HomeMy WebLinkAboutCity Council Resolution 93-054
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RESOLUTION NO. 93-054
RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SARATOGA, ADOPTING
AKBNDJŒRTS TO THE OPEN SPACE ELEHENT OF THE GENERAL PLAN,
MODIFYING GENERAL TBXT, GOALS, POLICIBS AND IMPLEMENTATION
PROGRAMS.
WHEREAS, the city council held properly noticed public
hearings on September 1 and November 17, 1993 to consider draft
amendments to the Open Space Element of the City's General Plan, at
which t~me all interested parties were given an opportunity to be
heard; and
WHEREAS, the' City Council determined that General Plan
amendments are necessary to strengthen and update the goals,
policies and implementation programs to protect, maintain and
preserve Open Space in the City of Saratoga and its unincorporated
areas; and
WHEREAS, the city Council found that the Negative Declaration
prepared for this project was in accordance with the California
Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and reflected the independent
judgment of the City as a lead agency, and that the City Council
voted unanimously to adopt the Negative Declaration; and
WHEREAS, the City Council moved to adopt the draft amendments
by a vote of three (3) to two (2) (Anderson, Kohler and Monia in
favor, Burger and Tucker opposed); and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the city council hereby
approves GP-93-001, adopting GenerallPlan Amendments to the Open
Space Element, as amended at the November 17, 1993 public hearing
and as incorporated herein by reference.
The above and foregoing resolution was passed and adopted by
the City Council of the city of Saratoga on the 1st day of
December, 1993, by the following vote:
AYES: Counci 1 members Anderson, Kohler, and Vice Mayor Burger
NOES: None
ABSENT: Councilmember Mania
A~lEST :
A~ ~. ~-:r:=
Clerk, City of s~toga
gpos
OPEN SPACE ELEMENT
CITY OF SARATOGA
Planning Commission Recommended Approval on 7/14/93.
Adopted by City Council 11/17/93
F.L. Stutzman
Linda Davis
Fran Franklin
Christie Jameson
Gillian Moran
Stan Bogosian
Jan Garrod
Betty Hodges
Sally McElravey
Ann WaItonsmitb
Harry Peacock
Paul Curtis
George White
City Council
Mayor Karen Tucker
Karen Anderson
Ann Marie Burger
Willem Kobler
Victor Monia
Open Space Task Force
Former Mayor, City Council
Heritage Preservation Commission
Parks and Recreation Commission
Finance Advisory Committee
Planning Commission
Area Resident . Village
Area Resident· Unincorporated
Area Resident . Montalvo
Area Resident . Golden Triangle
Area Resident· Foothills
City Staff
City Manager
Community Development Director
Associate Planner
Table of contents
Pa2e
Introduction 1
Public Participation 2
Open Space Defined 2
Open Space Evaluation Criteria 3
Scenic Open Space Classifications 5
Open Space Lands Inventory 6
MROSD Open Space Lands 8
Open Space Issues 8
Open Space Goals 10
Open Space Policies and Implementation Programs 11
General Policies 11
Unincorporated Hillside Areas 12
Scenic Open Space 14
Trail System 16
Land Use Controls 20
Open Space Acquisition 21
Attached Maps
General Plan Map
Existing Open Space Map
Sphere of Influence Map
Ridgeline and Watercourse Map
Roadway and Gateway Map
Regional Trail Network Map
Trail System Map
Appendix
National Recreation and Park Association Standards, 1990
Open Space Assessment Survey Questionnaire and Results
INTRODUCTION
In 1970, the State Legislature added Open Space to the list of mandatory General Plan
Elements. Tbe legislative intp.nt was to ensure that cities and counties recognize that
open space land is a limited and valuable resource, which must be conserved wherever
possible, Every local jurisdiction is required to prepare and carry out an Open Space
Plan whic~ along with State and regional Open Space Plans, will achieve a
comprehensive program to preserve and enhance open space,
Tbe Gty of Saratoga adopted its Open Space Element on August 7, 1974 in conjunction
with the 1974 General Plan. The Element was last updated in 1981.
The City's connection to the land and to the natural environment has a lengthy history.
The City was founded and based on the lumbering and wood product industry, later
evolving as an agriculture, resort and artist center, all well tied to and based on the
resources and the beauty of the natural environment. In the latter part of this century,
Saratoga became a single family, residential community. The City has been able to
retain its identity and uniqueness by controlling the density and intensity of development,
and by preserving the greenery of private and public gardens and yards, parks and
hillside open spaces.
However, the continuing and rapid urban growth in the Bay Area affects Saratoga as
well. The City's valley floor and foothills are dominated by development. Very few
orchards and minimal agricultural lands have survived as reminders of the City's past.
Due to the limited land available in the valley, development has been slowly encroaching
into the hillsides and endangering this last remaining natural resource.
The City is facing continuous development pressures. The reality of increasing demands
for housing and rising land values requires the City to reaffirm and clearly state its goals
and policies regarding its open space, and decide on the character and quality of life for
the community in the future. .
The City of Saratoga has recently confirmed the community's appreciation and desire to
preserve and enhance the City's existing character and open spaces in and around the
Gty, through a community survey, As a follow up to this survey, the City Council
decided to examine the City's open space policies and to revise and update the Open
Space Element to reflect the current community needs,
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An Open Space Task Force was formed by the City in October 1990, to study open space
conservation issues, formulate preservation policies and suggest implementation programs
to accomplish and carry out tbe City's goals preserving and safeguarding its natural
resources.
PUBLIC PARTICIPATION
During February and March 1990, the City conducte(' an open space assessment survey
of Saratoga's residents. The purpose of the survey was to identify the community's
current and future open space needs and assess residents' interest and willingness to pay
for the acquisition and preservation of open space and parkland.
