HomeMy WebLinkAbout1977-03-16 City Council Summary MinutesRegular Meeting
May 16, 1977
ITEM PAGE
Congratulations to Those Electcd 9 4 9
Welcome Boy Scout Troop 413 9 4 9
Oral Communications 9 4 9
Consent Calendar -- Action Items 9 5 0
Ordinance 8e Site and Design Applications 9 5 0
Ordinance Re Special Assessment and Assessment
Bond Procedures 9 5 0
Ordinance Adding 3°1 Park to PAMC 9 5 0
Ordinance Removing 633 and 649 Lytton From Ordinance
o. 2958
Award of Contract for Tree Trimming
Award of Contract For Landscape Maintenance
University Avenue Off -Street Parking District
Project 7.5--63 9 5 1
4339 El Camino Baal --- Application of Caean°, Inc.,
for Change from C -s -S 20 P -C 9 5 1
1063 Cardinal Way -- Application of Jay and Anne 1ulbright
Denial of Variaac. 9 5 1
578, 584 and 592 Vista Avenue -- Approval. of Tentative
Subdivision Map (26 units) Subject to Conditions 9 5 1
1870 Embarcadero Road --- Application by Carl V. i lvick
for Site and Design Approval for Addition 9 5 1
4180 Old Adobe Road -- Appeal of Elisabeth Wallace on
Decision to Deny a Preliminary Parcel Map 9 5 2
3410-3412 Hillview -r- Application of Stanford University
for a Preliminary Parcel Nap 9 5 2
Yacht Harbor/Duck Pond -- Landscaping Plan Approval 9 5 2
Ordinance Rte Residential Uses In Areas Subject To
? ratoriva Provisional. Of Ordinance No. 2958 9 5 2
9 4 7
5/16/77
9 5 1
9 5 1
9 5 1
447
ITS (Continued) PAGE
Lifeline Gas Rates 9 5 2
Participation in Litigation Concerning Mandatory
Unemployment Insurance Coverage 9 5 2
Canvass Of General Municipal Election Meld May 10, 1977 6 5 3
520 Nsybell Avenue -- Approval of Change of District
From R-1, R-5, C -•3-S To P -C 9 5 4
Preliminary Design For Closure Of The Reuse Disposal
Site: Approval of Consultant Agreemmmt 9 6 9
Motion to Wye Oral Communications Forward 9 7 0
Oral Communications 9 7 0
Adjournment 9 7 1
948
5/16/77
�tj
COUNCIL MINUTES OF APRIL 11, 1977
WERE APPROVED AT THIS MEETING.
SEE MARKED -UP AGENDA OF MAY 16, 1977.
Regular Meeting
May 16, 1977
The City Council of the City of Palo Alto met on this date at 7:30 p.m.,
in a regular meeting with Mayor Norton presiding.
PRESENT: Beahrs, Serwald, Carey Clay (arrived 7:45 p.m.) ,
Eyerly, Norton, Sher, Witherspoon
ABSENT: Comstock
CONGRATULATIONS TO THOSE ELECTED
Mayor Norton congratulated the four recently elected new Council+eembers
and re-elected incumbent, Byron Sher, saying that they would take
office July 1, 1977.
WELCOME BOY SCOUT TROOP 413
1e welcomed Boy Scouts from Troop 413, Walt Hays, Bill McGlaahan, Steve
Mueller, Jason Williams, and Andy Valentine. The Scouts were attending
to complete work toward their "Citizenship in the Community" merit badge.
Mayor Norton announced that an executive session would take place that evening.
ORAL COMAiUN ICAT IONS
1. Frank Manfredi, 219 Addison Avenue, voiced his approval of the
candidates who had been elected en May 10, along with his
concern that the "swing" vote favor "the people." He slurred
the recent appropriation of funds by the United States Congress
for an inquiry about the count and condition of horses in the United
States.
2. Fred Kunkel, 765 Garland Drive, solicited increased participation
by Council toward conserving water, and he motioned also a bulletin
by the California .later Resources entitled "The California Drought".
The data in the report left no quesetioi as to the dire straits of
our drought -stricken state. Page 179, he said, warned "Even if
1978 were to bring With it a return to normal rain and snow, the
mater deficit leading in to 1978 would be extremely difficult to
to erese...We cannot aseume that /977 will be the last dry year
of this series," Page 110 lieted Palo Alto as o of the cities
that had to plan well ahead, and pages 11.1-113 gave the measures
local governmenta could regally do to avoid drought -associated
catastrophe. The California Water Code Section 5.356 specifically
stated comities had the right to deny new service connections,
and Mr. Kunkel urged Council to deny such applications until
the drought was safely over.
CONSENT CALENDAR
Referral Items
None
9 4 9
5/16/77
"1
Action Items
1
Mayor Norton pointed out that Item 5 included an ordinance amending
the budget, which had not been included in the agenda but which was
in the packet; Item 8 needed a figure, 5.8910 percent, added, which
was to be included in the resolution.
Councilman Sher asked that Item 5, concerning closure of the
refuse site, be removed from the Consent calendar, which would then
become Item 23a,
Councilman Carey asked that item 17, concerning the wale of Webster
Wood Apartments, be removed. That items was to become Item 23b.
The following Action Items remained on the Consent Calendar:
Ardinancaa Site axed Aeeian I. r,lir.+tions
. nr.r...�laor+rrl�al�iliMOMaYIl.ofi�rnP��
An, ordinance eliminating the second Planning Commission review of site
and design applications. Such applications will be reviewed first
by the Planning Cc:mission and then by the Architectural Review Board,
with referral to the Council immediately thereafter. Procedures for
xeview of P -C (Planned Community) applications remain unchanged.
ORDINANCE 2984 entitled "ORDINANCE OF THE COUNCIL OF
THE CITY OF PALO ALTO AMENDING CHAPTER 16.48 OF THE
PALO ALTO MUNICIPAL CODE TO MODIFY THE SEQUENCE OF
REVIEW FOR SITE AND DESIGN APPLICATIONS AND TO MODIFY
REVIEW STANDARDS RELATING TO LANDSCAPING." (First
reading 5/2/77)
_ ,a1 Mae As se em nd i�roc1urea
The following ordinance auenda the Selo Alto Municipal Code to
ohange subsection (f) of Section 13.16150 to delete a requirement
that the formation of the district and the issuance of bonds by
approved by au election within the district.
ORDINANCE 2985 entitled "ORDINANCE OP THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF PALO ALTO AMENDING SECTION 13.16.130(f) OF THE PALO ALTO
MUNICIPAL CODE RELATVAG TO SPECIAL ASSESS AND ASSESSMENT
BOND PUBES." (First reading 5/2/77)
Ordinance Add�n Bol Park ton P'a C
Chapter 22.08 of the Palo Alto Municipal Cods requires that any land
owned or controlled by the City which is need, or intenied to be used,
for park purposes, be officially dedicated as perk land. The following
ordinance dedicates Bol Park together with its adjoining property for
park lanai. It is recommended that Council o (1) find that the proposed
dedication of park land will have no significant environmental impact,
and (2) approve the following park dedication ordinance for Sol Park
together with its adjoining property.
ORDINANCE 2986 entitled "ORDINANCE OF THE COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF PALO ALTO ACING CHAPTER 22.08 (PARK DEDICATIONS)
OF THE PALL) ALTO MUNICIPAL CODE BY ADDING SECTION 22.08.035
(BOL PAGE)." (First sanding 5/2/77) -
Tbs following ordinance is pursuant to Connell action of May 2, 1977:
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5/16/77
Ordinance Removin: 633 and 649 Lytton fres
Ordinance No. 2958
ORDINANCE 298.7 entitled "ORDINANCE OF THE COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF PALO ALTO AMENDING ORDINANCE 2958 BY REMOVING FROM
THE OPERATION OF THE MORATORIUM IMPOSED THEREBY THE PROPERTY
COMMONLY KNOWN AS 633 AND 649 LYTTON AVENUE." (First reading 5/2/77)
Award of Cc*atract for Tree Trixmcin (C!#R:262:7)
--------- I-- y�v�swae wr�srwar�r.m��r.�u..w
Staff recommends that the Mayor be authorized to execute
the agreement with the Pied Piper Exterminators, Inc., in the
amount of $14,882.09, for tree trimming.
Award Of Contract Per Laudsca e Maintenar (CMR:261:7)
Staff recommends that the Mayor be authorized to execute the
agreement for $13,200 with Redwood Landscape Maintenance for maintenance
of the median islands on El Camino Real for one year.
