee said he would look into it.
Commissioner Zhao asked Mr. Lee what is the floor area of the two additional guest rooms.
Mr. Lee replied approximately 800 square feet.
Chair Cappello closed the public hearing for Agenda Item No. 1.
Commissioner Nagpal asked if there were any documented noise complaints.
Planner Chris Riordan replied no, just the person who spoke this evening.
Commissioner Hlava asked since there is already an ADA compliant entrance downstairs
could one also be required for the Third Street entrance.
Director John Livingstone advised that there must be a nexus to require that. He added that
putting a ramp in there would result in the loss of the landscaping to the left side. He deferred
to the City Attorney regarding the nexus for this requirement in this instance.
Commissioner Rodgers pointed out that a hydraulic lift does not take up much space.
City Attorney Jonathan Wittwer said he had used such lifts in hotels before. He said that the
question is whether there is a nexus to require this. Is it legally required?
Director John Livingstone advised that the Building Official reviewed this project. As the main
entrance has ADA access located at the parking lot, he says it does not create the
requirement for ADA access at the side entrance.
Commissioner Rodgers asked even if there is an intensification of use by means of a
conference facility.
Director John Livingstone replied yes.
City Attorney Jonathan Wittwer said that the standard condition requiring compliance with all
Federal, State and local standards could be added. He added that Mr. Lee has already
testified that if required by law he would do it.
Commissioner Hlava:
• Asked if this condition would also cover the noise issue raised. She said she is kind of
concerned as it sounds like these neighbors have a regular issue with noise.
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Saratoga Planning Commission Minutes of October 22, 2008 Page 8
• Added that the fact that this is the first time we’ve heard about it does not mean that it is
not still a problem for them.
• Inquired whether correction would be required if the Code Enforcement staff tested the
noise of the compressor and found it to be in excess of the sound level allowed.
Commissioner Nagpal replied yes, with that condition in place it would. She reminded that
this application under consideration is a Modification of the Use Permit as well as Design
Review approval.
City Attorney Jonathan Wittwer said that the question is whether this addition makes the noise
situation louder. If it is not increased there is no nexus. The question is, does the existing
Noise Ordinance cover something that has been there for 20 year. He said he would do some
quick research on this.
Commissioner Nagpal:
• Referred to the landscaping issue.
• Said that Condition 9 should adequately address that.
• Added that staff would make sure that there is something that looks good at the end of the
day.
• Stated that as for the ADA access issue for the Third Street lot, it may not legally be
required with just a 1,900 square foot or 10 percent addition.
• Reminded that the parking issue is dealt with through the moratorium that is in place as far
as not being required to provide additional parking.
Director John Livingstone advised that the moratorium ends in February 2009.
Commissioner Nagpal reminded that the point of that moratorium was to stimulate new
projects in the Village.
Commissioner Kundtz:
• Said that from a Design Review perspective he can make the findings.
• Added that Condition 9 addresses the landscaping issue.
• Pointed out that this project also takes down a pole lamp that provides some security
lighting in the Third Street parking area.
• Suggested adding a review of lighting to Condition 9 to the satisfaction of the Community
Development Director.
• Reminded that ADA requirements are dictated by law.
• Added that parking has been taken care of.
• Said that the City Attorney is currently looking into the noise issue if it cannot be dealt with
in the conditions for the CUP.
• Stated that the City has complaintdriven code enforcement available to see if the
compressor meets the City’s noise standards or not.
City Attorney Jonathan Wittwer made his determination that the condition requiring
compliance with all Federal, State or local laws would cover existing development.
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Commissioner Zhao asked if the Commission has to consider any further the issue of noise.
City Attorney Jonathan W ittwer clarified that The Inn at Saratoga must meet Noise Ordinance
standards.
Commissioner Zhao:
• Said that she is fine with the Design Review findings.
• Said that she is happy to see that this owner is willing to work with staff on the landscaping
and that not all of the existing landscaping is to be removed.
• Stressed the need to comply with all laws on the issue of ADA accessibility.
Commissioner Kumar:
• Said that ADA access and noise issues have been resolved.
• Said that Condition 9 can deal with landscaping and lighting of the Third Street lot.
• Added that parking is a moot point with the moratorium on the need to provide additional
parking.
• Stated he was okay with this project.
City Attorney Jonathan Wittwer said that Section 3 of the resolution already requires
compliance with all Federal, State and local requirements.
Commissioner Nagpal asked if a specific condition should also be added to the resolution.
City Attorney Jonathan Wittwer said not beyond what is already stated in Section 3.
Commissioner Hlava said that she could make the Design Review and Conditional Use Permit
findings. She supported the addition of a review of both landscaping and lighting by the
Director.
Commissioner Rodgers said she too could make the Design Review findings and would like to
suggest a rewording of Condition 9, “The landscape plan shall be subject to review and
approval of the Community Development Director.”
City Attorney Jonathan Wittwer said that review was necessary but approval not necessarily
so.
Commissioner Rodgers:
• Said that the location and operation of lighting is not handled.
• Stated that she could not make the health, safety and welfare finding as the conference
room without ADA access to the Third Street parking is detrimental to the health, safety
and welfare of the community.
• Added that this comes into play in the event there is a fire in this building.
Chair Cappello said he could make the findings to support the project.
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Saratoga Planning Commission Minutes of October 22, 2008 Page 10
Motion: Upon motion of Commissioner Nagpal, seconded by Commissioner Hlava,
the Planning Commission granted Design Review and Conditional Use
Permit approvals, with a Variation of Standards, to allow a 2,052 square
foot addition to The Inn at Saratoga on property located at 20645 Fourth
Street, as amended by staff and editing Condition 9 to require a landscape
and lighting plan, by the following roll call vote:
AYES: Cappello, Hlava, Kumar, Kundtz, Nagpal and Zhao
NOES: Rodgers
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
***
PUBLIC HEARING ITEM NO. 2
APPLICATION #CUP080007 (38601008) – Wu/Kwei, 19888 Prospect Road: The
applicant is requesting a Conditional Use Permit to locate a Day Care Facility in an existing
building in the commercialvisitor zoning district. The site is located on Prospect Road,
approximately 250 feet east of SaratogaSunnyvale Road. The Day Care Facility will occupy
1,500 square feet of the existing 2,500 square foot building. The proposed Day Care Facility
would serve up to 30 students with three employees and operate Monday through Friday from
7 a.m. to 7 p.m. There are approximately 810 parking spaces to serve the proposed use and
the existing 1,000 square foot dental office. (Cynthia McCormick)
Ms. Cynthia McCormick, Assistant Planner, presented the staff report as follows:
• Said that the applicant is seeking approval of a Conditional Use Permit to allow the
establishment of a Day Care Facility within an existing building currently occupied by a
dentist and the Christian Righteousness Center.
• Reported that the applicant’s traffic engineer completed a traffic study. The City’s traffic
consultant reviewed the report.
• Advised that both reports indicate that there are a deficient number of parking spaces
available to accommodate the project.
• Said that there are additional concerns regarding traffic circulation, pedestrian safety and
parking lot maneuverability that have been brought up.
• Stated that the traffic study indicates that the proposed use would generate a parking
demand of 11 spaces. This includes eight spaces for student parking drop off and three
spaces for employees. This is added to the five spaces required for the dental office for a
total site requirement of 16 spaces.
• Added that following the required sidewalk installation and restriping of the parking lot,
there are only eight spaces available to serve the proposed use and the existing dental
office. That is a deficiency of half the spaces needed per the traffic study.
• Said that given the inadequate parking, traffic would likely spill over into the surrounding
neighborhood.
• Stated that staff cannot recommend that the Planning Commission make the required
findings to support this application. The proposed use is too intensive for this location.
• Recommended denial of the Conditional Use Permit.
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Saratoga Planning Commission Minutes of October 22, 2008 Page 11
Chair Cappello opened the public hearing for Agenda Item No. 2.
Ms. Christina Wu, Applicant:
• Requested a continuance via a letter to staff.
• Reported that she is still waiting for an easement agreement from their neighbor.
Chair Cappello asked if the neighbors are aware that if they give up parking they could
jeopardize the review of the next project that comes up for review shortly.
Ms. Christina Wu said she believes they do.
City Attorney Jonathan Wittwer cautioned that giving up parking spaces could also impact the
use of the existing shopping center.
Ms. Christina Wu said that there are two issues. One is the easement access and the second
is number of parking spaces. She added that there are four spaces on the side of their
property that could be accessed via the easement.
Chair Cappello said that even with those four additional spaces, there still are not enough. He
said that while Ms. Wu is asking for a continuance, that may not solve the problem or may
create a problem for another site.
Ms. Christina Wu said that she strongly requests a continuance to deal with the two different
issues of easement and spaces.
City Attorney Jonathan Wittwer:
• Reminded that this is a noticed hearing so it is important to ask if there is anyone here this
evening wishing to speak.
• Added that the Christian Righteousness Center was approved before and was supposed
to have a parking agreement with the nearby church. Evidence of that agreement has not
been found.
• Said that as a result there may be an even bigger parking deficiency.
• Reminded that the potential impacts are on this property and possibly the adjacent
shopping center.
• Said that while nothing could be approved this evening, the project could be denied.
Commissioner Kundtz asked if the continuance should be to a date certain or uncertain.
Ms. Christina Wu:
• Said that their school would operate from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. The official student start time is
8:30 a.m. Therefore, there are varied arrival times between 7 a.m. and 8:30 a.m.
