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HomeMy WebLinkAbout03-26-2003 Planning Commission Minutes MINUTES SARATOGA PLANNING COMMISSION DATE: Wednesday, March 26, 2003 PLACE: Council Chambers/Civic Theater, 13777 Fruitvale Avenue, Saratoga, CA TYPE: Regular Meeting Chair Jackman called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. ROLL CALL Present: Commissioners Barry, Garakani, Hunter, Jackman, Kurasch, Roupe and Zutshi Absent: None Staff: Director Tom Sullivan, Planner Lata Vasudevan and Associate Planner John Livingstone PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE APPROVAL OF MINUTES – Regular Meeting of March 12, 2003. Motion: Upon motion of Commissioner Kurasch, seconded by Commissioner Hunter, the Planning Commission minutes of March 12, 2003, were approved as submitted with corrections to pages 4, 17, 18, 20 and 21. AYES: Garakani, Hunter, Jackman, Kurasch and Zutshi NOES: None ABSENT: None ABSTAIN: Barry and Roupe ORAL COMMUNICATION Vice Mayor Ann Waltonsmith, 21060 Saratoga Hills Road, Saratoga: • Thanked the Planning Commission for a job well done, saying that the Commission is doing a great job. • Extended special thanks to the three Commissioners completing their service on the Commission, Commissioners Lisa Kurasch, Erna Jackman and George Roupe. • Stated that Saratoga runs on volunteerism and that this Commission is a fine example of that. Chair Jackman stated that it has been a rare privilege to serve. Commissioner Hunter stated that the four remaining Commissioners want to thank the three who are leaving. Commissioner Barry also extended thanks to the departing Commissioners, saying that each one has helped her a lot. Saratoga Planning Commission Minutes of March 26, 2003 Page 2 Mr. Rand Catto, 15451 Bohlman Road, Saratoga: • Advised that he is seeking aid from the Commission in solving an intrusion on the view from his home due to a recently installed power pole. • Declared that this new power pole degrades his view and devalues his property. • Asked that the Commission takes this item up and asks staff to look into the matter. Commissioner Kurasch asked why this pole has been installed. Mr. Rand Catto replied that the pole is the result of a residential construction project. Commissioner Barry asked Mr. Catto if he had contacted PG&E and if so to what result. Mr. Rand Catto said that PG&E advised him that it is up to the property owner. Chair Jackman asked if the Hillside Specific Plan applies to this area. Director Tom Sullivan: • Advised that this is an on-going project that was originally reviewed as a remodel. However, all the walls came down and it could no longer simply be considered a remodel. Work was stopped on the project and the project was renoticed. • Stated that the location of the pole was not depicted on any plans and said that Saratoga Code has a section that pertains to underground utility systems. • Advised that there is currently no authority for the City or the Planning Commission to make exactions but that staff is working on amendments to allow exactions as part of Design Review, although there must be a nexus to impose undergrounding of utilities on a specific project. • Stated that the applicant has paid a fee to PG&E to have this pole shortened and the work is scheduled to be done on March 31, 2003. Mr. Rand Catto said that someone from PG&E told him that there is a minimum height requirement and that this pole was at that required height. On the other hand, the applicant told him today that the pole could be shortened. Commissioner Barry asked whether this project would be grandfathered in the event that the change to Code occurs. Director Tom Sullivan said that the Commission cannot go backwards and apply a new requirement to an already approved project. Commissioner Kurasch said that Mr. Catto’s request to have this matter reviewed by the Commission or staff is reasonable and expressed support for that possibility. Director Tom Sullivan agreed that this could be brought back to the Commission as an informational item. Mr. Rand Catto said he was not sure if this area is included within the Hillside Specific Plan. Added that the construction project is being reviewed on March 28, 2003. Director Tom Sullivan clarified that this review is an Administrative Design Review process. Saratoga Planning Commission Minutes of March 26, 2003 Page 3 Commissioner Kurasch asked that this issue be looked into prior to that review. Director Tom Sullivan replied certainly. Mr. Rand Catto said that any information would be nice to know. Director Tom Sullivan cautioned that it cannot be enforced if not yet in Code. Commissioner Barry said that the jurisdiction of the Planning Commission is the Design Review of the entire project. Suggested that