University Avenue Off -Street Parking District
Protect 75-63, ( R:'!86: f
University Avenue Off -Street Parking District Project 76.63 -- Staff
recommends Council award the sale of bonds to Dean Wittier and Company
at en average rate of 5.8910.
(Councilman Carey did not participate or vote on this item.)
RESOLUTION 5405 entitled "A RESOLUTION AWARDING SALE OF BANDS."
4339 El Camino Real --
A�l .2.8 ion of Gesano Inc . . * €or
1�1 rf YB411dIi....iiYYgM y.l...Is.l.r��.'r(M�.�p1PI�0%
Can f rova C -3-S to P -C
The Planning Commission, by a vote of 6 in favor, 1 opposed, recommends
vial f a change district f r 4339 El. Camino 1 from, C -3-S to P -C.
denial an Carey deo not participate or vote on tfli item.)
1.063 Cardinal Ws --- Iicatian
o Jot and Anne F'ulbrik_ t -- Denial
o ariance
The Planning Commission by a vote of 6 in favor, 1 opposed, recommends
that the decision of the Zoning Adainistretor be upheld to deny the
application of Jay and A.une Fulbright for a vasria-nee at 1063 Cardinal Way.
ravel of "Tentative Subdivision Map (26 units
iabj,ct to itious
Tbe Planning Commission, by a vote of 6 iu favor, 1 opposed,
recommends approval of a Tentative Subdivision Map (26 unite) at
578, 584 and 592 Vista Avenue, subject to the couditious in the
April 27, 1977 Planning Commission minutes.
Approve for bdeti lion
The Flanring Commission unanimously recommends approval of the
application of Cerl V. Holvick for Site and Design approval for an
addition sat 1860 Babarcadero mod, subject coo conditions in the
April 22, 1977, Planning Commission minutes.
9 5 1
5/16/77
41 0 0„X Adobe Road &a1
of Elizabeth Wellece onA�ec lion
to deng a PreliLinar rce1 Map
The Planning Coen isaiot, by a vote of 5 in favor, one opposed, one
absent, recommends approval of the appeal of Elizabeth Wallace from
the decision of the Director of Planning to decay a Preliminary
Parcel Map at 4180 Old Adobe Road, subject to condition.* in the
April 27, 1977 minutes.
(Councilman Carey did not participate or vote on this item.)
RESOLUTION 5406 entitled "RESOLUTION OF THE COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF PALO ALTO APPROVING THE PRELIMINARY
PARCEL MAP FOR PROPERTY LOCATED AT 4180 OLD ADORE ROAD,
AND GRANTING EXCEPTIONS SUBJECT TO CONDITIONS."
3410-3412 P,lllvie-- licatiou
Ave]. NAL
The Planning Commission, by a vote of 5 in favor, one absent, one
not participating, recommends approval of the application of Stanford
University for a Preliminary Parcel Map at 3410-3412 Killview.
r
Yacht Harbor/U+uc, Pond d_ La.udacapi
SianAaroa1 •�
..YI Y Wig
The Planning Commission by a vote of 5 in favor, 2 absent, recommends
approval of the landscaping pleas for the Yacht Harbor/Duck Pond
which includes a pull-out area across from the Harbormaster's house,
in lieu of the three perpendicular parking spaces subject to the
conditiona 1-8 listed on page 4 of the staff report, and that the
easterly pull-out be parallel rather than perpendicular, to match
the other new pull-out area.
Ordi nce R? Residential Uses In Arens
Sub ect To Moratorium Provisions 0
OrdinaEee Firs. 2958
�.I��.MIO. WlrL
Staff recommends Council approve first reading of:
"ORDVAA3i OF -THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
PALO ALTO AMENDING ORDINANCE N0. 2958
TO ALLOY CONNENCENIXT OF RESIDENTIAL USES
IN AREAS SUBJECT TO NORATORIUN PROVISIONS
OF ORDINANCE NO. 2958."
l.ifelite Gas Rates (CANS.:244.7)
Staff recommends that Council adopt the following resolution reviaing
the Gas Utilityy rata schedule G-1 in order to bring Palo Alto gas
rates at all cation, levels in b€i.tt ce with those of PG E's rata*
in surrounding are , to be effective June 1, 1977.
RESOLUTION 5407 entitled "RESOLUTION OF IRE COUNCIL
OF TEE CITi!' OF PALO ALTO Amin= SCHEDULE G-1 OF
THE CITY Of PALO ALTO UTILITIES BATES AND CRAINGES
PERTAINING TO GENERAL KATUIAL GAS SERVICE . "
Participation in Lit tion Co c
The following ordinance emends the budget to provide *5000 for
professional services and $1000 for general expenses related Po
this litigation:
952
5/16/7160
ORDINANCE 2988 entitled "ORDINANCE OF THE COUNCIL OF
THE CITY OF PALO ALTO AMENDING THE PUDGET FOR
FISCAL YEAR 1976-1? TO PROVIDE FOR PARTICIPATION
IN LITIGATION CONCERNING MANDATORY UNEMPLOYMMT INSURANCE
COVERAGE."
MOTION: Councilwoman Witherspoon moved, mecoi ded by Bervald,
that Council adopt the resolutions, approve the ordinances and
contracts as well as staff recommendations. The motion pasted
on a uuanthous vote, Councilman Comstock abse4t and Councilman
Carey not participating on Items 8, 9 and 13.
CANVASS OF GENERAL MUNICIPAL ELECTION
H IP MAif IO, 1977
Mayor Norton announced that the Council would at that time canvass the
returns of the General Municipal Election held on May 10, 1977.
Re appointed Councilmen Beahrs acid Berwald to conduct the canvass
of the returns. He asked that the record show that the City Clerk
had on band the following certificates for examination by the
Canvass Board:
1) Certificate of Seal and Container Inspection Board
2) Ceetificate of the Accuracy Certification Board
3) Certificate of the Ballot Inspection Board
4) Certificate of the Ballot Processing Board
5) Certificate of the Miscellaneous Central. Counting Personnel
6) Certificate of Storage Packaging Board
7) Certificate of Verification of Signatures of Absentee Voters
8) Results of each of the 36 Couaolidated Precincts and
absentee Ballots
9) Cumulative Totals for each Candidate
He said that the cenvasa1ng would now proceed
After the documents had been examined by Councilmesbers Beahrs
and Berwald, they gave' their signed confirmation to Mayor Norton.
He announced that the whole number.of ballots cast in the City
at the general municipal election, including absentee ballots, was 12,503.
The total number of votes given and cast at said general municipal
election, including votes cast upon absentee ballots for the candidates
for City Council, vas 58,665. The total number cf wotas cast for
each candidata was:
Gary Fassino 6,403
Frances Hallam Brenner 5,380
John 1redrich 659
Bryan R. Dsvendorf 388
Ellen Fletcher 5,596
Peter Boland 2,213
Don Surath 1,904
Sarah C. Parrish 734
Harold "Skip" Justman 561
Donald A. Way 4,547
Robert G. Moss 2,659
John D. Snow 858
Glynn Peter Falcon, Jr. 568
Alan Sanderson 6,329
Terry Burton 3}956
Charles C. Xubokawa 5,061
Byron D. Sher 8,909
Donald W. Spicer 1,940
953
5/16/77
1
1
He announced that Byron D. Sher, Gary Fazzieo, Alan Henderson,
Fletcher and Frances Hallam Brenner, being the five candidates
receiving the highest number.of votes for the office of councilmember
for a four year term, were duly and regularly elected, commencing
July 1, 1977, to serve as councilmembers of the City of Palo Alto.
MOTION: Councilman Beahra introduced the following resolution and
moved, seconded by Berwald, Vast Council of the City of Palo Alto
adopt a resolution declaring,the results of the General Municipal
Election, held on May 10, 1977.
RESOLUTION NO. 5408 entitled "RESOLUTION OF THE
COUNCIL 01 THE CITY OF PALO ALTO DECLARING THE
RESULTS OF THE GENERAL MUNICIPAL ELECTION
HELD ON MAX 10, 1977".
The motion passed on a unanimous vote, Councilman Comstock absent.
20 MAYBEI.I. AVENUE APPROVA4
NGE OF DISTRICT FROM
R -1, R-5, C -3-S TO Pte,
Anne Steinberg, Chairwoman of the Planning Commission, avManari. ed that
the Planting Commission has recommended, by a vote of four in favor,
three against, approval of the P -C zone for 520 Maybell. The
development has an cttractive and well designed plan that conformed
to the Comprehensive Plan. In the Comprehensive Plan; density
for multi -family zoning ranges from ten to forty-five unites per
acre, depetxding on existing land use, proximity to major streets,
and environmental problems of the area. Density should be on
the lower end of the range rehen located next to single --family areas.
