PC 02-10-86 CITY OF CUPERTINO, STATE OF CALIFORNIA PC-487
* 10300 Torre Avenue
Cupertino, CA. 95014
(408) 252-4505
MINUTES OF THE REGULAR MEETING OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION
HELD ON February 10, 1986
(Meeting Held in the Council Chambers of Cupertino City Hall)
SALUTE TO THE FLAG• 7:3 0 P.M.
ROLL CALL:
Commissioners Present: Chairman Szabo
Vice Chairman Mackenzie
Commissioner Adams
Commissioner Claudy
Commissioner Sorensen
Staff Present: Robert Cowan, Director of Planning & Development
Steve Piasecki, Assistant Planning Director
Charles Kilian, City Attorney
Glen Grigg, Traffic Engineer
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
MOTION: Cann. Mackenzie, to approve the Minutes of the Regular Adjourned
® Meeting of December 11, 1985, as submitted.
SECOND: Cam. Sorensen
VOTE: Passed, Coin. Claudy abstaining. 4-0
MOTION: Cam. Sorensen, to approve the Minutes of the Regular Adjourned
Meeting of January 15, 1986, as submitted.
SECOND: Cam. Adams
VOTE: Passed 5-0
MOTION: Cam. Adams, to approve the Minutes of the Regular Meeting of
January 27, 1986, as submitted, with the following change:
- Page 15, paragraph 5 -- Cam. Adams stated that the trash
containers are to be located in the front, along the south
wall.
SECOND: Cam. Sorensen
VOTE: Passed - 5-0
PAGE 1
s1
PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES ' 4
Regular Meeting of February 10, 1986
PAGE 2
PC-487
POSTPONEMENTS OR NEW AGENDA ITEMS:
ITEM 3: Application l-U-86: Staff and applicant request continuance
to Regular Meeting of February 24, 1986.
WRITTEN COMMUNICATIONS
-None
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
- Mr. Jim Martin, 10325 Plumtree Lane, stated a traffic problem in his
neighborhood. Mr. Griegg stated that Mr. Martin's letter had been
received and action is pending.
CONSENT CALENDAR
-None
ITEMS REMOVED FROM CONSENT CALENDAR
-None
PUBLIC BEARINGS:
ITEM 1
Application No(s) . 47-U-85 •
Applicant: City of Cupertino
Property Owner City of CU ertino
Location: East side of Torre Avenue between Rodriguez Ave.
and Pacifica Drive
Parcel Area (Acres) : 9.6
USE PERMIT (47-U-85 )
To remodel City Hall and expand the Library, to construct a plaza
between the City Hall and Library, and to modify and expand the
parking area including the addition of a driveway entrance fram
Pacifica Drive.
CONTINUED FROM PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING OF DEC EMBER 9, 1985.
ENVIIRJNMENTAL REVIEW: Negative Declaration Reccmumended
Staff Presentation: Mr. Cowan briefly described the application; it is a
request for a use permit for app to expand city hall space and to
allow physical expansion of the library. In addition, the proposal is to
reconfigure the parking design through elimination of current parking
between city hall and the library and creation of a linear parking line.
111
PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES
Regular Meeting of February 10, 1986
PAGE 3
PC-487
•
ITEM 1 (Cont'd)
Mr. Cowan showed the final plans for a City Civic Center which will
include parking to be built in the second phase and space for a possible
future building. The primary purpose of this expansion is to provide
adequate working space for city officials and employees in what is now
substandard space; the library expansion is designed to meet present need.
This Civic Center Plan is not going to introduce substantial increased
traffic into the area.
Three diagrams were used to demonstrate major circulation routes and
possible alternatives. A Noise Analysis was also conducted and the
results presented.
The staff feels that the traffic increases as a result of the change of
circulation pattern will not be a major detriment in terms of noise;
however, the Commission may want to consider acoustical barriers.
