Loading...
April 07, 1971CITY' OF CUPERTINO, State of California 10300 Torre Avenue, Cupertino, California Telephone 252--/+505 MINUTES OF THE'REGULAR MEETING OF THE ARCHITECTURAL AND SITE APPROVAL COMMITTEE HELD APRIL 7, 1971 IN THE: CQUNCIL CHAMBER CITY HALL, CUPERTINO, CALIFORNIA In the absence of Chairman Adams, Vice Chairman McLaren called the meeting to order at 7;39 p.m, and led the assemblage in the flag salute. Roll Call �.. Members in attendance; Marquez, Ryner (8;12 p.m.), Small and Vice Chairman McLaren. Also in attendance; Public Works Director Yarborough and Recording Secretary Dolores White. Chairman Adams was absent from the meeting. Minutes of the Previous Meeti 1. Approval of Architectural and Site Approval Minutes of March 17, 1971. It was moved by Member Marquez and seconded by Member Small that the Minutes of March 17, 1971 be approved as submitted. The motion carried by a unanimous vote. Written Communications 2. Letter from George Ahamnos requesting one --month extension of time to appear before this Committee regarding the illegal structure housing an air-conditioning unit on Don's Burger Villa. It was moved by Member Small and seconded by Member Marquez that an extension be granted. The motion carried by a unanimous vote of the members present. Oral Communications 3. From Mr. Small relative to clarification of a provision of the City Sign Ordinance. I.t was requested by Mr. Small that discussion be'held,relative to a section of the Sign Ordinance to which he was opposed, and it was mutually agreed that this discussion would be introduced as Item lb under New Business. Public Hearings 4. Application HC_51,249.1 - Federal Signs, 1521 Terminal Avenue, San Jose, 95103, requesting approval of sign for HC,30 roll call Minutes approved one -month ext ens -.1_on approved Page 2 1 Minutes of H.'-Control, April 7, 1971 HC--30 HC-51,249.1 presentation discussion Public Hearings (continued) Bessie's Delite, located at 20030 Stevens Creek Boulevard (continued from March 3rd meeting) (Loc.:Map, Ex. 1) A presentation was made by Public Works Director Yarborough,in which he showed slides of the proposed window neon signing and indicated that contact had been made with the,property owner regarding upgrading the facility; however, in that'the property was in the process of being sold, the owner felt he did n'ot wish to make improvements at this time. The possibility was suggested by Mr. Yarborough that the new owner might be approached in this regard. In concluding, he mentioned that the neon signing was within the Sign Ordinance require- ments and did not exceed 25 per cent. Member Marquez strongly opposed the signing as not being in keeping with the standards of the City of Cupertino, and on that basis he n introduced a motion that ApplicatioHC-51,249.1 be recommended for denial. The motion was seconded by,Meraber Small for discussion only. Member Small mentioned that he was not in agreement with the motion although he seconded it. He said the Sign Ordinance does permit 25 per cent coverage and, if the applicant is within the Ordinance and not in violation of same, the application cannot be denied solely for the reason that the Committee does not like the way it looks. In response to Vice Chairman McLardn as to whether or not the sign had been installed without permission, Mr. Yarborough explained that there had been a misunderstanding which had not been entirely the applicant's fault. He said the restaurant owner had been cooperative, however, the property owner had not been. He suggested that the application be approved for a specified length of time. It was pointed.out to the applicant,, at this time, by Member Small that, if he wished to have a full Committee present, he may request a continu- ance to the next meeting for better representation. Discussion continued wherein Member Marquez reiterated his reason for recommending denial was that this type of was not appropriate and did not meet City standards, to which Member Small responded that denial should not be based upon personal opinions and only whether or not the sign is in conformance with the Ordinance. In response to Vice Chairman McLaren's inquiry as to whether or not a continuance would be in order, Mr,"Gene Barbour, 95 Ferngrove, San Jose, representing Federal Sign and Signal Corporation,said he understood the feelings of the Committee, adding that he and the customer had prevailed upon the owner to remedy the situation but the owner would not. An error was made, he said, in placing tubing in the window at this loca- tion without permission. It was the companyls error, he explained, and attempts would be made to alleviate this situation. He added that the company also regretted the inconvenience to Mr. Wong as well. In concluding, Mr. Barbour indicated that the decision of the members present would be accepted and the company would comply with any action taken. 0 Minutes of IL -Control., April 7, 1971 Public Hearings (continued) It was mentioned by 'Member Small that the City of Cupertino has the strictest Sign Ordinance in Santa Clara County, adding that the signs in existence prove this.point. He mentioned several situations which he felt to be worse than the one under discussion, i.e., the vegetable stand located on Highway 9. As long as the sign is within the Sign Ordinance, he said, the Committee should approve it. Vice Chairman McLaren felt that,had the Committee seen these signs originally, they might not have been installed in the first place. She felt it was not fair to other businessmen in the community to allow this signing and further commented that she felt she might consider this signing for a limited time only. At this time, a pole was taken on the motion on the floor and the following yote resulted. ® Ayes: Member Marquez and Vice Chairman McLaren Noes: Member Small Absent: Member Ryner and Chairman Adams The applicant was informed of his right to appeal this denial, within 5 days, to the City Council. 