That density had been arrive at after numerous meetings in which
the Barron Park commanity participated. The density in that area
was 4.36 per gross acre, and 13.64 per net acre, deducting the
public streets. That proposed density cane very close to Planning
Commission discussions about land use in the area, where a low
fib:ire of 14 units per acre, the lowest multi -family in- the
present zoning ordinance, was suggested by some commissioners.
Setbacks range from ten to thirty-five feet, within the present
R-1 zoning, and no building exceeds twenty-five feet in height
now required in R-1. Ground cover equals 24 percent, as compered
to 35 percent in R-i zones. Significant open space, equal to
55 percent of the total development, has been provided. At the
request of the Commission public streets were incorporated into
the design; the tennis court wes redesigned to provide an increased
buffer against the traffic on El Camino; setbacks of .buildings
adjoining residential areas also were increased. Residents are
concerned mostly with the density and the increase in traffic.
At the last Coneiesion hearing neighborhood residents had said
that a traffic signal at Haybell and El Camino would alleviate
travel through Barron Park and also would afford easy access out
of Barron Park and across El Camino. Since the -State had put ai leer
priority en a traffic light et the Maybell intersection the developer
agreed to pay taw cost of installing the signal.
The developer agreed to cooperate with the 10 percent -below -market -rate
requirement, but based upon the aegreed formula these units old
be too expositive to provide housing for aoderate income families,
and so in lieu of . those units the developer agreed to provide
$190,000 to be used for any of the City's programs to provide
additional lower coat housing. The Polo Alto Housing Corporation
has written in support e t the developer' a proposal. The proposed
deve.lopmenc would provide a transition gonna between El Camino and
the residential eras of Servos Perk, which had been the purpose
of the lead use 4esigsstios is the arse.
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5/16/77
Corrected
See pg. 1069
e memo fre
Clerk attached
to it.
1sY
Councilman Sher asked Ms. Steinberg what density bordered thra
perimeter of the R-1 zone. She replied that the density was
about 9.1 per gross acre, 10.2 per net acre.
Pauline Sinclair, 700 Flozales Drive, said she preferred that the
area proposed for the development stay as family residence zoning,
for single family areas were more conducive to raising good families.
Also, the area was exposed to the ncise of traffic on J. Camino,
and more traffic increased the problem. She preferred the open
space to increased population density.
Clayton T. Woods, A.I.A., 430 Stanford Avenue, represented Steinberg
Associates, Architects, who were developers of Barron Square, the
topic under discussion that evening. He spoke to qualify some
of the statements made to the Council. He thought his remarks would
respond to some of the concerns of the residents of Barron Park.
Concern about density bad been expressed at Planning Commission and Ai0i
meetings. Steinberg Associates had tried to respond "in depth" to
the guidelines of the Comprehensive Plan, which had designated
the site of the proposed Barron Square development multi -family
residential. Certain areas had been bufferedby single-family
housing, he said, with commercial in other areas, which made
the area transitional. The firm had tried to keep the density,
which ranged from ten to forty-five per acre, at the lowest
part of the range, and the density of 12.6 units per gross acre,
with at the lowest end of the range. He pointed out on the slide
Frojected against the Council chamber wall that the density
at the narrow part of the street toward the cul-de-sac would
have a density of 9.1 units per gross acre, and dear was the
buffering area. He referred to Councilman Sher's amendment to
the definition of density in that area, saying that Steinberg
Associates had provided for the lowest density in
those critical areas, with the highest density adjacent to the
commercial zone. That density was 33 units per acre, giving an
average of slightly over 12 units on a gross acre basis. The units
had been designed to preserve existing trees and keep units from
averlaoktng E-1 backyards. Units had been limited to six along R-1
areas, and therefore minimized the impact of the effect of the
project. Maximum height was twenty-seven feet., eight feet fewer
that the legal minimum in H-1 zoning. The ARE commented "the
architectural design of the perimeter is appropriate to the adjacent
single-family area. The CrMeo Club and L°Oas ie's restaurant
were the corner commercial on El Camino and abutted the project.
Only 19.7 percent of the development abutted single --family residences.
Open space and recreational facilities wade up 55 percent of the
24 percent ground area. The facilities were swimming pool, children's
play ere*, open green spite*, recreation building and tennis court.
So parking areas were included. The total open space exceeded
3.5 acres. Parking was a large concern also. The parking ratio
wee 2.65 per unit, with 252 spaces for the 91 units. There were 104
covered spaces, with 33 underneath the main building. Steinberg
Associates bead hired a traffic consultant who had concluded in his
report: "Peak traffic from the development would be about 82 cars
per hour, which would be added to the major peak volume of 175
cars per hour between 5 and 6 p.n. The operable limit of the
road had been estimated at 400 cars per hour for free -flow
conditions...." The traffic volume had been assured by a traffic
aster on April 26, with 1866 cars in a 24 -hour period. The
development was estimated to add 692 -car trips per 24 hours;
an increase of 31 percent. 'use trips would be between the
entrance to the development and El Cassino Basis The developer
would pay the cost of the traffic light inatailatiorat that corner,
955
5/16/77
1
"even though the impact of this project is not one that would
overwhelm the intersection." The agreed-upop 4 -foot public street
would be provided, which included a five-foot utility easement on
both sides of the street, and public sidewalks%could also be
provided. The planned teanie court would ipravide a buffer against
the El Camino traffic noise; a landscaped berm :Mould heighten the
"green" effect for that frontage on El Camino. ,He closed with
some quotes from the minutes of the Planning Co mieasion which
approved the project.
Sae Sporck, 4099 Laguna, said that the Planning °Cot issi on had not
acted, in his opinion, "according to their promises made to
Berme Park or to the Comprehensive Plan." Thougle the Barron Square
project adhered to the letter of the law, he felt it would be a
detriment to the area. The discontinuity is 4epsity would disrupt
the integrity, and the gradient in density Called for in the
comprehensive Plan had not been observed. He called for changing
the density, not scrapping the project. He asked that the development
be referred back to the Planning Commission to reduce the density
to 70 unite, with units adjacent to single family reduced to six.
Antonio Rader, 3875 Magnolia Drive, objected to the mass of figures
presented to persuade for acceptance of the development. His own
figures were that the 250-300 neighbors now present in. Palo Alto were
going to have their wishes dismissed in favor of 250-300 who would
move to Palo Alto to live in the development. He felt the present
Palo Alums' opinions should carry more weight.
Will Beckett, 4189 Baker Avenue, said that the development would be
the fourth new project in Barron Park in two years, three of which
had not yet been completed; it was the largest of the projects.
The development had been rushed through, he said, with not enough
time for either the planning Commission or the ARS to look thoroughly
at the plans. At each presentation tae. developer, Mr. Sackett said,
had turned plane ir, with the words, "I as sorry to turn the plane
in so bete, we wanted to do a good job." Full elevation drawings
of the project had never been turned in. The drawing on the far
right, (of the projected picture on the will) had never been shown
before. Be retied questions about privacy of E --I resident*
end the location "of the balconies on the west aide." He said that
he had seen from looking at the plan that moat °of the balconies
looked into 1:--I backyards. The only build with a thirty-five foot
eaeetbeck moos Building Six, whereas the closest building was twenty
feet from the property line. He projected a slide showing that
visibility by neighbors waa obstructed. Only two residents of the
eight adjacent R-1 areas bad been sae the plans by the developer,
and none had bean told about ba►lcauiee. Though the developer had
adhered to *acre stipulations, be had dropped density once, when
requested to by Planning Commissioner Rack. Residents of Barron
Park and the area of Mayen Avenue vented a "reasonable compromise"
between aLegle-- and multiples -folly density. He quoted Commissioner
Rack; "With the exception of a small parcel on El Cassino Reel, the
R-1 sow on this property has bean E.-1 long before e9en creation" (of
Barron Perk to Palo Alto) . He asked that the project be returned
to the Flame Commission with instruction*: to lour the density
to 70 omits; require more detailed elevation's so surrounding residents
will not be "In the dark" as to what will be seen from their backyards;
solve the traffic impact problems which the .McElroy, Ya►rkin and Thain
projects would have on that area.
