HomeMy WebLinkAboutASAC Minutes - 06-08-1978CITY OF CUPERTINO, STATE OF CALIFORNIA
10300 TORRE AVENUE, CUPERTINO, CA 95014
Telephone: (408) 252-4505
REGULAR MEETING OF THE ARCHITECTURAL AND SITE APPROVAL COMMITTEE
HELD ON JUNE 8, 1978 IN THE CONFERENCE ROOM, ROOM 105,
CITY HALL, CUPERTINO, CALIFORNIA
SALUTE TO THE FLAG
The meeting was called to order at 7:08 p.m. by Chairman Ripplinger
with the Salute to the Flag.
ROLL CALL
Members Present: Johnson, Sallan, Irvine (at 7:12),
Chairman Ripplinger
Members Absent: Bond
Staff Present: Mark Caughey, Assistant Planner
APPROVAL OF MINUTES: Minutes of Regular Meeting of May 18, 1978
The following corrections were made to the subject minutes:
1. Page 3, line 1 - Should read "Chairman Ripplinger said he would be hard
pressed to ask the applicant to increase..." (word "said" inserted).
2. Page 12, Para. 6 - Delete the words "to such an extent that it is often
not clear that the Committee likes anything."
Member Sallan moved and Member Johnson seconded that the Minutes of the
Regular Meeting of May 18, 1978 be approved as corrected.
Motion carried, 3-0
POSTPONEMENTS & COMMUNICATIONS - None
NOTICE: Chairman Ripplinger announced that no public hearing will be
initiated after 11:00 p.m. If a public hearing is in progress at
that time, it will be continued until its conclusion or at mid-
night. The Committee will adjourn at midnight.
Member Irvine arrived at this point (7:12 p.m.).
PUBLIC HEARINGS
Continued Applications (from ASAC meeting of May 18, 1978).
HC -219
Page 1
1. Application HC -51,454.1 - San Jose Building Designs, Inc. (Brenda Willi ms)
requesting approval of site, architecture, landscaping, grading and
lighting for a 12 -unit residential development on the east side of
Blaney Avenue, south of Stevens Creek Boulevard.
HC -219
Page 2
Approval of
Application
HC -51,454.1
MINUTES OF THE JUNE 8, 1978 ASAC MEETING
Mr. Ron Percy was present for this application.
Mr. Percy reported that he has complied with all ASAC concerns expressed
at the last meeting. Regarding the acoustical analysis, he has come
up with a fence design that is acceptable to the Sound Engineer. The
revised plan, however, does not note the use of double -strength glass
for windows per the Sound Engineer. Mr. Percy stated that this is an
omission and double -strength glass will be used on the west wall of
both units closest to Blaney Avenue.
Regarding landscaping, Mr. Percy stated that it looks as though he
will be able to save a large olive tree which was in question. Member
Sallan noted that the ASAC had requested that a tree be put against
the wall on the west side of Lot 12 to break the expanse in the winter.
An evergreen tree was suggested. Mr. Percy said he has no problem with
putting an evergreen tree in this area. Member Sallan noted that one
of the specimens proposed for this wall does grow rather tall so another
tree would not be needed.
Mr. Caughey noted that Staff feels the line of shrubs in the center planted
area should be staggered rather than completely straight. Mr. Percy said
he will change the alignment.
Chairman Ripplinger asked about tree protection during construction.
Mr. Percy said this will be indicated at the building permit level and
he will provide protection for existing trees.
Since there was no comment from the audience, Member Sallan moved and
Member Johnson seconded that the public hearing be closed.
Motion carried, 4-0
Member Sallan moved that Application HC -51,454.1 be approved subject
to the Standard ASAC Conditions 1-8 and Conditions 9-12 as follows:
9. That the recommendation of approval is based on Exhibits A, A-1,
B 1st Revision, C 1st Revision and D except as may be amended by
special conditions contained herein.
10. Exhibit A shall be revised to include notes regarding implementation
of the Title XXV Acoustical Protection Measures prescribed for this
development, subject to staff approval prior to issuance of
development permits.
11. An illustration of protective devices for existing trees on the site
shall be furnished to and approved by Staff at the building permit
level.
12. Shrubs located in the center planted area shall be staggered, rather
than aligned in a straight line.
The motion was seconded by Member Johnson.