5. Application HC-51,015.9 - Pascco Signs, 1256 Birch,ocd, Sunnyvale, 94086, requesting approval of sign for Trend 0' Fashion, located at 20710 Stevens Creek Boulevard, Crossroads Shopping Center (to be continued) Mr. Yarborough informed the Committee that this application along with the others on the agenda had been advertised for public hearing and therefore had been included on the agenda. IsIt was moved by Member Small and seconded by Member Marquez that Application HC-51,015.9 be continued to the next regularly scheduled meeting for hearing. Ayes: Members Marquez, Small and Vice Chairman McLaren Noes: None Absent: Member Ryner and Chairman Adams 6. Application HC-51,231.2 Sterling Homes, P. 0. Box 115, Campbell, 95008, requesting approval of landscaping and lighting for townhouses located at Foothill Boulevard and Stevens Creek Boulevard. (Loc. Map, Ex. 2) Subsequent to an indication by Mr. Yarborough that the applicant was not present for discussion at'this time, it was moved by Member Small and seconded by Member Marquez that Application RC^51,231.2 be continued for hearing at the end of the Public Hearings portion of the meeting. The motion carried by a unanimous vote. EC-30 Page 3 HC-51,249.1 denial recommended HC-51,015.9 continued HC-51,231.2 temporarily postponed Page 4 i Minutes or H_r-Control, April 7, 1971 HC-3G HC-51,088.8 report and discussion HC-51,088.8 recommended for approval Public Hearings (continued? 7. Application HC--51,088,8 � Monsanto Company, 10131 Bubb Road, requesting approval of site plan and light- ing plan for building located at West 'Valley Industrial Park, 10131, Bubb Road. (Loc, Map, Ex. 3) Mr. Yarborough informed the Committee that the applicant had proposed to enlarge the parking facility, to" complete conventional pole lighting already partially in existence and 'to include a redwood retaining wall on the property. He further pointed out that a landscaping plan had not been included. Mr. John Fulton, representing Monsanto Company, said the possibility of additional landscaping had been introduced by the staff but it was his feeling that with the parking lot being located at the rear of the structure,, that the addition of this landscaping would be impractical, he said, and it was therefore omitted. In concluding, he mentioned that the light standards would be identical to those already installed. Member Marquez expressed his prefer"ence for additional landscaping to be included within the parking lot area and as a screen to avoid viewing a "sea of cars". In response, Mr. Fulton suggested the possibility of installing a large screen to block the autos from the street, adding his feeling that', because of the elevation, and an existing masonry wall, additional landscaping would not aid the situation to any great extent. It was Member Small's opinion that additional landscaping was not necessary behind the building in that there was much landscaping already in existence in that area, and stressed the point that the application was for approval of site plan for additional parking and lighting to be installed,not for landscaping. Discussion followed, wherein Mr. Fulton indicated that funds were of no problem to the applicant but the additional landscaping did appear to be impractical, especially to landscape a 2-foot strip next the the railroad tracks at the rear of the property. It was moved by Member Small that Application HC_51,088.8 be recommended to the City Council for approval, subject to the plans and designs submitted and the H--Control Standard. Conditions, The motion was seconded by Member Marquez for discussion. He mentioned that his only reservation at this time was that he felt the parking lot should be broken up by landscaping but also added that he would go along with the motion in this instance, The following pole vote was taken. Ayes: Members Marquez, Small and Vice Chairman McLaren Noes: None Abstain: Member Ryner (because of late arrival) Absent: Chairman Adams 0 • 19 0 Minutes of H�_Control April 5, 1971 0 Public Hearings (continued) 8. Application HC-51,248,1 r- Simla Lands (H, Aronson) , 21450 Columbus Avenue, requesting approval of site and architecture for buildings to be located at 22330 Homestead Road (to be continued) It was moved by Member Small and seconded by Member Ryner that Application HC--51,248.1 be continued for hearing at the next regularly scheduled meeting. Ayes: Members Marquez, Ryner, Small and Vice Chairman McLaren Noes: None Absent: Chairman Adams 9. Application HC-51,088.9 - Law and Woodson, Architects, . 