• Added that for evening pick up, most of the parents work and will pick up their children
between 6 p.m. and 7 p.m.
• Proposed use of a shuttle service as one solution to the parking deficiency. It would
represent a greener way of delivering kids to the school.
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Saratoga Planning Commission Minutes of October 22, 2008 Page 12
• Pointed out that her consultant’s traffic report said that this space could accommodate 20
students with existing parking while the City’s consultant, Fehr & Peers, disagreed.
• Reported that there has been the ongoing use of the easement for the last six years
without complaint.
Chair Cappello closed the public hearing for Agenda Item No. 2.
Chair Cappello:
• Said that continuing this item when there may or may not be a viable solution for parking
may si mply be putting off the inevitable.
• Said that he would like to hear input from the other Commissioners on how to proceed.
Options include approval, denial or a continuance (date certain or uncertain).
Commissioner Kumar said that different options are being considered and it sounds like this
applicant is very motivated. He said he is in favor of a continuation so she can evaluate
options and come back with a fresh new proposal.
Commissioner Hlava:
• Said that she is almost always in favor of giving an applicant at least the chance to try and
make changes to their proposal.
• Added that she is having a hard time with this because she thinks the applicant has
already been given direction by staff for quite a period of time that there are big parking
issues with this site.
• Said that saying the Commission is going to deny it outright tonight would mean the
Commission feels there are no possibilities of solutions that the applicant can come up
with.
• Stated that she has a hard time saying that at this time but on the other hand she does not
see anything the applicant can come up with.
• Said that she does not want to waste the applicant’s time (and money) or staff time with
something that looks so impossible.
• Concluded that she is still in a quandary but wants to hear what others have to say.
City Attorney Jonathan Wittwer said that one option is denial without prejudice, which means
that the applicant can come back at any time.
Commissioner Hlava asked if the applicant would have to refile her application and pay new
fees.
City Attorney Jonathan Wittwer replied yes.
Commissioner Rodgers:
• Said that she can’t see any way that she would approve this tonight but that she always
likes to give an applicant a chance to make modifications.
• Suggested that one condition may be to reduce the number of children from 30 to 15 but
she does not know if that would be economically feasible for the Day Care Facility.
• Added that it still may not resolve the issue.
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Saratoga Planning Commission Minutes of October 22, 2008 Page 13
• Asked if it is possible to use the area behind the building to add parking spaces.
• Advised that she is not willing to approve use of a shuttle service for 2 to 5 year olds.
Instead they require pick up and drop off.
• Stated that with another similar use on the property next door, it may be too intense.
• Reiterated that she is always willing to give the applicant the chance to get creative.
Commissioner Nagpal:
• Said that it feels like an impossible situation when 16 spaces are needed and only eight
are available. With the easement another four spaces might be picked up.
• Said that several things need to kick into play here.
• Advised that she is certain that staff has worked hard to get this application in place.
• Pointed out that if the Commission were to deny the request, this applicant loses her fees.
• Stated that she is in favor of a continuance but to a very specific date. If it is not done by
then, it needs to come back for a decision.
Commissioner Rodgers asked Commissioner Nagpal what kind of time she is looking at.
Commissioner Nagpal suggested asking staff what is the next available date and see if that is
reasonable for the applicant. She added that a lot of time has already been spent on this
application that was filed in June.
Commissioner Rodgers cautioned that easement issues might take six months to finalize.
Commissioner Nagpal pointed out that things for this project might change depending on the
decision made by this Commission on the next item. It might change the equation for these
folks. She said she would support a continuance to date certain.
Chair Cappello:
• Agreed that all three entities on site (dental office, the Christian Righteousness Center and
this school) need to work together.
• Said that the landscape plan needs to be addressed.
• Said that he does not see a solution to the parking problem even with an easement.
• Advised that he does not want to see an arrangement made with the adjacent shopping
center, as they are in a pretty tight situation themselves as far as parking.
• Added that the project coming up next will be one where a Variation of Standards for
parking will be required, as they don’t meet the parking requirements on their own project.
• Said that he too is typically in favor of a continuance, as he hates to say no to an applicant
if there may be a solution available to them.
• Stated that he just does not see what solution may be possible here.
• Informed that he is more inclined, in these circumstances, to do a denial and cut the losses
on this rather than string the applicant along just to be denied at a later date. That costs
them ti me and money as well.
• Announced that he is inclined to deny this project without prejudice. If they come up with a
solution (he does not know what) they can always resubmit at a later date.
Commissioner Zhao:
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Saratoga Planning Commission Minutes of October 22, 2008 Page 14
• Said that she likes to give an applicant the chance to explore different options such as
reducing the number of students.
• Agreed that the shuttle bus is not a good solution. It is not practical or workable.
• Supported giving the applicant time to work out solutions.
• Favored the continuance.
Commissioner Kundtz:
• Said that the applicant has heard the pros and cons for a continuance.
• Said he is personally in favor of a continuance to a time specific. If not successful by that
time a denial is likely forthcoming.
Commissioner Hlava:
• Said it so happens there are twoday cares on the agenda this evening.
• Pointed out that there are long ques each school day on Saratoga Avenue for St. Andrews
and on Cox Avenue for the Challenger School.
• Stressed the importance of having an organized way for student drop off and pick up.
• Reminded that there is a lack of parking here and the lot is on a very busy street.
• Supported a continuance to a date certain.
Commissioner Kumar said that a shuttle is not a good option for infants but better for pre
schoolers. He said that timing is up to the applicant as the urgency is theirs.
City Attorney Jonathan Wittwer said that staff normally recommends continuances to a date
certain to avoid the need to renotice an item. However, in this case renoticing will be
necessary to bring in the other uses on site into the application.
Chair Cappello agreed that it is a completely different project with the other uses included.
Commissioner Nagpal said she does not want to lead anyone on. She supported setting a
new date, outlining the expectations and making a decision at that time.
Commissioner Hlava reminded that there are just one meeting each in November and
December. She suggested a continuance of this item to the first meeting in January.
City Attorney Jonathan Wittwer said that there should be a deadline for submitted information
to staff for evaluation in preparation for the next hearing. He reminded that the City Hall would
be closed for the last two weeks of the year.
Commissioner Nagpal said that material from the applicant would be required by December
15, 2008.
Chair Cappello suggested a continuance to a date uncertain with a set deadline for new
information.
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Saratoga Planning Commission Minutes of October 22, 2008 Page 15
Director John Livingstone said that staff does not believe a date certain is necessary. If it
takes too long, staff will notify the applicant. At a certain point, the application can be closed
due to inactivity.
Motion: Upon motion of Commissioner Nagpal, seconded by Commissioner Hlava,
the Planning Commission CONTINUED TO A DATE UNCERTAIN
consideration of a Conditional Use Permit (Application #CUP080007) to
locate a Day Care Facility on property located at 19888 Prospect Road, by
the following roll call vote:
AYES: Hlava, Kumar, Kundtz, Nagpal, Rodgers and Zhao
NOES: Cappello
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
***
PUBLIC HEARING ITEM NO. 3
APPLICATION #CUP080011 (38601027) – Lai/Kwok, 12000 SaratogaSunnyvale Road:
The applicant is requesting a Conditional Use Permit to locate a Day Care Facility in an
existing building in the commercialvisitor (CV) zoning District. The site is located at the
corner of SaratogaSunnyvale Road and Prospect Road. The Day Care Facility will occupy
an existing vacant 5,527 square foot building. The proposed Day Care Facility would serve up
to 60 students with seven employees and operate Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 7
p.m. There are 38 shared parking spaces to serve this proposed use. (Cynthia McCormick)
Ms. Cynthia McCormick, Assistant Planner, presented the staff report as follows:
• Informed that this is an application for a Conditional Use Permit to establish a Montessori
School within an existing building, which is currently vacant.
• Added that the school would serve 60 students and have seven employees. Operational
hours are between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m.
• Advised that the site plan has been amended to depict the relocation of the playground
equipment and the use of wood chips beneath the canopies of all oak trees on site.
• Described the property as one of three parcels that share parking and circulation. There is
a reciprocal easement in place that was filed with the County on October 24, 1988. The
total number of shared parking spaces must meet individual requirements.
• Said that there are 195 spaces available and 199 spaces are required to support this and
all other uses on site. This results in a deficit of four spaces or 1.6 percent of the parking
requirement.
• Stated that a Variation of Standards is appropriate in staff’s opinion given the limited
shortage.
• Reported that the previous bank required 28 or seven more than this proposed use.
• Said that a traffic study was prepared by the applicant’s traffic consultant and reviewed by
the City’s consultant. Both consultants found parking supply and circulation to be
adequate to support this use. Of the 21 spaces, seven are for employees and 14 are for
students.
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Saratoga Planning Commission Minutes of October 22, 2008 Page 16
• Recommended approval of a Conditional Use Permit that includes a Variation in Standards
for parking to allow four fewer spaces than required. Staff also recommends that the
project be found to Exempt under CEQA.
Commissioner Rogers asked Planner Cynthia McCormick if she had spoken with Arborist
Kate Bear regarding the trees.
Planner Cynthia McCormick replied yes. She advised that Arborist Kate Bear has
recommended use of wood chips under the canopy of the oaks. That requirement is shown
on the site plan.
Commissioner Nagpal said she knows the building was a bank before. Was it always a bank
or was it ever retail?
Commissioner Hlava said that at one time it was a very fancy interior design shop. Prior to
that it was Saratoga National Bank and later San Jose National Bank.
