PC 08/22/84 - Laserfiche WebLink

PUD-$2-13-2M, Deer Oaks Land Company Application of the Deer Oaks Land Company for a major modification to the PUD (Planned Unit Development) ordinance affecting an approximately 48 acre site relative to the maintenance of an existing oak tree and emergency roadway surface construction located on the west side of Foothill Road near its intersection with Bernal Avenue. Zoning for the property is PUD (Planned Unit Development)-Low Density Residential/Open Space District. Mr. Harris presented the staff recommendation which was to remove the tree and approve the modification as requested. The public hearing was reopened. Art Dunkley, Castlewood Properties, Inc, 205-F Main Street, addressed the Commission stating that 80~ of the tree came off right after the last Planning Commission Meeting. The majority of the tree was hallow. He acknowledged that City Council at a recent meeting, introduced an ordinance to strengthen the Heritage Tree ordinance requiring an expert be on a site before construction commences. This would have been in effect at the start of construction on that property. The Planning Commission had previously asked Mr. Dunkley to report back to them on his findings concerning tree replacement. Mr. Dunkley acknowledged that he talked to Valley Crest concerning the life of a California Oak tree. They recommended that this species not be replaced in the area where the other tree is located because there is apparently fungus in the ground, drainage is poor and an island is a bad location for replanting this species. Mr. Dunkley .stated he has reviewed the pamphlet called Protecting Shade Trees as recommended by Chairman Doherty. He felt it was a valuable document and he would attempt to secure updated copies for the City staff. In place of the oak tree which must be removed, they proposed to put an island area with landscaping in-where the tree is, they propose to landscape the rest of the area with concrete curb and tie it in with the brick work; landscape the front of the property and plant three Eucalyptus trees. In this particular area Eucalyptus trees grow very well and would go with the existing grove of this species (this is the area in the southern corner of the grove). They propose to offer the wood from the oak tree to a non- profit or religious organization. They have already contacted the Director of Human Resources to see if any of the senior housing groups have fireplaces. He has been informed that no senior housing in Pleasanton have fireplaces. Further, the applicant proposes to make available to the City the pamphlet Protecting Shade .Trees in sufficient quantity that they can be furnished to homeowners and developers as appropriate. Regarding their emergency access, they have come to a satisfactory solution with the City and will put in a hard surface which will be mutually acceptable. Mr. Warnick confirmed this statement. -2-