2600 El Camino Real, Palo Alto, 94306, requesting ap- proval of site, architecture, landscaping and lighting of building to be located at West Valley Industrial Park, 10051 Bubb Road. (Loc.. Map, Ex. 4) Mr. Yarborough reported that, since this subdivision had been pre- viously approved, the H-Control Committee would have the last look at the site and it would receive final approval by said committee. He said the plan was in conformance with the City Zoning Ordinance and described the building as being of textured concrete with panels situated between the windows. He continued by saying that the window frames would be of anodized aluminum enclosing bronzed glass, a trellis had been proposed along with a flat roof similar to that pre- viously approved. Relative to landscaping,he mentioned that lawn had been proposed adjacent to Bubb Road and it had been suggested by the staff that landscaping be considered near the Southern Pacific railroad right-of-way at the rear of the property. Relating to lighting, Mr. Yarborough said fixtures would be installed near trellis area with diffusers on trellis and spot lights would be located on the building to illuminate the parking lot at the rear of the property. Mr. John Law, Architect-, Portola Valley, presented pictures for the Committee's review saying that the building was very similar to one located in Mountain View. He said they had been trying to create a nicely -landscaped front with emphasis on the entrances by the use of the natural wooden trellis. He requested that the wall of juni- pers be accepted by the Committee as screening of the parking lot from the street, in lieu of a wall in the driveway.area. Several colored renderings were shown and it was mentioned that the building had been proposed to be colored in earthy brown tones with wood stains being used also. After some discussion, Member Ryner inquired as to the possibility of moving the building to the center of the lot instead of to one side or the other,to which Mr. Law responded that many site plans had been considered and it was felt this was the best utilization of land as well as providing sufficient parking area. HC-30 Page 5 HC-51,248.1 continued HC-51,088.9 presentation and discussion Page 6 I Minutes of IL -Control, April 7, 1971' HC-30 IIC-51,088.9 Phase A approval recommended Phase B presentation and discussio Public Hearings (continued) Concern was indicated by Member Ryner, w1no questioned having an entire blank wall on the building. In response, Mr. Law mentioned that there had been six other buildings in the'!,area with one blank wall and that in some instances, a blank wall was to be preferred, i..e., manufacturing areas. It was moved by Member Ryner that Application HC-51,088.9, Phase A per- taining site plan only, be recommended to the City Council for approval subject to renderings and plans submitted and the Standard Conditions of H--Control. The motion was seconded -by Member Small and the following vote was taken. Ayes: Members Marquez, Ryner,.Small and Vice Chairman McLaren Noes: None Absent: Chairman Adams Related to Phase B, architecture, Member Small inquired as to provisions 11 for air-conditioning equipment screening, to which Mr. Law pointed out the screening on the elevation and''site plans. He said the screening was to match the roof and would consist of asbestos cement material which.would be textured. In response to an inquiry by Member Small as to the possibility of utilizing a treatment on the roof similar to that used in Vallco Park, Mr. Law said that, because the equipment is small in actual area, it would not be practical to'"extend screeing around the entire building. Discussion continued wherein Member: Ryner indicated his agreement with Member Small's comments adding that.he felt the screening would be quite obvious to passing motorists." A point was brought up by Member Small that the applicant would have, no way of knowing what the lessee's air-conditioning requirements might be and, should the air-conditioning equipment.be larger, the screening proposed would not suffice. Vice Chairman McLaren inquired as to the size of the screening proposed, and Mr. Law responded that it would, be 16 feet square and a 2-1/2--foot projection would evident upon the roof line. Member Marquez, at this time, voiced his opposition to the -raising of the paraput around the roof area as he felt the situation did not warrant the added expense to the applicant. Mr. Thomas Ford, Developer, mentioned to the Committee that roof screens had been placed on other roofs in the area, even when not required. He said attempts had been made in this building and in others to place the air --conditioning equipment back from the front of the structure, adding that the screen should hot be visible to drivers. Regarding windows, he commented that some buildings iri the industrial complex had been approved with windows in the front,ionly and further mentioned -that it was important because of the exposure to have windows along the front and sides of this building. 0 0 E Minutes of H-Control, April 7, 1971 Public Hearings (continued) ® Concern was indicated by Member Ryner as to the substitution of junipers for a masonry wall to screen parked cars in the rear lot because he felt 4 to 4-1/2 feet, the ultimate growth potential of the junipers, would not screen the cars adequately. He also was concerned about the line -of -sight to the roadway and felt this was a critical corner which should be seriously considered. In concluding, Mr. Ryner commented that he was of the opinion that the wall should.match the building rather than the landscaping. Some discussion ensued, wherein Member Marquez agreed with Member Ryser regarding the wall being compatible with the building instead of the landscaping. It was indicated by Mr. Ford that, should a trash enclosure be deemed necessary, it would match the materials of the building (redwood ® construction) and would be 6 feet in. height. It was moved by Member Ryner that Application HC-51,088.9, Phase B, pertaining to architecture, be recommended to the City Council for approval as per plot plan and elevation plans submitted with the condition that, if a trash enclosure is required outside the building,), it would be of redwood composition and a complete enclosure with doors) and not to exceed 6 feet in height: with the added condition that the application be subject to the H-Control Standard Conditions. The motion was seconded by Member Small