The survey results indicated strong community support for the preservation and
acquisition of open space and parkland. These results confirm a long-term commitment
and desire of Saratoga's community to preserve the natural beauty and the quality of life
which characterize Saratoga,
Following the survey, the City Council appointed an Open Space Task Force consisting
of five residents representing different geographic areas of tbe City, four representatives
of the Planning, Heritage Preservation, Parks and Recreation Commissions and the
Finance Committee, and the Mayor.. The Task Force studied the open space issues and
formulated policies and implementation programs for preservation, protection and
acquisition of open spaces, The policies and programs suggested by the Task force are
incorporated into this Open Space Element.
After the completion of the draft element, public hearings were held by the Planning
Commission and the City Council to allow additional public review and comment.
OPEN SPACE DEFINED
The definition of open space varies in different communities and may often change, as
it is highly subjective. The residents of Saratoga, according to the 1990 community
survey, perceive open space as a combination of many elements,
The State of California requires each local government to have an open space plan.
Government Code Section 65560(b)1 defines open space as "any parcel or area of land
or water which is essentially unimproved and devoted to an open space use and which
is designated on a local, regional or state open space plan". Open Space includes, but
is not limited to, the following:
. Open space for the preservation of natural resources, including, but not limited
to, parks, recreation areas, areas required for the preservation of plants and
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animal life, habitat of fish and wildlife species, areas required for ecologic and
other scientific study purposes, water courses, riparian corridors, watershed lands
and utility easements,
· Open space used for the managed production of resources, including but not
limited to, forest lancL rangeland, vineyards, pastures, agricultural lands, and areas
of economic importance for the production of food or fiber, areas required for the
recharge of groundwater, streams, and areas containing major mineral deposits.
· Open space for outdoor recreation, including but not limited to, parks, recreation
areas, areas of outstanding scenic, historic or cultural value, areas particularly
suited for park and recreational purposes, access to water courses and areas which
serve to link major recreation and open space areas, utility easements, trails and
scenic roadways.
· Open space for public health and safety, including but not limited to areas which
require special management or regulations because of hazardous or special
condition such as earthquake fault zones, unstable soil areas, flood plains,
watersheds, areas presenting high fire risks, areas required for the protection of
water quality and water reservoirs and areas required for protection and
enhancement of air quality,
· Open. space for preservation of scenic viewsheds, including but not limited to,
areas of natural scenic views, ridge lines, hillsides, valleys, areas with natural
vegetation, orchards and roadway scenery.
Within the City of Saratoga and its Sphere of Influence, there exists a diversity of open
space lands which fall into each of these categories. A majority of the open space
consists of hillsides and mountains in the southern and western areas of the City and
Sphere of Influence. Most of this land is undeveloped and undisturbed. Small
neighborhood parks and school sites within the City limits, serve the community, These
parks are primarily located along the valley floor and in the foothill areas,
OPEN SPACE EVALUATION CRITERIA
The following standards have been established to assist the City in evaluating parcels for
open space value. Such an evaluation does not imply increased public access, It is
intended to provide the City with objective criteria on open space land that are
consistent with the goals of the General Plan. Criteria for open space evaluation include,
but are not limited to, the following:
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Natural Resource Lands. Non-urban areas serving various purposes including:
1. Providing habitat and preserving plant and animal life, including habitats for fish
and wildlife.
2, Serving ecological and other scientific studies and environmental education.
3. Generating oxygen, purifying air and water while not producing air pollutants.
4. Conserving water and soil.
5. Maintaining ecological balance.
6. Maintaining genetic diversity of plants and wildlife species.
7, Protecting watershed and water resources to ensure water supply and water
quality.
Production of resources. Areas of economic importance for the production of food and
fiber and where appropriate, production of minerals and areas required for recharge of
ground water basins, including:
1. Agricultural and grazing lands.
2. Areas containing major mineral deposits,
3. Cultivated lands or orchards, vineyards or tree farms,
4. Forest land.
5, Rangeland,
6, Marshes, rivers and streams for management of commercial fisheries.
Outdoor recreation. Land providing room for a variety of passive and active recreational
pursuits and offering important opportunities for the fulfillment of human and
psychological needs, including:
1. Areas of outstanding scenic value.
2. Areas of historic and cultural value.
3, Accessible areas particularly suited for parks and recreation purposes such as
hiking, riding, biking, swimming, tennis, bal1fields and more.
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4. Areas providing access to and links between major recreation, cultural and open
space reservations, including trails, utility easements, banks of rivers and streams
and scenic highway corridors.
S. Areas with inherent qualities that humans find visually pleasing, beautiful,
relaxing, stimulating or enjoyable.
Public Health and Safety. Parcels which pose a hazard to the public including:
1. Slopes over 30 percent.
2. Fault zones and the land on either side of known fault zones.
3. Areas of geologic instability.
4, 100 year flood plains.
S. Areas of high fire danger.
Community viewsheds. Parcels which contribute to the perception of open space, Such
perception should not depend on parcel size.
SCENIC OPEN SPACE CLASSIFICATIONS
A scenic open space classification system is used by the City to assist in the identification
and evaluation of valuable scenic lands.
Viewscale. A three-level scale has been adopted to classify scenic open spaces:
microsca1e, intermediate and macroscale.
Microscale Open Space - Small, intimate open spaces are defined as microscale
open spaces. The observer will experience views up to 300 feet. The views and
attention are focused on details of forms, color, texture and foreground objects.