956
5/16/77
James Bechtold, 41q1 Verdosa Drive, agreed that he and his neighbors
did not like the idea of looking at the project from their backyards,
nor having people in the project looking into their backyards.
He challenged Mr. Woods' statement about only 20 percent of the
proposed project bordering R-1, for he himself had counted eight
buildings that bordered B-1. He recalled one Planning Commission meeting
when the proposed density had been 86; at that time one of the
Camrriissionere had asked that a public street be installed. When
the plan returned the density had risen to 104 units. The sub-
sequent reduction to 91 units was five more than the initial 86 units.
He asked why that increase had been accepted, and said residents wanted
that reduced to 70 units.
Robert Moss, 4010 0rms~e, enumerated raaseasa why residents felt
promises which bad been made to Caen had not keea kept. He
tluoted from Planning Commission minutes: June 9, 1976, when
Commissioner Brenner said the Commission wentid the El Camino to
reflect the community behind it...; August 6, 1975, Commissioner
Brenner said that the Commission would like the El ;amino to
reflect the character of the (Barron Park) neighborhood, for it
was the entrance to it; January 8, 1976, Barron Park/ El Camino
study, Mr. Bliss said the single-family areas should remain as they
were, with average density of 7 units, except in the Roble/Ridge
area, where one unit per acre would be a maximum density.
He quoted Mr. Woods' earlier stete set saying Steinberg Associates
was trying to create smell scale buildings "to give the project an
intimate feeling." He continued with further quotes along that veia,
including also quotes from Cuurcilmembers in Council meetings, in
which they had alluded to the dereirability of low density. In
the matter of increased traffic, he quoted Mayor Nortcn as not
encouraging Palo Alto development that would add to traffic volume.
Mr. Muss referred to another development on which 42 units could
be placed with R-dup zoning, saying "..,that's the sort of development
we had in mind." If 86 units had seemed too many, 91 unite was
even moreso. He asked that the number of units be cut back to a
number below that brought to the Council originally.
Bill Braitow, 551 Maybell Avenue, said be taught transportation
gleaning at Stanford. and he had occasion in connectiot with the
SAMPANS project last year to look at the traffic consultant's
study about which he held a ley opinion. An 82 -vehicle peak flow
estimate would probably occur within one-half rather than one hour,
raising traffic conditions to peak floes, is his opinion.
"Happy 'dour" flows at L' 0esss fe' s were also probably considerably
above the estimated number. Pe geve academic pointers on conducting
a thorough study; and asseueaing the results, some aspscto of
which he said had not been undertaken, and he estimated westward
flow on Maybell, as well as eastward flow, vould be increased
considerably. Hs expressed the wish that the City would mace a
detailed exaainatioa► of the traffic study. A sentence appearing
in the study which would not be found in a non-partisan study,
was, he said, that the traffic would be an "asset" to Mk bell Avenue.
Dave Stearns, 3890 Magnolia Helms, recalled a start by the
Mayor promising that Barron Park would retain its rural character.
His aid his neighbors feated some sis i lar project ,eight "loom up
next is our backyards." He questioned the adequacy of off-street
parking for the proposed development, for be had been told the
Planning Commission did not have a firm guideline on a ratio
of off --street parkin for planned unit development. He suggested
the guideline in use in Poster City, where, is ten years, population
bad grown from 0 to 25,000, and in a similar development 3.25 spaces
957
5/16/77
per unit were required, for two -bedroom units, and for three -bedroom
units four off-street parking spaces would be required, meaning
covered units for owner's use, and uncovered stalls for visitors.
}Le asked that the project be referred back to the Planning Commission
requesting that 3.5 spaces per unit be provided. That would approximate
the arithmetic mean of ;Poster City's requirements.
Richard Kortum, 557 Maybell Avenue, sai4 that the large Arastradero
A aartment project had been put next to his backyard, and he said
t certainly does have an effect. On a war* evening it's like
tiring in the middle of a school playground." Though that project
had been required to provide off-street parking, the street was parked
full every day and every night. Noisy construction practices had
violated Palo Alto time limits. lie asked that Maybell's exit onto
El Camino have a traffic light installed.
Lee Duffey, 813 LaJennifer, voiced concern over additional traffic.
She asked that stipulations in the Compa:eheasiee Plan be applied to
this project. The address on the proposed development had been twice
misstated, she said, an example of "glossing over," on the impact of
the project on the citizens and the area itself. She said
requirements on accuracy for R-1 were more strict than on multiple.
Here glossing was epitcrsized with the one tennis court "to attract
buyers." Gasoline fumes from El Canino would be hazardous to
tennis players. Was the City giving its approval to a health hazard?
She quoted from a case in which "the seller was under a duty to disclose
them (health hazards) to the buyer." There was also the possibility
of tennis balls striking unsuspecting motorists, and she said the
City could be responsible for lawsuits. The four -to -three vote showed
the mixed opinion members of the Planning Commission had on the t,roject.
She asked that the Council refer it back to the Commission before a crisis
arises.
George Connor, 4142 Baker Avenue, said that when he left for work about
5:45 a.m. "Tuesday, the 26th" there was no device on Maybell Avenue for the
purpose of counting cars, though it was there on the evening of the 26th.
Silvana Neal, 3880 El Centro, was s new Barron Park resident, and
f$uding the area especially pleasant, She questioned who maid
profit frost the proposed development, for she and her neighbors
certainly would not.
Henry Sturtevant, 719 Fiorales Drive, recalled Council's assurance
to Barron Park residents that the nature of the area would remain,
although he acknowledged that a return to the apricot orchards
was fantasy. The character of the neighborhood would clearly
change with three-story building intruding into time area three
blocks, however.
Mrs. Gaines, 721 Fioraless Drive, feared the increaser traffic
resulting from the proposed development. They had purchased a
home in Barron Park with the hop* of raising a family in as semi -
rural atmosphere. Traffic in the area was bad already, with Amerents
Avenue being in constant use as a bypass to traffic on 11 Camino.
R. W. Seers, 729 Florales Aver, hod chosen to live in Barron
Park in 1947 because there was a density of five houses per acre tom.
For twenty-five years they had fought to keep it that way, though
Barron Park had very reluctantly joined Palo Alto last year. Be hoped
the City "would keep its promise to keep us rural.."
938
5/16/77
James D. Sanabury, 4187 Coulombe Drive, said his street was
"interesting, particularly if you're listening to the cars go by."
The street connected Maybell and Arastraedero, and it carried traffic
out the "back door" of Barron Park, and provided `a►: .hortcut for people
off El Cami:ao through to Araatradero. In one 'five-minute period
one morning he had a count that would amount to 158 cars per hour,
fifty percent more cars were not wanted, ' be proposed traffic
light would make the shortcut "that much more tonvenient" and would
hart the neighborhood further. He said the people who lived in
Barron Pak would be happier if the proposed site ware excised from
Barron Park.
John Miller, 3735 Cass Way, read a letter objecting to the project
from a neighbor et 540 Maybell, and calling it a "high income ghetto."
He read the neighbor' o concern about posssibility of having to remove
a redwood tree -if the developer were to "improve conditions"
by widening the street. He referred to his dislike of being
peered at by condominium dwellers from their bs41conies, along
with other invasions of privacy. The second letter he read
deplored the undermining and destruction of Barron Park's
rural atmosphere, and it asked that the number of units be
reduced to 70. It was signed "Marylou and Larry Faazzola,
4155 Baker Avenue." He referred to the Mayor's letter to Barron
Park residents on the occasion of its annexation, inviting residents
to participate In City government. Among other thoughts the letter
stated that Barron Park would keep its own identity, but the
Comprehensive Plan changed the I ybell Avenue property to multi-
family, whereas its character was single-family, I.n the Comprehensive
Plan the primary objective was to get traffic to arterials --and
the best way to do that wla direct access to El Camino Real rather
than access to the project through Maybell. He said that the only
benefit from the project was $190,000, and he urged the project be
returned to the Planning Commission for lower density.
John E. Mitchell, 4145 Verdosa Drive, said the street he lived on
was close to fioraaless Avenue, and he shared the concerns of the
closer neighbors. Re cited the 4-3 vote of the Planning Commission
us lack of "overwhelming support." He said that the developer at
the McElroy property had agreed to put in single --story buildings,
which was fax less; objectionable. Be gave the footage of setbacks
and heights of proposed buildings to emphasize haw overbearing the
buildings would be.
