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Condition number five of the tract map required the developer to install evergreen broad leaf trees along the western boarder of the homes in Vintage Heights II. Per Exhibit B, Conditions of Approval, the applicant is required to replace the landscaping that was removed (Condition No. 3). This landscape buffer will help mitigate the concerns of the rear neighbor's and will be in keeping with the tract map condition of approval. The applicant will also use the excess soil material from the pool along the western side of the retaining wall to create a low berm to provide additional screening 4. Preservation of views enjoyed by residents, workers within the City, and passersby through the community. Staff analysis: Staffnotes that this criteria relates to the views from the public right-of--way and not private areas to private areas. The applicant will replace the removed landscaping along the rear and side of the subject property. By replacing the landscaping the area will be returned to a similar and compatible state which, in staffls opinion, will not disturb the views of workers within the City, adjacent neighbors, or passersby through the community. Although the adjacent neighbors would see the rear yard until the landscaping matures, staff notes that there are no private view easements granted for the subject property or surrounding neighbors; however, there are privacy concerns with the removal of the landscaping since the rear neighbors are at a lower grade. The tract condition states that there needs to be a series of evergreen broad leaf trees along the rear of the property. The Zoning Administrator conditioned the project to ensure that this condition is upheld. S. Landscaping designed to enhance architectural features, strengthen vistas, provide shade, and conform to established streetscape. Staff analysis: As proposed, the applicants will be replacing the removed landscaping per the conditions of approval which, in staff s opinion, will return privacy to the rear and side neighbors. PUBLIC NOTICE Notice of this application was sent to all property owners and occupants within 1,000-feet of the subject property. At the time this report was prepared, staff had not received any comments or concerns other than those raised by the rear neighbors. ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT Projects of this nature are categorically exempt from the requirements of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) under Section's 15304 (4)(a-c) Minor Alterations to Land PAP-123, Appeal of PDR-715 Planning Commission 6of7