This application has been continued for the Commission to consider
internal traffic circulation changes and to understand the City Council's
and the Eaton school area residents' concerns regarding overall traffic
circulation planning.
The City Council did approve a 60 day interim street closure plan for the
neighborhood. A "peak" traffic barrier would be placed across Pacifica
Drive during the hours of 6:00 - 8:00 A.M. and 4:00 - 6:30 P.M. to test
the effects on both commuter traffic and local pedestrian traffic.
Staff supports the concept on Traffic Circulation Alternative No. 3, and
prohibiting the crossing of the pedestrian walkway that traverses the
entire site.
Mr. Cowan stated that the library staff has had no incidents of trouble
with vagrants in the area but did suggest some changes in the landscaping
along the eastern boundry line.
Architect's Presentation: Mr. John Duvivier, D Associates, Redwood
City, reviewed the Traffic Circulation Alternatives. The basic concept
from a traffic point of view is the development of a site with linear
parking and a secure route to block through traffic, but which allows the
development of pedestrian circulation.
Mr. Duvivier demonstrated site circulation; placing major traffic entry
points to the back of the site will reduce conflicts with pedestrian
traffic. This is the basic rationale for the parking as it was originally
developed.
411
PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES
Regular Meeting of February 10, 1986 •
PAGE 4
PC-487
The fundamental difference between Alternatives No. 1 and No. 2 is the
position of the majority of parking relative to one portion of the site;
Alternative No. 1, they feel, creates a conflict betweeen traffic and
pedestrian crossings. The second Alternative is favored by the
architects.
Mr. Jun Lee, SRA Group, Landscape Architect, concurred.
ITEM 1 (Cont'd.)
Mr. Duvivier responded to the Commissioners' questions on placement of the
driveway, safety concerns for the soccer field players and the
Commission's Minute Order to the Council regarding placement of two
entrances on either side of the library. He stated that an enormous
amount of emphasis has been placed on-the development of civic image and
the association of the Library and City Hall.
Mr. Glen Grigg stated that there are about 1300 trips per day for the
library driveway; 160 trips during the peak hour.
The Public Hearing was then opened.
Chr. Szabo acknowledged the letter from Ms. Suzanne Solar.
Ms. J. Sepulveda, 10285 Farallone Drive, stated that residents were not
allowed to discuss traffic impact concerns during the City Council • .
meeting. Recconunendation of the proposed temporary traffic barriers did
not take into consideration the figUres of proposed library patrons.
Also, the City Council indicated that this barrier would be temporary;
however, Exhibit 1 indicates that after the trial period, this barrier
will be permanent. This is of concern tb residents.
Further, safety entrances and exits from the library in rtnGe of fire are
of concern with special regard to the placement of redwood trees along the
back. Mr. Cowan stated that the fire department has reviewed the proposed
plan. Ms. Sepulveda requested that residents be informed regarding any
change in choice of trees so that they may have imput in these
discussions. .
Regarding Exhibit 1, the limitied A.M., P.M. use of the portable barrier
will be ineffective with regard to 4brary traffic since the library is
not open during the A.M. time. Thus the traffic is drawn into the
residential area, i.e., the Pacifica area.
Though concerns regarding traffic safety have abated, concerns about
traffic still exist. Ms. Sepulvedalfavors Alternative No. 3, since no
traffic is directed through the Eaton area. However, she questions the new
signs on Pacifica which indicate City Hall and Library access is through
Torre Avenue. She also recommends the elimination of on-street parking on
Torre to complete the look of the City Center complex and insure traffic
safety. •
PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES
Regular Meeting of February 10, 1986
PAGE 5
PC-487
110
Ms. Elly Werner, 20076 LaRoda Court, advocates separation of residential
and commercial areas to ensure the survival of this community.