for discussion. Member Small mentioned that one of the main points made by the City Council had been involved with protrusions above roof lines of the air-conditioning equipment and added his feeling that the paraput wall should be raised to screen equipment adequately or that the screening should be of the same type of material as that used in. the building construction. Mr. Ford responded that the screening height would be 2-1/2 feet at infinity and that the transite material would give the appearance of concrete thereby being compatible with the building structure. At this time, the vote was taken on the motion resulting as follows: Ayes: Members Marquez, Ryner and Vice Chairman McLaren Noes: . Member Small Absent: Chairman Adams In regard to landscaping, Mr. Law commented that he wished to relocate one redwood tree from the railroad right-of-way area to incorporate it into a group of redwood trees located at the end of the property. He said attempts had been made, basically, to create planting against the building, a trellis had been included, and the basic slopes were to remain for the planting of lawn and Liquid Amber trees for color during the year. Member Ryner indicated his opinion that he wished to see trees along the easterly border, near the railroad tracks as well as along the northerly property line. He further mentioned he felt the junipers I were not adequate as a substitute for a wall because greater height was desirable for parking lot screening. In continuing, he indicated concern as to the parking facilities proposed at a similar location on HC-30 Page 7 HC-51,088.9 Phase B approval recommended Page 8 I Minutes of H:Control, April 7, 1971 RC-30 landscaping discussion .HC-51,088.9 Phase C continued Public Hearings (continued) the adjacent property and suggested that screening be installed to separate these two parking lot areas, and he inquired as to whether or not the applicant was willing to do this. Mr. Ford responded by saying that the junipers related to other building in existence in the area,which were owed by the same company. He said he understood the Committee's concern regarding the northern property line, but did not feel that'the railroad planting was appro- priate. He suggested that, instead of a wall, larger junipers be used or possibly another type of shrub in',;the driveway area; and he re- iterated his contention that plantings should be concentrated on the main street portion of the subdivision rather than including it along the railroad right--of-way area. Discussion continued wherein Member Marquez offered his agreement with Member Ryner on the landscaping being inadequate,adding his feeling that the masonry wall should be included dear the driveway area. In response to an inquiry by Member Ryner as to locations of the Liquid Amber trees, Mr. Ford explained that,,they were placed in the locations indicated so as not to block the vie;; to the street on either side of the driveway. He went on to say that they had tried to establish a theme for the entire area, that much thouglit had been giver. to all projects in' the area and that to landscape the railroad right-of-way area would be an exercise in futility. It was mentioned by Member Ryner that, in view of the fact that there were so many changes to the landscaping plan, the condition of his motion would be to continue this application because he was not pleased with all changes. He further indicated his preference that another landscaping layout be reviewed by the Committee prior to presentation to the City Council wherein he would like to see'�trees along the northern property line, the deciduous Liquid Ambers changed to Japanese Black Pines; the owner's suggestion that the out -spreading trees of the redwood species be replaced by Japanese Black Pines and that it be left up to the applicant as to what height of plant;;under the northerly -located Black Pines or whatever tree the applicant desires. Other suggestions were then requested with none being given at this time. It was moved by Member Ryner and seconded by Member Marquez that Application HC-51,088.9, Phase C,pertaining to landscaping, be con- tinued to the next regularly -scheduled meeting in order that the applicant may provide a new landscap',ng plan to include changes as recommended or as he may see fit to incorporate. Ayes: Members Marquez, Ryner, Small and Vice Chairman McLaren Noes: None Absent: Chairman Adams The discussion then went on to Phase:' D, lighting, and Mr. Law indicated that there were only two lights on t.,he exterior of the building as shown on the elevation and site plans. He said there would be one square glass 0 0 Ll Minutes of H--Control, April 9,. 1971 Public Hearings (continued) globe underneath the trellis on the front of the building to enhance the trellis area with the only others being swivel bullet lights on the back side of the building for visibility purposes.in the lot area. In response to an inquiry by Member Ryner as to the candle power, Mr. Law explained that there would be four bulbs of 150 watts each and a 60-watt bulb at the trellis.location. It was moved by Member Small and seconded by Member Marquez that Application HC-51,088.9, Phase D as related to lighting, be recommended to the City Council for approval. Ayes: Members Marquez, Ryner, Small and Vice Chairman McLaren Noes: None Absent: Chairman Adams • At this time, a request was made by Mr. Ford that signs located at the entrance of the industrial complex be eliminated,in that all of the lot had been sold. At the suggestion of Vice Chairman McLaren, Mr. Yarborough agreed to check into the situation.. A recess was called by Vice Chairman