PC 09/22/99 - Laserfiche WebLink

Resolution No. PC-99-67 and ~58 were entered and adopted as motioned. Chairperson Roberts announced a break at 9:20 p.m. The meeting was reconvened at 9:35 p.m. Work Study Session for PUD-99-04, Summerhill Homes Application for Planned Unit Development development plan approval for a 79 single- family detached home development with lots ranging in size from 8,000_+ square feet to over one acre in size on the approximately 158-acre Spotorno Ranch site located in the Happy Valley Specific Plan area. Zoning for the property is Unincorporated. Chairperson Roberts advised that the format for the work session would be to hear a report from staff and conduct a public hearing on the application. Mr. Plucker presented background information regarding the proposed application, with an overview of the proposed location of lots on the parcel, the design of the homes, the circulation system, and grading aspects. He stated that the purpose of the workshop is to provide an opportunity for the Planning Commission to become familiar with the application, ask questions about the project, and provide feedback to staff with regard to some issues identified by staff. He noted that this is also an opportunity to introduce the project to the community and provide for an opportunity to express comments and ask questions. He stated that the staff report presents information on the Happy Valley Specific Plan and how it has provided the general development framework for this property, it also critiques design elements and development standards against what is being proposed. Mr. Plucker noted that staff has attempted to identify general issues that appear may warrant some additional discussion prior to the Planning Commission's action on the final proposal. He noted that the architectural designs were included in the materials distributed to the Commission, but details regarding the tree survey and biological report information have not been included. He commented that staff has reviewed the house plans and are fairly pleased with them. PUBLIC HEARING WAS OPENED Craig Champion, 777 California Avenue, Palo Alto, Development Manager for Summerhill Homes, stated that while the staff report focuses on planning and setback considerations, the applicant's concerns are on a broader perspective. He provided background on the Happy Valley Specific Plan, noting that the plan allowed for 102 units on this property. He noted that over time there has been a steady erosion of the density for this project as a result of topography, FAR's and seismic issues to 79 units. He commented that that the major thing driving this project is the bypass road that will go through the property and the grading is needed substantially because of the bypass road. He described the problems related to the grading and how this impacts the project with regard to views and the visibility of new homes. He referred to the view study exhibits, noting that they would attempt to mitigate concerns with single-story homes and install a landscape screen. He stated that they are concerned that existing problems with the proposal will result in further erosion of the density of the project, and the feasibility of continuing with the project. He noted that he has attempted to work with the neighbors on Alisal Street, and a lot of attention has been given to their concerns, and while they do not want more density in that area, he does not know where else it could be located. PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES 13 September 22, 1999