Motion carried, 3-0
Member Irvine abstaining
HC -219
Page 3
approval of
application
LC -51,312.4
MINUTES OF THE JUNE 8, 1978 ASAC MEETING
2. Application HC -51,458.1 - Postponed until the applicants' arrival.
3. Application HC -51,458.1 - Postponed until the applicants' arrival.
To follow Public Hearing #2.
4. Application HC -51,402.4 - Postponed until the architect's arrival.
To follow Public Hearing #3.
5. Application HC -51,312.4 - Dennis and Jean Widman requesting approval of
grading for a single-family home in Tract 6028, Regnart Canyon.
Mr. Dennis Widman was present for this application.
Mr. Widman had a concern regarding the condition for emergency equipment
turnaround space. Mr. Caughey noted that there should be sufficient room
for emergency vehicles to turn around and also enough room for 4 cars to
park in the driveway. Mr. Widman said he understood that if the house
is 150' or closer to the road, turnaround room was not required. Member
Irvine noted that the Fire Marshal's Office would have to make the determination
as to adequate turnaround space.
Staff report noted that the Engineering Department has asked that elevations
at the corners of parking/driveway area and percentage of slope be indicated.
Mr. Caughey noted that the intent of this concern is that these figures
be called out on the map.
Member Irvine asked why the area near the driveway was benched. Mr. Widman
said that this area is part of the cut for the house. Member Irvine noted
that it seems very unnatural to have a bench cut in this area unless there
is to be a walkway there. Mr. Widman confirmed that there will be a walkway.
Since there were no comments from the audience, Member Irvine moved and
Member Johnson seconded that the public hearing be closed.
Motion carried, 4-0
Member Irvine moved that Application HC -51,312.4 be approved subject to
the Standard ASAC Conditions 1-8 and Conditions 9 and 10 as follows:
9. That the recommendation of approval is based upon Exhibits C and D
of this application except as may be amended by special conditions
contained herein.
10. The subject grading plan is approved in concept; final approval of
on -site grading work shall be subject to staff approval prior to
issuance of a grading permit. Staff may refer any significant
revisions to the conceptual grading plan to the ASAC for review
prior to issuance of a grading permit.
The motion was seconded by Member Johnson.
Motion carried, 4-0
MINUTES OF THE JUNE 8, 1978 ASAC MEETING
2. Application HC -51,458.1 - Coast Federal Savings & Loan Association
requesting approval of site, architecture, landscaping, lighting,
grading and signing for a financial building located at the north side
of Stevens Creek Boulevard west of De Anza Boulevard.
Mr. Joe Amestoy represented the applicant for this application.
Mr. Dunckley Murray was present as the landscape architect, and Mr. Arno
Furstenberg was present for the signing portion of the application.
Member Sallan noted that the application is now based on the revised proposal
which eliminates one spruce tree. Mr. Amestoy said that the applicant with-
drew the other proposal because.. both the applicant and staff felt the second
plan was superior. He noted that the lost spruce tree will be replaced by
2 new spruce trees. Member Sallan asked what the justification for removing
the tree would be. Mr. Caughey referred to the staff report which states
that benefits to the public with the proposed site layout would include:
1) parked cars would be completely obscured from the street, 2) the circulati
system for traffic is more orderly and efficient, 3) increased front building
setback from 25' to 35', and 4) replacement of the removed specimen Spruce
tree with two 24" box specimens. Member Sallan said the Director of Planning
or the ASAC should make some findings justifying the removal of the specimen
spruce tree. She stated that it should be clear that one of the criteria
of the tree ordinance applies in this case and/or why the tree is being remov
Chairman Ripplinger noted that the applicant's design is a better one than
the previous plan, and that he is in favor of this plan. Member Irvine
is also in favor of this plan, but asked how large the replacement trees
would be. Member Johnson said he regrets losing the tree and feels that
the tree ordinance was enacted to protect such trees.
Mr. Dunckley Murray answered Member Irvine's question regarding size of
replacement trees, saying a 24" specimen would be hard to find, but that
they would probably be around 20' high. He said they transplant very well
and that he would like to find a couple of trees that have been in the box
for 6 months and are growing in the box. Member Sallan asked what the alter
would be if the two spruces could not be found. Mr. Amestoy noted that the
applicant has committed to the spruce trees and intends to install them.