McLaren at 9:37 p.m. and the meeting was reconvened at 9:48 p.m. Mr. Ford was again recognized and he requested, in order that the entire application could be presented to the City Council as soon as possible,l, the landscaping plans be revised along the following lines: that pine trees be planted every 18 feet along the northern property line, a row of Photinia (a fast-growing shrub ranging in height from 6 to 8 feet) be placed on each side of the driveway and that the low juniper be continued in front of the driveway so that visibility would not be blocked. He proposed that these revisions be presented to the staff 10 be contained with the remainder of the application for Council approval. It was moved by Member Ryner to rescind his previously -entered motion for a continuance of Phase C of Application HC-51,088.9 and the motion was seconded by Member Small. Ayes: Members Marquez, Ryner, Small and Vice Chairman McLaren Noes: None Absent: Chairman Adams It was then moved by Member Ryner and seconded by Member Small that Application HCr-51,088.9, Phase C concerning landscaping, be recommended to the City Council for approval subject to the condition that land- scaping deleted be submitted to the City staff on architectural control prior to submission to the City Council with the following recommended changes; Photinia to be added in the area at the northeast corner of the property in place of the rear junipers as indicated on the land- scape drawing,with the addition of low -growing junipers in place along with the Photinia, and that Japanese Pines be planted at 18--foot in- tervals along property line as well as Liquid Amber trees being re- placed with Japanese Black Pines. HC-30 Page 9 HC-51,088.9 Phase D recommended for approval recess called HC-51,088.9 Phase C motion rescinded Phase C approval recommended Page 10 I Minutes of IL -.Control, April 7, 1971 HC,30 HC-51,075.13 presentation discussion Public Hearings (continued) Ayes: Members Marquez, Ryner, Small and Vice Chairman McLaren Noes: None Absent: Chairman Adams The applicant was informed by Vice Chairman McLaren that his application would be heard by the City Council on April 19th and he was requested to be present at that time for discussion. 10. Application HC-51,075ii :13 - Vallco Park, Ltd., P. 0. Drawer V, requesting approval of site and architecture for hotel to be located at the southeast corner of Wolfe Road and Prunerdge Avenue. (Loc. Map, Ex. 5) Mr. Yarborough commented that the application in question was for a 12-story hotel structure for review by the H-Control Committee. He then introduced Mr. Walter Ward to describe the development further. Mr. Ward, General Manager of Vallco k'ark, explained that this was Phase 1 of the hotel development andjwould include, in addition to 240 rooms, a lobby, restaurant and ahequate parking facilities. He said there would be a 4 to 5-story parking structure in the center of the location, however, the application being heard was for the hotel structure only. He introduced Mr. Tang to further describe the architecture and materials of the hotel. Mr. Bill Tang, Architect for Vallco Park, 619 Thorton Drive, Sunnyvale, indicated that there would be a low-'irise restaurant area as well as the high-rise hotel building. The building, itself, he said would consist of concrete with sandblasted effects',would have shafts of concrete enclosing stairways to be textured and stained brown color, the re-' f lective bronze glass would be changed to non -reflective, there would be balconies on the structure in a cascading manner, that the trash bins would be of redwood to match the nearby restaurant building. He concluded by saying that the restaurant would have a low-rise battened roof with white concrete. In response to an inquiry by Member Ryner as to the possibility of the same number of rooms in a three -"story structure, Mr. Ward explained that the possibility had been previously explored and it was determined that less land coverage was more desirable, as hotels generally do not function when of the sprawling type,, He said they were aware of the homeowners' concerns regarding 1iigh--rise developments and added that the building would be set backljfour times the height of the building from the residential area.'i 11 Discussion continued wherein Member'I,Smal_l questioned how the air-- conditioning equipment had been treated to which Mr. Ward responded that screening would be of the sameimaterial as the stairways and would completely hide the equipmenti1Member Small went on to say that he felt that high --rise buildings were a good use of land,in that much more open space was allowed by doing this. He added that he felt the building to be an excellent one and°designed as a credit to the com-- i 0 0 munity. 0 • Minutes of H-Control, April 7, 1971 Public Hearings (continued) Dialogue continued regarding air --conditioning wherein Member Ryner questioned why the screening had stopped in the middle of the roof instead of continuing along the entire roof line, to which Mr. Ward .or Mr. Tang had no answer immediately available. Mr. Tang informed the Committee that the conditioning equipment for the restaurant would be located underground so as to avoid an obtrusive view from the hotel structure. It was moved by Member Marquez and seconded by Member Small that approval of Application HC-51,075.13 be recommended to the City Council subject to the H-Control Standard Conditions and to the elevation and plot plans submitted. Ayes: Members Marquez, Small and.Vice Chairman McLaren Noes: Member Ryner Absent: Chairman Adams 11. Application HC-51,075.14 -- Vallco Park, Ltd., P. 0. Drawer V, requesting approval