Intermediate Scale Open Space - Areas ranging from 5 to 50 acres, identified by
the sense of openness in the middle ground, with definite background limit (such
as parks, or school sites) are defined as intermediate open spaces. Microscale
views might exist along with the intermediate views.
Macroscale Open Space - Lands of extensive openness, focused on grand vistas,
are defined as macrosca1e open spaces. Undeveloped hillsides are an example of
macroscale open spaces. Microscale and intermediate scale open spaces might
exist within the macroscale views.
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Intensity of Improvements. Scenic open spaces can also be classified by the level and
intensity of man's imprint.
Natural Environmental Views - This category includes topographic and geological
features (ridgelines, hillsides, valleys, creeks and faults, landslides, floodplains),
and botanical features (trees, native vegetation).
Landscaped-Designed Views - Housing environs, roadways, trails, gardens and
school sites are example'ì of landscaped designed views.
Manmade Unenhanced Views - This category includes manmade unenhanced
views such as utility easements,
OPEN SPACE LANDS INVENTORY
The City's existing open space lands are diverse in scale, use and level of improvement.
While most of the open space in the hillside is characterized by undeveloped and
undisturbed land, the typical open spaces in the foothills and valley floor are landscaped
and designed. The open space inventory is described and categorized in this chapter.
Dedicated Open Space Lands. This category includes parcels and easements dedicated
as private or public open space, parks or scenic/open space easements, Most of the
dedicated lands were acquired through subdivision approvals. These lands are
designated as open space and are considered protected as such, This category includes
over 250 acres of dedicated open spaces and easements.
Agriculture Preserve under Williamson Act Contracts. In the City there are a number
of agriculture sites of varying sizes, which are protected and restricted to agricultural or
open space use only, as defined in the specific Williamson Act contracts, These lands
add not only to the perception of open spaces within the City, but also serve as a vital
link between the modem City and its agricultural past.
Land area of agricultural lands under Williamson Act contracts total over 200 acres.
This figure includes approximately 100 acres of agricultural lands where the owners have
requested non-renewal of the Williamson Act contract. In those cases the contract will
expire ten years from the non-renewal request date. At that time, the land may be
developed in accordance with the standards of the zoning district in which the land is
located.
In addition to the agricultural land within the City limits, there are several hundred acres
of agricultural land under the Williamson Act contracts within the City's Sphere of
Influence.
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Private and Community Open Spaces. Private and Community open space land includes
private properties with established open space use such as the Saratoga Country Club
and Madronia Cemetery. Private lands sucb as Villa Montalvo are leased for public use.
Flood Easements. Flood easements along creeks within Saratoga are under the
jurisdiction of the Santa Clara Valley Water District. A few portions are dedicated and
owned by the District but large portions are still privately owned. The creeks and flood
easements are important natural resources which contribute to the beauty of Saratoga.
Community Facilities and Church Sites. Tbese sites typically are large, with a number
of structures and wide open areas. The majority of these sites are located within
residential areas and contribute to the perception of open space.
School Sites, Similar to the previous category, school sites contribute to the perception
of open space in the neighborhoods in which they are located. In addition, school sites
consist of playgrounds, many of which are used by the community through joint use
agreements with the school district.
Saratoga is currently served by nine elementary schools, three of which are private, two
high schools and a community college. The total school site land area is over 300 acres;
over 100 acres of these areas are already devoted to open space and recreation use.
Parks. Twelve City parks are located throughout the City. The parks are at different
levels of improvement. Most parks are used for neighborhood recreational activities,
A number of tbese parks are used for City-wide activities, The total area of parks is
over 70 acres. The City of Saratoga Park and Trail Master Plan evaluates the condition
and the necessary improvements for each park in accordance with the needs of the
neighborhood it serves.
Large Residential Lots. Saratoga is generally characterized by large lots with large yards
which creates a sense of openness. These lots typically include a small portion occupied
by structures and the remaining land is visually open. Much of this open space is used
as private backyard area and is not usually open or accessible to the general public.
Vacant Undeveloped or Underdeveloped Properties, This category consists of vacant or
partially vacant sites which are not designated as open spaces, but have scenic or other
value as open spaces, These sites have the potential to be developed to a higher density
in accordance with the City's General Plan and Zoning Ordinances,
The undeveloped hillsides within the City and its Sphere of Influence are included within
this category. A number of large, vacant or partially developed hillside sites still exist
within the City limits, Most of the undeveloped hillsides lie outside the City limits, a
portion of which is included within its Sphere of Influence.
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Regional Parks. Three major regional parks exist within or partially within the City's
Sphere of Influence and are accessible to Saratoga residents, The three parks are
Montalvo Arboretum, Stevens Creek Park and Sanborn County Park. These parks have
a total of 1830 acres.
Montalvo Arboretum includes 175 acres of woodland in the hills straddling the
southern boundary of the City. The majority of this open space is located within
the County. The land is operated in trust by the Montalvo Association and is
leased to the County on a long term basis. The site contains the Arroretum and
recreational open space. The Villa, which provides cultural activities and
programs, is owned and operated by the Montalvo Association. The park is
maintained by the County with Federal assistance.
$tevens Creek Park is a multiple purpose park in Cupertino's Sphere of Influence.
It is accessible to Saratoga residents by trail and scenic road, The park contains
655 acres.
Sanborn County Park is a part of a larger regional Skyline Park. The Skyline
Park contains 1,000 acres and extends from Sanborn Park to Skyline Boulevard.
It is one of a series of multiple-purpose recreation areas which complement
Castle Rock State Park and create an undisturbed corridor along the scenic
mountain highway.
MROSD OPEN SPACE LANDS
Midpenninsula Regional Open Space District (MROSD) is a governmental agency
dedicated to the acquisition and protection of open space lands, The MROSD holdings
include over 320 acres within Saratoga's Sphere of Influence.
