PC 11/06/96 - Laserfiche WebLink

. . . Commissioner Wright inquired which streets were to be narrowed to 28 feet. Mr. Iserson stated that all streets in the project except Dennis Drive, Garden Parkway, and Guzman Drive would be narrowed to 28 feet. Commissioner Cooper asked about Condition 19 and if it would not be the responsibility of Kaiser Sand and Gravel to stabilize the slope banks of the quarry. Mr. Iserson stated it is, and this will be settled by the time the tentative map comes before the Commission. Chair Barker inquired if it would be possible to ask the applicants to present a project that has larger medium density lots. Discussion ensued, staff advised that the entire Chu property has already been approved for 390 units, and 153 townhouses were previously approved on this portion of the property. This approval is still valid. Chair Barker referred to the need of protecting the residents with the use of soundwalls. Mr. Iserson clarified that the General Plan addresses soundwalls in a couple of elements. There is language that discourages the use of soundwaIls to the maximum extent possible while still accomplishing the objective of protecting outdoor areas from noise. Where not possible to avoid, the soundwalls should be made to look good. The noise levels of the rear yards cannot exceed 60 Db. There is no noise requirement for front yards. This standard would be met with the proposed design. Chair Barker would like to see the neighborhood protected with soundwaIls since they can be made attractive through the use of landscaping. Commissioner Cooper asked if the school grounds would also be open for public use since the park and school grounds were supposed to be shared. Mr. Beougher stated that the park stands alone. PUBLIC HEARING WAS OPENED Douglas Krah, representing Standard Pacific, 3825 Hopyard Road, Suite 195, represented this application. Mr. Krah addressed the staff request for decorative paving. He has looked at other motor courts in other areas of the Bay Area and has come to the conclusion that asphalt is the best solution. It is less expensive to install, it has a better long-term maintenance record, and concrete and brick are very porous and would absorb oil and stains. Mr. Krah would like the Commission to delete this as a condition of approval. Another concern is staffs request to not allow swimming pools in this development. Mr. Krah commented that most backyards would not be able to accommodate a pool, but about 25-30% of the lots would be able to meet the City's requirements for pool setback. These residents should be able to have a pool if they so desire. Planning Commission Minutes Page 8 November 6, 1996