HomeMy WebLinkAbout1979-10-15 City Council Summary Minutesi
CITY
COUNCIL
MINUTE3
Regular• Meeting
October 15, 1979
ITEM
Minutes of August 20, 1979
Oral Communications:
Roland Lowe
Herb Borock
Consent -Calendar - Referral Items
Continuation of Federally Funded Housing Improvement
Program - Referral to Finance and Public Works
Requirements for Continuation of Advanced Wastewater Treatment
Facilities - Referral to Finance and Public Works
Consent Calendar - Action Items
Ordinance re Leaves of Absence for Appointed Board or
Commission Members (1st reading 10/1/79)
Resolution Adopting Salaries for Council -Appointed Officers
Award of Contract to Arbor Tree Surgeons for Rear Easement
Line Clearing
Award of Design Consultant Contract for Greer Park, Phase I
2253 Park Boulevard - Termination of !,ease, Former Fire Station
325-345 Ramona - Application for Final Map, George Cody
227 High Street - Application for Final Map, High Street Solar
3341 Park Boulevard - Application for Change of District,
Triangle Associates
165 Bryant Street - Application for Change of District,
Edith Reeves
401 Al - A,p pl i,.tion to
Heeman Wolf
t ttee
of Provisions
VC 1-"A,,
Resolutions -Of n- - �iec�acion to Mil ors---- _-_.
Finance and Public Works Committee re Traffic Barriers, Hamilton
and Guinda Avenues
f, !liiiFN_IC_' and Public Work.; 3#71 73 Y i i:'{+ -f? no4 T7tF1Me1
Planning Commission re Downtown Park North
Planning Cammission re Peter Cutts Hill
Adjournment
PArk
guar � 5
C
OF
PALO
ALTO
PAGE
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o n r
C V V
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10/15/79
Regular Meeting
October 15, 1979
The City Council of the City of Palo Alto met in the Councilchamber at
230 Hamilton Avenue at 7:35 p.m., Mayor Alan Henderson presiding.
PRESENT: Brenner, Eyerly, Fazaino (arrived 7:40 pain.), Fletcher,
Henderson, Levy, Renzel, Sher (arrived 7:40 p.m,.), Witherspoon
ABSENT: Roue
Mayor Henderson announced that Council would hold au executive session
regarding possible litigation sometime during the evening.
tJTES Off IMST 20 1979
Counecil.member Witherspoon asked that on page 117, the name in paragraph
eight, first line, read instead "Michael Oman."
Co:Fnccilanenber Renzel asked that the amendment moved on page 113, and the
amendment passed on page 116, read instead: ",.. 'hat Council include in
the study consideration for continuing past schedule of county -funded
dredgings and use of such spoils as coverage at the dui."
Mayor Henderson asked that on page 113 the third line cf the fifth
paragraph read instead, "..,continue with the past three or four years
schedule of dredging by the county. . . ."
MOTION: C- uncilmoraber Witherspoon moved, seconded by Renzel, that
Council approve the minutes as corrected. The notion passed on a unanimous
vot
e.
ote.
ORAL C01,01UNICATIMS
1., Roland Lowe, 4098 Laguna, observed that the golf course had not
been a subject on the agenda for a while. He said he spoke as
president of the Palo Alto Ben's Club, with its clubhouse at the
Palo Alto Golf Course. He said that earlier criticism of the
architecture of the clubhouse was "...rather gracious," and he
recalled earlier skepticism on tha part of V{ce Meyor Sher regaadhg
the forecast o f financial s 1f- f f %cien .y of the golf course by
ay..a.. .. of d.u2W.41
_r.. rte.. _q: q.. _�o.�� . r...
.-� ......o ..� �.... .rv�+w:aaa OW.U.411P 11114WW.:* uc 842.3rs LUG $ S Cilia 61ad
Ituu me- years bout 6f)0
saga/m awi.3 f �_a 4 w� i.%.� now 'had about
ita, with the number still increasing. He said about -$1.8
Million had been invested into the golf owassme.amilize maid Vaal
he bad the impression from talking with others that the golf course
was meat behind what it had been before that investment, with a
1e— attractive chub =se_ wed _the (oaf course a e ine o le lea
worse condition, He thought poor management was to blame arising
from lac of a rg s raps it had to do with parks and stecreatzon
and the relationship with the golf personnel. He thought the
problem might lie in 'system,' and he appealed for Council's intervention.
Be added that he thought the Greyhound Bus Building could be made
into a pleasant place, with work.
2. Herb Borock, 4b2 Roas Road, said that October 17 waa a national
day of .protest against "Bigoil.'i Citizens throughout the country
, . .>
RLSOL
were going to send messages asking congress to extend price controls.
He read suggested wording for the message that extension of controls
be tied in with a fight against inflation. He offered cards to
Councilmembers who wished to join.
Mayor Henderson urged that participants in that evening's meeting do
what: they could tc move the long agenda forward as speedily as possible.
Councilsember Renzel asked that.the matter concerning Site and Design review
of improvements at the recycling center be removed from the consent
calendar.
The following items remained on the consent calendar.
Referral
r d Tj ®F EEZE ALLY FUNDED
�l.NI. .l.S.Y Nli Yi V � YI�.0.111�
Hour 1NG IIfFRQ uT__ PRODate i
BUDGET AMENDMENT —REFERRAL TO FINANCE
Staff recommends referral of this item to Finance and Public Works
Committee for consideration of alternative "C," i.e., the $200,000
needed now could be allocated from the reserve for general contingency
and could be repaid as in alternative "B." If the Finance and Public
Works Committee concurs, the budget amendment upon Council approval,
will transfer the necessary $200,000 from the reserve for general contingency
to the Housing Improvement Program.
IREM NTa FOR CCNT INUATLO 0
GRANT }1INDIi?( FOR_XHE (:O: ST'EET10 OF
FER A I, T(L I �' Ee r l'iJBj.XC �'�tRE CG: ftSI'I
(CMR:445:9)
Staff recommends referral of report CMR:44S:S to the Finance and Public
Works Committee for review. Staff further recommends that the Committee
and Council consider and immediately proceed with the following actions,
so that grant funding for advanced wastewater treatment facilities
(AM71) will continue without interruption: Adopt the proposed ordinance
revising Chapter 16, Industrial Waste, of the Municipal Code; Adopt the
resolution changing Utility Rate Schedules S-1, 5-1--0 and S-2 to become
effective July 1, 1980, or when the MTV becomes fully operational,
whichever occurs first; Execute the addendum to the basic agreement
between Palo Alto, -Mountain View and Los Altos to imple ent quality and
euantitY_coat allar_Atinnw_ - -
First Reading 10/1/79)
ORDINANCE 3162 entitled "ORDINANCE OF THE
UN IL .0 THE C.i i Vtr- k'ALO- AL"ru ADDING -SECTION
2.16.015 -TO THE PALA ALTO MUNICIPAL CODE
-...:%:n i r.:i:is' s.rcaf
. i �+t�i��st�s. 8i,7I `lx6ld. i i)
BOARD CO
MMISSION SSI g MEMBERS."
e"
ION ADOPTING S IES FO
IgsoluTim 5740 entitled "RESOLUTION OF THE
Ct CIL OF THE C1TT OF PAID ALTO ADOPTING
SAT_KRIKS 1 AIL-APFO1R €llFId S. Q"
10/15/79
ANASU OF CONTRACT TO epHOR TREE SURGEONS
wREAR_ EASEMENT LINE CLEAEJ (CiR:443:9)
Staff recommends that Council award the bid to the low bidder, Arbor
Tree Surgery, in the amount of $47,994, and authorize the Mayor to
execute a contract in that amount.
CONTRACT --Arbor Tree Surgeons
AW CT
eFOR . AI MU PHASE I (CMR:449:9)
Staff recommends Council authorize the Mayor to execute the agreement
with John Sue Associates in the amount of $42,260.