OPEN SPACE ISSUES
The City's open space lands include open spaces which were dedicated as private or
public open spaces. Other lands also serve as open space under their current use, but
change of use may result in loss of these open spaces, This section will focus on the
preservation of existing open space and the anticipated need for additional dedicated
open space and parkland,
Land Under Williamson Act Contract. The existing Williamson Act Contracts within
Saratoga may expire in the near future, thus increasing the potential and pressure for
development on these parcels.
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Private and Community Facilities. These properties are currently designated for use
under the residential zoning category. Potential exists for more intensive development
of the property in the future. For example, a portion of the Saratoga Country Club
property is currently zoned Hillside Residential (HR). Under the current zoning, the
property could be developed with single family homes.
School Sites. The 1990 U.S. Census indicates that Saratoga is experiencing a continuing
aging of its population,..with a reduction in the student population. This change in
population may lead to the closure of some existing schools, The City has the right
under the Naylor Act to purchase portions of this property at below market prices, The
City should be alert and prepared to acquire those sites when opportunities and funds
become available.
Large Lots and Private Yards. Much of Saratoga is developed in low density, single
family neighborhoods. Past city policies have relied on this land use to provide necessary
open space to the exclusion of acquiring public neighborhood parks, There is still
demand and necessity for additional neighborhood parks and pockets of dedicated open
spaces.
Hillside Lands within the City or its Sphere. These hills, and further away, the
mountains, are valuable scenic open spaces which balance the growing urbanized areas.
The conservation of these unspoiled open spaces with their scenic views and undisturbed
wildlife habitat and native plants, as a permanent greenbelt around the City, is essential
for the preservation efforts of the City's rural character and well-being. Insensitive
developments endanger this last valuable natural resource, The preservation of
ecological balance is essential for a better quality of life in the future.
Open Space Linkages. The City's existing open spaces and parkland are currently spread
throughout the valley areas and the hillsides. However, the continuity of open spaces
and connections through trail systems are important in order to enhance the scenic value,
provide public access, maintain existing wildlife pathways and ensure the enjoyment of
the open space system. Especially important is the connection of public facilities and
parldand through a pedestrian trail system.
Parks. Although the City parks are located throughout the City, there are areas of the
City without sufficient quantities of local open space. Higher density neighborhoods are
particularly sensitive to the absence of open space. Development in the past, has been
permitted on small lots without park land or open space dedications. It is important that
active and passive recreation open space be provided on a neighborhood basis in
reasonable proportion to the population in the area.
Trail System. There are a number of issues related to the City's equestrian and
pedestrian trail systems. Dedicated trail easements which are not identified or improved,
are not accessible to the public. Some trail easements are not interconnected within the
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City area, and are not connected to the regional trail system. Public facilities and
schools are not well connected by trails for pedestrian use.
OPEN SPACE GOALS
The Open Space Goals of the City of Saratoga are:
1. To provide and maintain open space resources of local and regional significance
accessible to the public,
2. To preserve the hillside and mountainous land in its natural condition and
inherent natural beauty.
3. To use open spaces to protect human life and property from natural hazards such
as fire, flood, seismic, and geotechnical hazards.
4. To achieve and maintain a harmonious relationship between the natural
environment and man-made structures and land uses.
5, To protect and conserve natural resources including watersheds, water quality,
productive agricultural land, native vegetation and wildlife habitat, mineral land,
archeological and historic sites and areas of ecological significance,
6. To encourage preservation of land uses for open space and agriculture.
7, To preserve the natural and rural character of Saratoga.
8. To preserve and protect existing view sheds, view corridors and scenic open
spaces.
9. To create and maintain distinctive, attractive entrance ways reflecting the City's
rural character and scale.
10, To ensure that any new development is sensitive to the natural environment and
the community's open space resources,
11. To provide and maintain parks which are located, designed and improved to serve
the needs of the residents, the community and the neighborhoods of Saratoga.
12. To provide and maintain a trail system which links open spaces, schools, public
facilities, the Saratoga Village, and historic sites.
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13, To encourage the awareness, appreciation and use of the City's open space
resources in Saratoga's residents, particularly its youth.
14. To preserve and maintain existing open space resources.
15. To preserve open space and recreational resources provided on school sites and
surplus school sites through acquisition and/or land use controls.
16, To preserve, protect and maintain riparian habitats and creek corridors.
OPEN SPACE POLICIES AND IMPLEMENTATION PROGRAMS
The City of Saratoga recognizes the value of open space for 1) the preservation of
natural resources, including watershed lands, plant and animal life; 2) viewshed
preservation; 3) recreational use; 4) the managed production of resources such as
agricultural lands; and 5) the protection of public health and safety through open space
designations which restrict development in areas where environmental hazards exist. The
City will work to insure the preservation of valuable open space in perpetuity through
private initiative, land use regulations and acquisitions,
GENERAL POLICIES
It is the policy of the City to:
1. Preserve, through a variety of methods, as much as possible of the open space areas
described in the Open Space Element for visual greenbelts, conservation and
management of environmental resources, public health and safety protection and for
recreational use.
2. Prepare an Open Space Management Plan in conjunction with its Capital
Improvements Program. The Plan would identify open space needs as well as the
appropriate use and ongoing maintenance needs of open space areas.
3. Encourage and facilitate the participation of individuals, citizens, groups, civic
organizations, and those having special needs, such as the physically disabled, in the open
space planning process.
4. Improve and upgrade existing municipal open space, parks and trails to serve the
current and future recreational needs of the community. These shall be consistent with
preservation of open space.