Georgina J. Anderson, 4150 Maybell Aveuue, spoke of the numbers
of pedestrians, children, end bicyclists on Maybell and cautioned
against the dangers from increased traffic resulting from high
des+ city. She asked that it be decreased.
Robert A. Garcia, 4175 Coins Drive, maid that since the traffic
on Coulombs vas so heavy he was surprised no one had put speed bumps
or blocked the street off, for it ate used by many as a shortcut.
John Baca, 4171 Verdosa, said he vas very pleseee4 with his hose.
Bs►lcoai+as old be "hanging over" his property now, haweve;r, ` an4 he
asked the Council to "please help" return the area back to 1-1.
Steve Kiser, 528 tlrybesl. Avenue, said he lived about five feet from
the proposed entrance. He favored multi -family dwellings, but not
in R-1 arenas, Be said "...if the City Planning Department had done
their job properly there would be an arm just formulti-family."
There were many children who used Maybe11, and he feared the traffic
would be increased much more than 82 cars an hour. The proposed
development mould be only three feet from his three-year old
darsghtser e s bedroom. Its asked Councilmembers if they would want
a 91 -unit condomlnium development to so La oast to their own houses.
9 3 9
q*S7 5/1!x/77
Sarah Thomas, 4121 Verdosa Drive, quoted the headline of the Palo
Alto Timer referring to "reeidentialists!! winning Council seats, which,
to her, suggested some of the Councilmembers Were non-residentialists.
She urged that Councilmembers respond to the needs of the neighborhood
by returning the proposed plan to the Planning Cotoa<iesion for reduced
density which could be agreed upon. Neighbors had feared a two-story
development and increased traffic when they appeared at the Planning
Commission hearing. She thought Palo Alto should have quality in housing,
and not opt for the idea that "more is better."
Erik Christensen, 4164 El Camino Beal, owned. the Townhouse Motel
at the corner of Maybell and El Camino, spoke in favor of the
proposed Barron Square developaaent. He di4 not feel that the
development, which bordered him on two sides, would infringe on
his privacy. He praised the developer's "very:fine Job" in
conforming to the Comprehensive flan and the needs of Palo Alto,
and he thought it would upgrade his property.: Re endorsed it totally.
Roger W. Shaff, 674 Ploralee Drive, opposed the proposed development.
Others in the audience who also opposed it were in the audience
and had not spoken —he asked that they stand, so that Council
could see them.
Joyce Anderson, 3881 Magnolia Drive, said the 7.3 acres being
discussed was some of the last of the urban land in Palo Alto
and she asked that the Council give its development enough thought
so that they could look at it with pride. She said she had
attended An and Planning Commission meetings, and "for some reason
there seems to be a big fire under this one." She projected a
transparency showing the proposed development's effect on the
surrounding properties. The developer, she said, said that he could
build 54 units on 5.87 acres, under the existing zoning. in her
c+: potation that added up to 36 units, building 6 units per acre.
She referred to the bed effect on traffic a /ig t at Maybell would
bring about. She mentioned that Los Robles Avenue, a very narrow
attest, carried 5,444 cars per day. She wondered how any traffic
lights El Camino could have "without coming to a complete standstill."
She questioned whether or not the number of parking spaces did in
fact total 246. She spoke of aatteret of alleged heights on the
proposed elevation, and alluded to the adveraee effect on the
health of players who used the tennis court bordering El Camino.
Reduced density would reduce the impact of traffic. She said that
while she lived close to the El Camino, two houses even closer to that
street bed sold in the past few months for over 4125,000; and also
observed that the combined number of toilets in the deve1opmez t would .
use more aster in o e flush then her entire boueeakold used in eight
months.
Manfred lebmann, 522 Georgia Avenue, said be wee sore concerned about
traffic than about density, and be felt a traffic light on Maybell
Could be needed.
Ann Gloerrsoia, d,$2 Chimalus thrive, praised the comprehensiveness of
Mrs. Andereeon's comments, yet she wanted to add that it was foolhardy
to permit 91 units in en area that made so many more residents
dependent on the automobile for household errands and grocery shopping.
She suggested that the apricot ornhard had been very lovely, and
therefore it could be cared for and provided with a bench or two
for a green spot for those walking or bicycling along El Casein.
MOTION: is Coeancilae en Carey, seconded by 8esehra, weed that the public
hearing be closed. The motion passed on a unanimous vote, Councilmen
Comstock absent.
9 6 0
5/16/77
Councilman Sher asked Mr. Woods of Steinberg Associates why
the question of the too -high density of 86 units had resulted in
the matter being returned to the Planning Conniasion, and then had
returned with a higher density of 104 units.
Mr. Woods replied that three hearings had been held with the
Planning Commission: at the first hearing the 86 units were
two-story garden -type waits, and all the streets were to have been
private. The Commission had advised them to re -study and return
with the inclusion of a public street. Ensuing studies had ehown
them that the required space for right -of --way width for a curb -
to --curb 35 -foot measurement, while also obeet-V.1 g esthetics and
economics, led to a losses of open space. They returned to the
Planning Commission with the addition of the four-story building,
which, being in the center, left space for the lower unite near
the perimeter.
Councilman Sher said that he vas concluding that Steinberg Associates
had been forced, by the requirements of the public street, to afford
themselves enough more ueaits to sell to wake .up for the economic loss
of space which had to be given to a public street. He asked if it
had been planned to sell the 86 units for more money.
Mr. Woods said than: because of having to provide a public street
about twenty or twenty --five units had been lost, "...which made the
whole project totally unviaele," The instal plan, with private
streets of about 25 -foot width, would provide two -,story garden units
which would have sold for more money, although the cost of the three-
story structure was considerably higher, for they had gone to the
expense of putting the parking in a concrete garage underneath the
building. Also, sprinkler systems and elevators reised the cost.
Councilman Sher said the developer had proposed 86 covered parking
and 114 uncovered spaces when the initial 86 units had been presented,
and in the figure for this evening, for the 91:units, there were
104 covered spaces and 138 uncovered, totaling 242. He asked
where those spaces were located.
Mr. Woods answered that garages attached to the garden units
provided 58 ewes; the security garage under the three-story building
provided 46 spaces; 41 spaces were on the public street as parallel
parking, with the remainder on the private cul-de-sac streets, as
open parking. He exhibited the site plan on the Counciicbamster wall,
showing that the public street came into the site on Maybell, with
an S curve to a 90 -degree turn returning to a private cul-de-sac for
overflow parking. He said the plan had been worked out with staff and
the engineering department. The advantage of haying overflow parking
in that location meant that if the property vsre at a future time to
become part of the development they would not have to cove any structures.
Councilman Sher subtracted the 47 spaces from 242 and arrived at 195,
end he asked the ratio of parking per unit r Mr. Woods answered
tbst it was 2.14 per unit.
Councilman Sher said he had not before beard of counting parking
apace. on public streets as a part of parking for a private development.
Ht. Woods said that in the private streets the parking would have
been private. Off-street parking was allowed by the City
on a street which had a 35 -foot right-of-way, according to
the Public Works Department.
9 6 1
5/16/77
Councilman Sher pointed out that there had only bees 86 unite
when that was planned He asked about the proposed height of thus
buildings contiguous to the R-1, and he asked to see about the
planned balconies, also.
Mr. Woods said his firm had tried to make the drawings as accurate
as possible. Be said the drawing shown by one of the residents had
not been totally accurate. Building Six was the only building which
faced into the R-1 area; by "facing" be meant the balconies. There
were no balconies on the other buildings. A large grove of pine
trees blocked potential intrusion, he said, into the adjacent
R-1 property at that pa.rti.cular location. The other unite were
`.''very carefully buffered" so that there were min 3 window and
no balconies that looked into the R-1 area. The building that was
closest to the i-1 area was ooe story. The height progressed on
Building Four from one story to two story, two and ore -half, then
beck to two stories.
Councilman Sher asked if it would be possible to do that on all of the
buildings that bordered on li-1. particularly Building Your.
Mr. Woods said that the present design had received "a tremendout
amount of thought" toward a design to minimize intrusion, He said
the McElroy development had a building that was 260 feet long
backing up to the P-'1 area, The architects cf the Maybell
development had turned the buildings so that the long area was
perpendicular to R-1, so that a width of 50-55 feet
was followed by a distance of 90 feet before another two-story
building occurred.
Council an Sher asked the heights of the adjacent buildings,
starting with Building Four.
Mr. Woods said the height was 27 feet from the ground. Building
Five was about 30 feet high. They were using cedar shingle roofs.
Building Six bad a height of 28 feet, as were Buildings Seven and Eight.