Mr. Catto speak with his neighbor. Mr. Rand Catto pointed out that a telephone pole is not considered a structure. Commissioner Barry assured that the Planning Commission is interested in neighbor input. Mr. David W. Dolloff, 20685 Segal Drive, Saratoga: • Thanked the outgoing Commissioners for their selfless gift of their time to the City. • Said he is present this evening regarding the power pole recently placed in view of the Catto’s home. • Identified himself as the President of the Saratoga Heights Mutual Water Company. • Pointed out that all new buildings should have underground power and that new homebuilders sometimes get away with things that should not be allowed. • Stated that it is important that the City take control over what new people in their area are allowed to do. If not, the area will get haphazard. • Said that right now there is a renaissance on the Hill and houses are getting extremely large since sewer connection is available in the area. • Stated that Design Review efforts will become more important and that such review must be diligently thought out throughout the next year. Chair Jackman stated that Mr. Dolloff has made lots of good points. Commissioner Zutshi pointed out that the Commission has placed specific conditions on projects in the area to protect the private roads from the impacts of construction traffic. Chair Jackman said that the Master Plan for that area needs to be reviewed. Director Tom Sullivan announced that the first Public Hearing on the Master Plan is set for April 9, 2003. Mr. David W. Dolloff cautioned that this power pole will not be moved if not done now. Commissioner Barry told Mr. Dolloff that it may be helpful for him to provide a list of his specific concerns regarding the area. Reminded that Administrative Design Review decisions can be appealed to the Planning Commission. REPORT OF POSTING AGENDA Saratoga Planning Commission Minutes of March 26, 2003 Page 4 Director Tom Sullivan announced that, pursuant to Government Code 54954.2, the agenda for this meeting was properly posted on March 20, 2003. REPORT OF APPEAL RIGHTS Chair Jackman announced that appeals are possible for any decision made on this Agenda by filing an Appeal Application with the City Clerk within fifteen (15) calendar days of the date of the decision, pursuant to Municipal Code 15.90.050(b). CONSENT CALENDAR There were no consent calendar items. *** PUBLIC HEARING - ITEM NO. 1 APPLICATION #02-039, SARATOGA OAKS HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION: Appeal of an Administrative Decision; the Saratoga Homeowners Association has filed an appeal of an administrative decision made pursuant to Municipal Code Section 15-50.120, Tree Regulations, Violations Penalties. The administrative decision requires $35,439.00 in cash and $17,719.50 in native replacement trees for removal a total of 12 trees without a city-issued tree removal permit. (CHRISTINE OOSTERHOUS) (REQUEST TO BE CONTINUED) Chair Jackman advised that Public Hearing Item No. 1 has been continued at the request of the applicant to the second meeting in April. *** PUBLIC HEARING – ITEM NO. 2 APPLICATION #02-280 (397-17-012) – KALKUNTE, 14625 Fruitvale Avenue: Request for Design Review approval to construct a new two-story 5,815 square foot home. The maximum height of the proposed residence is 26 feet. The pre-existing structure on this 42,011 (net) square foot site was demolished in conjunction with a Design Review approval granted for a new two-story home on December 12, 2001. The current Design Review application #02-280 was filed because the applicant no longer wishes to construct the home as previously designed and approved by the Planning Commission. The site is zoned R-1-40,000. (LATA VASUDEVAN) Planner Lata Vasudevan presented the staff report as follows: • Informed that the applicant is seeking Design Review approval to allow a two-story, 5,815 square foot home with a maximum height of 26 feet on a property zoned R-1-40,000. • Advised that the pre-existing home was demolished in conjunction with a previously approved Design Review approval. • Added that the applicant filed this current Design Review application because he decided not to construct with the plan approved. • Described the home as including a light green-gray stucco with olive trim and a gray slate roof. Saratoga Planning Commission Minutes of March 26, 2003 Page 5 • Said that the applicant has contacted his surrounding neighbors and letters of support from several have been received. • Stated that the existing mature landscaping will remain as well as new trees to be planted at the rear of the site. • Informed that staff has added a Condition of Approval requiring the submittal of a final landscape plan. • Added that staff is also suggesting that