Mr. Murray added that if they absolutely can't be found, the applicant would
have to come back to the Committee with a replacement tree.
Chairman Ripplinger noted that the bench which was depicted on the previous
plan is not on this plan. Mr. Amestoy explained that there seemed to be some!
controversy about putting in a bench so close to an existing bus stop, so it
was not included this time. Member Sallan said it may be confusing to have
two benches so close and some landscaping would have to be eliminated in orde
to include the bench; she agreed the bench should not be included.
HC -219
Page Z
itive
Staff report noted that a correction is required to comply with minimum "back up"
aisle and "end -aisle" width. Mr. Amestoy said 2 parking stalls have been
eliminated to comply with the requirement.
MINUTES OF THE JUNE 8, 1978 ASAC MEETING I HC -219
Page 5
Chairman Ripplinger asked the purpose of the far NE space. Mr. Amestoy not
that it is designated as a loading and trash enclosure area.
Mr. Amestoy noted that the applicant is planning to put walkway material
through the drive. This walk could cut across at any point to the adjoining
property. Mr. Caughey noted this cannot be implemented until it is known
what the other site will be like. Staff suggested a "stub -out" of the walk
at the NW corner of the site. There was no problem with this suggestion
with the applicant.
Architecture
Member Irvine had asked for a more accurate sample of the roof color and
this was provided by Mr. Amestoy. The ASAC had no problems with the color.
Landscaping
Staff suggested and Member Sallan supported the addition of an evergreen
tree to the east side of the streetfront landscape setback. Only deciduous
varieties are proposed in this area. Mr. Amestoy noted that the applicant
is concerned about hiding the building and the word "COAST" with a heavy
evergreen tree. He would rather have a lacy tree that one can see through.
Member Sallan suggested a lacy -looking evergreen because the building would
look rather stark.in the winter when deciduous trees lose their leaves.
Mr. Murray suggested that a mayten tree might be a good solution. It is
a small tree which doesn't grow very tall. Member Sallan noted that it coul
be trimmed so as not to obliterate the building and still give color in the
winter. Mr. Amestoy said the applicant will look at a mayten tree to see if
there is any objection to it.
Grading
Mr. Amestoy said he had no problem with complying with City standards on
grading.
Lighting
The applicant will install the approved fixtures on the public way. Bollard
type fixtures will be installed in the parking area. These would be about
3' high, and consist of a cylinder on top of a post. Members saw no problem
with this.
Signing
Mr. Arno Furstenberg presented this part of the application. He noted that
there would be three types of signs. The main identification would be the
freestanding sign. The second type would be the word "COAST" on the fascia
and the third would be directional signs.
The first type discussed was the cast -in -place concrete letters on the fasci s.
Mr. Furstenberg said the applicant would like to have one over each entrance
and an additional one on the west side, since this would be far from either
entrance.
HC -219 (MINUTES OF THE JUNE 8, 1978 ASAC MEETING
Page 6
Mr. Caughey noted that the applicant is allowed 2 signs because it has
2 entrances if not identified by a ground sign. He suggested that the
cast -in -place concrete letters be viewed as part of the architectural
concept and therefore not signs. Member Johnson said he would view
the letters as an architecture embellishment. Member Sallan said she
feels it should be counted as a sign, since it is advertising the business.
Member Irvine said he would go along with the idea that it would be
an architectural feature because the alternative would not look as good.
Chairman Ripplinger agreed with Member Sallan's position.
Mr. Caughey said staff objects to the painting of these letters. Mr.
Furstenberg noted that there would only be a 10% difference and this is
to accentuate the shadow. Mr. Caughey noted that staff would view the
letters as a sign rather than as an architectural feature if the letters
were painted. Mr. Furstenberg said that in that case, the letters won't
be painted.
Members said they would object to three cast -in -place concrete signs,
and Member Sallan said she would have to know what the ground sign
is going to look like before approving a third carving.
Directional signs were addressed next. Staff suggested the height of
these signs be reduced from 60" to 42". Mr. Furstenberg said the
applicant would like to have 52" consistent with B of A next door. Member
Sallan asked how high the ground cover will be in this area. Mr. Murray
said it is about 1' high, making 42" an adequate height to be seen.