Councilman Beahrs said he himself had used Monterey pines to
block offs two-story building behind his hose —he felt it gave
him a great deal of seclusion.
Mk. Wood Wired that it vas proposed to supplement the misting
pines and ohs with other conifers which wind be green all year.
3uildirg Bight leaked out on the panning lot mead the Cameo Club and
it also would be scram. Be said their landscape architect ct would
design it very carefully.
Councilman Carey confirmed that four buildings fronted an existing R-1.
Ike. Woods said that Building Six, which contained four units. fronted
an the R-1 area, and that there were two unite on the first floor and
two units on the second; however, four buildings wore adjacent to the
dial arse.
Councilman Carey asked the approximate distaace from the corner of the
property on the upper left-hand side (of the slide picture) to
Building Seven.
Mr, Woods replied that it was about 350 feet. He said that was
19 percent of the total perimeter of the site, net 28 percent,
as memo appeared to have understood. Mowing inward, to the a Iga of
the building, it was about 100 to 150 feet, depending on the fit.
962 ``f' ;
5/16/77
Naphtali Knox, Director of Planning and Community Development, said
he had projected on the screen a surm►ary of various statistics
regarding the McElroy, Vista Avenue and Barron Square developmeute.
They varied in percent of public and private street and percent of
building, with the tabular comparisons as shown. The bottom table
showed that on the McElroy development there were about three
units less per acne in density than in the Barrou Square development,
measuring either gross or net acre. He continued, saying that he
had not intended to make a comprehensive response to the comments
made that evening, but he did want to cover some iaaportent points,
including how the final number of 91 units had been arrived at. The
developers had come in with a proposal for 86 units to be served by
internal streets. After recent experience with private streets
such as Miranda, which now has about 60 residences, and with private
streets of Dividend Industries at the McElroy property, the Planning
Commission had concurred that the Barron Square development should
have public streets. Public streets are wider, end they create havoc
with a site plan that is based on private streets. Additional setbacks
were required, and the like. The densities of 12.3 units per gross
acre compare favorably with what the Comprehensive Plan calls for,
he emphasized. The Comprehensive Plan says that in single family
areas the densities will range from one to seven dwellings an acre,
but they may rise in number to a maximum of foerteen in zones
where second unite are permitted. In the City's zoning ordinance
work they are talking about a duplex zone that can be applied to some
parts of the single family areas which are colored yellow on the
Comprehensive Plan map, and so 13.64 units per acre would be
slightly befor the maximum density allowable in a duplex zone in
the single family residential areas shown in the Comprehensive Plan.
.his for the multi -family residential, the Comprehensive Plan says
➢°densities will ranges from ten to 45 units per acre," and "density
should be on the lower end of the multi -family scale next to single-
family residential areas." If ten is the bottom of the scale, then
13.64 is also at the low end of the scale. During the discussions in the
Comprehensive Plan that related to Barron Perk, on February 4 and 11, 1976,
specifically, several commissioners talked about 14 to 20 unite per
acre as being toward the lama end of the density scale. Even in the
Council minutes of September 21 Councilman Sher bad mentioned 20.
He referred to the reference to College Terrace made by John Miller
in his remarks, where, Mr. Knox pointed out, there were multi --family
buildings between the R--1 and the E1 Cassino.
Mr• Knox continued, saying that the architect had pointed out that
the building site coverage is 23.9 percent cored to the maximum
of 35 percent allowed in eing3.e-family zones. That 35 percent maximum
was reached in any of the Eichler developments ie Palo Alto.
He said that iron his point of view the project was excellent in terms
of design; it establishes securely that residential is a reasonable
use on El Camino Real and forma a transition bstween the R-1
neighborhoods in Barron Park and the comeercia1 uses along El Ceaaina.
He said it form a transition between commercial and R-1, but also
within the development there was a transition, from more units
toward El Camino reducing in number toward the Rol area.
Mr. Knox acknowledged that the neighbors felt the density ma* too high,
and that the lmrro a Park Association had indicated, according to the
millets* of the Planning Commission meeting that it vented a lower
to about seven duelling units per acre, the equivalent to E-1;
residents slew went a traffic aigzsal at Maybell and El Camino and
they mint the traffic slowed clown by some means on Maaybetll Avenue.
"Essen developer bad said be would pay for a traffic signal at Nsybell,
which would cost $50,000 to $100,000. T s City expected to
obtain approval of the light from the State.
963
5/1'/17
Mr. Knox touched on the subject of below -market housing. During
one of the Planning Commission meetings one of the Commissioners
had said that a development like the proposed Barron Square did not
provide any loam and moderate -income housing. Mr. Knox said that
was not correct, for the developer had offered to co tribute
$192,000 to the City for use in City -sponsored bouwis g programs
In accordance with the in -lieu payment policy adopted by the City on
April 18, 1917.. In estimating how much housing that •money would
provide he gave the example by assuming for a moment that the
money would be earmarked for than "piggyback progaann." As that was presently
operated by the Santa Clara County Blousing Authority, the cost to Palo Alto
is $43 per month per housing unit Were the cost per unit per month
to rise to $60, $192,000 divided by $60 would give 3,200 unit months
of housing under that "piggyback" program. That program was aimed at
the very lowest income levels under Paderal Section 23 --housing that
is dispersed about the community and not concentrated in one place.
Looking at the belowemarket-rate program, and how much housing it
has provided since Council adopted Resolution 4725 in April of 1973,
it could be seen that the City had obtained from developers a total
of 31 belowemarket-rate units: eight at San Alma, for at Foothill
Green, two at Channing Place, eeven at Greenhouse I, and ten at
Greenhouse II. Foothill Green's units were the first occupied on
September 1, 1974; Channing Place units were the last tc be occupied
on May 1, 1976. Together the 31 unite had provided, up to the present
time, as total of 603 unit -months of housing, The 3,200 unit -months
of housing that would be provided by the $192,000 in -lieu payments
from the Barron Square project would be more than five trees as much
as what haa already been obtained from the other .five projects named above.
Mr. Knox recalled that the developer's traffic epginneer, Mr. Martinez,
had been said to have been recommee led by the City e s traffic engineer,
Mr. 1 oguchi. Ha said it could more accurately be said that Mr. Noguchi
knew of Mr. ' artinez's availability, acid that he had suggested that
he would be nearby, and an available traffic engineer to obtain
traffic counts. Mr. Moguchi had looked over the traffic engineer's
report, and he concluded, as did the consulting traffic engineer,
that Haybell will adequately carry the additional traffic load that
is generated by this project. Re concurs that 4 traffic a signal is
necessary at I4aaybell area El Canino. The rest of the details are
not tweetcily concurred in by Ted Noge chi, and, . in any event, they
are of minor importance compared to. tine major conclusion that Haybell
is adequate to carry the traffic and the major recommendetiou that
ae signal be installed at Haybell and El Camino.
Couocilman Berw+ald *sited if staff would answer the question he had
submitted.
Mr. Inct replied that the dimity of the McElroy development was 9,04
per arts acre, 10.61 units per net acre. The coverage of the property
by buildings was 29 permit, open green area wai 47 percent; the
closest carport ha estimated to be about 20 feet from an R-1 wall,
and tbe perimeter driveway 12 or 14 feet. He said there bed been
insistence that there be buffering between 11-1 and multi -family,
and he felt the Steinberg plan offered that degree of buff eriag that
was "reasonable sad perhaps better then ressonsble attempt...."
Were R-1 developed, (instead of the multi -family) the rear yarn
would be 20 feet and two stores. Re cited Georgewood Lane, behind
Rickey's, where R-1 development went in with two-story 3oas*ea and
three car ;garages, selling for $125,000. es to lowering density
and eliminating the in -lieu past, the dsnaity increase had resulted
from the increased width of the road9 not the fact of is -lieu payments.
944
5/16/77
The developer, irrespective of the number of units, had known he
was to provide 10 percent of the units to in -lieu paywente, once
he had exceeded ten units. As to the carbon monoxide effect on tennis
players: the precise answer was not known, The question also applied
to Greer Park's development next to the freeway. As to the adequacy
of off-street parking, Barron Square's ratio of 2.2 per dwelling was
more than had been obtained on any other dsveloment in Palo Alto --the
standard for homes and multi -family was two mite per dwelling, one
covered and one uncovered. It was contemplated that the requirement
might be cut back somewhat, as the new zoning was developed, in order
to avoid having "excessive paved parking areas.';
Councilman Beaters said some speakers had implied the matter had come
before Council before. He asked Mr. Knox if that was eo, for he
himself did not recall prior consideration.