the proposed 16 foot high gazebo be lowered to the 12 foot height permitted for an accessory structure under Code. • Reminded that there is a large specimen oak in the front yard and that the applicant has worked with the Arborist to assure the health of the oak as well as other trees. • Stated that no new Arborist report was required since the new design has the home in the same vicinity as the previous design and will actually have less of an impact than the previous plan. • Said that the driveway and path will be constructed per the Arborist’s recommendations. • Said that the proposed wall for the front perimeter of the property cannot exceed three feet in height. • Suggested a Condition that states that any existing fencing that does not meet current requirements must be removed. • Stated that this project will preserve the natural landscaping, is compatible with the neighborhood and meets requirements. • Recommended approval with conditions. Commissioner Zutshi asked which one of the two proposed fireplaces is woodburning. Commissioner Barry asked if it would be a normal request to have a fence plan submitted with the landscaping plan. Planner Lata Vasudevan assured that she would be asking for one since the proposed stucco wall would require building permits. Commissioner Roupe asked if the allowable fence heights are higher along Fruitvale since it is a busier roadway. Planner Lata Vasudevan said that Fruitvale’s front wall heights are the same, three feet. Commissioner Zutshi sought clarification that the wall could be six feet high at the proper setback. Planner Lata Vasudevan replied yes. Commissioner Hunter asked what the material is above the bay window. Planner Lata Vasudevan replied painted sheetmetal and not copper. Commissioner Garakani asked the reason for the height limitation for the gazebo. Planner Lata Vasudevan explained that this is a Code requirement that states that separate accessory structures cannot exceed 12 feet in height. The Planning Commission can approve up to 15 feet if the required findings can be made. Saratoga Planning Commission Minutes of March 26, 2003 Page 6 Commissioner Kurasch sought clarification that staff does not believe these findings can be made in this case. Planner Lata Vasudevan replied correct. Mr. Kalkunte, Applicant, 14625 Fruitvale Avenue, Saratoga: • Said that his earlier designed proved to be too expensive to construct. • Stated that they plan to preserve the mature landscaping on this property. • Introduced his project architect, Mr. Glen Cahoon. Mr. Glen Cahoon, Project Architect: • Assured the Commission that he is familiar with Saratoga’s limitation of one woodburning fireplace. • Added that the woodburning fireplace in this home would be in the family room. The second is a non-woodburning fireplace. • Said that the fencing design is on the table. • Reminded that Fruitvale is a very heavily traveled road. • Pointed out that there are a tremendous number of mature oak trees and landscaping on this property. Instead of fencing some of this beautiful landscape outside of the property, they want to fence in such a way that it is within the property for the enjoyment of this family. • Added that Mr. Kalkunte has agreed to a three-foot high fence. • Said that the 12-foot high gazebo would be fine but he has designed it with the same pitch roof as the home for continuity. • Suggested that if he could retain the 15-foot height allowed with Planning Commission approval, he could retain the pitch. If he must reduce to 12 feet in height, the pitch of the roof for the gazebo would have to be lowered to accomplish that height. Commissioner Zutshi asked about the material over the living room bay window roof. Mr. Glen Cahoon said that that they had originally incorporated copper gutters and downspouts. He was told that the Commission does not like the use of copper so they have instead used sheetmetal painted, which will be beautiful as well. Commissioner Kurasch pointed out that this can look more like copper than copper itself. Chair Barry advised that the concern about use of too much copper is not aesthetics but rather environmental. Commissioner Kurasch clarified that if the fencing is to be higher than three feet, it would come to the Commission. If lower than three feet, it is handled at staff level. Chair Jackman pointed out that the proposed height of the gazebo is 16 feet. Mr. Glen Cahoon said that he could drop it to 15 or even 12 feet. Saratoga Planning Commission Minutes of March 26, 2003 Page 7 Commissioner Roupe reminded that the 15-foot height means that the roof pitch would not have to be changed. Commissioner Kurasch asked staff why it did not feel the necessary findings could be made to support the 15-foot height for the gazebo. Planner Lata