Commissioner Nagpal asked if a Use Permit was required for the bank use.
Planner Cynthia McCormick said that a bank is a permitted use by right.
Commissioner Nagpal asked about the questions raised in the email distributed regarding a
different facility at another location operated by these operators.
Planner Cynthia McCormick said that City Code allows home based childcare facilities with up
to six children without requirement for a Conditional Use Permit. She added that based on the
email there may be more than that there but staff has not yet gone out there.
Commissioner Nagpal stated that this represents a Code Enforcement issue at a separate
location.
Commissioner Rodgers asked if the requirements for wood chips beneath the oaks would be
done under the supervision of Kate Bear.
Planner Cynthia McCormick said that any area with oaks couldn’t have grass but rather only
wood chips beneath their canopies. At the site visit with Kate Bear today, that requirement
was added in and the applicant is aware of it. She said that it is possible to require that the
landscape plan be reviewed and approved by the City Arborist.
Director John Livingstone said that the proposed landscape plan would include removal of the
ivy and planting of grass except under oaks where wood chips would be installed.
Commissioner Kundtz asked how access to the play area would be made from the building.
Director John Livingstone said that it is fairly easy to make access. All areas can be accessed
reasonably.
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Saratoga Planning Commission Minutes of October 22, 2008 Page 17
Chair Cappello opened the public hearing for Agenda Item No. 3.
Ms. Janice Yeh, Representative for Applicants:
• Identified herself as the daughter of applicants Theresa Lai and Jerry Chen who are in the
audience.
• Reported that her parents have run a learning center for school aged children in Cupertino
for four years and a small day care from their home in Saratoga for three years.
• Advised that they have a good reputation and have seen a growth in the number of
students. They are ready for a larger facility with a larger play area for the kids and more
appropriately located in a commercial zone.
• Said that the proposed use is a Montessori school that is bilingual for children between
the ages of two to five.
• Provided a drop off and pick up schedule for three full day programs and two halfday
programs. The full day programs are called: Early Bird, Regular Hours and Late Bird.
• Said that there are a total of 60 students but not all come or go at the same time.
• Said that their new site is at the corner of Prospect and SaratogaSunnyvale Road. There
are four entries to the site: SaratogaSunnyvale Road; Prospect; Kirkmont and Atrium
Drive.
• Explained that the site plan now depicts the removal of the ivy and cleanup of the
landscaping. A play structure will be located to the right of the ramp with wood chips. To
the right of that is a grassy area.
• Assured that they would follow the recommendations of the City Arborist on where to place
the wood chips and where to place the grass.
• Advised that it is important to them to have a fenced in area for the play yard with a four
foot high metal picket fence so the kids don’t venture into the parking lot.
• Advised that they are not planning on removing any trees on site.
• Said that there would be minimal building modifications except for the addition of three
doors. One is at the location of the former ATM machine to provide access to the play
area from the building. Another door is more toward Prospect side of the building that also
gives access to the play area. The third is a pair of glass doors facing Saratoga
Sunnyvale Road. There is currently not a door there. It will create an entry facing the
main road and pedestrian access from the sidewalk to their building.
• Said that changes to the interior include putting in partition walls to create three large
classrooms and several smaller classrooms. The bathrooms will also be remodeled to
meet ADA requirements as well as installing smaller plumbing fixtures to accommodate
young children.
• Stated her belief that this school will provide a service to parents and the community.
• Advised that in the last census, 1,600 children were identified in Saratoga younger than
age 5.
• Assured that this school could provide important preschool education.
Commissioner Hlava asked Ms. Janice Yeh if adding double doors with access to the
sidewalk means that some parents would likely walk their children to this school.
Ms. Janice Yeh said that is what they are thinking. It seems to make sense to them.
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Saratoga Planning Commission Minutes of October 22, 2008 Page 18
Commissioner Rodgers asked if this door would also function as an emergency exit.
Ms. Janice Yeh replied probably not. She said that there are exits from the classrooms and
they prefer not to exit out onto a busy street.
Commissioner Kundtz said that he presumed there are pretty significant insurance and
licensing requirements. He asked if they are all in place.
Ms. Janice Yeh said that they couldn’t yet be in place until they have a building permit and the
building is inspected. She said that they must go through the City’s Use Permit process first
and they will have to get their license from the State for this facility after that.
Commissioner Kundtz clarified that the City process comes first.
Ms. Janice Yeh replied right.
Mr. Pradeep Fernandes, Resident on Pierce Road:
• Said that his daughter attends their Cupertino facility and really enjoys it.
• Stated that the Montessori format with bilingual education works out really well.
• Added that having this facility in Saratoga is much more convenient for his family.
• Highly recommended approval.
Ms. Sunny Wong, Resident on Holiday Drive:
• Said that she has two kids, Matthew, 6, and Crystal, 3, who has attended their program for
1.5 years.
• Advised that she is here to show support for this wonderful school.
• Reported that she moved to Saratoga five years ago and was surprised by the lack of bi
lingual schools in Saratoga.
• Added that she had to send her kids to schools in Sunnyvale and Santa Clara, until she
found The Growing Tree. Her kids are happy there and learning. The Montessori program
is great and the school has loving and caring teachers.
• Stated that she was given a comprehensive fivepage report on her daughter during the
school’s open house held in April. It outlined her learning progress and was impressive.
• Said that she is really excited about this new site. It will be good for Saratoga students
and their parents.
• Urged approval.
Commissioner Kumar said that he agrees with the Montessori program. His son is in one and
he’s turned out much “smarter than myself.”
Mr. Jay Fiore, Resident on Orbit Drive:
• Identified himself as another enthusiastic parent.
• Advised that he has two boys at their school for some time. They love the bilingual
program.
• Said the school offers a thorough attention to detail.
• Added that it represents a service to the community. We have a real winner here.
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Saratoga Planning Commission Minutes of October 22, 2008 Page 19
Ms. Danielle Olsen, Resident on Green Meadow Lane:
• Said that she too is here in support.
• Said that she has a sixyear old in another program but will be adopting a threeyear old
from Nepal in the next six months who will arrive speaking only Nepalese.
• Stated her belief that day cares should be located in areas with adequate parking and are
best located in commercial centers such as this one.
Chair Cappello closed the public hearing for Agenda Item No. 3.
Commissioner Nagpal:
• Said that it is great to have the community come out and speak for bilingual education.
• Said that she is ready to make a motion as she is comfortable with this application and
wishes the applicants all the best.
Commissioner Kundtz said he also supports this request but asks how the final licensing from
the State is provided to the City.
Chair Cappello said that likely it would be during the time the Certificate of Occupancy is
issued.
Commissioner Nagpal reminded of the standard condition to meet the applicable Federal,
State and local laws.
City Attorney Jonathan Wittwer said that the licensing is not required to be provided to the City
but rather is on file with the issuing agency.
Commissioner Kundtz said the project has his support.
Commissioner Rodgers:
• Agreed that this is a complimentary use to a shopping center and could be a boon to the
center. A positive synergy would be there.
• Stated her support.
• Advised that her mom was a first grade teacher for many years.
• Suggested that the applicant work with Kate Bear regarding the landscape plan and to
ensure that no black plastic is placed under the oak trees.
Commissioner Nagpal suggested including the fourfoot fencing proposed on the landscaping
plan.
Planner Cynthia McCormick said that a detail is already on the plan set and it would be
required to be included on the landscape plan.
Chair Cappello asked if there are any issues with allowing a Variation to Standards for
parking.
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Saratoga Planning Commission Minutes of October 22, 2008 Page 20
Commissioner Rodgers said that she has no problems with this, as there are a number of
ways to access the property. There is good circulation and it is easy to share with the
shopping center next door.
Commissioner Hlava said that there is no current condition requiring submittal of a landscape
plan. Would such a condition be added?
City Attorney Jonathan Wittwer replied yes.
Commissioner Hlava said that she can make the findings for this Conditional Use Permit and
added that the provision of a landscape plan is important. She said that the Variation of
Standards for a parking deficiency of just four spaces is no problem. She added that this
would be a wonderful bilingual school and recounted how she recently visited a friend who
has young schildren who are impressively trilingual in French, German and English.
Commissioner Kumar said that with the added condition to provide a landscape plan, he too is
in favor of this application including the Variation in Standards for the parking.
Commissioner Zhao said that she could make all the findings including for the Variation in
Standards for the parking. She said that there is a need and demand for bilingual Montessori
schools and this one will be a great addition to the Saratoga community.
Chair Cappello said he can make all the findings and has no problem with the Variation in
Standards for the parking. He cautioned against this site giving up any parking in the future
as to do so could jeopardize this Use Permit.
City Attorney Jonathan Wittwer edited Condition 1, at the end adding, “In addition, the
applicant shall submit a complete landscape plan (with fencing design shown) which shall be
subject to review and approval by the Community Development Director and the City Arborist
prior to issuance of a building permit.”
Motion: Upon motion of Commissioner Hlava, seconded by Commissioner Kundtz,
the Planning Commission granted Conditional Use Permit approval
(Application #CUP080011) to located a Day Care Facility in an existing
building on property located at 12000 SaratogaSunnyvale Road, changing
the date called out in the resolution to 10/22/2008, by the following roll call
vote:
AYES: Cappello, Hlava, Kumar, Kundtz, Nagpal, Rodgers and Zhao
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
Chair Cappello congratulated the applicants for bringing another gem into the community.