Member Sallan asked why directional signs are necessary, since the parking
lot is self-evident (the signs would indicate where parking is). Mr.
Furstenberg said that B of A has signs showing where to park and that
the directional signs would serve as a subtle way of welcoming customers
and saying "Come in here." Chairman Ripplinger said he doesn't feel they
are necessary, but that the handicapped stall sign should remain. Member
Johnson said he doesn't feel directional signs are necessary. Mr. Caughey
noted that the sign ordinance doesn't require or prohibit directional
signs. The applicant asked if the fact that B of A has directional signs
has any bearing. Member Sallan replied that if a sign exists, there should
be a solid reason for having it; where the Committee feels it helps and
serves the public. She said she feels parking signs are unnecessary and
that a welcome could be extended in other ways.
A member of the audience stated he felt the Committee was not being
reasonable in this matter. Member Johnson replied that the ASAC feels
that it is being reasonable. He added that there is no objection to a
handicapped sign.
Regarding freestanding signs, Mr. Caughey noted that the site does not
have the minimum street frontage to qualify for one sign and definitely
not two. The staff report also noted that the second sign seems unnecessary
since the building is highly prominent from the "Alpha Beta" parking area
and east -west circulation easement.
MINUTES OF THE JUNE 8, 1978 ASAC MEETING
Member Sallan said she feels the site would be oversigned with two free-
standing signs. She is willing to accept an exception for one freestanding
sign, however, if it looked more like the building.
Mr. Amestoy noted that the sign will have a concrete base and metal frame
which will be the same color as the roof. This would tie in with the
building. He said the applicant would not be willing to give up the use
of color in the face of the sign, however. He said the colors will be used
on all Coast Federal Savings branches.
Member Johnson said he feels the contrast between the building and sign
is too great and the colors are too bright. Chairman Ripplinger noted
that the intensity of the light could be regulated, but that the sign
is very colorful. Member Sallan said there should be a stronger identifical
between the sign and the building material. She indicated she would be
willing to approve of an exception by allowing a ground sign if this identij
could be achieved.
Regarding a second free-standing sign, Chairman Ripplinger noted any
exception should be at a minimum. Mr. Furstenberg stated that ASAC is
not allowing Coast Federal identification from one side of the building.
Mr. Caughey suggested that a directional sign could be added on this
elevation which says "Parking -Coast Federal Savings". Mr. Amestoy suggest
that the ASAC state what would be acceptable signing and the applicant
will see if he can live with it. If he can't, they would appeal to the
City Council.
Mr. Amestoy asked if modification in color would satisfy the Committee.
Member Sallan said that if colors come more in line with the building
approach, she would be more capable of justifying an exception. Mr. Furste
said he is sure the applicant would like 2 freestanding signs and might go
with less color. Chairman Ripplinger said he is not sure he would feel
comfortable with granting 2 ground signs. Member Sallan noted that in allo
one ground sign, the ASAC is already granting an exception and that even if
this exception is not granted, the applicant would have to come up with an
acceptable wall sign. The applicant will come back with the signing portio
Mr. Amestoy asked about condition 11 of the staff's recommendation, which
states the applicant is to sign a statement agreeing to provide reciprocal
ingress/egress easements with adjoining properties, and whether the easement
would be defined in terms of the existing site plan. Mr. Caughey said that
it would be defined by the existing site plan.
Since there was no further comment from the audience, Member Johnson moved
and Member Irvine seconded that the public hearing be closed.
Motion carried, 4-0
Member Sallan moved that Application HC -51,458.1 be approved subject to the
Standard ASAC Conditions 1-8 and Conditions 9-18 as follows:
HC -219
Page 7
:cation
)erg
g
Approval of
Application
HC -51-458.1
HC -219
Page 8
(MINUTES OF THE JUNE 8, 1978 ASAC MEETING
9. That the recommendation of approval is based on Exhibits A lst Revision,
B, B-1, C 1st Revision, E, F-3 Sheets 1-3, F-5 of this application
except as may be amended by special conditions contained herein.
110. The proposed system of inter -related circulation between the subject
site and adjoining properties is approved per Exhibit A lst Revision.
It is recognized, however, that subsequent review of a tentative map
on this site by the Planning Commission will be required prior to
release of development permits. Nothing in this resolution shall
preclude the Planning Commission from review and possible modification
of ingress -egress provision on the subject site to adjacent properties.