Vasudevan replied privacy impacts as there is a home close behind it. Commissioner Zutshi asked how high the greenhouse is on the adjacent property. Mr. Kalkunte replied approximately 12 to 13 feet. Commissioner Kurasch asked if paving the pathway and driveway on grade would impact the access to the house due to the restrictions imposed to preserve the tree. Mr. Glen Cahoon said that the driveway area is level and it is doable to remain at grade. Commissioner Kurasch cautioned that the Arborist says the area outside the drip line is critical. Mr. Glen Cahoon: • Stated that there is no grading near the tree but rather further out. • Assured that they have looked carefully at the Arborist’s report. • Added that the driveway is even further from the tree than with the previous plan. • Said he is confident that the requirements of the Arborist can be met. Mr. Kalkunte said that his earlier design was a challenge and that this one does not need to include excavation to have the garage. Commissioner Kurasch suggested a Condition to have a final landscape plan be reviewed by the Arborist. Mr. Kalkunte thanked Planner Lata Vasudevan for her support. Said that he thinks this new design is tree friendly. Asked for the Commission’s support and thanked them for their consideration. Chair Jackman closed the Public Hearing for Agenda Item No. 2 at 7:50 p.m. Commissioner Roupe: • Said that this project has a nice design and that he likes the house itself. It is well articulated and well placed on the property and protects the oak. • Suggested that the fireplace be designated on the final drawings. • Said he had no objection to a 15-foot height for the gazebo to allow architectural continuity and compatibility. Commissioner Barry: • Agreed with Commissioner Roupe. • Said that she was sorry that the previous project didn’t work out as it was Mr. Kalkunte’s dream house. • Added that this design actually works better. Saratoga Planning Commission Minutes of March 26, 2003 Page 8 • Thanked Mr. Kalkunte for preserving the herb garden and said she is happy he is staying on the property and not selling. • Expressed appreciation for the use of sheetmetal over copper as she does not encourage use of lots of copper. • Said that she could go either way as far as the gazebo height and that while privacy is important, a 15-foot height is a reasonable compromise. • Stated that she sees the need for a few additions to the plans, including the designation on the plans for the placement of the one allowed woodburning fireplace, a landscape plan to include the treatment beneath the oak tree and to include the drawing in of the new fence. • Said that she is happy with this project. Commissioner Hunter: • Stated that she is happy to see Mr. Kalkunte again. • Said that she thought this project is great. • Expressed pleasure with the thriving herb garden on this property. • Added that she did not feel strongly about the gazebo and will listen to the others. • Mentioned that she has a gazebo on her own property. • Congratulated Mr. Kalkunte on his nice project. Chair Jackman: • Pointed out that the house behind this one has few windows nearby. • Said that the 15-foot height for the gazebo is better so it allows the use of the same roof pitch as is used on the house itself. • Suggested some screening landscaping. • Declared that she likes the house better than the previous design. Commissioner Kurasch: • Said that she loves gardens and finds the gardens on this property to be magical. • Said she is happy that this garden has a good home. • Suggested that an Arborist oversee some of the critical operations of construction that may impact the oak tree. • Added that she is very supportive of this project and that this new design is a better house that she likes better than the last one approved for this site. • Said that perhaps the issue of the gazebo could be continued if there are any reservations on the height although she stated she did not believe the three-foot difference would make much of a difference. • Said that variances need to be taken seriously and that issuing a variance for the fencing at the front of this property might not be warranted. • Added that a three-foot wall would be complimentary to the property and area. Commissioner Zutshi: • Said that the previous design was really interesting. • Added that this new design represents a modest house over which she has no problem. • Stated that she has no problem supporting the 15-foot gazebo. • Declared that the oak tree is beautiful and she would like to see anything necessary done to assure that this tree lives another 200 years. Saratoga Planning Commission Minutes of March 26, 2003 Page 9 Commissioner Garakani: • Joked that he wanted to see the previous project constructed. • Said