PC 012506 - Laserfiche WebLink

Commissioner Maas noted that while she realized this was an infill project, she was ~- concerned about the dwindling amount of open space. She believed the houses could be a little smaller; she realized the rationale behind two-story homes but would like to see a ranch-style home occasionally. She would like to see what else could go on that lot, as well as a visual from the convalescent hospital. Commissioner Fox was concerned about the loss of Public-and-Institutional-zoned areas, especially when it is converted to residential zoning. She liked the fact that it was subdivided into two lots but would like to see the views of the project from the skilled nursing facility. She did not want that building to be walled in. She expressed concern about construction noise and mitigation for the residents in the nursing facility. She would like to see a streetscape to get a better idea of the scale. She would like to see a more detailed landscaping design for the back of the site. She generally supported this project. Chairperson Arkin agreed that a streetscape would be a valuable tool in assessing this project. He suggested the use of story poles so the residents could see what it looked like. He believed the home sizes were slightly smaller in compazison to other homes in town and suggested that basements be added to the homes so the footprint could be smaller. Mr. Townsend noted that they had considered walk-out basements in an earlier version of the design. Commissioner Maas noted that this piece of property would be developed eventually, and suggested that if the neighbors could work with these applicants, they should do so. She noted that there was no guazantee about the motives of unknown future developers. Ms. Decker suggested that the applicant prepare an elevation, showing how the proposed development fits into the neighborhood. No action was taken. 7. MATTERS INITIATED BY COMMISSION MEMBERS Tree Appraisals Commissioner Maas had been surprised by the discussion of the forestry fund and tree appraisals and noted that she could generally tell the condition of trees. She had not realized that the appraisals were negotiable and was concerned about that. Ms. Decker noted that the Code allowed the Planning Director to have some discretion related to the appraised values. She noted that if there were a lazge difference between appraised values, it would be brought to the Planning Commission. She added that appraisals were examined on a case-by-case basis, that staff did not indiscriminately change the values, and that the negotiations were generally held before the application is brought to the Planning Commission. PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES January 25, 2006 Page 17 of 19