for site and architecture for professional office and related commercial to be located at the northwest corner of Wolfe Road and Steven Creek Boulevard. (Loc. Map, Ex. 6) Mr. Ward described this project as being an attempt to create openness, and he explained that there would be berming around the parking struc- ture with landscaping around the periphery as well as a pedestrian overcrossing proposed to the Sears store. He presented an artist's concept of the two, three-story building structures and the three, two- story structures, relating that there would be four high-rise and other related commercial buildings ultimately included. He also mentioned that bank drive -up facilities would be provided as well as adequate parking allowance for traffic flow. Mr. Ralph Butterfield, Architect with Wurster, Bernardi and Emmons, 1620 Montgomery Street, San Francisco, advanced to the podium des- cribing the materials as being light-colored,concrete frames around the windows which would be lightly sandblasted; roof treatments of a terra cotta type to contain a variety of mechanical equipment and the boiler room, compressors, etcetera, would be located in the base- ment. He said Solar Bronze glass panels would be used and there would be two entrances to the property, those being from Wolfe Road and from Stevens Creek Boulevard to provide flexibility. Concern was indicated by Vice Chairman McLaren that this type of glass panel would expose a multitude of different types of drapes thereby giving a poor appearance to the building. Mr. Butterfield responded that all draping would be uniform in the building structure. ® Responding to an inquiry by Member Small buildings instead of one larger building, this was done to leave this intersection as to why there were five Mr. Ward indicated that open. HC-,30 Wage 11 HC-51,075.13 approval recommended HC-51,075.14 presentation Page 12 HC-51,075.14 approval recommended HC-51,189.4 presentation Minutes of H-Control? April 7; 1971 RC--30 Public Hearings Cconti.nued). Discussion continued briefly wherein,,Mr. Butterfield described the height of the buildings as being 36 feet to the uppermost portion of the two-story buildings and 48 feet on the three-story buildings. He also mentioned, in response to an inquiry from 'Member Marquez, that the time span for completion was unknown at this time. Mr. Ward interjected that the area had been committed and he estimated it to be from 8 to 12 years, but he added that this was a very difficult question to answer as many things were not foreseeable at this time. It was moved by Member Small and seconded by Member Marquez that Application HC-51,075.14 be recommended to the City Council for approval on architecture only, subject to the Standard Conditions of H-Control and as per plans submitted; and site approval with -the pro- viso that the additional parking, as°needed, be included by the applicant. Ayes: Members Marquez, Small and'Vice Chairman McLaren Noes: None Abstain: Member Ryner Absent: Chairman Adams The applicant was informed that this application would be heard by the City Council on April 19th and he was requested to be present at that meeting, 12. Application HC--51,189.4 - Avery Construction Company, .479 Castro Street, Mountain View, 94040, requesting approval of site, architecture, landscaping, lighting, signs and undergroundng of utilities for 68 units to be located at 10100 Mary Avenue. (Loc. Map, Ex. 7) Public Works Director Yarborough pointed out that the applicant was relying primarily on a more flexible';format of layout than previously reviewed. He said the use of trees of a 50-foot height was more desirable in this type of development than the smaller types and mentioned that the only site plan available was one of a schematic nature only. Approval of the application, -he indicated, would be based on confidence in the applicant!:as related to his previous developments. He continued by saying that the new site plan had been brought about by the relocation of Mary Avenue which resulted in additional space being acquired by Mr. Avery near the freeway for the provision of 68 additional units to his development. In concluding, he explained that there would be no changes in ar- chitecture, lighting, land use, etcetera. It was Member Small's opinion that the Avery Construction Company had done an excellent job in the past, and the application in this case should be approved based on the fact that the applicant has shown his merits already and the staff could see that the same theme is carried out in the new units to be added. Minutes of H--Control, April 7, 1971 HC•30 Page 13 Public Hearings (continued) At this time, Mr. Burt Avery, Avery Construction, 479 Castro Street, Mountain View, owner and developer of the site came forward and mentioned that the same scheme would be used and the same professional people would again be used. He said there would be no additional ingredients with the exception of land and additional facilities. There had been 500 trees proposed for planting, he said, and the trees in existence would be retained. Agreement was indicated by Member Marquez. with Member Small's comments as to Mr. Avery's reputation. After a brief discussion among the members, it was moved by Member Small and seconded by Member Marquez HC-51,189.4 that Application HC-51,189.4 be recommended to the City Council for approval approval subject to the Standard Conditions of H-Control; with the recommended architecture, landscaping, lighting, signs and utilities to be in keeping with that already approved and subject to the staff- com-mittee's review. Ayes: Members Marquez, Ryner, Small and Vice Chairman McLaren Noes: None Absent: Chairman Adams For the record, Member Small indicated for the Council's information that this was a departure from the normal procedure which was felt to be justified because of the applicant's excellent reputation for work done previously.. 