AGREEM NT- -PROFESSIONAL CONSULTANT SERVICES_
John Sue Associates
22r ..wuA_a
ATigN +cif LAa
F , YI1 TA 2 CHR:44S:9)
Staff recommends that Council authorize staff to
lease effective October 15, 1979, and withhold a
the building or site until the October 22, 1979,
,Ma143 R MONA--APPLICATIOIL
FOR PINALHAr
a0 CE CO Y
terminate the subject
decision on re -use of
Council meeting.
The Planning Commission unanimously recommends approval of the application
of George Cody for a final map for property located at 325-343 Ramona.
APPI,IC.A'i FOR FI�iAL MAF
BY }ilCi '.—§-21.4.E.1-121-.AR—
The
Planning Commission unanimously recommends approval of the application
of High Street Solar for approval of a final map for property located at
227 High Street,
i I IM V R L'1 ! OF OI S TYiILCT
Nla��l�l��y} +lilr .dta
MIL��TI:S
The Plannaug Cim.ssiou unanimously recommends deniai of the application
of ?rianxie Associates for a ch, nee of diatrirt of prr,nort.r
s spa rartLtouL vazd tr< E-1, to PC.
The Planning ng Commission unanimously recommends da approval of the application
of 1 dtth R, R**,,ess for is theogo el" Al.,tr4ct of ,.,..z ..s._,
Bryant Street from k--1 to -i
ORDINANCE OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF PALO ALTO AMENDING SECTION 1S.0E.040
OF THE PALO ALTO MUNICIPAL CODE (THE
ZONING ') TO CAGE THE CLASSIFICATION
OF PROPER'T'Y KNOWN A4 165 RRYANT STREET
FUME &-1 TO WI (First reading)
2O
1 0/1 , 79
41.4a.ohcra 40.71
X401 ALMA --APPLICATION
TO AMEND USE OF PR IONS OF P -C
BY HERMAN WOW
F
The Plauning Commission unanimously recommends approval of the application
of Herman Wolff to amend the use of previsions of an existing P -C to
permit sales and service of Mopeds for property located at 3401 Alma.
ORDINANCE OF THE COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF PALO ALTO AMENDING ORDINANCE 1362
TO ALLOW FOR SALES AND SERVICE OF MOPEDS
IN THE P -C ZONE LOCATED AT 3401 ALMA
(First reading)
MOTION: Councilsae_saber Fazzino moved, seconded by Renzel, that Council
adopt the ordinances for first and second readings, approve the resolution,
adopt the recommendations and authorize the agreements. The motion
passed on a unanimous voice vote.
ElL LO U,� F L I.AT 1U
S i *L ��ZEN F.UPP AND GARY E. TALBOT
sa�tuTNC _ itiE_ ARCHITEC
MOTION: Co! ncilmember Levy introduced the following resolutions and,
seconded by Witherspoon, moved their approval by Council. The motion
passed on a unanimous voice vote,
RESOLUTION 5741 Of THE COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF PALO ALTO EXPRESSING APPRECIATION
TO SIGRID LORENZEN RUPP FOR OUTSTANDING
PUBLIC SERVICE AS A MBER OF THE
ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW BOARD
RESOLUTION 5742 OF THE COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF P -.'A ALTO EXPRESSING APPRECIATION
TO GARY E. TAL3OT FOR OUTSTANDING PUBLIC
SERVICE AS A AVER_ Of THE ARCHITECTURAL
REVIEW FOARD
Mayor Henderson thanked Sigrid Rupp and Gary Talbot for their many hours
of service to the City; they responded saying they had experienced much
gratification with the work.
Vie Maiyor Shs.r_ rhicirman s,F *ha Fi.,.s,tid. AnA Pedal is , " r, d t Paso•
said that a petition from a nulber of residents on Haeiltou Avenue had
-4- - Al Y- -1 1 .- 9 A ' V c _. _ I . _ _ �. l f • r r �+ - s
wetda. 3M iii , tb�L17s� 6:e.s�as 114CLU $i*CQ �L.F.$3L i on namiiton as -
it + .iX1g to t e W i fOr traffic rtirs, A Staff f report vi 341ite 'Jet 20--
_
tiesei€yefl results of m sandy it had Made, comparing traffic on Ham:lima
with traffic on nearby parallel streets. There had been considerably
more traffic on Hamilton than en tho .a Arra.etn. S.Pisff h..td 1"•= 11:125A__
its Alternative 2 as a possible solution to the problem. Alternative 2
wasan 1 e for 3 th. trial, `L 1 r at R i 1tnr + _ 1. 3 taraArt
t� niece a � a a era��..asa�aa rra. xai.�. s►.nrt.�ca a aaarsi x eau. a7:xi�.z � -a %- --n t'iz cr ncc-c.a
Guinds.
MOTION: Vice Mayor Sher, on behalf of the Finance and Public Works
Committee, moved that Council approve the recommendation of staff, by
adopting Alternativel,
205
10/16/79
•
•( +1
Councilmember Witherspoon asked if during the six-month period any
traffic counts were to be made on nearby parallel streets.
Ted Noguchi, Director of Transportation, replied that such traffic
counts would be a part of the trial process.
Counciliaewbber Witherspoon said she did not favor barriers, but she would
vote for the six-month trial.
Mr. Noguchi projected a map of the area. He explained that the proposed
barrier was similar to that installed at present at Charleston and Louis
Roads. He said that it would be difficult to check origin and type of
traffic now traveling on University Avenue.
Kathy Young, 1030 Hamilton, appealed to Council to maintain the residential
character of Hamilton Avenue by approving the proposed barrier.
R
Monty Frost, 1114 Hamilton, said the quality of life oa Hamilton was
degraded by the amount of through traffic it carried.
Sigrid Rupp, 1220 Hamilton, urged Council not to place the proposed
barriers. She said she worked at her desk in the front part of her
home, and observed the traffic --she did not know how a count of 2000
ears daily had been arrived at, she thought there were far fewer. According
to that figure 1400 cars a day would be sidetracked to other streets,
mainly Forest Avenue. She emphasized that all motorists used other
people's streets, and in all fairness streets should be kept open,
showing mutual respect among motorists.
Eric Vesely, 1220 Hamilton, said that his consulting business would be
impeded by the proposed barriers. He recommended rejection of the idea.
John Strong, resident on University Avenue, said he thought that if
Hamilton Avenue residents had any civic attitude at all they would share
some of University Avenue residents' traffic. He asked if university
Avenue could be blocked off --its traffic was horrendous.
Bob Bachman, 820 Hamilton, reminded listeners that the sic -month period
was an experiment; the resulting study might set a precedent for other
streets which wanted to follow suit.
rnaltal ,
;0 dt , eucauraged councilmeesbers to give the
barrier a trial. He thought crosstown traffic, rather than traffic
bound for Highway 101, caused the problem, and the barrier would only
discourage such crosstown rooting.
Dole 10$8 University Avenue, opposed the barrier. He thought
perhaps university could be blocked, with Hamilton and Forest to become
one -may streets. He deplored the amount end harard of b _ traffic _ on
- - -- -- ink
0.1y1.6 guy �cr�sse would becriminal,: that _ r.e1fr_e. hR.�
-- _- tt r attenti.on for only a short while, then went elsewhere.
John Griffiths, 1266 Hamilton, urged a trial barrier for six moues. Be
t hta the orestt sltu.fttINI waft imt*1----tabic.
cam, unclimember Everly Rid rt..,+.!ght it would be premature to block.
Hamilton Avenue, since the most serious problem Way-inWai-in the University
Avenue corridor, Which was Tr rta tion t s prime candidate for a traffic
study ar.thin the group of City streets. He tad voted for this recommendation
rsioce he had been told it tied in with University Avenue traffic study
plums.
