PC 03/10/99 - Laserfiche WebLink

Commissioner Sullivan noted there is inadequate information contained in the staff report to make an informed decision on the earthquake geotechnical study, the EIR, butterfly habitat study, and financial analysis. He noted that the Planning Commission should make the determination whether to revise the EIR. He expressed his support with open space, and the traffic circle to implement traffic calming measures. He commented on the water tank being painted green and using landscaping to mitigate visual aspects. He expressed concern with the replacement of trees that may be removed and indicated that larger trees should be used not one-inch saplings. Commissioner Sullivan referenced Page 3, Item No. 3 and stated this paragraph was the basis for lots 27, 28, 29,30 and 33A being single-story residences. Further, he requested that on Page 6 of the Guidelines, Items II-B, Architecture, that "similar are strongly discouraged" be changed to say that formal architectural styles such as Mediterranean, Neo-colonial, European Estate are prohibited. He noted that Mediterranean, Nco-colonial, European Estate homes do not fit in with the rural theme of the Happy Valley Area. He expressed support with the design of the golf course, and that he desired for specifics to be added relating to colors of homes. In conclusion, he reiterated that there was insufficient information to make an informed decision and he requested that staff provide information on the earthquake geoteclmical report, fiscal analysis, and butterfly habitat report for the Commissioners' review. He would like a copy of the study to review with the staff report, not just the conclusions from staff. Commissioner Cooper commented on what an ideal rural neighborhood would look like. He noted he would prefer something other than brown for the houses colors and expressed his support with the design of project. He noted his reluctance with redoing an EIR due to the length of time it would take to be performed and the costs increasing in the mean time. He stated that the Commission had to accept due diligence of the professionals to design around reasonable risk, and that he would accept the opinion of the experts on the butterfly habitat. Commissioner Cooper further noted that he would accept the fiscal analysis as presented and expressed his concurrence that costs have risen beyond what was originally estimated. He noted he would like to see the funding gap be covered by the additional development of homes as defined by the guidelines in the Happy Valley Specific Plan. He noted that every dollar spent by taxpayers on this project will affect funding for another worthwhile project. He expressed support with the design of the project and noted this area was zoned for additional homes. He expressed concern with the Urban Growth Boundary as expressed by Mr. Chapraan and noted he would not like to see the City violate its own codes. In conclusion, he stated he would support the project as recommended by staff. Commissioner Roberts proposed that "structure colors should be compatible, and not identical to adjacent homes" and suggested incorporating this statement into other design guidelines. She noted that the FAR should only include 600 feet of garage and expressed support with open space being over 50 percent of project. She noted she accepted staffs explanation relating to the Urban Growth Boundary. She expressed support with the submitted home guidelines, landscaping and siting of buildings, and requested that staff paint these mechanical buildings to match the golf course Clubhouse. She expressed support with the trail being continued to the Clubhouse, growth management on project, project not being phased, and grading on the project. PLANN1NG COMMISSION MINUTES Page 5 March 10, 1999