Mr. Knox replied that Council had considered it only in relation to
the Comprehensive Plan, relating to the question as to whether it
should be zoned R -I or multi -family. The density issue was "clouded"
for the general density range had been from ten to forty-five units
per acre. A tradeoff had been made, Mx. Knox continued, for the
,property on El Camino was zoned commercial, and the part of the property
toward Barron Park was R-1; R -5s, C -3a, R-ls were to be consensually
minced in order to result in something usable. In February, 1976,
the Planning Commission had discussed, 14, 15 and 20 units per acre;
the Council meeting discussion spoke of 20 units per acre, as the
low end of the scale. Single-family areas combined one to two
families, resulting in one to fourteen units per acre. In discussing
multiple, twenty to forty-five units per acre had been discussed.
Through discussion it had been decided to rake multiple fifteen units
per acre, with a later decision to reduce that to ten unite per acre.
He concluded saying that the battle of what should be multiple and
what the density should be had been fought several times.
Councilman Sher asked if the setback took into the account the
bulk of the snits compared to R-1,
Mr. Knox said that the buildings, in architectural language, were
"articulated," in that the lines moved in and out, which meant
that there was not a visual block of buildings, so that they seemed
smaller in scale in relation to the adjacent property. Seen
on an aerial vice the barnmorey of the development and the single
€amtiy des vas visible, for though the buildings in the
development +sere somewhat larger, they were not obtrusively larger.
Councilmen Sher said that in his view the Arastradero development
bad too muck bulk in relation to the Re1 adjacent; he asked if
the McElroy development had not kept their buildings single -story
adjacent to R-1.
Mr'. Knox answered that though they were ell on -story buildings
they ware ell attached; also, &Elroy was three units in density
lass per acre. The Arastradero project had been federally
eubsidixed, a 236 howling project, with 20 units per acre, eed
it bed twice the density.
Councilman Sher asked if lfr. phi bad said what the effect
of the traffic sight be on neighboring streets like Coulomb*.
Beasked what the statement, "ltaybe1l will carry the traffic," meant.
Mr. Knox replied that traffic on Maybeil would go both ways,: one
could not say "Ton have to tuna right on Mayb.11 and go out El. Camino
because we were here first." Speed bumps were not legal on public
rods. Me did sot now have a •olation to that problem? Same solutions
wore arrived at ea en empirical beats,; be said.
965
5116/77
Councilman Sher asked if the furtherance of the project was contingent
on the installation of the traffic signal.
Mar. Knox answered that the Planning Commission and also the staff
had that intent, and the wording on that contingency should perhaps
be made more clear. At present it could possibly:be canatrued
so that the developer could go ahead and then say !the state would
pot grant permission to install the signal, and.thea wee not desirable.
MOTION: Councilman Carey introduced the following ordinance and
moved, seconded by Beahrs, that. Council approve it for first reading
subject to conditions, and with the further condition that prior
to completion the traffic signal be installed at the intersection
of Maybell and El Camino Real.
ORDINANCE OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PALO ALTO
SING SECTION 18.08.040 OF THE PALO ALTO
MUNICIPAL CODE TO CHANGE THE ZONING CLASSIFICATION OF
CERTAIN PROPERTT KNOWN AS BARRONSQUARE LOCATED AT
520 MAYBELL Ai 1LTE FROM R-1, R-5, C -3-S TO P -C, SUBJECT
TO CONDITIONS.
Councilman Carey said that under the F -C application the City
has been able to exercise far more control over the development
than would have been possible had the property been zoned R-1.
Mr. Knox's words had shower that to be true. Had the property been
R-1 there was a strong likelihood that there would have been more
than four, acid probably closer to tea, R-1 units, with no controls
cn matters that might have impinged on the neigbbers, such as
balconies. He felt that the developer had worked with the City
and had lessened the impact of the area that was on the R-1 aide.
He offered that a reduction of numbers of units up to ten would
be minimal. Reduction to seventy units would have been to R-1,
which would have withheld the transition frcA commercial to R-1.
He held that epeakers were saying they did not want to provide
such a transitional area, yet he felt it had to start "somewhere,
and It's starting with this development." De reminded people that
the proposed ten units per acre was at the low end of the density scale.
Councilman 8erwa1d acknowledged that the project. vas important to the
neighbors. He said he would offer ',Lome amendment*, and recalled that
the density was 13.6 net and 12 gross, Re said he -would like to see
12 to .14 feet of planted green area between the perimeter and the
parking spates, He & eke3d the height of the: buildings above the
adjacent grads of Buildings 4, 5 and 6.
. Woods answered thst it via 27 or 2S feet, to the top of the roof.
Mr. Knox said the height of the average two-story residence was 25 feat.
Councilman BerMeld said that he world like the 25 -foot height observed
in the development, and added that be meld like some greens area for
"benches and too fora" o~;a B1 Camino, outside the tennis coup: t . 8e staked
then that parking be developed on the public road by indents, and ;
that the /street be reduced to a 24 foot width, with parking not allowed
on the road. He asked If the property line leas two feet from one
resident's house, as had been stated.
Mr. Knox answered that if that were the case "then somebody's been using
somebody else's property for a driveway."
Councilmen Serwald moved, seconded by Sher, that es a
condition of the P -C sone that the question of number of feet from
the property line be resolved and that the mil be advised if there
ensure such eemcroachment of the development oe the aelahhoree arty.
966
5/16/77
Corrected
See pg. 1014
Councilman Beahrn said that in his opinion the owner of the
property that was encroached upon should take legal action.
AMENDMENT FAILED: The amendment failed on the following vote:
AYES: Berwald, Sher
NQES; Beahrs, Carey, Clay, Eyerly, Norton, Witherspoon
ABSENT: Comstock
AMENDMENT: Councilman Berwald moved, seconded uy Sher, that 12 feet
of open green area be provided at any place on the development that
abetted R-1.
Councilman fseahra asked if Councilman Berwald was moving that an
additional 12 feet be added if a 40 --foot green space already had
been planned for.
Councilman Berwald explained that he wanted at least 12 feet to
reduce the possibility of glare from headlights.
Councilwoman Witherspoon asked if Councilman Berwald was talking about
the lower lefthand corner, where the driveway was indicated.
Councilman Berwald said he meant the parking spaces between Buildings
4 and 5, where the paved area went to about two and one-half feet of
the dividing fence.
AMENDMENT FAILED: The amendment failed on the following vote:
AYES: Bcrwald, Eyerly, Sher
NOES: Bcahrs, Carey, Clay, Norton, Witherspoon
ABSENT: Comstock
AMENDMENT: Councilman Berwald moved, seconded by Sher, that staff
require the architect to make.addditional parking available for
the 47 spaces now accommodated by public street parking, perhaps
through the use of indents and the like.
AMENDMENT FAILED: The ant failed on the following vote:
AYES: Berwald, Sher
NOES: Beabrs, Carey, Clay, Norton, Sher, Witherspoon
ASSENT: Comstock
Councilman Berwald said he regretted the effect that might result from
the inatailation of the stoplight, so far as neighboring streets
were concerned, and he hoped staff might initiate a study that eight
disclose *cue ameliorative means of reducing that effect.
AMENDMENT: Councilman 34crvald coved that atafff work with the
developer to provide a public open green area between the tennis
court avail and the El Cassino, affording benches for public usa.
Councilman 3eabre *eked if it was Councilman Bsrwald's intention
that the developer donate the area as a public park which needed
City maintenance.
9 6.7
5/16/77
Councilman Ierwald said he would leave that up to staff.
The motion failed for lack of a second.
Councilman Sher agreed with that evening's speakers that whatever
was done on the 7.36 acres, under discussion as Barron.Square, would
have a significant impact on surrounding areas. He was disturbed
about the density for the 91 units did not seem consistent to hire
with assurances given when Barron Park was annexed. Most of the parcel
had been R--1 when Barron Park was in the County, and the zoning
had been changed after annexation. Staff had not, in his opinion,
studied the cumulative effect of the Yarkin, *Elroy and Barron Square
projects on either El Camino or internally in. Barron Park. Be
acknowledged the necessity for the traffic .light at-Maybell. He said
he did not consider the tennis court as a "foothold of housing on
El Casein", and he did agree with one of the speakers that the proposed
development changed the neighborhood. He did agree that the in -lieu
payment would carry out another objective, but he did not think that
should be done at the expense of an adjacent R-1 area, and it was "too
high a price to ask these neighbors to pay."