11. Prior to release of development permits, the applicant shall sign a
statement acceptable to the City Attorney agreeing to provide
reciprocal ingress/egress easements with the adjoining properties
at such time as the City can require the same from the adjoining
property ownLers.
12. Consistent with Section 6.1.c of Ordinance 778, the northmost
specimen Spruce tree on the site may be removed, provided that
two (2) 23" box specimen Spruces are installed with other on -site
landscaping as provided on Exhibit C 1st Revision.
13. Exhibit C lst Revision shall be revised to incorporate staff suggestions
contained in Section IV B of the Staff Report of June 2, 1978.
14. Final solution of on -site drainage and details pertinent thereto
shall be presented to the satisfaction of the City Engineer prior to
release of development permits.
15. Parking lot layout dimensions shall be revised to reflect City
standards prior to release of development permits.
16. Exhibit A 1st Revision shall be modified to show lighting surface
coverage patterns as shown on Exhibit E.
17. The ASAC or its staff may require correction of adverse light
intrusion impacts following installation of exterior light fixtures
or signing equipment.
18. The signing portion of this application is continued until a date
uncertain.
The motion was seconded by Member Irvine.
Motion carried, 4-0
This application will go to the City Council on June 19, 1978.
The Committee recessed at 9:18p.m. and reconvened at 9:29 p.m.
MINUTES OF THE JUNE 8, 1978 ASAC MEETING HC -219
Page 9
3. Application HC -51,402.4 - Terranomics Development Corporation
requesting approval of architecture for mall shops building with
loading dock within a commercial shopping center at the southeast
quadrant of Portal Avenue and Stevens Creek Boulevard.
Mr. Mel Peterson and Mr. Bud Johnson were present for this application.
Mr. Peterson requested that the Oshman's portion of the application be
handled first. He noted that signing for Longs and Oshman's was presented
at the same time and that Longs' signing was decided then. Other tenants
were to have one major color. Member Sallan said she recalled that Longs
was approved, but there was nothing specific approved for Oshman's. The
color proposed for Oshman's is orange. The words "Sporting Goods" and
"Sports Wear" would also be added. Mr. Peterson noted that letter
height of 22" was previously approved for this tenant. A sample of the
copy color and of the background was presented. Mr. Peterson said the
color is the one used on all Oshman's signs.
Member Sallan noted that this would add another color to the red at Longs,
and the white at Great Western and the ivory approved for minor tenants.
Consensus - The orange presented is acceptable for Oshman's signing.
Member Sallan said she feels the words "Sporting Goods" and "Sports Wear
should be eliminated. Mr. Peterson stated that Oshman's has recently
added a sportswear line and feels this message is important. Chairman
Ripplinger suggested using ivory for the small letters. Mr. Peterson
said he would have no problem with this, but other Committee members
disagreed, saying that all orange would look better. Member Sallan propos d
that just "Sports Wear" be eliminated; "Sporting Goods" would encompass
this. Member Irvine suggested that sportswear could be on a hanging sign
under the overhang. Mr. Johnson said he felt the additional words improve
the symmetry of the signing. Member Sallan said she doesn't feel things
have to be symmetrical to look good.
Member Irvine said he would approve the sign if it just had "Sporting Good "
and the open roof. The applicant said that having an open roof would
restrict the size of the sign quite a bit. Mr. Peterson added that there
would be too much spread to get within the dormer.
The applicant suggested putting "Sporting Goods" on the right side and
smaller than "Oshman's". This was acceptable to the Committee.
Consensus - 22" orange letters are acceptable for "Oshman's"; 9"-12" lette
for "Sporting Goods", which will be to the right of the main
letters are acceptable, to be subject to staff approval.
Mr. Peterson went on to discuss signing for other stores. He noted that
Sausolito Design will have an ivory sign, which was acceptable to the ASAC
The Chair Store next to that is proposing yellow. These letters will be
15" high at a maximum, with the logo a little taller.
Member Irvine proposed that the ASAC look at all the colors together and
react to that. The colors requested are yellow, orange, ivory, and red.
HC -219 I MINUTES OF THE JUNE 8, 1978 ASAC MEETING
Page 10
Mr. Peterson summarized the colors each tenant would like to have.