that this is a well thought out project and that he supports it fully. • Stated that there are no privacy impacts from the gazebo but may be some view impacts. • Added that since it is located in a corner previously occupied with a greenhouse there really is no issue with the 15-foot high gazebo in this case. • Stated that using a low pitch roof with an eight-foot wall does not look very good and supported the 15-foot gazebo so the same pitch roof as the house can be utilized. Director Sullivan said that staff would add the necessary findings to the draft resolution to indicate architectural compatibility, the ability to use the same pitch roof for both the main structure and gazebo and overall compatibility with the neighboring property, whose house is located closer to Fruitvale, are sufficient reasons to support the extra height for the gazebo. Motion: Upon motion of Commissioner Kurasch, seconded by Commissioner Roupe, the Planning Commission granted a Design Review Approval (Application #02-080) to allow the construction of a new residence on property located at 14625 Fruitvale Avenue with the following conditions added: • That the gazebo be reduced to 15 feet in height; • That the final landscape plan be reviewed by the City Arborist regarding changes near the large oak tree; • That an Arborist oversee critical points of construction relative to the oak tree; • That the specific treatment is reviewed and approved for under the tree and called out in the landscape plan; and • That plan sheet 1 is applicable for the pathway; by the following roll call vote: AYES: Barry, Garakani, Hunter, Jackman, Kurasch, Roupe and Zutshi NOES: None ABSENT: None ABSTAIN: None Chair Jackman reminded that this approval is final in 15 days. Commissioner Kurasch commended Mr. Kalkunte for his neighbor outreach efforts, efforts that should be a model for all applicants. *** PUBLIC HEARING – ITEM NO. 3 APPLICATION #02-215 (517-22-003) – BORELLI, 20200 Hill Avenue: Request for Design Review to build a new single-family 6,730 square foot two-story home with a 1,780 square foot basement. The maximum building height of the residence would be 26 feet. The lot size is approximately 77,003 square feet net and the site is zoned R-1-40,000. (JOHN LIVINGSTONE) Associate Planner John Livingstone presented the staff report as follows: Saratoga Planning Commission Minutes of March 26, 2003 Page 10 • Stated that the applicant seeks Design Review approval to allow the construction of a new 6,730 square foot home with a 1,780 square foot basement. Materials will include horizontal wood siding and a stone veneer, dark green trim and a slate tile roof. Features include several small dormers that add interest and breaks up the façade. • Advised that the project meets residential design guideline policies. • Stated that this is a large lot that allows significant setbacks. • Said that there are 100 existing trees including an Oak Forest in the rear of the lot, which will be preserved. There is significant landscaping in place that will be kept. There is a proposal to remove 14 trees and the Arborist recommends six replacement trees. The applicant proposes to provide 17 new trees and 85 new shrubs that will ring the property. • Stated that this proposal is in character with the neighborhood and will be in harmony with the surrounding area. • Said that an issue was raised at the site visit on the subject of the driveway, which needs to be installed at grade per the Arborist’s report to ensure the protection of the tree. This will also be incorporated into the architectural drawings. • Informed that he had received a call from someone who said he had sent email messages to some of the Commissioners outlining concerns. However, after this person visited the site after the story poles were in place and called back to say he is now fine with this project. • Recommended that the Planning Commission grant the Design Review Approval with required findings and conditions. Commissioner Zutshi asked if staff is aware of the specific concerns of that one neighbor. Planner John Livingstone said he is not sure. Commissioner Kurasch pointed out that it appears the eastern swale for drainage might have possible impacts on several trees. Planner John Livingstone said that this has been redesigned. Commissioner Hunter asked if this is the largest house that can be approved. Planner John Livingstone replied that the basement space does not count. Director Tom Sullivan replied that Code allows up to an 8,000 square foot home. Chair Jackman opened the Public Hearing for Agenda Item No. 3 at 8:17 p.m. Mr. Vince Borelli, Owner and Applicant, 20200 Hill Avenue, Saratoga, introduced himself and his architect, Greg Hagey. Mr. Greg Hagey, Project Architect, Korth, Sunseri, Hagey