***
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Saratoga Planning Commission Minutes of October 22, 2008 Page 21
DIRECTOR’S ITEMS
Director John Livingstone reminded that a condition had been imposed when the Use Permit
for St. Michael’s Church was amended last year that offered the church and its neighbors the
opportunity to submit update letters after September 19, 2008, on how the conditions of
approval are being met. Letters received have been distributed to the Commission and the
Commission may decide if they want to take any sort of action.
Commissioner Hlava said that it would be helpful if residents understood the process for
making complaints.
City Attorney Jonathan Wittwer said that someti mes complaints come up when Code
Enforcement staff is not at work. He suggested that residents contact the Sheriff’s Office after
regular office hours and those complaints will in turn be brought to CE staff for follow up.
Commissioner Nagpal restated that during office hours, reports could be made directly with
the City’s Code Enforcement staff. After normal office hours, residents should report
immediate problems to the attention of the Sheriff’s office.
City Attorney Jonathan Wittwer said that third party complaints are necessary to document
any infractions.
Chair Cappello asked the Commission if any action is required this evening.
Commissioner Hlava said that there is no action to take at this time.
Commissioner Nagpal stressed the need to document complaints.
Director John Livingstone reminded the Commission that there is just one meeting each in
November and December. There are five items on the November agenda including the Fence
Ordinance.
COMMISSION ITEMS
There were no Commission Items.
COMMUNICATIONS
There were no Communications Items.
ADJOURNMENT TO NEXT MEETING
Upon motion of Commissioner Kundtz, seconded by Commissioner Nagpal, Chair Cappello
adjourned the meeting at approximately 9:13 p.m.
MINUTES PREPARED AND SUBMITTED BY:
Corinne A. Shinn, Minutes Clerk
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REPORT TO THE PLANNING
COMMISSION
Application No./Location: ADR08-0011 – 18774 Dundee Avenue
Type of Application: Conditional Use Permit and Administrative Design
Review to construct 693 sq. ft. accessory structure in
required rear yard
2B Owner: Steve Dalal
Staff Planner: Michael Fossati, Assistant Planner
3B Meeting Date: November 12, 2008
APN: 389-17-046 Department Head:
John Livingstone, AICP
1B18774 Dundee Avenue
51
2
0BEXECUTIVE SUMMARY
CASE HISTORY:
Application filed: 03/13/08
Application complete: 10/16/08
Notice published: 10/28/08
Mailing completed: 10/20/08
Posting completed: 11/06/08
PROJECT DESCRIPTION:
The applicant requests Conditional Use Permit (CUP) and Administrative Design Review
(ADR) approval to construct a new single-story detached recreation room within the
required rear setback. The structure is approximately 693 sq. ft. Per Saratoga Municipal
Code (SMC) Section 15-80.030 (d) (1), a CUP is required for a cabana, recreation room,
or similar structure to be located within a required rear setback. The maximum height of
10 ft. may be allowed, as long as the accessory structure is at least 12 ft. from the rear
property line. The maximum height of the proposed accessory structure will be not
higher than 10 ft.
The total floor area of the all structures (main residence, garage, and proposed accessory
structure) on the property will be 2,967 sq. ft. The total allowable floor area is 3,200 sq.
ft., as established per SMC Section 15-45.030 (d). No protected trees are required for
removal within this application. One protected tree is within vicinity of construction, but
as conditioned, protective measures will be added to maintain the trees safety.
The net lot size on 18774 Dundee Avenue is 10,000 sq. ft. and the site is zoned R-1-
10,000.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends that the Planning Commission approve the Conditional Use Permit and
Administrative Design Review application with required findings and conditions by
adopting the attached Resolution. Staff is not recommending any permanent conditions of
approval.
52
Application No. ADR08-0011; 18774 Dundee Ave.
3
STAFF ANALYSIS
ZONING: R-1-10,000
GENERAL PLAN DESIGNATION: Medium Density Residential (M-10)
MEASURE G: Not Applicable
PARCEL SIZE: Gross: 10,000 sq. ft.; Net: 10,000 sq. ft.
SLOPE: Not Applicable (< 1% slope)
GRADING REQUIRED: Grading will not be required. Approximately 45 cubic yards of
soil will be removed from the site in order to construct the foundation of the accessory
structure. Excavation is not counted toward grading quantities.
ENVIRONMENTAL DETERMINATION: The proposed new accessory structure is
categorically exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant
Section 15303 (e), “New Construction or Conversion of Small Structures”, Class 3 of
Article 19 (“CEQA Guidelines”). This exemption allows for the construction and
location of accessory (appurtenant) structures including garages, carports, patios,
swimming pools, and fences.
MATERIALS AND COLORS: Materials and colors include grey and green tones such as
“Ashforn”, “Martini Shaker”, “Rock of Ages”, and “Hazel’s Court”. A colors and
materials board is available on file with the Community Development Department and
will be presented at the site visits and public hearing.
Detail Colors and Material Mfg. & Specification
#
Windows Aluminum Windows All Weather Series
3000
Wall Finish
Mid Dark Gray/Green earth-tone
paints (Kelly-Moore). Top Color to
be “Martini Shaker”, Bellyband
Color to be “Ashforn”, Bottom
Color to be “Rock of Ages” and
Exterior Door Color to be “Hazel’s
Coat”.
Sand Finish Stucco
Siding Corrugated Metal / Zincalume Plus
finish
ASC Building
Products
Roof Metal Roof / Zincalume Plus ASC Building
Products
Garage Door Clear Anodized Aluminum finish Clopay Avante Series
53
Application No. ADR08-0011; 18774 Dundee Ave.
4
PROJECT DATA:
R-1-10,000 Zoning
Net Site Area: 10,000
Proposed Required
Site Coverage
Maximum Allowable:
6,000 sq. ft. (60%)
Residence: 1,784 sq. ft.
Driveway Strips / Walkway / Pads: 1,577 sq. ft.
Decking: 515 sq. ft.
Garage 490 sq. ft.
New Accessory Structure 693 sq. ft.
TOTAL Site Coverage 5,059 sq. ft.
(50.6%)
Floor Area
Maximum Allowable:
3,200 sq. ft.
Existing First Floor Area: 1,784 sq. ft.
Existing Garage Area: 490 sq. ft.
TOTAL Existing Floor Area 2,274 sq. ft.
Proposed First Floor Area: 1,784 sq. ft.
Proposed Garage Area: 490 sq. ft.
Proposed Accessory Structure(s): 693 sq. ft.
TOTAL Proposed Floor Area 2,967 sq. ft.
Setbacks Minimum Required:
Front: 91 ft. 6 in. 25 ft.
Rear: 12 ft. 6 ft.F
1
F
Left Side: 35 ft. 10 in. 8 ft.F
2
F
Right Side: 9 ft. 8 ft.
Height
Lowest Elevation Point: 0 ft.
Highest Elevation Point: 10 ft.
Average Elevation Point: 10 ft.
Proposed Topmost Point: 10 ft.
1 Per SMC Section 15-80.030(d)(1), Upon the granting of a use permit by the Planning Commission
pursuant to Article 15-55, cabanas, garages, carports, recreation rooms, hobby shops and other similar
structures may be located no closer than six feet from the rear property line and shall not exceed eight feet
in height, plus one additional foot in height for each three feet of setback from the rear property line in
excess of six feet, up to a maximum height of ten feet in the structure is still located within the required
rear setback area.
2 SMC 15-65.160, Non-conforming sites.
54
Application No. ADR08-0011; 18774 Dundee Ave.
5
PROJECT DISCUSSION AND SITE CHARACTERISTICS
The applicant has requested approval to construct a 693 sq. ft. accessory structure in the
rear of the property. The architectural style is modern and will include metal siding, a
metal roof, aluminum windows, and a stucco exterior. The proposed accessory
structure’s exterior surface and colors will be consistent with the main residence and
renovated garage. The structure primary use will be a recreation and entertainment room
for the family and will include a media room, a game room, and a bathroom. The
accessory structure will not have a fireplace. The total floor area of all structures will be
2,967 sq. ft. The maximum height of the proposed accessory structure will be not higher
than 10 ft. The height will be accomplished by lowering the accessory structure footprint
grade by approximately 1.9 ft. The grading will create approximately 45 cubic yards of
soil that will need to be removed from the lot. The net lot size is 10,000 sq. ft. and the
site is zoned R-1-10,000. The lot has no slope.
Architectural Style
A Modern structure with contemporary shed elements including a shed roof, a
combination of metal siding and earth tone stucco exterior, and asymmetrical windows.
Trees
No trees are proposed for removal. One (1) protected tree is exposed to possible impacts
from the new construction. The protected tree (Chinese Pistachio) has a canopy within
five (5) feet of the proposed accessory structure. A report from a Certified Arborist (and
a peer review from the City Arborist) determined the tree was in fair to moderate
condition with an appraised value of $5,200. Staff recommends a condition that the
Owner installs a protective tree fence and obtains and submits a Tree Protection security
deposit in the amount of $5,200 prior to obtaining building division permits. The security
deposit shall remain in place for the duration of the construction project to ensure the
protection of the tree. Once the project has been completed, inspected and approved by
the City Arborist, the bond can be released.