Two of the tenants want to have two colors. Member Sallan suggested
that these tenants both coordinate their colors with the ivory. They
would use ivory and one other color. For example, Kramers is orange
and yellow; one of these colors should be ivory. Member Irvine asked
if Mr. Peterson can speak for Kramers. Mr. Peterson said Kramers does
not have an established color concept and would probably be flexible
with color. Member Sallan suggested that since the two stores on
either side of this are yellow, Kramers should use orange and ivory.
Mr. Peterson said the owner of The Chair Store wants to use yellow
and will appeal if any other color is imposed.
One tenant wishes to have the words "San Francisco" in red and the other
letters in ivory. Mr. Peterson said the red is part of their logo and
the letters would be about 8" high. Member Johnson asked if it had to
be in red. Chairman Ripplinger said he is not comfortable with the red.
Member Sallan agreed, but Member Irvine said he would be favorable to
leaving it red. Mr. Peterson said he would change the color to orange.
Member Sallan commented that she had been strongly in favor of having
ivory throuhgout the center, but that these colors don't look bad. She
still has a concern about the multiplicity of colors and feels it would
look better if all signs were the same color.
Consensus - All signing colors are acceptable as proposed with the exception
of Kramers, which will be ivory and orange; and San Francisco
Boulangerie, which will change the red to orange.
Mr. Johnson showed samples of the proposed redwood staining detail on
the Something Special store. Kramers will be next door and has natural
shingle on its store front. Members had no problem with these details.
Regarding the "B" Shops, Mr. Peterson noted that the roof is continued
around the building and is completely continuous.Member Sallan asked if
there is any landscaping planned for near the building. Member Irvine
said he did not think landscaping would be necessary because of the
overhang on the arcade. Mr. Johnson noted last that there is a wall
and landscaping near the street. Member Sallan said she still feels
this elevation will look stark.
Staff noted that there should be an acoustical study that comes up
with findings on the noise impact on residents to the south and
also the visual impact to residents should be considered. Mr. Caughey noted
that staff had originally been concerned about the design of the roll -up
doors, but this concern has been removed. Mr. Caughey commented that
the purpose of the acoustical and view corridor information request is
so that the results will be in written form. This could come back informally
to the ASAC.
MINUTES OF THE JUNE 8, 1978 ASAC MEETING �Page
HC-219
11
Member Johnson asked if some potted plants could be added near the arcade.
Mr. Bud Johnson replied that he didn't feel it would be worth it because
they would not get adequate care in that area. Member Sallan asked if ther
is anything else the applicant might suggest for this area. Mr. Johnson
said he did not see anything that would be a significant change. Member
Sallan noted that only 2 trees are proposed for the landscaped area near
the street. Mr. Peterson said he would have no problem with installing a
few more trees. If the ASAC feels there aren't enough trees at a later
date, more could be installed.
Since there were no comments from the audience, Member Irvine moved and
Member Johnson seconded that the public hearing be closed.
Motion carried, 4-0
Member Irvine moved that Application HC -51,402.4 be approved subject to Approval c
the Standard ASAC Conditions 1-8 and Conditions 9-11 as follows: Applicatic
HC -51,402.
9. That the recommendation of approval is based upon Exhibits A, A-1 and
B of this application except as may be amended by special conditions
contained herein.
10. Prior to release of development permits for the subject structure the
applicant shall submit a letter to staff by an accoustical consultant
addressing the impact of noise associated with the B shops truck loadi
area, especially on nearby residential properties, and detailing noise
control measures which may be required to mitigate such impacts.
11. In recognizing that the westmost tenant in the B shops structure
contemplates engaging in outdoor display and/or sale of merchandise,
the Architectural and Site Approval Committee shall retain authority
to review such activity and make appropriate recommendations to City
Council regarding correction action, to be certain that the public
safety is not impaired by cluttering of walkways, litter, etc. and
that the aesthetic harmony of the center`s exterior appearance is not
compromised by said outdoor retailing activity.
Member Sallan seconded the motion.
Motion carried, 4-0
The application will go before the City Council on June 19, 1978.
4. Application HC -51,421.3 - Pacific Valley Bank requesting approval of
site, architecture, landscaping, grading, and lighting for a two-story
officebuilding on the north side of Stevens Creek. Boulevard east of
De Anza_Boulevard.