AMENDMENT: Councilme ber Eyerly wed, seconded by Witherspoon, that at
207
10/1S/79
1
the end of the six-month trial period, the staff report on impact of the
trial barrier on neighboring streets, and return University Avenue
Corridor Study, and suggestions for traffic control to Council.
1
Ccuncilmember Brenner said she would support the motion to install the
traffic barrier for six months; she thought the corridor could take care
of local traffic --the struggle was with through traffic. She feared it
would get worse before it got better. She said the study would be more
helpful if speeds on University Avenue were checked, and also there was
enforcement of the truck ordinance both against use and parking. She
said she had complaints about a heavy truck parked at Chaucer and University.
She asked if Counciliuember Eyerly would incorporate those ideas in his
amendment, because she would like those things to be done while the
study was under way. '
Councilmember Eyerly agreed to do that.
Councilmerber Brenner -said that some time back Council had spoken of
having eastbound Hamilton Avenue traffic diverted at Cowper or Webster
before it had penetrated so far as Guinda. She asked that the Transportation
Department consider that.
AMENDMENT PASSED: The amendment that at the end of the six-month trial
period staff report to Council on the impact of the trial barrier on
neighboring streets, and return wl th the University Avenue Corridor Study,
end suggestions for traffic control, to Council, and also enforce against
speed and truck usage, passed on a unanimous vote.
founcilmember Fletcher said she supported the motion wholeheartedly --it
was the result of much work. She suggested that instead of "DD NOT
ENTER" signs, staff devise some sign indicating that vehicles other then
automobiles would be permitted.
Couneilmember Renee' ea d_ e supported the motion. She enumerated the
hard work Hamilton Avenue residents hod done to get information ennnagth
to persuade Cnenci,7 to favor i__ _ . .
sv;��:rsa�aetion of a barrier.
Mayor genderson Geld he supported the six-month trial. The problem with
through traffic had been ongoing since completion of DuMbarton Bride.
MOTION PASSED: The motion as amended passed on a unanimous vote. _.
Vice Mayor Sher noted that by prior action Council had helped to divert
traffic onto Hamilton Avenue, and so Council was in effect rectifying a
previously inadvisable action.
MOTION: Vice Mayor Sher moved, seconded by Pa.asino, that Council move
the item conc.rrnirsg recommendations of the Punning Commission regarding
Downtown Park North up on the_ agenda. ed i agenda. to _ be consider th the _ e i otnce
ermt_ and P i wn- rn _C itt c.urasideration of that park. The motion
. s w_
s.e.....
.-_ � _ � =ate � � �:�, voice vote.
ATOM
The Finance and Public Works Committee transmits to Council the Committee
minutes of September 25, 1979, and retutus the natter of Downtown Park
North to Council without recommendation.
leagaNatELEM
ISST N RE C ATIONS
Vice Mayor Sher said that the issue had been controversial. He referred
Corrected
See Pg. 279
11/19/79
208
10/15/79
to a staff report on the matter dated October 11 (CMR:44k:9) to which
previous memos on the subject were attached. In November, 1975, staff
had reported on ehe interim condition of Downtown Park North to Council,
telling of minimal park improvements and deteriorated housing that
needed more than just spot repairs. Also, if a park were to be developed,
steps toward its development had to be taken. On February 27, 1979 the
Finance and Public Works Committee requested that staff, working with
the Palo Alto Housing Corporation, study alternatives for developing
park facilities at the subject site, that would accommodate existing
housing, with the possibility of acquisition by the Housing Corporation
for the rental housing program. Staff met with the Housing Corporation
and also with residents of the neighborhood September 5, 1979, Four
alternatives had then been presented by staff to the Planning Commission,
and the Commission's land use alternatives were on pages 3 and 4 of the
October 11 report. Those alternatives were: an all -park development;
existing housing configuration with improved park facilities and sale of
the housing; half of the block to be developed as park, half to be
rehabilitated and remain as housing. The Planning Commission unanimously
recommended that there be some nix of park and housing, and on a 5-2
vote approved a park/housing configuration to have a neighborhood park
along Everett, and passive park and community garden area along Hawthorne,
with houses to be sold to the Housing Corporation which would rehabilitate
them and rent theme. Vice Mayor Sher_ continued. He said the matter was
next considered by the Finance and Public Works Committee, and no consensus
was reached as all motions had been voted down or had tie votes. Another
alternative had emerged from the discussion, he said, and the Housing
Corporation had endorsed the idea, that was to continue a park/housing
mix and retain the option of an eventual full block of park development.
The houses on the block would be solo] to the Housing Corporation, rehabilitated
and then rented ander the rental housing acquisition program for 15-20
years. The City would retain the right to reacquire the housing parcels
for a nominal sum; after that 1 r n�
.�.� j�--Gv year period, or the City could
obtain the land for park development any time witnin that period by
paying the outstanding balance of the mortgage.
Vice Mayor Sher continued. The purchase price that the Housing Corporation
would pay would generate funds to develop the park as he had described.
Staff had pointed out that in the absence of such funding, development
of the park would have to compete with other City projects for completion.
That new elternative_edetteeveral points in the Coe prehenaive Plan, along
with housing objectives and financing concerns.' Staff hoped that a
direction could be met that evening, so that it could have firm direction.
Vice Mayor Sher said he thought it was wrong to make the neighborhood
choose between housing and parks —many residents felt as though a park
had been promised, and also, in view of Palo Alto's housing shortage, it
seemed inappropriate to tear down existing housing. Vice Mayor Sher
said he hoped that Council could aasure residents in that area that no
intense housing was considered and that ultimately there could be a park
on the full block.
Covaaeiime ber Brenner said ohm thought that if Council could dedicate
the park land before entering into an agreelleat to provide interim
housing, it would make the City's intentimaa mama elem...
Roy Abrams, City Attorney, aafd he thought the charter provision that
seeks park dedication would accommodate a double use of the site as
housing and park land. . The charter provision, he thought, should be
used as a planning tool and an, ordinance could be adopted by Council
that allowed interim cane of housing and also park land, with an operative
date for the dedication to be set sometime in the future.
C unci me ber Witherspoon asked if the /970 plans to hire an architect
to develop the park had ever been put to use.
2O9
10/15/79
Danny Fred, Planning Department., said a master plan had been developed
at that time.
Ken Schreiber, Assistant Director of Planning and Community Environment,
Said a drawing with a 1972 initialing of approval had been found, but a
study of Council minutes showed that the work was not carried out,
because emphasis had changed to retaining the housing. The drawing was
for the full park and would cost about $325,000. The plans were schematic,
and had play, barbecue and ball -playing areas along with other facilities.
Councilmember Eyerly recalled that the recent proposal to move two
additional houses to the area had activated the neighborhood. He understood
that 2253 Park Boulevard had an area of .69 acres (30,000+ square feet)
and he wanted to ask staff how much of that area was usable for housing.
He said he asked because it might be feasible to move 421 Everett to
that location; it vas the only house that staff had said was worth any
major expense.
Jean Diaz, Real Property Administrator, said that a look at the map
before Councilmembers would show a water pumping reserve system that
would have to remain at that site. He showed where the two houses that
Northern California Savings had offered the City might be situated. He
added that 421 Everett and 209 Waverley houses were in very good condition.
In turning to the public on the matter of Downtown Park North, Mayor
Henderson emphasized that Counci1mersbers had read the minutes and
through correspondence and telephone calls had been made aware of the
many diverse points of view on the proposed direction of development for
the park; he asked for brevity and for as little repetition as possible.
Agnes Wright, 169 Waverley Street, gave details on how the present park
seemed under utilized. She thought the housing should be kept.
Jane Goldstein, 415 Cambridge, spoke for the League of Women Voters, who
encouraged increase in Palo Alto's housing stock. The League thought
the houses presently at the Downtown Park North site should be kept for
the Below Market Rate (EMR) program, and that the two mini -parks at the
site be retained.