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5, Be vigilant in maintaining existing and future parks and dedicated open spaces to
ensure that they remain part of the public domain in perpetuity.
UNINCORPORATED HILLSIDE AREAS
The unincorporated hillside area lying south and west of Saratoga is characterized by
relatively steep sloping, wooded foothills. Vehicular access in the area is limited to small
country roads. Most of the lands within the unincorp·uated area are in a natural state
with minimal development. In the low foothills and within the hillside valleys there are
scattered single family residences, typically on large lots, as well as residences related to
agricultural operations. Existing uses are generally compatible with the rural, verdant
nature of the area and are mainly agricultural and open space in nature. Such uses
include recreational trails, vineyards and small winery operations, equestrian stables,
pastures and grazing lands, ornamental nurseries and commercial timber growers. The
most intense uses are a summer concert theater (Paul Masson Mountain Winery),
Saratoga Springs picnic grounds, and Villa Montalvo,
The unincorporated foothills are of major importance to the City of Saratoga, The
hillside area, although not a part of the City's corporate limits, is historically tied to the
City by virtue of long-standing bonds between owners and residents of the hillside and
the community. A portion of the unincorporated hil1side is included in the City's Sphere
of Influence and has the potential of being annexed to the City. The hills provide both
a physical and visual backdrop to the community and represent the most significant open
space resource in the entire City. Numerous possibilities exist for long term preservation
of open space resources within these hillsides.
A portion of the hillside area has already been purchased by local governmental agencies
as regional parkland.
Policies
6. Future Land Use. The City shall make a concerted effort to protect open space and
manage future land uses within the unincorporated hillside area and shall apply the
Residential Open Space (ROS) zoning district standards these lands become part of the
City or the City's Sphere of Influence..
7. Agricultural Use. A significant component of the open space value in the foothill
area comes from agricultural uses which have a long history of existence tied to the
heritage of Saratoga. In evaluating future land uses, efforts shall be made to maintain
agricultural lands as a component of open space and to preserve the rural and
agricultural heritage of Saratoga. The City shall discourage the early cancellation of
Williamson Act Contracts.
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8. Public Use. Public use and enjoyment of the unincorporated hillside areas for
recreational purposes~ shall be encouraged through direct or indirect public land
acquisition, encouraging both private and public recreational and agricultural uses.
Appropriate reguJation of privately held lands to obtain maximum use of open space
resources~ such as the establishment of trail and open space easements~ should be
consistent with conservation of the natural environment.
9. Appropriate Land Uses. Future land uses within the western hillside or any sphere
of influence expansion area shall be consistent both with existing patterns 0& land use in
the unincorporated hillside areas, and with the City's desire to maintain the area as
predominantly open space and rural. These uses may include:
· City~ county, state, federal or special district parks, nature preserves and resource
protection areas.
· Private camp grounds, picnic areas and similar low intensity recreational uses,
· Non-residential, for profit uses~ which invite members of the public to enjoy open
space resources and amenities in a small scale~ low impact manner,
· Residential uses which are environmentally sensitive and visually non-obtrusive.
Residential development shall maximize open space protection.
· Agricultural uses~ including vineyards, wineries~ orchards~ and pastures, Expansion
of agricultural uses is encouraged in an environmentally sensitive manner,
· Existing recreational facilities.
Implementation Programs
a. Preservation of Open Space. The City of Saratoga should proceed to take the
necessary steps to promote the preservation and maintenance of open space in the
foothill area including, but not limited to, the following:
1. Pursue an cooperative agreement with the County of Santa Clara that
will ensure Saratoga~s ability to comment on development projects in the
unincorporated hillside area, and;
2, If necessary to secure the ability to comment on development projects
in the unincorporated area, pursue expansion of the Sphere of Influence,
to include those areas with a strong relationship to the City due to
visibility and/or the provision of infrastructure and services, and;
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3. If the expansion of the Sphere of Influence is pursued, the City will
apply the Residential Open Space (RGS) zoning district standards as the
prezone classification for all lands outside of the existing Sphere of
Influence, and; -
4. Work with the Town of Los Gatos and the City of Monte Sereno to
establish logical planning area boundaries pursuant to Local Agency
Formation Commission (LAFCO) regulations,
b. Incentives to Agricultural Land Owners, The City should offer incentives to
agricultural owners and operators as a way of continuing such uses. Incentives could
include:
· Allowing the sale of agricultural products grown or produced on the site, as well
as the resale of goods related to on-site operations (e.g. equestrian equipment).
· Residential density bonuses for significant investment in agricultural improvement
(e.g,vineyards, wood lots or orchards) or open space dedications.
· Allowing additional dwellings on family farm operations when such additional
dwellings will permit continuance of inter-generational agricultural uses consistent
with Williamson Act provisions. This will not constitute a residential subdivision
of the land under the Williamson Act.
· Modifying road construction standards in hillside agricultural areas, Curbs and
gutters, which could interfere with agricultural operations, should not be required.
SCENIC OPEN SPACE
The City of Saratoga is characterized and blessed with natural beauty and scenic views.
Natural and man-made landscaped areas, wide undisturbed views from the hil1sides to
the valley floor, beautiful private and public parks and unspoiled open spaces are
irreplaceable components of the City's character. Protection of these valuable scenic
open spaces is essential to preservation of the City's uniqueness and high quality.
Policies
10. Evaluation Criteria. In evaluating scenic open space for planning purposes, the City
of Saratoga shall consider microscale, intermediate scale, and macro scale elements of
each site, with the understanding that those sites which encompass all three scales may
have the highest potential for providing quality scenic open space,
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11. Hillside Development. The hillsides arid the valley provide Saratoga with its prime
macroscale views, Therefore, development must include careful study of the effect on
scenic open space.