With proposed building on the corner of Sunnyvale-Sarat
oga Road and
Stevens Creek Blvd., residents will be asking for closure of Pacifica to
commuters. Frum both the point of view of a resident and real estate
concerns, the neighborhood will deteriorate from becoming the traffic
center of Cupertino.
ITEM 1 (Cont'd.)
Traffic Alternatives No. 1 and No. 2 do not reflect the needs of
Cupertino; ultimately both these alternatives push commuters back into our
neighborhood.
Ms. Werner further disapproves the proposed Public Safety Building and
recommends renovation of the design for the Library. Traffic Alternative
No. 3 is favored.
Mr. Jim Reilly, 10631 Farallone Drive, stated his strong objection to the
temporary barrier, questioned the impact on Blaney Avenue and asked
whether alternatives were considered. Cbr. Szabo stated that this was not
the Commission's decision and thus is unable to answer the question. Mr.
Cowan added that a lengthy hearing was held February 3rd; The traffic ,
report does describe the change in trips for this residential area.
• Mr. Phil Underwood, 10325 Farallone Drive, stated that he:
- appreciated being listened to and having his ideas considered.
- was very much in favor of the proposal for a soundwall
- favored consideration of alternative, shorter growth landscaping
- was pleased that there is no proposal for a driveway on the east side
- appreciates the proposed move of the trash containers away from the
property line area
Mr. Underwood presented a design for proposed pedestrian-auto traffic
circulation for the new Library area; the existing driveway poses a
potential conflict between motorist and pedestrian.
He is opposed to the proposed Pacifica Drive entrance; his concerns have
been presented at previous meetings. He favors Alternative No. 3 with the
following changes:
- moving the Rodriguez Driveway to prevent pedestrians from crossing
traffic lanes
- moving the exit on Rodriguez west to increase vision of on-coming
traffic.
Mr. Rick Smith, 20260 Pacifica Drive, stated his concern over potential
pedestrian-auto traffic conflict in the Library area. Mr. Smith favors
Alternative No. 3.
411
PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES
Regular Meeting of February 10, 1986 0
PAGE 6
PC-487
Ms. Dian Tanaka, 20290 Pacifica Drive, favors Alternative No. 3 and is •
opposed to a driveway on Pacifica Drivel. She requested consideration of a
ban on parking on Torre Avenue due to potential overuse and traffic safety
problems.
Ms. Mary Ellen McCammon, 10385 Farallon Drive, stated a concern that
during use of the temporary barrier at Pacifica, her driveway will be used
as a turn around. Since traffic flow is the main concern of this
community, she favors Alternative No. 3 which directs traffic flow into
commercial areas where it belongs.
ITEM 1 (Cont'd.)
Ms. Julia Myakawa, 10345 Farallone Drive, informed the Commission of the
children's programs held at the Library. Due to the number of children
using these programs, she is opposed to any driveway on Pacifica. In
addition, she stated that vagarants have been seen early in the morning.
Chr. Szabo stated that the Commission understands that the overwhelming
majority of people do not want a driveway on Pacifica.
Mr. Paul Newhage, 10375 Farallone Drive, stated that Alternative No. 3 is
preferred. He requested elimination of one of the exits. Chr. Szabo
stated that the second exit is == ed and that for safety-emergency
vehicle access the fire department would not, undercircumstance,
II permit onlyone entrance.
any
•
Ms. Diane Lee, 20234 Pacifica Drive, favors Alternative No. 3 and requests
that parking be removed from Torre Avenue.
Ms. Suzanne Solar, 10581 Whitney Way, stated that her letter to the
Commission made clear her feelings on this issue. She opposes the
amphitheater and sees no purpose for itl Mr. Cowan stated that this plaza
area will provide an area for limited activities as well as the enjoyment
of Cupertino residents. Cam. Claudy stated that this area will provide an
attractive area and will make a positive statement about Cupertino and
it's residents.
Ms. Susan Adrian, 20408 Clay Street, favors Alternative No. 3 but stated
her concern that a philosophy of "more is better" is appearing everywhere
in Cupertino.