Walter Sedrika, 325 Waverley, said he had a six -year old son, and so he
was interested in retaining the park. He said the issue was whether
Downtown Park North or some other City project should be funded. He
held his tax dollars vent to provide more open space for those who
already had plenty, and be did not care for that. He did not think so
soh attention should be paid to retaining only 17 houses. He noted
that it had been intended for ten years that a park be established in
the area, end that the intention vas evaporating in two short months.
Be said that in contrast to other City plans the acreage devoted to park
space near downtown was very meager --a ball tossed by him to his son
often landed in the middle of the road, he said. He praised the plan
of Peers Park. He outlined a plan for low-income family housing that
could be built on Kipling Avenue. •
Tina Lane, 426 Hawthorne, asked that the houses on the park site be retained.
Barbara lam, 426 Hawthorne Avenue, presented a petition signed by
residents in the area of I3ownt wn Park North, asking that both the park
and booms ;re retained.
Tony Badger, 381 Hawthorne, noted that within 30 days three houses had
beet to=n down for parking lots. He said he had not ;eeri a plan yet
about how it vas proposed to develop Downtown Park Borth. He favored a
full park over retention of the housing. •
Diareiuid McGuire, 327 Waverley Street, said he was saddened by the fact
of one child in the neighborhood having taken a petition to her echool
and asking signatures for it on the basis that if what the petition
2`1 0
10/15/79
asked for were not achieved the child would be required to leave the
neighborhood. He said Council had created the situation by purchasing
land for a park then using part of the site for housing for law -income
families. He noted that investments by the City, by private business
and by individuals all furthered the separate interests of those three
entities. He said that private individuals on the north side of Palo
Alto were being asked to sacrifice potential open space for additional
low-income housing. He did not think the proposed additional housing
was an imaginative solution toward filling housing needs. He asked that
investments in housing made by homeowners on the north side of Palo Alto
be considered.
Carol Yanofsky, 725 Mayfield Avenue, Stanford, spoke for Mid -peninsula
Citizens for Fair Housing, that supported the preservation of all habitable
units presently at the Downtown Park North site. She said there were
2000 families on the Santa Clara Housing Authority waiting list, which
list was open only to emergency app1icents who were at present living
with friends or relatives or in cars or hotels. Other households . , .-ire
eligible for renting assistance, 2010 of them in Palo Alto. If low
income housing were removed at the site present residents would be
exiled from Palo Alto awing to landlordr' discrimination against children
and high rents. To remove the housing would cancel out in -lieu payments
and the like now required from developers for low-income housing. _
Cindy Ellwood, 359 Hawthorne Avenue, said that she saw the Hawthorne
portion of the park being used more than the Everett side. Though low-
income housing was unpopular, and generally objected to by residents
already living in proposed areas, she liked low-income housing for the
diversity it afforded. She wanted the housing kept,
Ruth Kampmarr7, 131 Byron, praised the hard work and dedication of all
those who had participated in the Downtown Park North matter. She spoke
of the litter on the park site when it was an empty lot. Though many
residents had feared that establf.shment of a park would be followed by
violence and cruse that: had not happened. She thought the parks were
used. She used it often ----she held that middle --aged people's needs were
important too. She said the low-income housing in the form of corm¢unes
in the area had been discouraged. She said the present prices of housing
at $165,000+ in the area could not qualify the area as "low-income" any
longer. She favored having the whole block becoming park atsd community
garden, similar to a ' corms ° as in the t a.at . She outlined a plan
hereby that could be done --she did not favor having the Housing Corporation
take over the housing.
Herb Borock, 3401 loss, said that he thought all houses should be retained
and rehabilitated. He said that costs for rehabilitation of housing
should be equated with whatever project the money might otherwise go
for; he said that if housing at lower cost than today's market afforded
vast wanted there would have to be greater density —otherwise the housing
would have to be referred to by a different term. Re thought that the
15-20 year time span after which other alternatives for the site would
be considered was reasonable. and by then the 3osas of 4 Low eta
would not be felt so keenly.
Carol Leer, 233 Waverley, thanked the City for the opportunity to live
at her present lose in Palo Alto; in talking with area residents' she
secluded that most felt s11 housing should be retained, as did she.
Susan Pearson, 243 Waverley Street, favored a plan that would upgrade
the park and retain tine housing.
Tom Reid, 151 Waverley, listed his reasons for urging that eventually
the park site be given to full pork use.
Jeer Glaes, 945 Webster, emphasized that present residents at the park -
2 1 1
10/15/79
)�L
site were moderate- and low-income families. She like the diversity
that came from a range of incomes. She deplored the invidiousness that
arose when high incomes were mentioned. She objected to the drinking
she saw in Cogswell Park, which kept her and others from using that park.
Hilly Davis, 344 Tennessee Lane, thought the entire block should be
dedicated park space, with a decision on presently situated housing to
come later. She did not want to have the density increased. She thought
some reduction of industrial and commercial would help bring housing into
better balance with jobs.
Nancy Alexander, 755 Newell, urged that the present low --income housing
be retained on its present site. She thought the 15-20 year limit could
act as a disincentive for retention of the housing and so she favored an
immediate decision to move the house now on Everett.
R S E%E JJTIVE SESSI
RE_ $ONNEL
.1
Council recessed and held an executive session re personnel from 9:35 to
10:10 p.m._
I101aLtJ R (Continued)
Counc:i3mem*er Fazzino recalled the City commitment to north Palo Alto
residents for a full park. He still factored that goal but recognition
of the present jobs/housing i'balance that resulting in -lieu and mitigating
payments did not correct persuaded him that the present housing should
be kept. he supported the recommendation that the homes which could be
rehabilitated be sold to the Housing Corporation, with a fifteen --year
repurchase option; when the present housing was no longer usable he
would support .-u1.1 park use.
MOTION: Councilmember Fazzino moved, seconded by Fletcher, that Council
approve the staff reco endat:tona in c :442:9 of October 11, 1979,
with the exception of Number 4, which should be changed to state that
424 Nawthorxie will not be demolished but instead leased to the Housing
Corporation, and that the project will have no eignif.{cant environmental
impact.
Councilmember Fazzino said he was inclined to support the idea of stating
a specific date when park dedication would take place.
Councilmember Eyerly spoke of the need for a park in Downtown North;
leer density neighborhoods did have parrs ---Greer and Eel parks, and
possibly Terman School and Esther Clark park, were eases in point. He
noted that the issue of proposed building on Peter Coutts hill Was
directly related to the amount of park space in Collete Terrace. There
were other areas within the City for housing, thou it eight not be
single-family. Ile would not support tying up park spat:. to provide
about 11 houses; he would support dedicating the whole block for park
and taking out the musing in a shorter period of time.
Councilmember Renzel said she had supported the eetablishment of the
park for a long time. She hoped that Council would direct staff to draw
up an ordinance for dedicating the park. In viev of Palo Alto's 'desperate
using situation' she did want to retain as many of the houses as
possible, with an agreement that the City could purchase back the houses
sny time it decided to develop the park fuily. She would like a 15-20
year agreement, with repurchase rights, and park dedication now.
Councilmember Witherspoon said that the City had purchased the land in
about 1970; residents in the houses had been informed that the land was
212.
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to become park land. She thought low-income housing could be located
somewhere else in Palo Alto. She would like to have a full park in
fewer than 15-20 years. She did not support the motion.
Vice Mayor She said that the motion to approve the Planning Commission
recommendation was only a starting point toward a more acceptable "eventual
all -park development." He thought staff should be directed to prepare
an ordinance. dedicating the entire block to park uses on completion of
and consistent With negotiations with the Housing Corporation for the
sale, subject to repurchase, of certain housing units now on that site.
In line with City Attorney Abrams' statement, he thought that park
dedication could be used as a planning tool for the block's future
reversion to park land.