14. Application HC-51,231.2 - Sterling Homes, P. 0. Box 1.15 Campbell, 95008, requesting approval of landscaping and lighting for townhouses located at Foothill Boulevard and Stevens Creek Boulevard. (Loc. Map, Ex. 2) It was indicated by Mr. Yarborough that this was a similar situation to that of Mr. Avery. He said that the applicant had planned to land- scape the balance of the site in the same manner as was done around the models to carry forward a scheme identical to that used in Unit No. 1, with the exception of the treatment to screen the P G & E facility. Slides were then presented for the Committee's informa- tion. Mr. Fred Ludeman, Sterling Home Developers, 3000 Scott Boulevard, Santa Clara, came forward and, in responding to an inquiry by Member Marquez as to the number of units proposed, indicated that there would be a total of 71 units in this development, He said the P G & E screening was to consist of trees to be of 8 to 9 feet to be _plante.d upon a mounding of approximately 3 feet in height for a combined screen height of 10 to 12 feet. HC-51.231.2 presentation After some discussion, it was moved by Member Small that Application HC-51,231.2 be recommended to the City Council for approval of land- scaping and lighting, subject to the H--Control Standard Conditions and recommended .ended also subject to the checking by the staff as to the theme, design and recommended layout for review as to proportion with Unit No. 1 and,further,that thefor approval a Page 14 varied discussion and Committee comments Minutes of H.:Contrgl, April 7? 1971 Public Hearings (continued] 11 trees bordering the P G & E right-of�way be 15--gallon trees as volunteered by the applicant to screen the substation facility. The motion was seconded by Member Ryner and the following vote.was taken. Ayes: Members Ryner, Small and Vice Chairman McLaren Noes: Member Marquez Absent: Chairman Adams Vice Chairman McLaren informed the applicant that his application would be heard by the City Council at their meeting to be held April 19th, and asked that he be present at that'�time. Unfinished Business 13. Review of inquiries and requests directed to City staff relative to reported violations of H-Control regulations. In response to an inquiry by Vice Chairman McLaren as to whether or not the Committee members had reviewed the report in question, it was mutually indicated that all had;and Member Sm�lall commended the staff for following through and giving the answers in such a prompt manner. 14. Status report of H-Control Applications. An inquiry was made by Member Marquez as to how long applications remained on report bofo.re they are removed, to, which Mr. Yarborough responded that said applications remained on the report until the final steps involved' had.been completed by the applicant.'! 15. Street Beautificationl'Fund Policy. The Committee was informed by Mr. Yarborough that there had been some difficulty in getting the sub=committee together for discussion of this policy relative to the formulation of guidelines. As it appeared to be a long-term policy, it was moved by Member Small that a Minute Order be indicated for,continuance of the final vote on this policy until membership and chairmanship, now pending, are appointed. He said he felt the new membership should set this policy. The motion was seconded by Member Marquez and passed with a unanimous vote. New Business D 16. Review of Landscaping Plan -- Stevens Creek Boulevard - Southern Pacific Railroad to Sunnyvale -Saratoga Road. Mr. Yarborough reported that Mrs. Manning had been retained, with the approval of the City Council, to provide consulting services to the City staff and would be working on landscaping plans for the medians located on Stevens Creek Boulevard,as well as changes to be provided in the future; when funds are made available. HCr30 u L2 Minutes of H-Control, April 7a 1971 New Business (`continued) • At this time, Mrs. Susan Manning, 7720 Oak Knoll Court, came.forward and briefly described the landscaping plans as follows. She said the landscaping would be of a flowing type with heavy pieces of rock being used in the narrow concrete strips in some areas. The main color theme, she said, was to be in green, white, orange and yellow to be carried out by the use of Gazanias, massed Agapanthus, Pyracanthas, Carob trees, Ceanothus, Petunias, and Liquid Amber trees. In concluding,she mentioned that one portion consisted of Dessert Gold stone which had been installed by the State, adding that there would be plantings done in this area also. In response to an inquiry by Member Ryner as to why there were not more trees included, Mrs. Manning indicated that the State had prohibited it. It was Member Ryner`s contention that, if this was going to be here for 7 years, more of the flowing concept should be included in the State area also. It was suggested by Mr. Yarborough that the curbed area be painted white and that ground covering be added -and discussion continued, wherein it was indicated by Member Small that he felt the plan was very well done. It was requested by Mr. Yarborough that an indication of support be given on this plan,which would accompany an estimate covering work to be done to the Citv Council for their review. The Committee was informed that there would be other plans presented for their review in the future along these same lines. It was moved by Member Small and seconded