PC 10/25/1995 - Laserfiche WebLink

The PUD modification would require changing the building separation from 20 feet to 15 feet. The original PUD stipulated these five houses to be one-story units, and PanCal is planning to construct the one-story homes. Pan-Cal has one house plan with two different elevations, all with three-car front entry garages. A letter was received from Dean Buchenauer and JoAnn Matone in opposition to the proposed modification in the 20 foot building separation. They feel the three-car garages are not consistent with the area, and the size of the house is too large for the lot. Staff noted that the surrounding area is all zoned R-1-6500, with a minimum of ten feet between one- story units and 17 feet between a one-story and two-story unit, and 20 feet between two-story units. The proposed 15 foot building separation exceeds the code requirement in the surrounding area by five feet. Staff did research the area and found the houses to be somewhat smaller in size on a somewhat larger lot. In some cases there was as little as ten feet between one-story units. Staff feels the houses are well designed, the 15 foot separation is adequate, and the maturing landscaping will help soften the actual building separations. Staff is recommending two of the five models have a two-car garage. The applicant has agreed to this condition. Staff also has some concern with the color pallet and would like to work with the applicants to achieve a more neutral color scheme. Commissioner Hovingh inquired about four-sided articulation. Mr. Iserson noted the homes do have some rear articulation. Since the surrounding homes do not have the side and rear articulation, the articulation proposed by the applicant is acceptable to staff. Chairman Lutz stated the new homes across the street from the proposed houses all have front entry three-car garages, and inquired why this project was required to minimize the impact of the garage. PUBLIC HEARING WAS OPENED Leonard Hufton, 4125 Blackford Avenue, #200, San Jose, represented PanCal. Mr. Hufton stated the proposed plans were submitted to Planning staff a few months ago and thanked staff for their diligence in moving their application forward. Addressing the neighbors' concerns, the size of the house is compatible with the Bonde PUD which has a FAR of 35%. It is their experience that three-car garages are desirable and more marketable. Mr. Hufton noted this project is consistent with the Bonde Ranch PUD with the exception of the 15 foot building separation. He further noted there are only three homes which need the 15 foot building separation. Mr. Hufton closed by saying they concur with staff findings and will work with staff on any situations that need rectifying, such as colors and house detailing. Planning Commission Minutes Page 14 October 25. 1995