Vice Mayor Sher continued. He said he would like to state specifically
that the agreement that the City enters into with the Palo Alto Housing
Corporation should contain the clear provision that the property conveyed
can be used only for single-family residences that presently exist
there, as rehabilitated, and no other uses, (including a house such as
421 Everett).
Vice Mayor Sher said he would like the agreement with the Housing Corporation
to provide that if feasible the loan that the Housing Corporation arranges
should be not more than 15 years, and in any event, no more than 20
years, to raise the money to take care of initial purchase from the
City, and if necessary, to rehabilitate. He said he thought the option
to repurchase should be open to the City any time during the mortgage
period. He said he did not think the house at 426 Hawthorne should be
rehabilitated, and the land should be added to the community ;arc{en
space instead, with the present tenant of that house to be given first
priority for any other house owned by the City that becomes available.
He thought the house at 209 Waverley should remain in place to avoid
possible moving damage to its structure. He thought staff and the
Housing Corporation could arrive together at a decision on the worth of
244 Kipling for rehabilitation.
Mayor Here,er son said that when the area was designated parkland high
density multi -family housing had been contemplated. Now the new Comprehensive
prehensive
Plan had reduced the allowable density. He reviewed the reasons behind
the situation that prevailn at the present time, with Council's goal to
make park distribution thiewahout the City as equitable as possible by
what Population dictated. He said he thought the emotionality on the
issue was in response to fears about increased density rather than the
desire for a larger park. He thought the present combination of park/ho.. ing
would reduce the occurrence of problems that other parks experienced.
Be emphasized the need to preserve housing. He said that he foresaw no
money available for park development for many years to coarse. If Proposition
4 passed there would be a cap on expenditures. Greer lark was scheduled
for completion first, If the houses on Downtown Park North were sold to
the Housing Corporation -there would be funds to develop the park, and he
favored such a sale, with repurchase by the City possible at any later
date, and no time li itaation, He did not want to demolish eaxisting
Kousing. "The finger is helot pointed stl'ilaJUIA ang sates et gist
rid of any industry we have now, but veld 'better drastically limit any
additional industry and we'd better do everything we can to provide new
housing."
Councilmember Pletcher aaid that she hoped the house at 426 Kipling
could be leased to the Housing Corporation. She said that for whatever
reason homes had been demolished in the _past it had always caused severe
disruption, sad 00 found it unacceptable to demolish any housing now.
She wanted Council to have the option to establish a fully developed
park at any time, pow or in 15-20 years. She favored the motion.
AMENDMENT: Cou cilae,ber Levu moved, seconded by Henze', that staff be
authorized to take necessary actions to dedicate the block bounded by
Waverley, Hawthorne, Everett and Kipling as park space.
CouncilmeMber levy laid he thought a fire commitment t Absurd be made to
MISNUSBERED
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il1SNAKE
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area residents that at some time in the future the subject area would be park.
Councilmemher Brenner paid that as a Planning Commissioner she had
supported the purchase of the subject block for parkland. She wanted to
secure it for that purpose by dedication. She had also favored re-
zoning the entire neighborhood with the aim of encouraging rehabilitation
of single-family homes; that had occurred, and people in those homes
were her priority. She continued to search for areas that would not be
overcrowded with additional housing, and the houses presently situated
would then be "...replaced not one-to-one but one -to -ten."
A discussion followed concerning which homes would be saved in any
event. Mayor Henderson ascertained that the amendment moved immediate
dedication of the park.
Sue McPherson, Palo Alto Housing Corporation, said that PAHC would
prefer to retain and rehabilitate 426 Hawthorne.
Vice Mayor Sher said he thought it would be appropriate for Council to
direct staff to prepare an ordinance dedicating the entire site as park,
consistent with negotiations with the Housing Corporation (PAHC). Would
that dedication take place prior to negotiations with PAHC? If so a
vote of the people would be required for the City to make arrangements
with PAHC.
Councilmember Levy said his amendment intended iiv ediate dedication but
he understood that it could not be dedicated and then sold. He asked it
it could be dedicated then leased, or could it be leased and then dedicated?
Roy Abrams, City Attorney, said the lard could not legally be dedicated
then sold or leased; but it could be leased then dedicated. Dedication
would preclude any further disposition of property. The action implicit
in the main motion could go forward with the park dedication, with the
chronology of the actions to be set by the order in which staff presented
them to Council.
Councilmember Pletcher asked haw lenders to PAHC would react if the site
was dedicated park land.
Jean Diaz, Real Property Administrator, said that the City would convey
the property to PAHCc reserving option to repurchase, and, if the City
exercised the option to repurchase before the mortgage incurred by PAHC
were paid off, the City would then have to repay that as -yet -unpaid
mortgage balance. A lender looked at security for its loaned money --the
case here was that the City served as a guarantor.
Ate' PASSED: The amendment, that Council authorize staff to take
the necessary action to dedicate the block bounded by Waverley, Hawthorne,
Everett and Kipling as park opace passed on the following vote:
AYES: Brenner, Eyerly, Levy, Eenzei, Sher, Witherspoon
NOES: Pazaino, Pletcher, Uenderson
Vice Mayor Sher noted that the staff recommendation in its October 11,
1979 report, page 6, was to demolish 426 Hawthorne;, yet the main motion
asked that it be retained.
AMENDMENT: Vice Mayor Sher moved, seconded by Witherspoon, that in
accordance with the staff recommendation, 426 Hawthorne be demolished,
and first priority be given present residents at 426 Hawthorne to available
housing on the block.
2 1 6
10/15/79
Councilmember Renzel said she thought PAHC assumed some risk if it did
any rehabilitation on any houses at the site with the present buy-back
agreement and so she thought the City should leave the choice for risk -
taking up to PAHC.
Mr. Diaz said that there was now a house available and so now would be
the time for demolishment of 426 Hawthorne, if it were to be done.
Councilmember Eyerly said he wanted as much of the land as possible to
be park, so he favored demolition.
AMENDMENT PASSED: The amendment that in accordance with the staff
reconmendatioi 426 Hawthorne be deuclished, and first priority be given
to present residents at 426 Hawthorne for available housing on the
black, passed on the following vote:
AYES: Brenner, Eyerly, Levy, Sher, Witherspoon
NOES: Fazzirao, Fletcher, Henderson, Renzel
Couucilmember Levy said that as had been suggested at a Planning Commission
meeting it might be wise to include part of the backyards of the present
housing on the block for open space.
AMENDMENT: Couaci1member Levy moved, seconded by Witherspoon, that the
City convey to PAHC the existing residences together with their full
front and sldeyards, and back yards to a depth of six feet, the remaining
backyard space to be included in park open space.
Councilmember Levy said he had used sic feet as a standard measure; he
acknowledged there would be problems with backyard garages.
Coun_ciimember, Renzel said she could better support an amendment asking
for a staff report on the feasibility of Councilmenbcr Levy's prop:3sed
amendment. Was the amendment asking for that?
Councilmember Levy said ha would like a commitment by Council made that
evening to that concept.
Councilmember Brenner_ said that the strip the amendment proposed was an
intriguing idea --she recalled the idea as being for inclusion of the
community gardens. She questioned the proposed six-foot depth.
Councilmember Fazzino said he thought the amendment would create sub-
standard housing. He did not want to take away people's back yards.
.
Councilmember Hensel said she would oppose the nt es y recently
worded; she would eusoere _a Council , etro .* for • staff report oes the
idea' _feasibility.
Counc#..i er Eyerly suggested rewording the amendment to "...minimum -
sized lots" or the like. In the long run a special zone would have to
be sought.
Councilmember Levy said he would change his amendment to read instead
"...backyard to a minimum depth necessary to insure privacy."
AMENDMENT FAILED: the smendmalint failed an the following vote:
AYES: Eyerly, Levy, Witherspoon
NOES: Hrcenner, Vezzino, Fletcher, Henderson, ;bezel, Sher
AMENDMENT: Vice Mayor Sher moved, seconded by Handerson, that the
agreement with the Housing Corporation contain a clear provision that
2 1 7
14/15►m
property conveyed is to be used for single --family residences only, plus
the house to be moved from 421 Everett as rehabilitated. The motion
passed on a unanimous vote.
