PC 01/11/1995 - Laserfiche WebLink

~ ensure its completion. Mr. Bates asked that the approval of this project not be contingent on Fish and Game approval. Mr. Bates feels the frontage road is the real stumbling block in the approval of this application. He noted his disappointment that because staff did not include conditions of approval, the PUD could not be approved at this meeting. In response to Commissioner McGuirk's inquiry regarding the economics of this project, Mr. Bates stated that because the houses and their design are expensive to build, they must have a certain density to achieve a profit. Taking away one unit significantly impacts the bottom line. Regarding site clean-up, Mr. Plucker noted a report had been prepared describing the needed excavation and cleanup. Mr. Bates advised that the cost of the cleanup is included in the purchase price. They cannot take title until the site is cleaned up. In response to Commissioner Barker, Mr. Bates advised the sidewalk setback proposed is a continuation of what currently exists on Pleasanton A venue. Staff has asked that the mow strip be widened to approximately six feet. Mr. Bates stated that because this is a small lot development, widening the mow strip could impact the house placement and lot lines. To avoid the problematic issue, he would propose to revert to the City standard of monolithic curb and sidewalk. In response to Commissioner Barker, Mr. Bates stated that the park could be used by the public, but it would be owned and maintained by the HOA. Chairman Wright inquired of the applicant if it would be acceptable to maintain the planter/mow strip along Pleasanton Avenue, whereas the rest of the sidewalks could be the standard monolithic design. Mr. Bates said that would be acceptable as long as the density did not change. Commissioner Hovingh inquired about the size of the existing homes in the surrounding neighborhoods. Scott Stringer reported the houses range from 1262 sq. ft. to 1600 sq. ft. and the multi-family units are as low as 884 sq. ft. On St. John Street the houses range from 1600 sq. ft. to over 2000 sq. ft. The frontages are the same as the new homes (50 ft.) although their lots run deeper than the new development lots. Commissioner Hovingh inquired if the applicants had considered alleys and garages to the rear of the houses or detached garages. Mr. Stringer advised that particular design takes more land and would lower the density. James Yee, 60 Pierce Avenue, San Jose, addressed the issue of alleys in this development. This would double the amount of land used for roadways and decrease the usable rear yard for the resident. On the positive side, it would provide for a more attractive house front. Planning Commission Minutes Page 5 January 11. 1995