PC 09/08/99 - Laserfiche WebLink

property owner, Mr. Hasushi, changing the grade of his property which has created drainage problems and a canal on the Jardin property. Chairperson Roberts requested that the Public Works Department examine issues of drainage onto the Jardin property from the Hasushi property. Mr. Jardin requested that no other persons be allowed to use Clara Lane until it becomes a public street. Mr. Swift noted that other persons cannot utilize Clara Lane until it becomes a public street and is extended. Mr. Swift provided an overview of the access street. Brian McGuire, 233 Del Valle Court, provided an overview of the history of the project, the length of time it has taken for the residents to arrive at this stage, and the considerable input that has been received by residents. Further, he commented on issues relating to the CAPP initiative and noted that the supporters of CAPP did not intend to impact the applicants. He requested that the Commission forward this project to the City Council in the best interest and spirit of supporting residents. PUBLIC HEARING WAS CLOSED Commissioner Kameny noted he did not participate in the original Specific Plan for Vineyard Avenue due to the location of his residence to the plan. He noted he is able to vote on this application due to there being no financial interest on his part. He stated he has reviewed the Plan and talked to the developers, and that staff and the Commission spent many hours developing a Specific Plan which was approved by the City Council. Further, he visualizes this proposal as a way of taking these properties and adapting them to the Specific Plan that was approved, and he has no problem with these applications. Commissioner Maas noted her satisfaction with the Specific Plan and with the project. She noted that this project exemplifies the way in which good government should work. She expressed empathy with the applicants due to the lengthiness of the process for this project; however, she noted that she does not mean the applicants will get a blanket approval, and that a compromise can be reached. She expressed support with the Site Specific Management Plan for the open space area and she noted how special the Vineyard Avenue area is and the importance of protecting this area. Further, that the homeowners' agreement will allow for this area to be kept as open space. She noted that the mitigation measures for the trees, grading, and drainage are appropriate. Further, that the Specific Plan addressed traffic and school impacts as the whole development was planned. She noted that the City has been relieved of the pump station and the residents of the development will be pleased with the reduction in noise. She expressed concern with the visual analysis and the view of a two-story residence, possibly on the Gooch property, from Stanley Boulevard. She requested this home be made a single-story resident or if the Commission does not concur, adding additional trees. Further, she expressed concern with the house plans and she noted that the developer has noted he is flexible in relation to the design of the houses. Further, she requested that this project be conditioned to allow for the design review to come before the Commission to ensure the ruralness of this area. She noted that this is not a custom project; however, she noted her desire for diversity in the homes. She expressed concern with solid fencing being utilized and spoke in favor of open fencing being utilized in this area. However, she noted she would not desire to infringe on the resident's privacy. Commissioner Sullivan noted that he had many concerns with the Specific Plan that, in his opinion, were not addressed or mitigated. Further, that the City Council reversed or amended some of the PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES Page 6 September 8, 1999