12. Existing Vegetation. The preservation of native and other vegetative species
indicative of Saratoga's cultural heritage shall be given priority over development and
provide for the perpetuation of such species. Fire safety shall be an important
consideration when evaluating the preservation of native vegetation.
13. Natural .Environmental Features. The preservation of the natural environment
including geological and ecological features shall be encouraged.
14. Major Entryways and Arterials. The major entryways and arterials throughout the
City shall be designed to enhance Saratoga's residential character and scale. Public
health and safety shall be an important consideration in evaluating the design of major
entryways and arterials.
15. Street Improvements. Open space objectives shall take precedence over the width
and landscaping of roadways and the inclusion of curbs, sidewalks and gutters.
16. Parking Lots. The design of parking lots shall be evaluated for opportunities to
reduce large continuous expanses of asphalt and to promote the establishment of visually
interesting and aesthetically pleasing parking areas.
17. Acquisition of Scenic Open Space. The acquisition of scenic open space for park
sites shall include an evaluation of the microscale, intermediate scale, and macroscale
potential of each site.
18. Scenic Views and Trail System. The City's trail plan shall access as many natural
views as possible, including hillside macroviews and microscale views.
19. Creeks. The City's creeks shall be preserved and restored where possible, as natural
scenic views.
Implementation Programs
c. Hillside Development. In addition to the applicable city development standards,
potential impacts to scenic views shall be evaluated prior to development. Criteria shall
include but not be limited to the use of unobtrusive colors, controlled grading, limited
disruption of natural vegetation, use of structural height limits, and structural design and
density guidelines. Special consideration should be given to the eventual development
of a canopy effect of tree growth.
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d. Existing Vegetation. The City should provide information and assistance to the public
in the preservation and care of native trees whose existence can be threatened by
environmental stress and development.
e. Major Entryway and Arterials. A street tree planting, landscaping and maintenance
program should be developed to encourage drought resistant, native vegetation to be
planted and maintained throughout the City, especially in City owned and privately
maintained rights of way.
f. Parking Lots. Large continuous expanses of asphalt should be limited by measures
such as: overflow parking on pervious surfaces; an increase in the tree canopy coverage
required; the encouragement of shared parking with adjacent and compatible uses.
g. Non-Scenic Unenhanced Views. Man-made, non-scenic or unenhanced views such as
railroad and utility facilities and quarries should be enhanced insofar as possible by
erosion control measures, landscaping, use of color, and other methods of scenic
improvement.
h. Scenic Open Space Inventory. As a public reference, the City should prepare and
update an inventory indicating all dedicated scenic open space resources in Saratoga.
TRAIL SYSTEM
The City of Saratoga stands as the gateway to the Santa Cruz Mountains. The City's
rural character is reflected not only in the quality of the natural setting, but also in the
spirit and interests of its residents. The City of Saratoga Open Space Survey indicated
that walking and hiking are popular leisure time activities for residents of Saratoga.
There is strong support for the provision of a comprehensive network of trails to provide
recreational opportunities for walking, hiking, bicycling, and horseback riding, In
addition to the recreational benefits of a trails system, such a network throughout the
City of Saratoga reduces dependence on the automobile as it enables persons to walk or
bike to school, the library, work, shopping and other activity centers.
The Southern Pacific Railroad right-of-way presents an opportunity for linear open space.
The development of trails along this corridor, as well as the creation of connections to
the regional network of trails and pathways which link many of the area's large regional
parks, will give residents of Saratoga an unparalleled opportunity to enjoy significant
open space and recreational opportunities in the baylands, hillside areas, and throughout
the Santa Clara Valley,
The City of Saratoga encourages the establishment of a well planned, comprehensive
trails network throughout the City. The following policies give specific direction for the
, establishment of this trails network,
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In 1977 the City adopted the Master Trails and Paths Plan which was added to and
amended the Circulation Element. The Master plan was updated and amended in 1991.
This plan was coordinated to complement the existing County Trails and Pathways
Master Plan.
Policies
20. Regional Trails Network. A regional system of hiking, bicycling and horseback
riding trails shall be encouraged which includes trails within and between all City,
County, State and regional parks, and other publicly owned open space lands, as well as
trails providing access from the City of Saratoga to these lands.
21. Trail Acquisition Criteria. The City shall promote the acquisition of trails as a
mode of access and for recreational purposes, through purchase, dedication or gift. The
trails network should emphasize:
· Creating connections between neighborhood, schools, parks and public open
spaces, historical sites and activity centers.
· Connections to the regional trails network.
· Acquisitions of trails that respect the rights of property owners as well as their
privacy and security, Trails proposed for acquisition are identified on the Trails
Map.
22. Coordination. Trail planning, acquisition, development, and management shall be
coordinated among the various volunteer agencies and local, regional, state, and federal
agencies which provide trails or funding for trails.
23. Traditional Trail Routes. Trails shaH be established along traditional routes
whenever feasible.
24. Development and Maintenance. Trail development, patrol and maintenance
responsibilities shall be coordinated with all entities involved in each trail segment. In
most cases, development responSibilities are borne by the property owner and
maintenance activities are undertaken by the City. The City is encouraged to work with
volunteer groups to maintain City trails.
25. Trail Location and Design. Trails shall be located, designed, and developed with
sensitivity to the resources and environmental hazards of the area they traverse, as well
as their potential impacts on adjacent lands and private property, including potential
impacts to private property owners' privacy and security. Trails shall be designed to City
specifications; require minimal grading; and include effective erosion control measures.