ZION TO REFER: Councilman Sher moved that the matter be referred
back to the Planning Commission to reconsider the proposed development
and to work with the developer to achieve the following resulat.s.
1) reduction of density to that of the McElroy project; 2) no buildings
adjacent to R-1 to exceed one --story in height; 3) that staff study the
cumulative effect of the McElroy, Yarkin and Barron Square on traffic
in Barron Park and along El Camino together with a study of the impact
of the proposed traffic light at Maybell and El Camino; 4) consideration
of health hazards attendant upon use of the tennis court adjacent to
El Cassino.
The motion failed for lack of a eecond.
Councilman .Beahrs deplored the cvetradictcry behavior arising from
the wish to provide more housing, but no one wanting it in hie oven
neighborhood. As a general taxpayer he did not wan to subsidize
lowcost housing. To that extent he was supportive of anyone who
at private expense could provide housing "in this terribly expensive
community today." He said he thought the emphasis on density vas
overplayed.
Councilmau Eyerly recalled that the application had been filed
January 3, and meth work had been done on it: story houses
did appear it E-1 areas; the density of the proposed d elo of
agreed with the Compreheeeive Plan; the parking wee adequate. He
said he thought the development would Upgrade the ar e ThKe
proposed density would provide housing in Palo Alto not otherwise
attainable at a lower deity. He added that he liked the in -lieu
payments, end said he would support this mein motion.
Councilman Sorweld explained that be had not aeecouded Councilman
Sher ` s motion for he thought it was "overkill" to ask for eingie -
story and reduced density. He said he: woad vote agseinet the
development for he felt his amendments, if passed, would hevs removed
the *gill objections of the nearby residents and he wee disappointed
that it had not beau done. He asked Cow cilmembers to reconsider
and work out ways to make the project more palatable.
96*
5116/77
MOTION PASSED: The main motion, moving approval of the ordinance
for first rea:,:ing passed by the following vote:
AYES: Beehre, Carey, Clay, Eyerly, Norton, Witherspoon.
NOES: Sher, Berwald
ABSENT: Comstock
Council recessed from 11:10 to 11:30 p.m.
PRELIMINARY DESIGN FOR CLOSURE OF THE
9E DISPOSAL SITE: APPROVAL OF CONSULTANT AGREEMENT QfR:268:7)
Ben Pewloaki, Director of Public Works, said that the consultant,
Cooper -Clerk and Aseociatea, had been instructed to;provide Council
with sufficient cost and planning formation to permit Council to
evaluate titling 'sad method for terminating the existing sanitary
landfill operations at the Refuse Disposal site. One of the
alternatives the consultant was to study was the use of dredging
spoils for landfill and landscaping, for the Comprehensive Plan
had emphasized those requirements.
Councilman Sher asked if the consultant had beep instructed to look
at the consequences of the dredged spoils, where dewateriug ponds
night be located and the like.
)1r. Pawloski said that was part of the study --also under consideration
would be the possible use of flocculating agents which would help
the devateriug process, along with the possibility of taking the liquid
from the dredged material and running it back to the treatment plant,
which might make the spoils usable faster.
Councilman, Sher asked if the consultant would have "hard data" available
in June, facts which they could use while dediding on the $aylanda
?aster Plan.
Mr. Pawioski replied Olt tie was short so a final printed report
might not be available, but hard facts and data should be available.
Councilman Sher said that he thought it was very important not to
make heating decisions on the basis of facts that were not incontrovertible
or data that wre not complete. He said he wanted to allow ample time.
Mr. Sipel said Council had given staff a number of questions to research
with some to be done by staff and some by couiultante—staff hoped
to Wive those answers in Councils bers' bawd* "sometime in June."
If some information was missing it would have to be dealt with then.
U. advised a study session, with the public prssentp where staff,
consultants add Council talked over the information, with a Council
meeting later in June to make final decisions.
Councilman Sher asked if the consultant could give a preliminary
report in writing before the session, so that Councilmsmbers old not
have to rely solely on an oral presentation.
Mr. Sipes said be hoped there would be something very general in writing,
but he could r►ot hope to have any lengthy report, by the 15th of June.
Councilman Beaters asked that the report include data on costs --he
added that he had long bad the ids* that street sweepings could be
composted, such compost to be used in the Bay1ands and an the golf course.
969
5/16/77
lfr. Pawloski said the consultant's report would definitely include economics,
NOTION: Councilman Clay moved, seconded by Witherspoon, that the
agreement for preli*inery design for closure of the refuse disposal
site be approved; he i ,ttroduced an ordinance emending the budget
and moved, seconded bs Witherspoon its adoption.
AGREEMENT FOR PROFESSIONAL CONSULTANT SERVICES --
COOPER CLARK ASSOCIATES --- for preliminary design
for closure of refuse disposal site.
ORDINANCE NO. 2989 entitled "mama OF TEE COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF PALO ALTO AMENDING THE BUDGET FOR
FISCAL YEAR 1976-77 TO INCREASE APPROPRIATION FOR
DESIGN AND EhhriLmuumu; SERVICES AT THE REFUSE DISPOSAL
SITE"
MOTION PASSED: The motion passed on a unanimous vote, Councilmen
Comstock absent.
h IO TO � ORAL CCM:DUCAT IONS PORWAK)
MOTION: Mayor Norton moved, seconded by Clay, that Oral. Communications
be moved forward ou the agenda to permit members of the audience
to address the Council on an earlier agenda item,
MOTION PASSED: The motion passed on the following vote:
��
AYES:����++ Eeahrs, Iserwald, Clsy, Eyerly, Norton, Witherspoon
NOES: Sher
ABSTAIN: Carey
ASSENT: Comstock
Councilman Shaer said has bad vented to comment on the motion before the
vote took place, for has wee concerned 'boat the propriety of bearing
only fres the people eho remained,, for samee who were concerned about
Item 9 had left at the time of receu.
Mayor Norton said that Council could take that into account while the
presentation wan being made.
ICATIONS
1. .Isms Cooper laid he had understood that the group of which he
wee a part bad understood that they.were on the agenda that
evenine, yet they found they were on the Consent Calendar. Had
they known they sibould have eUbeitte .1 a card to be beard on
thiseir item they would have complied. Bm asked that the smatter
concerning' 4339 El Canino be placed on the calendar again so
that Council could bey their proposal eased ell the interests
d people could be present.
MOTION TO IDU: Councilmen leabxs acnted, seconded by Berwel.d,
that Council reconsider the matter of denial of change of
district for 4339 11 Camino Reed from C -3-S to P --C.
974
5/16/77
Mayer Norton said the motion to reconaider was the proper
parliamentary device for keeping the matter alive, but that he
would argue against it.
MOTION TO RECONSIDER PASSED: Tht motion to reconsider passed on
the following vote:
AYES: Beahrs, Berwald, Clay, Eyerly
NOES: Norton, Sher, Witherspoon
ABSTAIN: Carey
ABSENT: Comstock
MOTION: Councilman Beahrs moved, seconded by Eyerly, that the
matter concerning redistricting of 4339 El Camino Reel be continued
for rehearing at the next meeting.
Councilmen Sher asked if notice had been given to adjacent property
owners when the owners asked for a re --toning of their property
at 4339 El. Camino, and he also asked if there was a list of those
who had been given notice.
AMENDMENT: Councilman Beahrs moved, seconded by Eyerly, that the
adjacent property owners receive notice that the 4339 El Casino
Real matter was going to be reconsidered during the adjourned
meeting next week.
Corrected AMENDMENT NT PASSED: The amendment passed on the following vote:
See pg. 1069
and memo frm AYES: Beahra, Berwald, Clay, Eyerly
Clerk attached
to it. NOES: Sher, Norton, Witherspoon
ABSTAIN: Carey
ABSENT: Comstock
Mayor Norton announced that the matter would be Items 23C on the
agenda of May 23.
MOTION TO !ADJOURN: Mayor Norton moved, seconded by Witherspoon,
that the Council meeting of May 16 be adjourned to 7:30 p.m,,
May 23, 1977, with the meeting to begin with Item 22 concerning
Squire House donations.
MOTION PASSED: The maotion to adjourn peeesd on the following Grote:
AYES: Beebe , Bervald, Carey, Clay, Eyerly, Horton, Witherspoon
NOES: Sher
ABSENT: Comstock
ADJOURNMENT
Council adjourned at 11:30 p.a.
ATTEST:
971
5/16/77