AMENDMENT: Vice Mayor Sher moved, seconded by Renzel, that the agreement
between the City and the Housing Corporation be that the PAHC loan, if
feasible, should be for a term not more than 15 years, and, in any
event, it shall, not be more than 20 years. The amendment passed on a
unanimous vote.
AMENDMENT: Councllmember Renzel moved, seconded by Eyerly, that Council
request staff to report on feasibility of adding present backyards to open space.
AMENMENT PASSEL: The ameedment passed on the following vote:
AYES: Brenner, Eyerly, Fletcher, Levy, Renzel, Witherspoon
NOES: Fazziuo, Henderson, Sher
Councilmember Eyerly referred to item 6 on page 6 of the October 11,
1979 staff report: "Pursue a zoning change to have a Planned Community
zone to the area transferred to Palo Alto Housing Corporation." He said
that zoning seemed incongruous with dedicated park land.
Mr. Abrams said he dad not find the zoning change inconsistent as a
current desire to modify the P -F zone to an authorized zone having the
permitted use of housing. As the City would no longer he operating the
housing the zone change had to be accomplished. The P -C zone would hold
only so long as the housing was maintained on the :site; at any time that
the housing reverted in whole or in part the P -C zone would automatically
become s edified to that extent.
Councilnember Eyerly said he thought it would be wise to remove the P -C
zoning so that it would not mislead those wco night be interested in
housing in the future.
AMENDMENT: Councllmember Eyer1 moved that item, 6 be removed from the
staff recommendations proposed for approval in the main motion.
The amendment died for lack of a second.
Councilmeteber Eyerly said he would like to assure that the proposed P -C
zoning would not mislead anyone about the purpose of the land in the
future.
AMENDMENT: Couaci1aember Eyerly moved, seconded by Levy, that at the
time the. mortgage is recaptured the P -C zoning would automatically
-revert to P -F. The amendment passed on a unanimous vote.
Conncilmember Eyerly noted than on page 6 of the October 11, 1979 staff
report, no mention of 421 Everett was made, though page 5 mentioned
moving 421 Everett to 236 Kipling. He thought that pr aoaai waa acs a hat
posture; he had thought there might be a spot for a third a at
22$3 Park Avenue, and at that location the house would be usable for a
longer period of tine.
AMENDMENT: Counci1member Eyerly moved, seconded by Witherspoon, that
Council direct staff to report on the possibility of having 421 Kipling
moved to 2253 Perk Avenue or some site other than 236 Kipling.
Couacil er Pletcher said she did not want to additionally encumber
the 2233 site --the two houses given by Northern California Savings
were enough.
2 1 8
10/1.5/79
AMENDMENT FAILED: The amendment failed on the following vote:
AYES: Eyerly, Levy, Renzel, Witherspoon
NOES: Brenner, Fazzino, Fletcher, Henderson, Sher
Counciimember Levy spoke to the main motion; he acknowledged the jobs/housing
imbalance, adding that he thought that in the Downtown Park North area
there was a housing/parks imbalance. He thought Council's long-term
commitment to a park in that area should be honored scorer, perhaps in
five to seven years. He reviewed the history of the park situation in
that area, concluding that more had been done to redress the housing
situation than the lack of park space. He would move for the five -to -
seven year period at the appropriate time,
Vice Mayor Sher said he thought PAHC would probably not take the housing
stock for the five -to -seven year period because if it did it couldn't
raise the money; if the City -retained the houses and leased them 5-7
years it would be a violation of Article 34 of the California Constitution
against municipalities lending subsidized low-income housing. The only
feasible alternative to the 15-20 years as proposed by staff was to
proceed forthwith with development of the full park.
MAIN MOTION AS AMENDED PASSED: The main motion, that Council approve
the staff recommendations in CMR:442:9, as amended, and that the project
will have no significant environmental impact, passed on the following
vote:
AYES: Brenner, Fazzino, Fletcher, Henderson, Renzel, Sher
NOES: Eyerly, Levy, Witherspoon
RE assn
'0 COMMISSION
$Q 0 D ST: N i;3) , LIIMI 'Y DEVELOPMENT
aGrTR MITTS HILL
Vice Mayor Sher and Courmcilmenber Witherspoon said they would not participate
in the consideration of this item since Stanford University was their
employer.
Nap tali Knox, Director of Planning and Community Environment, said that
on March 16, 1979, the county notified Palo Alto that annexation of the
area known as Stanford #19 would be considered abandoned on June 8, 1979,
unless the time was extended. In a May 3 staff report. Council had been
notified that since the 225 -unit Frenchnan's Terrace development would
not proceed, extension of the ennexatiee would not be requested. The
Planning Depart nt had been surprised to learn that Stanford #19 was
instead the Willow Road project, and that the Peter Coutts Hill annexation
had already lapsed Kay 6, 1977. A May 14, 1979 staff report notified
Council of that. At that Council sting_ the annexation question was
raised, reviewed, and continued awaiting -staff response ou matters of
county policy regarding annexations. May 24, 1979, the Palo Alto/Stanford
liaison committee discussed the status of Peter Coutts Hill. Stanford
said it wanted to place on the agenda a courtesy review for the Palo
Alto Planning Commission on on June 20, 1979. On June 7 Council received a
10 -page staff report, d ish report responded to the questions on county
policy toward annexation, and other related matters. Attached wag the
January, 1974 agreement with Stanford which led to an exemption of
Stanford from the previsions of the P -F zone, and also establishing
areas to be called A, S, and C, on El Camino, Willow andi westerly of
Junipero Serra Boulevard, such areas being removed from Stanford's
blanket 1962 county use - permit. A .list of review procedures used by the
City on Stanford projects had also been attache4---the review procedures
had been adopted by Council February, 1977. The Planning Commissionehad
reviewed the plate on June 20, August 8 and October 3 presented by
Stanford en Paster- Coutts Tiil.1. Council had aainutefof those meetings.
219►
10/15/79
On September 20 the City staff responded to the county by asking for the
maximum extension to October 19, of the time period for Palo Alto to
respond on Stanford's application. On September 28 Council received a
letter from Phil Williams, Stanford Planning Director, including a table
showing the two-part 11 -step county approvel process which Stanford is
proceeding through, along with an approximate time schedule. The coenun3cation
of the Planning Commission of October 11 regarding the Commission's
recommendations was before Council.
Frederic Nichols, Planning Commissioner, said that at the outset membern
of the Planning Commission had endorsed the idea of housing on Peter
Coutts Hill with a view to designing it toward maximum access and usability
by the residents and neighbors to the view along with open space. The
Commission had said that 4.5----5.3 acres should be given to open space at
the top of the hill, with housing clustered closer to Page Mill Road
rather than Peter Coutts Road. The Commission had not dealt with the
annexation issue, awaiting agreement between Stanford and the City on
that point.
Mayor Henderson emphasized that Council had all the information on the
proposed housing; he asked that those who wished to speak confine their
comments to new information.
Phil Williams, Director of Planning, Stanford University, projected some
slides and summarized the process and progress over the last five -month
period, since May 14, when the subject had been introduced at the Council
meeting. He said Stanford had always been a residential university nd
had an ongoing interest in on -campus housing for both students and
faculty. Increasing costs and lengths of commutes underlay the interest
ii the Peter Coutts Road project, as well as two other housing projects
planned for construction within the next few years. The junior faculty
that cots to the campus with the academic -year salary of $16,000 to
$20,000 would be served by the Peter Coutts project= small units with
favorable density were planned, about 1000.4500 square feet, with a
market price of about $100,000----$150,000 each. 'Stanford University, as
mortgager, through various financing mechanisms, thought it could bring
all the proposed units to the faculty at a cost 20 percent to 40 percent
below market. Advantages to Palo Alto would be that residents would be
non -commuting and, through opening the new area, would have minimum
impact on the existing character of Palo Alto's present neighborhoods.