Mr. Warren Heid, the architect for the project, was present for this
application.
HC_219 I MINUTES OF THE JUNE 8, 1978 ASAC MEETING
Page 12
Mr. Heid reported that only the south elevation will be seen from Stevens
Creek Blvd.
Chairman Ripplinger announced at this point that the Committee would
not be able to get to Item 6 on the agenda because of time constraints.
The Committee will adjourn at midnight. Mr. John Sobrato, who was
present for item #6, noted that he would like to get the project started
and that a consultant has come down from San Francisco. He said the
staff had assured him the ASAC would hear his application and he asked
that the ASAC stay to hear it. Members Irvine and Johnson and Chairman
Ripplinger indicated they would be willing to stay to hear the last
application. Chairman Ripplinger said that he will stay until midnight.
Site
Mr. Heid said he has answered all concerns of the staff on site.
A planter strip on the west side of the site has been increased from
3' to 5.5'. Mr. Heid noted that the building is compatible to that
of the bank but is not identical to it. Staff report noted that protection
of an existing pepper tree on the east side of the building is not clear.
Mr. Heid said the tree will be saved by raising the pavement around it to
protect it. An existing redwood tree will also be saved, although it is
in bad condition.
Architecture
Member Sallan asked the height of the building. Mr. Heid replied that it
is 26' tall. He added that the slope of the roof is the same as that of
the bank. The entrance will extend beyond the fascia, and the building is
the same shape as presented for the first permit. Colors will be neutral
and wood tones. Members agreed that the building has similar architectural
characteristics to the existing bank building, even though the bank has
wood siding and the office building has stucco.
The staff report noted that the south elevation single -story portion appears
to provide a mechanical equipment well beneath the second story window.
Mr. Heid said there is indeed a well at this point, but that there will
be no mechanical equipment there. Chairman Ripplinger asked what it would
look like from the second story window above it. Mr. Heid said it will
simply look like roof material. He suggested the second story window
be removed. Members felt the window should be left in. Member Irvine
noted that the view from the window is not really a public concern. Other
members agreed.
Landscaping
Mr. Heid noted that most planting material used is the same as used at
the bank with one exception. He feels the building should be enhanced,
rather than landscaping, and that plants next to the building would get
damaged by cars. He would like to keep landscaping low along the building.
but could add a few trees along the side of the building. There are some
existing redwoods and this theme will be carried through. He would be
agreeable to adding some plantings that would enhance the building, but
would prefer something low or lacy trees such as liquid amber or birch.
MINUTES OF THE JUNE 8, 1978 ASAC MEETING HC -219
Page 13
Member Sallan said she feels the public would benefit from some higher
plants, perhaps 5'-6' tall. Mr. Heid said he will come up with something
that has some height in some areas, while keeping other areas low. Member
Sallan suggested putting in more landscaping on the SW and SE corners of
the building and addition of trees to the south elevation, as suggested by
the staff.
Staff also suggested the substitution of lawn for ivy north of the building
to create a gathering place for employees or visitors. Mr. Heid said he
would rather leave it planted with ground cover rather than lawn, since the
area is near the parking lot. Chairman Ripplinger asked about putting lawn
in the front. Mr. Heid said he would again rather have ground cover; he
noted that lawn doesn't grow well under some of the trees because of acid
from the redwoods. He said he could put some mounding in the front and woul
come in with a detailed landscape plan at the building permit level. Chair-
man Ripplinger said he felt the Committee would like to see the landscaping
again.
Staff suggested thet the "Eugenia Uniflora" on the west property line be
augmented with other varieties of trees or shrubs to add interest. Mr. Hei
said this is a hardy plant and grows anywhere from 3' to 10' high. He said
he would rather keep it as a hedge.
Grading: no concerns
Lighting: no concerns -using same fixtures as existing at the bank
Since there were no comments from the audience, Member Sallan moved and
Member Irvine seconded that the public hearing be closed.
Member Irvine moved that
Standard ASAC Conditions
9. That the recommenda
of this application
contained herein.
Motion carried, 4-0
Application HC -51,421.3 be approved subject to the Approval o
1-8 and Conditions 9-13 as follows: Applicatioi
HC -51,421.:
Lion of approval is based on Exhibits A, B, D, and E
except as may be amended by special conditions
10. Final configuration of the parking lot layout and building envelope
location for the Phase II office building shall be subject to staff
approval at the building permit level.