Architects: • Thanked the Commission. • Stated that he has worked with Planner John Livingstone to get this project to this point. • Described the site as one and three-quarters of an acre that slopes from the southwest gently to the northeast corner. The site has over 100 trees. • Said that they worked to place the house to preserve trees. Saratoga Planning Commission Minutes of March 26, 2003 Page 11 • Said that the home has a tailored look at the street frontage and is well within setbacks. The driveway uses uni-pavers. The back of the site will be left in its natural state with the only influence on the canopy being a meandering pathway, small arbor and gazebo. Additionally, two low fence portions will allow a deer path. • Said that the house placement is based upon the contours of the site and the house nestles into the site. The one story frames the two-story element. The home has a nice sense of scale and the lower one-story wings incorporate wood siding. The large size of the lot allowed them to distribute the mass through one-story elements. Clearstory elements gives natural light. The roofing is slate and a back terrace is included. • Stated that they are proud of the effort here and that this home would be compatible with the existing neighborhood. • Pointed out that one significant oak tree is embraced by the living room and south bedroom wing. Commissioner Kurasch asked if the project Arborist is present. Mr. Doug Anderson, Anderson Tree Service, San Jose, identified himself as the project Arborist. Commissioner Kurasch asked about the structure of Tree No. 82 and whether it is okay. Mr. Doug Anderson replied that all the trees are mature trees with no significant structural concerns. Added that from the ground, everything looks fine. Commissioner Garakani asked Mr. Anderson about a pine tree next to the oak and what his assessment is on that tree and whether it warrants removal. Mr. Doug Anderson replied that there is no reason to remove it at this time although it does lean a little. Commissioner Garakani said that it looks like overcrowding is occurring. Mr. Doug Anderson said that if it were to be removed it would leave a big hole and it is better off remaining in place. It would take several years to fill in the space should the tree be removal and replaced. Commissioner Zutshi asked Mr. Anderson if he would be the consulting Arborist for this project. Mr. Doug Anderson replied yes. Commissioner Zutshi mentioned a coast live oak tree and asked Mr. Anderson for his assessment of that tree. Asked if he concurs with the City Arborist’s recommendations. Mr. Doug Anderson said that he did not think this tree requires pruning to allow construction. He supported padding the area beneath the tree to prevent soil compression during construction. Planner John Livingstone pointed to Condition 24 that requires the final landscape plan and grading and drainage plan be reviewed by the City’s Arborist. Commissioner Hunter asked whether if a tree from within a cluster of four is removed, would intertwined roots throw the remaining trees off balance. Saratoga Planning Commission Minutes of March 26, 2003 Page 12 Mr. Doug Anderson said that this could damage some roots but should not impact the remaining trees’ ability to survive. Commissioner Zutshi asked whether not having the drive on the right side so two trees are no impacted had been considered. Mr. Greg Hagey replied no. He added that the turnout is required for additional parking on that side as well as for emergency vehicle drive through. Commissioner Zutshi questioned the small two-car garage for a house of this size. Mr. Greg Hagey replied that just a couple will reside in this home rather than an extended family. Commissioner Barry asked how many bedrooms are included in this home. Mr. Greg Hagey replied three. Chair Jackman closed the Public Hearing for Agenda Item No. 3 at 8:35 p.m. Commissioner Zutshi: • Stated that the tree issues confused her. • Said she has a problem with the huge size of the home for this lot. Commissioner Kurasch: • Agreed that this is a maximum size home but that it fits better than other large homes. • Added that much of the tree canopy is retained. • Said she is not wild about paving but the sentiment is in the right direction. • Stated that including the openings to allow deer access is sweet. Chair Jackman: • Agreed that this is a larger home but that it is located at the back and does not look as large. • Said she liked the design and the number of trees. • Said she liked the walkway for deer and the fact that the back of the lot is kept in its natural state. • Asked about the height for the gazebo. Mr. Greg Hagey replied 12 feet. Commissioner Hunter: • Said that this is a very large home but also very