There was a baeklog of about 300 applicants for the proposed units. A
preference had been expressed for about 50 percent of fa 1y units on
small lots. The proposed houaiiug would accord with county policies, and
would be reviewed first; by Palo Alto and contiguous neighbors before
going to the county. He said that ",time time is our enemy, and the cost
of these units is going up- something like $1500 a month. . . ," and he
appealed to Council to deal only with the project's planning merits.
Mt. Williams continued. 8e said that Vice President Masssy was in the
audience, ard could help with questions on the project, And he projected
someslides of the proposed housing plan, representing alternatives for
placement of housing assts. He said Stanford favored Plan F, on which
there was a total of ei
ght acres of open space.
Join Schaefer, 1487 College Avenue, said he gt'Council's responsibility
lay toward Palo Alto residents more than to Stanford University. He had
a 100 percent unanimity among signera of a petition he had circulated
briefly, against Stanford's proposed development of Peter Coutts Hill.
He listed that as one reason among several °them, such ea the uniqueness
of the open space site, that Council should reject Stanford'a application.
He held that Stanford continued to permit industrial development on its
land further creating Jobs/housing imbalance. He objected to Stanford's
reasons for choosing the site. He suggested Council annex the property
and dedicate it to parkland. He submitted a petition signed by people
opposing Peter Courts Hill devef.o t.
Mayor Henderson read a statement from Jane Goldstein, 415 Cambridge
220
10/15/79
Avenue, saying that the League of Wcmen Voters (LWV) was very pleased to
have Stanford propose housing for Peter Coutts Hill for low- and moderate -
income housing for Stanford employees. LWV hoped that adequate open
space would be planned into the proposed project. The full letter is on
file in the City Clerk's office.
Colin Mick, 2130 Hanover, said that his neighborhood, College Terrace,
was coping with the issue of proposed housing on Peter Coutts Hill and
the College Terrace rapist, the latter being "...a major social problem
we have." Hr thought Stanford was not entirely open about the housing
market, because at one neighborhood meeting Stanford had said its major
problem was housing for senior, not junior, faculty, and that the horsing
lack impeded teacher recruitment. He calculated that with the figures
given by Stanford whomever purchased the housing would have to pay
between 30-50 percent of their income, net a realistic outlay for housing.
Housing as proposed by Stanford had been endorsed by some groups only
because it was the least unacceptable proposal --most people wanted the
site kept open, at least to the extent of eight acres. He said that
College Terrace was impacted by cars, joggers, strollers and picnickers
during lunch hours, and the traffic was "a nightmare." Hewlett-Packard's
addition would: add 2500 more people. He said Stanford's presentation
created the appearance of consensus, but he saw little show of Stanford's
willingness to compromise
3iayor Henderson read a letter from Jean Dawes, of Mid -peninsula Citizens
for Fair Housing, saying that HCFH fully endorsed Stanford's proposal to
build housing on Peter Coutts Hill. The letter is on file at the City
Clerk's office.
Jim Culpepper, 2121 Amherst Street, said he was coordinator of College
Terrace Residents Aasociatian. He projected some slides showing various
prospects viewable from the site, and the Site itself. He commended the
openness of Stanford's present planning procedure, and he had participated
in some discussions with theta. He and other residents had wished for
improvements on Plan F, not yet forthcot1ng, for eight acres open at the
top of the hill, and housing clustered on the remaining 12 acres. He
gave reasons for wanting Palo Alto to annex Peter Coutts Hill, cost of
which he said would be balanced by additional revenues to the City.
Cal Cillard, 2120 Amherst, affirmed that, along with many of his neighbors,
he had the wish that Peter Coutts Hill not be developed. He acknowledged
that many of his neighbors had been swayed by Stanford's arguments on
the need for housing. He said that Hewlett-Packard's expansion made
open space all the more important. He reviewed the finances of owning
one of the proposed hour. He voiced cynicism regarding Stanford's
housing plan, in the light of the difficulties of financing for anyone
with an income of $20,000 or wader.
Tsai Myers, 2250 Amherst, concurred with previous speakers from College
Terrace. He read from a peninsula eaper: "Though Stanford has had
no difficulty securing junior faculty sera, the fact was that senior
faculty members were thiekies ..dit*i.3. We
stressed how that statement differed fron ete atonement made by Phil
Williams about the housing being intended for junior faculty sabers.
He thought Stanford might have an eye to longterm profit - making.. He
said be and his family used the hill for recreation; he hoped it could
be preserved. -
Ler y Hinkley, 2390 first, said his house was the closest in College
Terrace to the proposed Stanford housing developments he concurred with
previous speakers opposing it, and added his own opposition.
Mry Yesstinger, 1411 College, said she walked on Peter Coutts Hill for
exercise and recreation. Her piano students celled the site "Kite
Hill." She said not many College Terrace residents had awn about the
2 2 1„
10/15/79
planning meetings with Stanford. She wanted ample open space; she did
not favor re -zoning --the neighborhood already had too many people. If
the housing went in she thought 20 percent should be for low income.
She equated the effect of the proposed development with the threat to
ease of life posed by the College Terrace rapist.
William Massy, Vice president of Business and Finance of Stanford University,
said that Stanford has compromised with residents in the open planning
process, and shifted away from single-family to cluster housing, in
order to retain open space. Stanford tried to be a stood neighbor; he
had not seen the articles in the peninsula papers ---he stressed that the
housing was to serve junior faculty members, though there was also a
senior faculty housing problem. Mr. Massy said the innovative financing
was aimed at helping people just beginning their academic careers --the
purchaser would co -invest, and have a favorable interest loan. Four
acres would go toward open space at the top of the hill, and four acres
open elsewhere among the 30 or 40 housing units.
Councilmember`Brenner asked if the low-income faculty was assured of
having the housing.
Air, Massy said the financing arrangements would be available only to
junior faculty, and Stanford would probably set priorities as to which
king -of eiployee and income would be eligible for the housing. Housing
available to junior faculty would pass on to subsequent junior faculty.
There would be no sulsidy to higher income families, though their residency
would not be precluded.
Councilmember Levy ascertained with Mr. Massy that Stanford was not
enlarging its faculty; Stanford was also planning to keep its student
body at the same size.
Tony Russo, 213E Wellesley, said that he had newer heard that Peter
Coutts Hill was critical toward addressing the ;lousing .seeds of the
university. It was the only undeveloped bay -view site in the area; Mr.
Russo said it was a unique area resource.
1
Joel Kaplan, 2275 Amherst, said that the three planning meetings between
Stanford and neighbors were held at his house, and so the newspaper
stories stating the housing was for senior faculty was upsetting to hire;
he questioned the price range for junior faculty. He thought that:
College Terrace would be impacted by more residents; he wanted Peter
Coutts land to be aenexed by the City, then dedicated into parkland open
to all.
NOTION: Councilmember Brenner moved, seconded by Fletcher, that Council
approve the Planning Commission recommendations contained in their
report an the subject sent to Council October 11, 1979.
Co*moiler Boner expressed some resignation toward the growth the
proposed housing represented; she thought the proposed plan was improved
fry past Stanford projects. The proposed plan gave the effect of being
an integral part of College Terrace.
AMENDMENT: Councilmember Brenner moved, seconded by B.enzel, that under
P1ainbg Commission recommendation 4C, the annexation take place for
Peter Coutts Hill and Peter Coutts mod, end part of Stanford Avenue to
public right-of-way from Page Mill lid to the point where Stanford
Avenue enters the Palo Alto City limits.