Energy Efficiency
Skylights will be incorporated into the accessory structure for natural interior light. The
modest height will not block solar access to adjacent neighbors. The existing trees will
remain and create a buffer from wind. The passive solar structure is designed for natural
heat venting instead of the installation of a cooling system. Metal roofs have been shown
to be less effected by weather extremes over time, maintaining surface properties and
resisting soiling. Both painted and unpainted metal panels maintain their energy
efficiency better over time than any other roofing system.F
3
F Furthermore, Hollywood
driveways were installed to replace the standard driveway. This results in a decrease of
water runoff into the City’s storm drains and an increase in infiltration and groundwater
recharge.
3 Cool Metal Roofing, Cool Metal Roofing – The Energy Efficient Choice (n.d.) Oak Ridge National
Laboratory’s Buildings Technology Center (Oak Ridge, Tennessee)
55
Application No. ADR08-0011; 18774 Dundee Ave.
6
Landscaping
The applicant had installed front yard landscaping in the middle of 2008. The
landscaping includes Molded Wax Agave, New Zealand Flax, and Mexican Feather
Grass. Much of the vegetation require infrequent to low watering and are drought
resistant. The standard driveway has been replaced with a Hollywood driveway. A
Hollywood driveway has a dividing strip of grass or ground in order to reduce the
amount of impervious surface.
Fireplaces
The proposed structure will have no fireplaces.
Neighbor Correspondence
Staff received signed neighbor notification forms from all adjacent property occupants.
As of the drafting of the staff report, no negative comments have been received by Staff.
General Plan Findings
The proposed project is consistent with all of the following General Plan Policies:
UConservation Element Policy 6.0U – Protect the existing rural atmosphere of Saratoga
by carefully considering the visual impact of new development. The project proposes a
relatively small recreation room in the rear of the main residence. The exterior will
utilize gray and green earth tone colors, consistent with the main residence and
redesigned detached garage. The recreation room will have a maximum height of 10 feet
and will not be seen from the public right-of-way. All existing protected trees on the
property will be maintained and protected, as conditioned per the City Arborist. The use
of earth tone colors and existing protected trees will protect the rural atmosphere of
Saratoga.
ULand Use Element Policy 5.0U – The City shall use the design review process to assure
that the new construction and major additions thereto are compatible with the site and
the adjacent surroundings. As conditioned, the application meets the Findings required
for a Conditional Use and Design Approval.
Conditional Use Permit Findings
The proposed project is consistent with all of the following Conditional Use Permit
findings stated in SMC Section 15-55.070:
a) That the proposed location of the conditional use is in accord with the
objectives of the Zoning Ordinance and the purposes of the district in which the
site is located. An accessory structure is typically a principally permitted use. A
Conditional Use Permit allows a property owner to locate an accessory structure
closer to the rear property line. Staff believes the height and placement of the use
will still ensure adequate light, air, privacy and open space for the main residence
and adjacent properties near the project site. This finding can be made in the
affirmative.
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Application No. ADR08-0011; 18774 Dundee Ave.
7
b) That the proposed location of the conditional use and the conditions under
which it would be operated or maintained will not be detrimental to the public
health, safety or welfare, or materially injurious to properties or improvements
in the vicinity. Findings can be made in the affirmative in that appropriate
conditions have been placed on the use permit to ensure compliance with all
applicable health and safety codes.
c) That the proposed conditional use will comply with each of the applicable
provisions of this chapter. The proposed use will comply with each of the
applicable provisions of the Saratoga Municipal Code as staff reviewed the
project, conditioned it accordingly, and has recommended approval. This finding
can be made in the affirmative.
d) The proposed conditional use will not adversely affect existing or anticipated uses
in the immediate neighborhood, and will not adversely affect surrounding
properties or the occupants thereof. Findings can be made in the affirmative in
that the proposed accessory structure will not adversely affect surrounding
properties. Along with the proposed setbacks, 10 foot height maximum, and
minimal roof pitch, the proposed accessory structure should not distress
neighboring and adjacent property owners. The use of the recreation room will be
for the family that lives on the property, which means density will not increase.
Design Review Findings
The proposed project is consistent with all of the following Design Review findings
stated in SMC Section 15-45.080:
(a) Avoid unreasonable interference with views and privacy. The maximum height
of the proposed accessory structure is 10 feet. The structure will be located in the
rear of the property behind the main residence, approximately 12 feet from the
rear property line, and ranging from 36 ft. to 9 ft. from the side-yard property
lines. The structure will have a shed roof, with the lowest point nearest the rear
property line. As the roof ascends in pitch, the structure moves farther away from
the rear. The right side elevation (9 ft. from the property line) has no windows,
providing relief for the adjacent neighbor regarding privacy. This shed roof
design and window placement will assist the project in not interfering with the
views from or the privacy of abutting neighbors. The existing trees in the rear of
the property increase privacy of adjacent neighbors. This finding can be made in
the affirmative.
(b) Preserve Natural Landscape. The finding can be made in the affirmative in that
no protected trees are proposed for removal. The City Arborist has added a
condition to preserve the existing protected tree by means of tree fencing and a
security bond. Conditions from that memo have been added to the resolution in
order to preserve the existing natural landscape.
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Application No. ADR08-0011; 18774 Dundee Ave.
8
(c) Preserve Native and Heritage Trees. The proposed project is not requesting
removal of Native and/or Heritage Trees. There are no Native or Heritage Trees
on site. In addition, the project, as conditioned, would not impact protected trees
on the site. This finding can be made in the affirmative.
(d) Minimize perception of excessive bulk. This finding can be made in the
affirmative in that the proposed accessory structure is substantially smaller than
the main residence. It will not be seen from the public right of way. The
applicant is proposing an earth tone color pallet consistent with all other
structures on the lot, minimizing the perception of bulk.
(e) Compatible bulk and height. Residences in the area are predominately single -
story. The proposal is compatible in bulk and height with the neighborhood in
that it will be lower than most structures around the subject property. The
accessory structure will be out of site of the public right-of way, screened by the
main residence and existing landscaping. This finding can be found in the
affirmative.
(f) Current grading and erosion control methods. The project is conditioned to
require retention of stormwater on site, to the maximum extent reasonably
feasible. The site coverage is less than the 60% required by the City, providing a
greater site area of water infiltration on the site. Since the building site is
relatively flat and the proposed addition is in the general area of the existing
residence, no grading is proposed. This finding can be made in the affirmative.
(g) Design policies and techniques. The proposed project conforms to all of the
applicable design policies and techniques in the Residential Design Handbook in
that
ATTACHMENTS:
1. Resolution of Approval.
2. Neighbor Notification templates.
3. Arborist Reports and tree fencing by City Arborist Kate Bear, dated October 28,
2008.
4. Affidavit of Mailing Notices, Public Hearing Notice, Mailing labels for project
notification.
5. Reduced Plans, Exhibit "A".
58
APPROVAL OF RESOLUTION NO. XX-XXX
Application No. ADR08-0011
CITY OF SARATOGA PLANNING COMMISSION
STATE OF CALIFORNIA
Conditional Use Permit and Administrative Design Review
Dalal; 18774 Dundee Avenue
Approval to construct a single-story 693 square foot accessory structure within the
required rear setback area at 18774 Dundee Avenue
WHEREAS, the City of Saratoga Planning Commission has received an application
for Conditional Use Permit and Administrative Design Review approval to construct a new
single-story accessory structure within the required rear yard. The accessory structure will
be 693 square feet in floor area and be no more than 10 feet in height. The structure will be
located in the rear portion of a 10,000 square foot lot located at 18774 Dundee Avenue,
located in the R-1-10,000 district; and
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission held a duly noticed Public Hearing at which
time all interested parties were given a full opportunity to be heard and to present evidence;
and
WHEREAS, the project is categorically exempt from the California Environmental
Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to Section 15303 (e), “New Construction or Conversion of
Small Structures”, Class 3 of Article 19 (“CEQA Guidelines”). This exemption allows for the
construction and location of limited numbers of accessory structures; and
WHEREAS, the applicant has met the burden of proof required to support said
application for Conditional Use Permit and Administrative Design approval, and the
following findings specified in the Saratoga General Plan have been determined:
Conservation Element Policy 6.0 – Protect the existing rural atmosphere of
Saratoga by carefully considering the visual impact of new development. The
project proposes a relatively small recreation room in the rear of the main
residence. The exterior will utilize gray and green earth tone colors, consistent
with the main residence and redesigned detached garage. The recreation room
will have a maximum height of 10 feet and will not be seen from the public right-
of-way. All existing protected trees on the property will be maintained and
protected, as conditioned per the City Arborist. The use of earth tone colors and
existing protected trees, the rural atmosphere of Saratoga will be protected.
Land Use Element Policy 5.0 – The City shall use the design review process to
assure that the new construction and major additions thereto are compatible
59
with the site and the adjacent surroundings. As conditioned, the application
meets the Findings required for a Conditional Use and Design Approval.