handsome. • Stated that she loves the natural pathways and that this project sounds wonderful and would be a great asset for the street. • Wished the applicant good luck. Commissioner Barry: • Agreed that this is a huge house. Saratoga Planning Commission Minutes of March 26, 2003 Page 13 • Stated that she is not happy with the amount of cut required with 1,400 cubic yards, but that there is no basis to refuse simply on the issue of cut. • Described this as a huge home but said that the integration of the house on the property is well done and that she cannot find good reason or basis to deny the size of this house. • Suggested a condition to maintain the rear portion of the property as an open Oak Forest with natural existing landscaping maintained and not turned into a manicured garden. • Said that having Arborist supervision is very necessary on this project. Commissioner Garakani asked how copper is being used. Planner John Livingstone replied for gutters. Commissioner Barry agreed that this use of copper gutters is reasonable. Commissioner Roupe: • Said that this is a very nice design and that the use of horizontal siding mitigates the mass by pulling it down. • Said that this is a nice home that is a good fit for the neighborhood. • Endorsed this proposal. Chair Jackman suggested that it be written into the deed that the back third of the property be retained in its natural state. Commissioner Hunter stated that she would not even consider imposing that condition. Commissioner Kurasch added that it is not within the nexus of this review to require that. Added that this is not the same situation as the Sobrato project, which was designated as open space. Director Tom Sullivan said that while the Commission could do that when appropriate, it is not appropriate in this particular instance. The Sobrato property had scenic easements. Chair Jackman agreed that such a restriction could hurt property value. Commissioner Barry said it would be important that the landscape plan reflect indigenous trees and shrubs. Director Tom Sullivan advised that this could be addressed in the Conditions of Approval requiring that the rear woodland be maintained. This runs with the house and property forever. Commissioner Hunter said that this is a harsh thing to do to the property and reminded that this is a flatland parcel. Director Tom Sullivan reminded that the woodland area is on their landscape plan. Chair Jackman said that this is a beautiful plan, she calls it a mansion, that fits into the neighborhood. Commissioner Garakani said that everything looks good. Saratoga Planning Commission Minutes of March 26, 2003 Page 14 Motion: Upon motion of Commissioner Barry, seconded by Commissioner Roupe, the Planning Commission granted a Design Review Approval (Application #02-215) to allow the construction of a new single-family residence on property located at 20200 Hill Avenue with the added condition that there be Arborist supervision during critical construction phases as determined by staff, by the following roll call vote: AYES: Barry, Garakani, Hunter, Jackman, Kurasch, Roupe and Zutshi NOES: None ABSENT: None ABSTAIN: None *** DIRECTOR’S ITEMS Director Tom Sullivan thanked outgoing Commissioners Kurasch, Jackman and Roupe, saying that he has enjoyed working with them and that he is very proud of the Commission. Commissioner Zutshi said that she is glad that Commissioner Barry decided to stay on the Commission for an additional year. Commissioner Kurasch said that she looks forward to addressing the Planning Commission as a private citizen. COMMISSION ITEMS Commissioner Hunter asked for a Tree Ordinance Update. Director Tom Sullivan advised that a Council subcommittee, consisting of the Mayor and Councilmember King, have been given materials to review and he will meet with them in the future. Added that he is confident that it will end up with about 85 percent of the Commission’s work as a final Tree Ordinance. Commissioner Hunter advised that she recently attended the Heritage Preservation Commission and Business Development meeting. Commissioner Barry asked if the Heritage Preservation Commission would consider a joint meeting with the Planning Commission. Commissioner Hunter said that she thought that was an excellent idea. Commissioner Kurasch thanked everyone for the opportunity to serve Commissioner Zutshi reminded that any interested Commissioners could still schedule a special Library Tour. Saratoga Planning Commission Minutes of March 26, 2003 Page 15 COMMUNICATIONS There were no Communications Items. ADJOURNMENT TO NEXT MEETING Chair Jackman adjourned the meeting at 8:52 p.m. to a joint Council/Commission Retreat on Saturday, March 29, 2003, at 9 a.m. MINUTES PREPARED AND SUBMITTED BY: Corinne A. Shinn, Minutes Clerk