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26. Development Controls. The City shall control land development along designated
trails in order to provide sufficient trail right-of-way and ensure that new development
adjacent to the corridors does not detract from the scenic and aesthetic qualities of the
corridor.
27. Creekside Trail Restriction. The City shall not acquire, plan or develop trail
easements or public access easements alQng Wildcat Creek or Saratoga Creek, across
single or multi-family land uses as designated in the Saratoga General Plan abutting said
creeks, or adjacent to said creeks between the centerline thereof and an" single or
multi-family designated property. This policy statement shall apply to Saratoga Creek
from Prospect Avenue south to Tollgate Road, and to Wildcat Creek from Quito Road
south to the Villa Montalvo Arboretum property line, with the exception of the section
between Carnelian Glen Drive and Douglass Lane, as shown on the Trail System Map.
28. Access for the Disabled. Whenever feasible, trails shall be designed and developed
to meet the accessibility needs of all segments of the population,
29. Trail Access. Trails shall be designed with adequate ingress and egress points to
minimize the need for parking at trailheads, Parking should be designed to be as
unobtrusive as possible,
30. Transportation Improvements. Transportation improvements, such as road widening
and bridge construction, shall include bicycling paths, as indicated on the master bicycle
pathways plan in the Circulation Element. Equestrian paths should be provided where
necessary to complete connection to existing trail segments. Safe crossings shall be
established where necessary.
Implementation Programs
i. Priority List. The City should develop and maintain a list of priorities for trail
acquisition and trail development. This list should be coordinated with the appropriate
agencies
j. Existing Trails. The City should develop and enhance existing trails and unimproved
trail easements.
k. Project Review, Each new development project shall be reviewed in the field for
proposed trail designations in accordance with the Trails Map. Dedications in fee or
easements should be secured to insure a comprehensive trail system throughout the City.
1. Rails to Trails. The City should work for the future conversion of the Southern
Pacific Railroad spur line as provided for in the Federal Rails-to-Trails law,
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m. Bike Paths. Bike paths along City streets should be made safer through the use of
signage, striping, maintenance, parking restrictions and other methods as appropriate.
In designing these paths, recreational bike paths should be designed as distinct from high
speed paths.
n. Trail Information. All trails should be marked, The City should provide readily
available maps and information regarding the trail network. The City should sponsor an
annual "Saratoga Trails Day" to inform all residents of the trails network and encourage
its use and maintenance.
o. Motorized Vehicles. Use of motorized vehicles (with the exception of motorized
wheelchairs) on hiking, bicycling, and horseback riding trails should be prohibited.
Baniers shall be built to restrict motorized vehicles from trails.
p. Development and Maintenance. The City of Saratoga Public Works Department is
responsible for supervising and maintaining all existing and future trails.
Creek Policies
31. Creeks are defined as perennial and intermittent watercourses,
32. Drainageways are defmed as open hillside drainage swales which collect and
concentrate stormwater,
33. Creek and Drainageway Conservation Zone is defined to consist of the watercourse
or drainageway itself and surrounding banks on both sides, and a strip of land extending
laterally outward from the top of both banks. The establishment of this Zone shall
incorporate the Santa Clara Valley Water District (SCVWD) Zone for flood control,
maintenance and emergency vehicle access, shall be in accordance with the California
Regional Water Quality Control Board for San Francisco Bay Region's policies and
guidelines ànd shall allow for variations depending upon existing land use and parcel
size.
34. Establishment of a Creek and Drainageway Conservation Zone, The City shall
establish a Creek and Drainageway Conservation Zone:
· To protect Saratoga's creeks and drainageways from pollution and erosion,
· To enhance and protect water quality.
· To provide adequate debris flow avalanche corridors.
· To preserve the natural character of creek corridors,
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· To restore existing improved or altered creek corridors to their natural state
consistent with flood control requirements.
· To preserve riparian habitat and wildlife corridors.
· To provide transition areas between inhabited structures and waterways to protect
properties from damage due to stream bank undercutting and flooding.
· For the preservation of scenic views,
Implementation Program
q. Enhancement of Creeks and Drainageways. The City should work with the Santa
Clara Valley Water District, neighboring jurisdictions, other non-neighboring jurisdiction
including but not limited to the California Regional Water Control Board for the San
Francisco Bay Region, the California Department of Fish and Game, and the United
States Army Corp of Engineers, and landowners, as appropriate, to restore and enhance
the creeks and drainageways to serve as wildlife habitats.
r. Creek Drainage and Conservation Zone. The City Code should be amended to
include specific regulations regarding the limits of creek drainage and conservation
zones.
LAND USE CONTROLS
Land use regulations such as the City's zoning ordinance and design guidelines, serve as
important mechanisms for open space preservation. In Berman v. Parker, 348 U.S. 26
(1954) Justice William O. Douglas, speaking for the United States Supreme Court stated:
"The concept of the public welfare is broad and inclusive. The values it represents
are spiritual as well as physical, aesthetic as well as monetary. It is within the
power of the legislature to determine that the community should be beautiful as
well as healthy, spacious as well as clean, well-balanced as well as carefully
patrolled,"
Zoning is the primary instrument for implementing the General Plan policies. Permitted
uses, development densities, minimum lot size, building height and setback limits,
coverage, design, fence heights, parking, and other development parameters are zoning
standards which can be used to allow controlled developments and land uses and to
ensure preservation and conservation of open spaces and natural resources.
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Policies
35. Valley Development. For infill development on the flatlands, the City shall consider
compatibility with and sensitivity to the character of existing neighborhoods in order to
minimize the perception of density and meet the open space needs of that neighborhood.