WHEREAS, the applicant has met the burden of proof required to support said
application for Design Review approval, and the following findings specified in the Saratoga
Municipal Code (SMC) Section 15-55.070 and Section 15-45.080 and the City’s Residential
Design Handbook have been determined:
The proposed project is consistent with all of the following Conditional Use Permit
findings stated in SMC Section 15-55.070:
a) That the proposed location of the conditional use is in accord with the
objectives of the Zoning Ordinance and the purposes of the district in which
the site is located. An accessory structure is typically a principally permitted
use in the R-1 10,000 zoning district. A Conditional Use Permit allows a property
owner to locate an accessory structure closer to the rear property line. Staff
believes the height and placement of the accessory structure will still ensure
adequate light, air, privacy and open space for the main residence and adjacent
properties near the project site. This finding can be made in the affirmative.
b) That the proposed location of the conditional use and the conditions under
which it would be operated or maintained will not be detrimental to the
public health, safety or welfare, or materially injurious to properties or
improvements in the vicinity. Findings can be made in the affirmative in that
appropriate conditions have been placed on the use permit to ensure compliance
with all applicable health and safety codes.
c) That the proposed conditional use will comply with each of the applicable
provisions of this chapter. The proposed use will comply with each of the
applicable provisions of the Saratoga Municipal Code as staff reviewed the
project, conditioned it accordingly, and has recommended approval. This finding
can be made in the affirmative.
d) The proposed conditional use will not adversely affect existing or anticipated
uses in the immediate neighborhood, and will not adversely affect surrounding
properties or the occupants thereof. Findings can be made in the affirmative in
that the proposed accessory structure will not adversely affect surrounding
properties. Along with the proposed setbacks, 10 foot height maximum, and
minimal roof pitch, the proposed accessory structure should not distress
neighboring and adjacent property owners. The use of the recreation room will
be for the family that lives on the property, which means density will not
increase. Adjacent property owners have legal non-conforming structures
within their rear setbacks, creating a sense of consistency within the immediate
neighborhood.
60
The proposed project is consistent with all of the following Design Review findings
stated in SMC Section 15-45.080:
(a) Avoid unreasonable interference with views and privacy. The maximum
height of the proposed accessory structure is 10 feet. The structure will be
located in the rear of the property behind the main residence, approximately 12
feet from the rear property line, and ranging from 36 ft. to 9 ft. from the side-yard
property lines. The structure will have a shed roof, with the lowest point nearest
the rear property line. As the roof ascends in pitch, the structure moves farther
away from the rear. The right side elevation (9 ft. from the property line) has no
windows, providing relief for the adjacent neighbor regarding privacy. This shed
roof design and window placement will assist the project in not interfering with
the views from or the privacy of abutting neighbors. This finding can be made in
the affirmative.
(b) Preserve Natural Landscape. The finding can be made in the affirmative in that
no protected trees are proposed for removal. The City Arborist has added a
condition to preserve the existing protected tree by means of tree fencing and a
security bond. Conditions from that memo have been added to the resolution in
order to preserve the existing natural landscape.
(c) Preserve Native and Heritage Trees. The proposed project is not requesting
removal of Native and/or Heritage Trees. There are no Native or Heritage Trees
on site. In addition, the project, as conditioned, would not impact protected trees
that are on site. This finding can be made in the affirmative.
(d) Minimize perception of excessive bulk. This finding can be made in the
affirmative in that the proposed accessory structure is substantially smaller than
the main residence. It will not be seen from the public right of way. The
applicant is proposing an earth tone color pallet consistent with all other
structures on the lot, minimizing the perception of bulk.
(e) Compatible bulk and height. Residences in the area are predominately one
single-story. The proposal is compatible in bulk and height with the
neighborhood in that it will lower than most structures around the subject
property. The accessory structure will be out of site of the public right-of way,
screened by the main residence and existing landscaping. This finding can be
found in the affirmative.
(f) Current grading and erosion control methods. Since the building site is
relatively flat and the proposed addition is in the general area of the existing
residence, no grading is proposed. In addition, the project is conditioned to
conform to the City’s current grading and erosion control standards. The project
is also conditioned to require detention of stormwater on site, to the maximum
extent reasonably feasible. This finding can be made in the affirmative.
61
(g) Design policies and techniques. The proposed project conforms to all of the
applicable design policies and techniques in the Residential Design Handbook in
that
NOW, THEREFORE, the Planning Commission of the City of Saratoga does hereby
resolve as follows:
Section 1. After careful consideration of the site plan, architectural drawings, and
other exhibits submitted in connection with this matter, the application number of
ADR08-0011 for a Conditional Use Permit and Administrative Design Review is hereby
granted subject to the following conditions:
PERMANENT CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL
There are no permanent conditions of approval for this project
CURRENT DEVELOPMENT PROPOSAL CONDITIONS -
CITY ATTORNEY
1. Owner and Applicant shall indemnify, hold harmless and defend the City, its
employees, agents, independent contractors and volunteers (collectively “City”)
from any and all costs and expenses, including, but not limited to attorney’s fees
incurred by the City or held to be the liability of City in connection with City’s
defense in any proceeding brought in any State or Federal Court, challenging the
City’s action with respect to the applicant’s project or contesting any action or
inaction in the City’s processing and/or approval of the subject application.
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
2. The proposed home shall be located and constructed as shown on “Exhibit A”
(incorporated by reference, date stamped October 27, 2008) in compliance stated in
this resolution.
3. Any proposed changes – including, but not limited to façade design and materials –
to the approved set of plans shall be submitted in writing with a clouded set of
plans highlighting the changes. No downgrading in the exterior appearance of the
approved structure will be approved by Staff. Downgrades may include, but not
limited to garage doors, architectural detailing, stonework, driveway materials, etc.
Proposed changes to the approved plans are subject to the approval of the
Community Development Director (CDD), or his designated representative. Any
and all changes may require review by the Planning Commission.
4. The project shall incorporate colors and materials as illustrated on the Finish
Material Board date stamped March 13, 2008.
5. The following shall be required and/or included in the plans submitted to the
Building Division for the building plan check review process:
62
a. Four (4) sets of complete construction plans incorporating this Resolution as a
separate plan page.
b. The site plan shall contain a note with the following language: “Prior to
foundation inspection by the City, the Licensed Land Surveyor (LLS) of record
shall provide a written certification that all building setbacks are per the
approved plans.”
6. To the extent feasible, landscaping shall be designed and operated to treat storm
water runoff by incorporating elements that collect, detain and infiltrate runoff. In
areas that provide detention of water, plants that are tolerant of saturated soil
conditions and prolong exposure to water shall be specified.
7. To the extent feasible, pest resistant landscaping plants shall be used throughout
the landscaped area, especially along any hardscape area.
8. Existing native shrubs and ground cover, if applicable, shall be retained and
incorporated into the landscape plan to the maximum extent possible.
9. All exterior lighting proposed shall not produce glare or spillover to adjacent
properties or provide a distraction to vehicular traffic to the satisfaction of the
Community Development Director.
10. A stormwater retention plan shall be submitted to the City for review and approval
demonstrating how all stormwater will be retained on-site to the maximum extent
feasible, and incorporating the New Development and Construction – Best
Management Practices on file with the City. If all stormwater cannot be retained
on-site, an explanatory note shall be provided on the approved plans and subject to
prior City review and approval. Stormwater runoff from the project site (if any after
compliance with this paragraph) shall not be directed toward the adjacent
properties.
11. No HVAC mechanical equipment shall be allowed between the lot line and any
required front, side or rear setback line.
CITY ARBORIST
12. Tree protective measures, as specified by the City Arborist, shall be installed and
inspected by Staff prior to issuance of City Permits.
13. All recommendations of the Arborist Report dated October 28, 2008, and
incorporated herein by this reference shall be followed and incorporated (in its
entirety) into the plans.
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14. Prior to issuance of Building Permits, the applicant shall obtain a tree bond, or
similar funding mechanism, as approved by the CDD, in the amount of $5,200 to
guarantee the maintenance and preservation of trees.
15. The City Arborist shall inspect the site to verify compliance with tree protective
measures. The bond shall be released after the planting of required replacement
trees, a favorable site inspection by the City Arborist, and payment of any
outstanding Arborist fees.
PUBLIC WORKS
16. The applicant shall obtain an encroachment permit from the Public Works
Department if necessary for construction within the public right-of-way.
FIRE DEPARMENT
17. The applicant shall comply with all requirements of the Santa Clara County Fire
Department.
64
Section 2. Construction must be commenced within 36 months or approval will
expire.
Section 3. All applicable requirements of the State, County, City and other
Governmental entities must be met.
Section 4. Unless appealed pursuant to the requirements of Article 15-90 of the
Saratoga City Code, this Resolution shall become effective fifteen (15) days from the date of
adoption.
PASSED AND ADOPTED by the City of Saratoga Planning Commission, State of
California, this 12th day of November 2008 by the following roll call vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
Manny Cappello
Chair, Planning Commission
ATTEST:
John F. Livingstone, AICP
Secretary, Planning Commission
This permit is hereby accepted upon the express terms and conditions hereof, and shall
have no force or effect unless and until agreed to, in writing, by the Applicant, and
Property Owner or Authorized Agent. The undersigned hereby acknowledges the
approved terms and conditions and agrees to fully conform to and comply with said terms
and conditions within the recommended time frames approved by the City Planning
Commission.
________________________________ ______________________________
Property Owner Date
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Community Development Department
City of Saratoga
13777 Fruitvale Avenue
Saratoga, California 95070
ARBORIST REVIEW
18774 Dundee Avenue Prepared by Kate Bear, City Arborist
Application #: ARB08-0072 Phone (408) 868-1276
Owner: Steve Dalal kbear@saratoga.ca.us
APN 389-17-046
Report History: #1
Date: October 28, 2008
INTRODUCTION
The owner has submitted a plan to build a new accessory structure on the property.
A site plan of the proposed layout was submitted for review, along with an arborist report including an
appraised value.
There is one protected tree on the property, a Chinese pistache in fair to good condition. It can be
adequately protected with tree protective fencing during construction of the accessory structure.
This project has approval to proceed from the arborist, with the conditions noted below.