Councilse ber Brenner said that the addition then, to 4C, was to include
Peter Coutts Hill. She said that one slide Mr. Williams had shown had
made it clear to her that the proposed housing construction would be a
part of College Terrace neighborhood. She thought Council would be
starting out on tide right foot if planning were such that future residents
would feel themselves to be residents of College.Terrace instead of
residents just of Frenchman's Terence.
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Counci.lmember Brenner read recommendation 3: "That this project does a
substantial amount to alleviate the jobs/housing imbalance in Palo
Alto." Counc.ilmember Brenner said she did not agree with that statement
because the soon -to -be -completed Hewlett-Packard headquarters would
create 2500 more jobs. She said that with 140 units, arithmetic would
imply at one house would cover 18 jobs --she did not think that would
be 1 ease.
Coun member Levy urged Stanford to exercise its creativity and plan
Coware providing more housing in Industrial Park ----Industrial ?ark did
add to the jobs/housing imbalance. He did not think the amount of
acreage preserved was more important that the 360 degrees of view be
unimpeded. He favored annexation of the hill.
Counciimember Pletcher said she was disappointed that there were only
four acres of open space contiguous to College Terrace. She would like
more. She did not think setbacks on Page Mill Road constituted area
open to the public, though they did add to the attractiveness. She
feared annexation procedures would delay the project, while costs rose,
raising the price of the units. She thought residents might initiate
annexation procedures at a later time.,
Councilmember Pazzino said he had not decided about annexation --he would
support eventual study of annexation of all Stanford land, rather than
just one parcel. He wondered how residents felt about that, and what
benefits would accrue to the City on the land use matter. He did not
want to hold up project construction while checking on annexation.
William Zaner, City Manager, said that there were a number of questions
relating to annexation between tie county and various cities. Also
analysis of what service levels needed from the City would be required;
both questions needed research before Council moved toward establishing
a policy of annexation. He suggested Council could direct staff to
explore the possibility of annexation, both from the standpoint of City
and county requirements.
Counci1iember Brenner said she had thought the county was requiring annexation.
Mayor Henderson said he understood from a talk with Supervisor Steinberg
that Stanford ...�.. .��«,s.,�ti ras - uu exception tti that Yequ3rea nt. In the past he had
opposed Stanford's building in the Foothills -n -he did not want to cut off
land that was ^ast of Junipero Serra Boulevard. He noted that College
Terrace residents were silent about the open space available to them on
the Stanford Campus for jogging and the like. Matters had been made
more difficult for Stanford when the Willow Road improvement had been
noted down. Stanford had gone to some pains to seek neighborhood approval
and modify its plans to obtain such. approval . About five years ago the
City . ha _ . _ . , . .- , - - - - - . Mitch -time - and man had gone
+,..,.�� ss�x xscitsik�� �Ii�X8L3oi1 l''r� St-8g$t�Tdy �uc�'fi .. C'�f _
into it, but, most importantly, Stanford did not desire annexation --
unless Stanford indicated interest in being annexed he did not want to
study the matter again. Mayor Henderson asked that annexation as a
condition to approval of the project be removed so that delay and perhaps
death of the project would not result. Tie did favor the proposed dedication
of specific portions of the Peter Coutts Hill and Road.
Councilmrmber Hensel tad Stanford for involving the public in making
plans for Peter Coutts Hill. She said the City had intended annexation
of Peter Coutts Hill when the Frenchman's Terrace project was under way,
and ehc telt it was proximate to College Terrace /a such a way that
development would have a strong impact on that very old neighborhood,
making annexation legitimate. She would like to see the open apace set
et the top amount Stanford had get --5.5 acres. She would propose that
as an amendment.
Cownciimeember Eyeely thanked Stanford for coming, forth with the proposed
housing plans; he hoped there would be further plans for housing. He
supported the Planning Commiaai.* recommendations wholeheartedly. Be
thought the amendment proposing annexation was premature; he would not
support it.
AMENDMENT FAILED: The amendment, that annexation be a condition of
approval for the Peter Coutts Hill housing project, failed on the following vote:,
AYES: Brenner, Levy, Renzel
NOES: Eyeriy, Fazzino, Fletcher, Henderson
NOT PARTICIPATING: :her., Witherspoon
AMENDMENT: Councilmember Renzel moved, seconded by Brenner, that 5.5
acres of ope.t space be provided at the top of Peter Coutts Hill.
Councilmember Eyerly said that one slid: Mr. Williams had shown had
seemed a very good plan, and the open space at the top of the hill at
been 4.1 acres. He thought the amount of acreage should be flexible to
make for an optimum view. He favored having a range of 4 to 6 acres.
Mayor Henderson agreed --he thought it might restrict planning to set
a definite figure.
Coiuncilmember Fazzino favored the 4.5-5.5 range stated by Stanford was best.
He preferred that the view be kept at 360 degrees.
AMENDMENT FAILED: The amendment that 5.5 acres of open space be provided
at the top of Peter Coutts Hill failed on the following vote:
AYES: Renzel., Brenner
NOES: Eyerly, Fazzino, Fletcher, Henderson, Levy
NOT PARTICIPATING: Sher, Witherspoon
AMENDMENT: Councilmember Eyerly moved, seconded by Fletcher, that the
range of acres to be specified as open space be set at from 4 to 6
acres.
Counclimeaber Levy said he would endorse: the 4 -acre minimum if language
were included that nave the City's wish to ,preserve to the maximum
degree possible the view from the top of Peter Coutts Hill.
CounciImember Eyerly agreed to that inclusion.
AMENDMENT PASSED: The amendment that a minimum of 4 acres be set for CorrectedAMENDMENT a� 4
open space for the top of Peter Coutts Hill, toward achieving the objective See Pg.279
of maximum degrees' view, passed on the following vote: 11/19/79
AYES: Eyeriy, Fazzino , Fletcher Uenderaon, Levy
1 S: Brenner Renzel
NOT PARTICIPATING: Sher, Witherspoon
Couuc.ilaes ber Fazzino aaked when the City Manager thought annexations
could be undertaken by cities.
Mar. Zaner said he understood that the county was very close to arriving
at a county --Aide policy with the fifteen cities in the county regarding
financial arrangements on annexation. He thought it might be final
within a few weeks.
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Councilmember Fazzino said that at that time he might raise the matter
of Stanford annexation.
MAIN MOTION AS AMENDED: The main motion, that Council approve the
?lanning Commission recommendation, as amended, passed on a unanimous
voice vote, Vice Mayor Sher and Councflmea+her Witherspoon not participating.
Mr. Russo, 2138 Wellesley, pre—empted the microphone at the podium for
the public, and said he was "...appalled at the arrogance with which the
City Council has ignored the stated objection of the Palo Alto residents."
He expressed dismay and disappointment at the passage of the twain motion.
MOTION: Councilwember Brenner moved, seconded by Renzel, that staff
report back to Council on possibilities of annexing the subject site as
well as other Stanford residential lands.
Councilmber Brenner clarified that staff could report on each question
separately; also, she did not mean annexation of Stanford student housing.
Councilmembcr Eyerly said he did not favor having staff spend its time
on the matter.
Coui?ci1rember Levy suggested that the hatter be continued so that Council
could receive copies of the staff study on annexation of Stanford land
made some five years back.
SL BSTITifE MOTION: Council.member Fazzino moved, seconded by Henderson,
that the question of annexation be referred to the Policy and Procedures
Committee so that the Committee could review the study of five years ago
and report to Council. The substitute motion passed on a unanimous
vote, Vice Mayor Sher and Councilmet ber Witherspoon not participating.
MOTION: Mayor Henderson moved, seconded by Renzel, that the four items
remaining on the Council agenda for that evening be continued to the
next Council meeting. The motion passed on a unanimous voice vote, Vice
Mayor Sher and Council a ber Witherspoon absent.
ADJOURNMENT: Mayor Henderson adjourned the Council meeting of October
15, 1979, at 1 a.m.
APPROVE:
Mayor
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