11. The landscape portion of the application is continued.
12. The ASAC or its staff shall retain authority to review and require
correction of off -site light -intrusion impact emanating from exterior
light fixtures of this development.
13. Signing is not a part of this application; a comprehensive sign program
may be reviewed by future action of this Committee.
Member Sallan seconded the motion.
Motion carried, 4-0
HC -219 (MINUTES OF THE JUNE 8, 1978 ASAC MEETING
Page 14
This application will go before the City Council on June 19, 1978.
6. Application HC -51,392.6 - Sobrato-Berg Properties requesting approval
of site, architecture, landscaping, grading, lighting and signing for
a four-story office complex at the southeast quadrant of De Anza
Boulevard and Mariani Avenue.
Mr. John Sobrato and Mr. DeQuesada were present for this application.
Member Sallan asked about the height of the proposed cooling tower.
Mr. Sobrato said it is 4.5' into the ground and about 6' out of the ground.
He said the applicant studied a number of places and felt this was the
best. An acoustical study will also be done.
Site
The parking lot layout should be reviewed by the Traffic Engineer.
No problems are anticipated. The applicant has 864 spaces.
There are 3 flag poles shown at the north side of the building. These
must be approved by the Planning Commission. ASAC members were comfortable
with the height (40-45 feet) and number of poles. Member Sallan noted
that the basic guideline on flag pole height is that they be no higher
than the building.
Mr. Caughey noted that Member Johnson may take part in this discussion
but may not vote because he is employed by IV -Phase.
Staff suggested deletion of three parking spaces at the southeast corner
of the site in favor of landscaping. Mr. Sobrato agreed to do this.
Mr. Caughey noted that staff had a concern with getting people from the
parking lot to the building and suggested the addition of pedestrian
walkways to accomplish this. The Planning Commission shared this concern
and asked that the ASAC take a look at it. Member Irvine said that
people will use the shortest route even if walkways are provided.
Mr. Sobrato pointed out that a walkway is provided from the main
entrance and that there will not be much traffic in the parking lot
during the day. He also pointed out that he would have to lose parking
spaces if he made room for a walkway; the parking is already close to
the minimum. Member Sallan suggested extending the walkway from the
main entrance to the Peppermill across the drive. Mr. Sobrato said
he would do this.
Mr. Caughey commented that the Planning Commission had suggested as
a possibility that a walkway be installed in the middle of the planting
strips in the parking lot. This was not acceptable because it would
mean losing some landscaping.
Member Sallan commented that the approach to encouraging people to use
walkways instead of cutting through the lot is to provide walkways.
One should not simply assume people won't use them. Mr. Sobrato noted
that the City also wanted to get more landscaping in, and he has deleted
parking spaces to accommodate more landscaping. He cannot afford to delete
more parking.
1I'NUTES OF THE JUNE 8, 1978 ASAC MEETING
Mr. Caughey noted that if there is no reasonable way to include walkways,
they do not need to be included. Member Johnson said that people do not
go out of their way to use a walkway if there is a more direct route.
Consensus - Walkways need not be required.
Architecture
Staff report noted a concern with glare from the reflective surface being
used. Mr. DeQuesada noted that the glass has 142 reflectivity. The more
commonly used glass is 40% reflective. Mr. Sobrato added that it is a
state requirement to use reflective glass as an energy conservation measure
Mr. DeQuesada said he has done studies as to where the light will hit after
being reflected from the building. His conclusion is that even in the
worst case the impact will be minimal. Motorist on De Anza Boulevard would
catch a flash of reflection, but it would be out of their normal field of
vision while driving. Similarly, the reflection into the residential
area would be either on the fence of miss windows of the homes. Mr.
Sobrato added that there will also be trees in the planted areas near
De Anza which could be put in strategic places to block the reflective
glare.
Mr. Sobrato noted that the exterior is 18% glass (he brought in a sample
of the exterior wall) and it is the least reflective glass made.
The discussion of this application will be continued at the next -meeting.
The Committee adjourned at 12:12 a.m.
APPROVED:
/s/ Ted Ripplinger
Vice Chairman
ATTEST:
/s/ Wm. E. Ryder
City Clerk
HC -219
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