SITE VISIT, PLAN REVIEW AND TECHNICAL DISCUSSION
One Chinese pistache protected by City ordinance and potentially impacted by construction was
inventoried for this project. An arborist report for this project was provided and included the appraised
value for the tree. This data was reviewed and accepted for the project.
The submitted diagram did not include any utilities. If utilities will be connecting the accessory structure
to the house, trenching for them should remain outside of the canopy of the Chinese pistache tree.
Per City Ordinance 15-50.080, a security deposit in the amount of $5,200, which is equal to 100% of
the appraised value of the Chinese pistache, is required. The security deposit may be in the form of a savings
account, a certificate of deposit account or a bond. Appraisal values are calculated using the Trunk
Formula Method and according to the Guide for Plant Appraisal, 9th Edition, published by the
International Society of Arboriculture (ISA), 2000, in conjunction with the Species Classification and
Group Assignment published by the Western Chapter of the ISA, 2004.
REQUIREMENTS
1. This entire report, including the map showing the location of the tree and protective fencing,
shall be incorporated into the final set of building plans.
Page 1 of 1
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18774 Dundee Avenue
Page 2 of 2
2. Tree protective fencing shall be established prior to the arrival of construction equipment or
materials on site. Tree protective fencing shall be comprised of six-foot high chain link fencing
mounted on eight-foot tall, two-inch diameter galvanized posts, driven 24 inches into the ground
and spaced no more than 10 feet apart. Once established, the fencing must remain
undisturbed and be maintained throughout the construction process until final inspection.
Tree protective fencing shall be inspected and approved by the City Arborist prior to obtaining
building division permits.
3. Owner shall obtain a Tree Protection security deposit in the amount of $5,200 for the Chinese
pistache prior to obtaining building division permits. The security deposit shall remain in place
for the duration of construction of the project to ensure the protection of the tree. Once the
project has been completed, inspected and approved by the City Arborist, the bond can be
released.
4. Unless otherwise approved, all construction activities must be conducted outside the designated
fenced area (even after fencing is removed). These activities include, but are not necessarily
limited to, the following: demolition, grading, trenching, equipment cleaning, stockpiling and
dumping materials (including soil fill), and equipment/vehicle operation and parking.
5. Any pruning or root pruning of trees on site must be performed by a state licensed tree contractor
under the supervision of an ISA Certified Arborist and according to ISA standards.
6. Excavation for new utilities is not permitted under tree canopies. Utilities include electrical,
drainage, water, sewer, gas and irrigation for landscaping.
7. If landscape work will be done as part of this project, design it as follows:
a. Design irrigation so that valve boxes, controllers and main and lateral lines remain
outside of tree canopies.
b. Select plants with similar water requirements to the trees under which they will be
placed.
c. Trenching for irrigation lines shall remain outside of tree canopies. Only drip irrigation
on top of grade (underneath mulch) shall be used under trees.
d. Design topdressings so that stones or mulch remain at least one foot from the trunks of
retained trees.
e. Do not allow tilling or stripping of the topsoil under trees.
f. Establish edging material proposed under trees on top of existing soil grade using stakes.
Attachments:
Tree Security Deposit form
Map showing tree locations and tree protective fencing
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Legend
Tree Protective
Fencing
Tree Canopy 18774 Dundee Avenue
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AFFIDAVIT OF MAILING NOTICES
I, Denise Kaspar , being duly sworn, deposes and says: that I am a citizen of the
United States, over the age of 18 years; that acting for the City of Saratoga Planning
Commission on the 21st day of October , 2008, that I deposited 89
Notices in the United States Post Office, a NOTICE OF HEARING, a copy of which is
attached hereto, with postage thereon prepaid, addressed to the following persons at the
addresses shown, to-wit:
(See list attached hereto and made part hereof)
that said persons are the owners of said property who are entitled to a Notice of Hearing
pursuant to Section 15-55.060 and Section 15-45.060(b) of the Zoning Ordinance of the
City of Saratoga in that said persons and their addresses are those shown on the most
recent equalized roll of the Assessor of the County of Santa Clara as being owners of
property within 500 feet of the property described as:
APN: 389-17-046
Address: 18774 Dundee Avenue
that on said day there was regular communication by United States Mail to the
addresses shown above.
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October 21, 2008
500' Ownership Listing
Prepared for:
389-17-046
STEVE DALAL
18774 DUNDEE AVE
SARATOGA CA 95070-4609
389-15-055
DANIEL C OKONKWO
OR CURRENT OWNER
18859 DUNDEE AVE
SARATOGA CA 95070-4645
389-15-056
BLAKE & JESSICA HOMAN
OR CURRENT OWNER
18873 DUNDEE AVE
SARATOGA CA 95070-4645
389-15-057
LIZA Y HO
OR CURRENT OWNER
13206 KEVIN ST
SARATOGA CA 95070-4613
389-15-058
HAMID & MANSOUREH
GHAHRAMANI
OR CURRENT OWNER
13192 KEVIN ST
SARATOGA CA 95070-4613
389-15-059
MICHAEL TSAKIRIS
OR CURRENT OWNER
13178 KEVIN ST
SARATOGA CA 95070-4613
389-15-066
MICHAEL J & KATHRYN LANDERS
OR CURRENT OWNER
13179 MCDOLE ST
SARATOGA CA 95070-4620
389-15-067
WILBUR & JEAN CATABAY
OR CURRENT OWNER
13199 MCDOLE ST
SARATOGA CA 95070-4620
389-15-068
CHI LAU
OR CURRENT OWNER
13221 MCDOLE ST
SARATOGA CA 95070-4620
389-15-069
PHILIP MANELA
OR CURRENT OWNER
13235 MCDOLE ST
SARATOGA CA 95070-4620
389-15-070
KHUE & THU DUONG
OR CURRENT OWNER
18843 DUNDEE AVE
SARATOGA CA 95070-4645
389-15-071
GO-MAUS
OR CURRENT OWNER
18803 DUNDEE AVE
SARATOGA CA 95070-4648
389-15-072
DOMINIC & DOMENICA
MASTRANGIOLI
574 ELVIS DR
SAN JOSE CA 95123-4834
389-15-073
TEHSHIH CHIEN
OR CURRENT OWNER
13220 MCDOLE ST
SARATOGA CA 95070-4621
389-15-074
RONNY K & ANNA GREEN
OR CURRENT OWNER
13206 MCDOLE ST
SARATOGA CA 95070-4621
389-15-075
EUGENE & OLGA LAPIDOUS
OR CURRENT OWNER
13192 MCDOLE ST
SARATOGA CA 95070-4621
389-15-076
JAMES E KOLOTOUROS
OR CURRENT OWNER
13178 MCDOLE ST
SARATOGA CA 95070-4621
389-15-083
JULIA M & JONATHAN MOHN
OR CURRENT OWNER
13179 PASEO PRESADA
SARATOGA CA 95070-4630
389-15-084
MARGARET WILLIAMSON
OR CURRENT OWNER
13193 PASEO PRESADA
SARATOGA CA 95070-4630
389-15-085
CHARLOTTE S WONG
PO BOX 2985
SARATOGA CA 95070-0985
389-15-086
ADELE P HIROSE
OR CURRENT OWNER
13221 PASEO PRESADA
SARATOGA CA 95070-4630
389-15-087
RHODA A VERNER
OR CURRENT OWNER
13235 PASEO PRESADA
SARATOGA CA 95070-4630
389-15-088
MANDANA MORID
18560 SOBEY RD
SARATOGA CA 95070-5611
389-15-089
E STAFFORD
1052 N MANOR DR
TULARE CA 93274-2169
389-17-009
WILLARD L & ROSE SIEVERT
OR CURRENT OWNER
18866 AFTON AVE
SARATOGA CA 95070-4653
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389-17-010
LARRY H & PATRICIA MCAVOY
OR CURRENT OWNER
18854 AFTON AVE
SARATOGA CA 95070-4653
389-17-011
DANIEL R & BETH ELLIOTT
OR CURRENT OWNER
18842 AFTON AVE
SARATOGA CA 95070-4653
389-17-012
MARY MURPHY
OR CURRENT OWNER
18830 AFTON AVE
SARATOGA CA 95070-4653
389-17-013
MARIA LEUPOLD
OR CURRENT OWNER
18802 AFTON AVE
SARATOGA CA 95070-4653