36. Hillside Development. For development on the hillside, open space and viewsheds
can be preserved by techniques such as low density development, clustering, and
dedication of open space as a condition of development. Critical viewsheds, ridgelines,
and sensitive ecological habitats shall be identified and protected.
37. Colors and Materials. Development within the City of Saratoga shall consider
contextual surroundings, including the impact on viewsheds, compatibility with nearby
structures and architecture, and integration with the natural environment.
38. Mass and Bulk. All buildings shall be scaled, proportioned, and articulated so as
to minimize the appearance of mass and bulk to maximize the perception of open space.
39. Development Patterns. The traditional low density zoning within the City of
Saratoga shall be maintained.
OPEN SPACE ACQUISITION
Open space acquisition by the City is a necessary alternative to private initiative and land
use regulations to preserve open space in Saratoga. It is important to have a proactive
stance for buying available land. It is also important to have a mechanism in place to
react quickly when choice parcels become available, Since the City is best able to move
quickly with large sums of money needed for acquisition, private monies should be
sought for help with preservation, development and maintenance after acquisition has
occurred,
Criteria for Acquirin~ City Open Space
The City shall consider the following criteria when making open space acquisition
decisions:
· Environmental health and safety issues (hydrology, geology, fire hazards,
flooding).
· Scenic View (visual backdrop, unique site features, ridgelines).
· Biological resource conservation (wildlife habitat, endangered species).
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· Protection of water quality,
· Historic/Landmark significance.
· Importance to the community ~ a whole or to adjoining neighborhoods.
· Neighborhood needs and interest.
· Maintenance and protection of privacy and prvate property.
. An equitable distribution and mixture of park lands, recreation facilities and
programs throughout the community.
· Proximity to other open space areas.
· Recreation potential.
· Access to public open space,
· Development potential.
· Matching funds potential.
· Potential maintenance and management costs and liability exposure for the City.
Policies
40. Standards. The City shall maintain, and where possible improve, the existing
inventory of three (3) acres per 1000 population of local public park and recreation
facilities, The City should achieve (5) acres per 1000 population standard by the year
2001. The City incorporates by reference, the National Recreation and Park Association
Standards (see appendix). These standards are to be used as a guide to identifying
minimum goals to be achieved.
41. Conservation Easements. Open space, conservation or scenic easements and
dedications shall be utilized to preserve open space lands and to protect critical areas
in subdivisions, These areas shall include but not be limited to riparian areas, wildlife
habitats and areas of mature native vegetation.in subdivisions.
42. Density Transfer. The City shall consider the creation of a density transfer system
whereby assigned development rights in preservation districts are transferred by sale to
property owners in designated development districts. The purpose of this system is to
direct development away from significant environmental resources and toward
appropriate locations.
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43. Agricultural Land. The Qty strongly supports the use of Williamson Act contracts
to preserve 1and in agricultural use. In addition, the City shall consider the formation
of an Agricultural Land Trust to acquire the development rights of lands currently in
agricultural use in order to prevent the loss of such lands to urban development. The
City shall also consider the purchase of agricultural land for leaseback to farmers,
44. Funding. The City shall establish and maintain a coordinated funding program for
neighborhood and community parks and open space acquisition, The City should pursue
all means available including private donations and dedications, private land trusts, State,
Federal and other grant sources, use of assessment districts, bond issues, development
requirements, user fees, public/private joint ventures and all other means to insure park
and recreation facilities are available for all City residents.
45. Acquisition Legislation. The City should support the enactment of Federal, State
and local legislation intended to facilitate city's ability to acquire the surplus property of
public agencies for parks, open space and recreation purposes.
46. Open Space System Coordination. The City shall coordinate the City's open space
system with adjacent cities and county, state, regional and private open space systems.
The City shan encourage and seek agreements with other governmental jurisdictions such
as the Mid·Peninsula Open Space District, for the purpose of funding acquisitions, and
coordinating the improvement, maintenance and use of open space.
47. Dedication Acceptance by other Agencies. The City encourages the County and
other public agencies to accept dedications of open space lands of regional significance,
including water sheds, wildlife habitats, woodlands, historic sites, and scenic lands.
48. Public Utility Rights-or-Way, The City encourages the Santa Clara Valley Water
District, the Pacific Gas and Electric Company and other public agencies and utilities to
provide for safe and appropriate open space uses of their respective properties and
rights-of ·way.
Implementation Programs
s. Dedications and In-Lieu Fees. The City shan require the sponsors of new residential
housing to provide for the open space needs of future residents of that development in
accordance with the Saratoga Park and Open Space standards and Quimby Act Parkland
Dedication Requirements. Needs may be satisfied by the dedication of land and
development of recreation facilities to serve the new residents. In-lieu fees may be
considered when, during project review, it becomes clear that dedication and
development of parkland is not a feasible or appropriate option,
t. New Funding. The City may consider expanding the existing Landscaping and
Lighting District, and consider increasing the business license, utility, construction and
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transient occupancy taxes to fund open space acquisition and development. Final
approval of any increase for the purpose of open space acquisition and development shall
be subject to a majority vote of the citizens of Saratoga,
u. Sale, Lease, or Use Agreements, The City should provide that all funds derived from
the sale, lease, or use of City-owned park or open space be exclusively used for park or
open space acquisition, capital improvements, or operation and maintenance costs so that
the balance of use remains constant.
v. School Property. The City should utilize the provisions of the Naylor Act to increase
recreational opportunities, The City should continue to explore the potential for
establishing agreements with the school districts for the joint use of school property for
public recreational uses,
w. Voluntary Contributions. The City should develop a program to encourage voluntary
dedications, grants of land, monetary contributions or gifts in kind to the City for parks
and open space.
osdrft
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