Chr. Szabo stated that only through purchase of property can the city stop
growth and development. Private landowners cannot be prevented from
building what is zoned for an area. Commissioners Mackenzie, Adams and
Claudy. stated that Commissioners may also wish to limit development;
however, the role of the Commission is management of this development.
•'i
PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES
Regular Meeting of February 10, 1986
PAGE 7
PC-487
• MOTION: Cam. Claudy, to close the public hearing.
SECOND: Cam. Adams
VOTE: Passed 5-0
Chr. Szabo summarized the issues as the Alternatives, traffic patterns,
the recammandation of no parking on Torre Avenue, the trees on the
property, the soundwall and the alignment of the driveway to Pacifica
Avenue. Cain. Claudy added the orientation of the trees on Pacifica
Avenue.
Traffic patterns: Cam. Mackenzie stated there are two principles: one
which advocates separation of auto-pedestrian traffic and secondly, one
which advocates separation of residential and public building use. He
stated that separation of uses is, in his view, more important and a
traffic pattern without an access on Pacifica Avenue is appropriate in
this case, since there is no permanent barrier in place. Thus, separation
of uses must be done through placement of driveways. Driveways will be
located on Torre Avenue and Rodriguez Avenue.
ITEM 1 (Cont'd)
Cam. Mackenzie favors moving the Rodriguez exit to the west which
facilitates traffic mobility, better vision of oncoming vehicles and does
not increase pedestrian-auto traffic conflict.
. Cam. Claudy also favors an access on Torre Avenue. If the barrier was
permanent, the exit unto Pacifica from a design point of view would be
better. However, the unam mous opposition to a driveway access has been
heard. While understanding the architect's intent in separating the main
driveway from the pedestrian walk, Cam. Claudy favors moving the Rodriguez
driveway west and breaking the driveway to avoid speeding. This approach
effectively moves traffic away from the residents on Farallone Drive.
Cam. Sorensen cmmnended the Eaton area people for a united and prepared
presentation. She favors Alternative No. 3, with Torre as an entrance and
the Rodriguez entrance moved west. This Alternative protects the safety
of the children, moves the traffic out of a residential area and may
eliminate the need for a barrier on Pacifica Avenue.
Cam. Adams previously favored Alternative No. 2; however, upon review of
Library traffic patterns and hearing the testimony of the public, he
favors a permanent driveway on Torre Avenue. Cam. Adams also favors the
soundwall and a further review of species of trees to be used.
Chr. Szabo recognized that a consensus had been reached on Alternative No.
3 with the Rodriguez driveway moved west. On the issue of soundwalls,
Chr. Szabo stated that they are ineffective as located in the design and
will detract from the appearance of the neighborhood. Consensus was
reached on elimination of the soundwall and a review by the Architectural
and Site Review Committee on the trees located in the back. Final issue of
discussion: the parking on Torre Avenue. Commissioners favored
411 maintaining it.
PLANNING C. SSION MINUTES
Regular Meeting of February 10, 1986
PAGE 8
PC-487
•
MOTION: Cam. Claudy moved to grant a Negative Declaration for
Application 47 U-85.
SECOND: Cam. Adams
VOTE: Passed 5-0
MOTION: Can. Sorensen moved approval of Application 47 U-85 according to
the findings and subconclusions stated in the Planning Cammission
minutes of February 10, 1980, with Standard Conditions 1-15,
Condition 16 amended to also include reference to Traffic
Circulation Alternative No.3, jConditions 17 and 18, Condition 19
changed to reference Traffic] Circulation Alternative no.3 and
replacing the phrase *modified to delete driveway arcs east of
the gate location on Pacifica Drive" with "modified to move the
Rodriguez driveway to the west end of the parking lot.", omit
Condition 20 and change Condition 21 to Condition 20. The new
Condition 21 to state that there will not be a continuous
driveway along the east property line.