389-17-014
EMIN E & VJOLLCA ELMAZAJ
OR CURRENT OWNER
18788 AFTON AVE
SARATOGA CA 95070-4653
389-17-015
CHRISTIAN NGUYEN
OR CURRENT OWNER
18774 AFTON AVE
SARATOGA CA 95070-4653
389-17-016
AMIN & SEPIDEH ZOUFONOUN
OR CURRENT OWNER
18760 AFTON AVE
SARATOGA CA 95070-4653
389-17-017
THOMAS BLACK
4473 DOGWOOD AVE
SEAL BEACH CA 90740-3039
389-17-018
AYDIN & PINAR ONUR
OR CURRENT OWNER
18732 AFTON AVE
SARATOGA CA 95070-4653
389-17-019
PETER C & DENISE COMMANDEUR
OR CURRENT OWNER
13338 CARRICK ST
SARATOGA CA 95070-4603
389-17-020
MATO & ANNETTE IVANKO
OR CURRENT OWNER
13324 CARRICK ST
SARATOGA CA 95070-4603
389-17-021
MARY H & GAIREL GANDRUD
24 CASTLEWOOD DR
PLEASANTON CA 94566-9728
389-17-022
MILOVAN KRNJAJIC
OR CURRENT OWNER
13296 CARRICK ST
SARATOGA CA 95070-4603
389-17-023
THELMA EVANS
OR CURRENT OWNER
13282 CARRICK ST
SARATOGA CA 95070-4603
389-17-024
C VAN METER
OR CURRENT OWNER
13268 CARRICK ST
SARATOGA CA 95070-4603
389-17-025
CHUN-PUNG CHIEN
22005 DORSEY WAY
SARATOGA CA 95070-5336
389-17-026
JAMES R BLOUNT
17077 BOHLMAN RD
SARATOGA CA 95070-9607
389-17-027
PETER Y YOUN
OR CURRENT OWNER
13226 CARRICK ST
SARATOGA CA 95070-4603
389-17-030
JOHN A MOLSBERRY
OR CURRENT OWNER
18708 MCCOY AVE
SARATOGA CA 95070-4639
389-17-031
JANET L NACE
OR CURRENT OWNER
13215 CARRICK ST
SARATOGA CA 95070-4604
389-17-032
NADINE REDDING
OR CURRENT OWNER
13239 CARRICK ST
SARATOGA CA 95070-4604
389-17-033
COLLEEN K BUTTERFIELD
OR CURRENT OWNER
13255 CARRICK ST
SARATOGA CA 95070-4604
389-17-034
WANG & CHAO
OR CURRENT OWNER
18731 DUNDEE AVE
SARATOGA CA 95070-4608
389-17-035
BILLY G & CLEOTA WOOLMAN
OR CURRENT OWNER
18745 DUNDEE AVE
SARATOGA CA 95070-4608
389-17-036
ELIZABETH STEPANEK
OR CURRENT OWNER
13238 PASEO PRESADA
SARATOGA CA 95070-4631
389-17-037
SCOTT A & LILIAN KLEINBERG
OR CURRENT OWNER
13214 PASEO PRESADA
SARATOGA CA 95070-4631
389-17-038
THOMAS L CLIMER
OR CURRENT OWNER
18724 MCCOY AVE
SARATOGA CA 95070-4639
389-17-039
VICTORIA S & PHILIP GARCIA
20330 BLAUER DR
SARATOGA CA 95070-4350
389-17-040
PU C HSU
20745 CANYON VIEW DR
SARATOGA CA 95070-5807
389-17-041
JEAN H WILLIAMS
OR CURRENT OWNER
18844 DUNDEE AVE
SARATOGA CA 95070-4609
77
389-17-042
BEUSELINCK
OR CURRENT OWNER
18830 DUNDEE AVE
SARATOGA CA 95070-4609
389-17-043
WANLESS LIVING TRUST
OR CURRENT OWNER
18816 DUNDEE AVE
SARATOGA CA 95070-4609
389-17-044
MARYAM IMAM
195 ALVARADO AVE
LOS ALTOS CA 94022-1220
389-17-045
NEZIR MEDIC
OR CURRENT OWNER
18788 DUNDEE AVE
SARATOGA CA 95070-4609
389-17-046
STEVE DALAL
OR CURRENT OWNER
18774 DUNDEE AVE
SARATOGA CA 95070-4609
389-17-047
EVAN A & CLAUDINE JUDD
OR CURRENT OWNER
18760 DUNDEE AVE
SARATOGA CA 95070-4609
389-17-048
MICHAEL LYNCH
OR CURRENT OWNER
18746 DUNDEE AVE
SARATOGA CA 95070-4609
389-17-049
XHEVDET & HAJRIJE KRAJA
OR CURRENT OWNER
18732 DUNDEE AVE
SARATOGA CA 95070-4609
389-17-050
TSUCHIHASHI FAMILY 1998 TRUST
OR CURRENT OWNER
13283 CARRICK ST
SARATOGA CA 95070-4652
389-17-051
ROBERT L & KAYLENE THURSTON
14324 CORDWOOD CT
SARATOGA CA 95070-5628
389-17-052
BRYAN P & SUSAN SABA
OR CURRENT OWNER
18705 AFTON AVE
SARATOGA CA 95070-4601
389-17-053
MOHD N AFTAB
OR CURRENT OWNER
18733 AFTON AVE
SARATOGA CA 95070-4601
389-17-054
KENNETH D MILLS
OR CURRENT OWNER
18747 AFTON AVE
SARATOGA CA 95070-4601
389-17-055
ADAM I & MARILEE WALB
OR CURRENT OWNER
18761 AFTON AVE
SARATOGA CA 95070-4601
389-17-056
REDWOOD REAL EST LLC
PO BOX 4470
STATELINE NV 89449-4470
389-17-057
CRAIG & KRISTINA PARK
OR CURRENT OWNER
18789 AFTON AVE
SARATOGA CA 95070-4601
389-17-058
STEVEN L LANGLOIS
OR CURRENT OWNER
18803 AFTON AVE
SARATOGA CA 95070-4601
389-17-059
BASIL KASNAKIS
OR CURRENT OWNER
18817 AFTON AVE
SARATOGA CA 95070-4601
389-17-060
PHILIP & CHRISTINE CAI
OR CURRENT OWNER
18831 AFTON AVE
SARATOGA CA 95070-4601
389-17-061
NICOLAS & LENA GIKKAS
OR CURRENT OWNER
18845 AFTON AVE
SARATOGA CA 95070-4601
389-17-062
VICTOR & JEANNIE CHUA
OR CURRENT OWNER
18859 AFTON AVE
SARATOGA CA 95070-4601
389-17-063
AKBAR & PARVIN ABDOLLAHI
OR CURRENT OWNER
18873 AFTON AVE
SARATOGA CA 95070-4601
389-17-064
JOHN K & DOROTHY YEARWOOD
OR CURRENT OWNER
18887 AFTON AVE
SARATOGA CA 95070-4601
389-19-037
CALIFORNIA STATE OF
13561 QUITO RD
SARATOGA CA 95070
389-42-001
FRANK D & SUSAN LINN
OR CURRENT OWNER
18718 AFTON AVE
SARATOGA CA 95070-4653
389-42-002
JALEH A POWERS
OR CURRENT OWNER
14023 ABDULLA WAY
SARATOGA CA 95070-4632
389-42-003
DAVID M & DORLY LOPEZ
OR CURRENT OWNER
14035 ABDULLA WAY
SARATOGA CA 95070-4632
389-42-004
SHOBA TRIVADI
36931 NICHOLS AVE
FREMONT CA 94536-1605
389-42-012
WAYNE D EVANS
OR CURRENT OWNER
14022 ABDULLA WAY
SARATOGA CA 95070-4632
389-42-013
TIENSON & PENNY HUANG
OR CURRENT OWNER
18690 AFTON AVE
SARATOGA CA 95070-4616
78
389-42-014
KEITH & SUSAN ODOM
OR CURRENT OWNER
18816 AFTON AVE
SARATOGA CA 95070-4653
Northern California Carpenters Regional
Council
Alex Lantsberg, Research Dept.
265 Hegenberger Rd., Suite 220
Oakland, CA 94621
CITY OF SARATOGA
ATTN: Michael Fossati
13777 FRUITVALE AVENUE
SARATOGA CA 95070
Advanced Listing Services
P.O. Box 2593
Dana Point CA 92624
79
CITY OF SARATOGA
Community Development Department
13777 Fruitvale Avenue
Saratoga, CA 95070
(408) 868-1222
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
The City of Saratoga’s Planning Commission announces the following public hearing on:
Wednesday, the 12th day of November, 2008, at 7:00 p.m.
The public hearing will be held in the City Hall Theater located at 13777 Fruitvale Avenue. The
public hearing agenda item is stated below. Details of this item are available at the Saratoga
Community Development Department, Monday through Friday 7:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Please
consult the City website at www.saratoga.ca.us regarding Friday office closures.
APPLICATION/ADDRESS: ADR08-0011 / 18774 Dundee Avenue
APPLICANT/OWNER: Dalal
APN: 389-17-046
DESCRIPTION: The applicant requests Conditional Use Permit (CUP) and Administrative
Design Approval (ADR) to construct a new detached accessory structure within the required rear
setback. The structure is approximately 693 sq. ft. Per Saratoga Municipal Code (SMC) Section
15-80.030 (d) (1), a CUP is required for a cabana, recreation room, or similar structure to be
located within a required rear setback. The maximum height of the proposed accessory structure
will be no higher than 10 ft. No protected trees are required for removal. The net lot size on
18774 Dundee Avenue is 10,000 sq. ft. and the site is zoned R-1-10,000.
All interested persons may appear and be heard at the above time and place. If you challenge a
decision of the Planning Commission pursuant to a Public Hearing in court, you may be limited to
raising only those issues you or someone else raised at the Public Hearing. In order for information
to be included in the Planning Commission’s information packets, written communications should
be filed on or before Tuesday, Nov 4, 2008.
This notice has been sent to all owners of property within 500 feet of the project that is the subject
of this notice. The City uses the official roll produced by the County Assessor’s office annually, in
preparing its notice mailing lists. In some cases, out-of-date information or difficulties with the U.S.
Postal Service may result in notices not being delivered to all residents potentially affected by a
project. If you believe that your neighbors would be interested in the project described in this
notice, we encourage you to provide them with a copy of this notice. This will ensure that everyone
in your Community has as much information as possible concerning this project.
Michael Fossati
Assistant Planner
(408) 868-1212
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