by Member Ryner that the landscaping plan for Stevens Creek Boulevard, as submitted by Mrs. Manning, be submitted to the City Council as it was well done and would add considerable color to Stevens Creek Boulevard. Ayes: Members Marquez, Ryner, Small and Vice Chairman McLaren Noes: None Absent: Chairman Adams The request, previously made by Member Small, to speak on the Sign Ordinance was recognized by Vice Chairman McLaren at this time. Member Small questioned some of the provisions in the Sign Ordinance, Section 2, referred to in the instruction package given to applicants. It was his feeling that if there was an existing sign and a new building occupant wished to change the lettering only, of a sign already in existence without changing the size, shape or any other part of the sign, he should be allowed to do so. He cited an instance which had occurred recently involving a local attorney wherein he was cited for violation of the Ordinance because he changed the lettering on a sign from "Real.Estate" to "Law Offices'. According to Mr. Small, this. appeared to be unfair to the small businessman and he felt the City festaff should be allowed to approve or disapprove signs when only the lettering had been changed, HC-30 Page 15 median landscaping plan reviewed plan approved for. sub- mission Sign Ordinance comments Page 16 I Minutes of RL Control, April 7� 1971 " RC-30 further Sign Ordinance discussion Sign Ordinance Minute Order indicated New Business (continued) In continuing, Mr. Small said he would be going into business in this City very shortly and the sign of particular concern to him was already in existence and wondered whether or not he would have to apply for sign approval, pay the fees required''and meet deadlines for the sole purpose of changing the lettering only, on this sign. He said he felt now, as he had all along, that the City's Sign Ordinance was the strictest one in Santa Clara County and, in particular, Section 2,as it pertains to the matter under discussion. He went on to say that the Ordinance, as it presently reads, is completely unfair to the businessmen in the City and, if taken in its literal meaning; would require all stores advertising daily and weekly specials on meat, produce, etcetera, to apply regularly for approval. It was indicated by Mr. Small that he felt the Committee should recommend to the City Council,that this provision of the Sign Ordinance be revised, thereby allowing the staff to approve signs wherein only a lettering change was involved. By doing this, he said, many applications would be eliminated from hearing by the H-Control Committee that are now being reviewed. Responding to an inquiry by Member Marquez as to how soon an application could obtain approval if presented at this time, Member Small indicated that, unless the application is made by April 9th, it would miss the next H-Control meeting and would not be heard by the City Council until the first of June. In his case, Mr. Small said he wished to open his establishment by the first of May. Fie added that he has been a strong supporter of the Sign Ordinance but feels that the City staff should be able to approve sign lettering changes. Discussion continued, wherein it was mentioned by Public Works Director Yarborough that the primary concerns,indicated in the past by the Committee had been involved with sign location and placement on the building, method of placement on''structure and colori and that lettering changes had not appeared to be of main concern previously:.. Additional dialogue ensued, during which Member Small indicated that he brought the subject to the attention of the Committee members so that it could be made a matter of record only. Member Marquez was of the opinion that the problem should be solved, once and for all, and not on an'iridividual basis only. He then requested that the staff investigate the Ordinance further and that recommendations be brought before the Committee as soon as possible in this regard. It was then moved by Member Ryner and seconded by Member Small that a Minute Order be indicated to the staff to further investigate the lettering portion of the Sign Ordinance and the coloring portion also, if necessary, for presentation of a report at the next regularly - scheduled meeting of the H-Control Committee. Ayes: Members Marquez, Ryner, Small and Vice Chairman McLaren Noes: None Absent: Chairman Adams 40 to is Minutes of H--Control April 7 } i971 New Business (continued] rIn response to an inquiry made by Vice Chairman McLaren as to new Committee appointments, Mr. Yarborough indicated he had no answers to give at this time.. 0 Member Small. mentioned that he had enjoyed serving the City for the past 11 years, adding that two of the main reasons he was resigning at this time were: 1) the new meeting hour of 7:30 p.m. which had greatly inconvenienced him and 2) the late hours to which the meetings had been extending. Member Marquez also mentioned that he was finding it difficult in getting to these meetings and indicated that he may be finding it necessary to be absent from some of the meetings in. the future or find it necessary to resign from the Committee entirely. He pointed out that he had been involved in meetings on every evening of the week,which had proven to be an increasingly difficult schedule to maintain. Adjournment It was moved by Member Small and seconded by Member Marquez that the meeting be adjourned. The motion was carried by a unanimous vote. Vice Chairman McLaren declared the meeting adjourned aL 11:48 p.m. ATTEST: /s/ Wm. E. Ryder City Cleric APPROVED: sJ Juanita McLaren Vice Chairman HC-30 Page 17 varied comments adj ournmen. :