PC 031208 - Laserfiche WebLink

Commissioner Fox inquired whether the floor area ratio (FAR) in an R-1-20,000 zoning district was defined for the primary and secondary structure combined, or whether the secondary structure may exceed the overall FAR for the lot. Mr. Otto replied that the second unit must conform to the FAR for the development and that it was calculated in the FAR. He noted that this FAR of 20 percent was more restrictive within the development than in a normal R-1-20,000 district of 25-30 percent. THE PUBLIC HEARING WAS OPENED. Frank Nguyen, appellant, noted that he did not believe the second unit followed the spirit of the community and that it was the first second unit in the development. He did not believe it was appropriate and noted that the Homeowners Association (HOA) did not follow through on their complaint because State law allowed second units. He noted that the second unit would block their view, and they expected to be able to see their landscaping. He expressed concern about the security of their home and that their home would be isolated from the rest of the community. Xin Chen, appellant, displayed a series of slides on the overhead screen and noted that he was concerned that the second unit would block their view. He believed the City should take responsibility for any consequences of the construction of the second unit, such as landslides, flooding, and other unforeseen circumstances during and after the construction. He noted that their privacy would be compromised and was concerned about impacts on health and safety. He stated that both the City and the applicant should be prepared for a lawsuit as a result of any damage to his home. In response to an inquiry by Commissioner Olson regarding whether the appellants would accept solid fencing, Mr. Chen replied that they would be amenable to solid fencing. Commissioner O'Connor suggested that landscaping that was taller than the existing fence be installed to provide screening and privacy and inquired whether that would be a better option than afour- or five-foot high solid fence. Mr. Chen replied that would be another option to consider, although he could not commit to a plan of action. In response to an inquiry by Commissioner O'Connor regarding the typical garage in the development, Mr. Chen replied that they were generally two- or three-car garages. Commissioner Fox inquired whether the 250-square-foot-covered porch was considered to be part of the 80 square feet of open space required by the Municipal Code. Mr. Otto replied that it could be, but there was no specification that it be covered or uncovered. Aman Bawa, applicant, summarized the background of his application and displayed a PowerPoint presentation on the overhead screen. He noted that the second home was intended to be a guest home as well as a pool house and added that their extended family would be able to stay there to help them with their special needs child. The extra space would enable them to do more occupational and physical therapy for their child. He noted that they installed story poles and that many of the neighbors did not have any issues with their proposed project. He noted that they had listened carefully to their neighbors' concerns and had made significant PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES, March 12, 2008 Page 5 of 22