SECOND: Cam. Claudy
VOTE: Passed 5-0
Break: 9:25-9:35
ITEM 2:
Application No(s) . 50-U-85 •
Applicant: William F. Irwin ; b
Property Owner: William F. Irwin
Location: Northwest corner of Olive Avenue and Imperial
Avenue
Parcel Area
(Acres) .18 gross
USE PERMIT (5047-85)
To construct an approximately 1130 sq. ft. industrial building
ENVIROMENTAL REVIEW: Negative Declaration Recommended
TENTATIVE CITY COUNCIL HEARING DATE: February 18, 1986
Staff Presentation: Mr. Piasecki stated that the Staff Report dealt with
four issues, paramount of which is noise. A study prepared by consultants
hired by the applicant, the first of aj,two phase evaluation on noise, was
handed out to the Commissioners. This study points out that the noise
attenuation properties of the building will be substantial
The staff suggestes that the building be shifted two feet south of
proposed location. With regard to the architecture, sane treatment should
be applied to the west side of the building wall. Similar treatment
should be applied to the sound barrier along the west property line. In
general, the staff is quite pleased with the design being proposed.
PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES
Regular Meeting of February 10, 1986
PAGE 9
PC-487
110 In response to Cann. Claudy's question of why the Commission is hearing
this application since the second phase of the noise evaluation is not
complete, Mr. Piasecki responded that the applicant will have to comply
with the city's noise ordinance as it applies to an industrial building.
Applicant's Presentation: Mr. Willian F. Irwin, applicant, manufactures
nursury school equipteent and is a one man type of operation. He stated
that it is costing him "an arm and a leg" to get this project off the
ground. He feels that the requirement for a solid block wall is good but
the details of a radial arm saw inside a building and measuring decibles
is extreme. Mr. Irwin is in' agreement, however, with renovation and
improvement of the building. He requested a Use Permit so he can operate
his shop
Mr. Irwin responded that he had seen and understood the conditions for
approval of the Use Permit, in respnse to Can. Adams' question.
ITEM 2 (Cont'd)
The Public Hearing was then opened; there were no speakers.
MOTION: Conn. Claudy moved to close the public hearing.
SECOND: Corn. Adams
VOTE: Passed 5-0
411 MOTION: Coin. Claudy moved that the Commission recommend a Negative
Declaration for Application 50 ZJ-85.
SECOND: Can. Sorensen
VOTE: Passed 5-0
MOTION: Cam. Sorensen moved that the Commission approve Application
50-U-85 subject to the findings s as set forth on page 1 and the
subconclusions stated in the Planning Commission Minutes of
February 10, 1986, and subject to Standard Conditions 1-15,
Conditions 16-24.
SECOND: Cam. Mackenzie
VOTE: Passed 5-0
OLD BUSINESS
-None
NEW BUSINESS
- Request to consider an amendment of the Residential Hillside Ordinance
regarding construction on ridgelines.
Mr. Cowan stated the difficulty that Planning Staff has in this
particular application by Mr. R. H. Childress for a building permit. .
Neither the Planning Commission nor the Architectual and Site Committee
feel this application is under the Residential Hillside Ordinance
guidelines.
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PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES
Regular Meeting of February 10, 1986
PAGE 11
PC-487
REPORT OF THE PLANNING DIRECTOR
- Mr. Cowan stated that the 1986 Planning Commission Institute will be
held March 12-14, 1986 in San Diego.
ADJOURNMENT:
Having concluded its business, the Planning Commission adjourned at 10:20
P.M. to the next Regular Meeting of February 24, 1986 at 7:30 P.M.
R- . fully • • ted,
.. • — t % ....,_ tom
.1 A. -Caughey,
Recording Secretary /
Approved by the Planning •' i .ssion
At the Regular Meeting of February 24, 1986:
Nicholas Szabo, Chairman