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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2023-12-13 Planning & Transportation Commission Agenda PacketPLANNING AND TRANSPORTATION COMMISSION Regular Meeting Wednesday, December 13, 2023 Council Chambers & Hybrid 6:00 PM Pursuant to AB 361 Palo Alto City Council meetings will be held as “hybrid” meetings with the option to attend by teleconference/video conference or in person. To maximize public safety while still maintaining transparency and public access, members of the public can choose to participate from home or attend in person. Information on how the public may observe and participate in the meeting is located at the end of the agenda. Masks are strongly encouraged if attending in person. The meeting will be broadcast on Cable TV Channel 26, live on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/c/cityofpaloalto, and streamed to Midpen Media Center https://midpenmedia.org. Commissioner names, biographies, and archived agendas and minutes are available at http://bit.ly/PaloAltoPTC.  VIRTUAL PARTICIPATION CLICK HERE TO JOIN (https://cityofpaloalto.zoom.us/j/91641559499) Meeting ID: 916 4155 9499    Phone: 1(669)900‐6833 PUBLIC COMMENTS Public comments will be accepted both in person and via Zoom for up to three minutes or an amount of time determined by the Chair. All requests to speak will be taken until 5 minutes after the staff’s presentation. Written public comments can be submitted in advance to Planning.Commission@CityofPaloAlto.org and will be provided to the Commission and available for inspection on the City’s website. Please clearly indicate which agenda item you are referencing in your subject line. Spokespersons that are representing a group of five or more people who are identified as present at the meeting at the time of the spokesperson's presentation will be allowed up to fifteen (15) minutes at the discretion of the Chair, provided that the non‐speaking members agree not to speak individually. The Chair may limit Public Comments to thirty (30) minutes for all combined speakers. The Chair may reduce the allowed time to speak for Study Sessions and Action Items to two (2) minutes or less to accommodate a larger number of speakers. PowerPoints, videos, or other media to be presented during public comment are accepted only by email to Planning.Commission@CityofPaloAlto.org at least 24 hours prior to the meeting. Once received, the Clerk will have them shared at public comment for the specified item. To uphold strong cybersecurity management practices, USB’s or other physical electronic storage devices are not accepted. TIME ESTIMATES Listed times are estimates only and are subject to change at any time, including while the meeting is in progress. The Commission reserves the right to use more or less time on any item, to change the order of items and/or to continue items to another meeting. Particular items may be heard before or after the time estimated on the agenda. This may occur in order to best manage the time at a meeting or to adapt to the participation of the public. CALL TO ORDER/ ROLL CALL PUBLIC COMMENT  Members of the public may speak to any item NOT on the agenda. Three (3) minutes per speaker. AGENDA CHANGES, ADDITIONS AND DELETIONS The Chair or Board majority may modify the agenda order to improve meeting management. CITY OFFICIAL REPORTS 1.Director's Report, Meeting Schedule and Assignments ACTION ITEMS Public Comment is Permitted. Applicants/Appellant Teams: Fifteen (15) minutes, plus three (3) minutes rebuttal. All others: Five(5) minutes per speaker. 2.PUBLIC HEARING / QUASI‐JUDICIAL. 949 Scott Street [22PLN‐00410]: Request for Planning and Transportation Commission Hearing Following the Proposed Director's Decision Approving a Variance application to Allow a New Single‐Story, Single‐Family Home with a Basement to Encroach into the Front, Side, and Rear Setbacks and Deviate from Standards for Below Grade Patio Side and Rear Setbacks, and Number of Parking Spaces. Zoning District: R‐2. Environmental Assessment: Exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act per Section 15303.      6:10 PM – 7:10 PM 3.Recommendation on an Ordinance Amending Palo Alto Municipal Code Title 18 (Zoning) Chapters 18.14 (Housing Incentives), 18.76 (Permits and Approvals), and 18.77 (Processing of Permits and Approvals) to Implement Housing Element Program 1.3 Creating By‐ Right Zoning Approval for Specific Housing Element Inventory Sites 7:10 PM – 9:10 PM 4.PUBLIC HEARING / QUASI‐JUDICIAL. 420 Acacia [23PLN‐00059]: Recommendation on Applicant’s Request for Approval of a Vesting Tentative Map to Allow for a Condominium Subdivision to Create 16 Units on a Single 35,573 Square Foot Parcel. The Subdivision map Would Facilitate Construction of the Previously Approved 33,833 Square Foot Mixed‐ use Development Project (23PLN‐00058). Environmental Assessment: Exempt from the Provisions of the California Environmental Quality Act in Accordance with CEQA Guidelines Section 15332 (In‐fill Development). Zoning District: Split Zoning Designation of RM‐30 and R‐1 (Multi‐Family and Single‐Family Residential). For More Information Contact the Project Planner Claire Raybould at Claire.Raybould@cityofpaloalto.org​​. 9:10 PM – 10:30 PM COMMISSIONER QUESTIONS, COMMENTS, ANNOUNCEMENTS OR FUTURE MEETINGS AND AGENDAS Members of the public may not speak to the item(s). ADJOURNMENT PUBLIC COMMENT INSTRUCTIONS Members of the Public may provide public comments to teleconference meetings via email, teleconference, or by phone. 1. W r i t t e n   p u b l i c   c o m m e n t s  m a y   b e   s u b m i t t e d   b y   e m a i l   t o planning.commission@cityofpaloalto.org. 2. Spoken public comments using a computer will be accepted through the teleconference meeting. To address the Commission, click on the link below to access a Zoom‐based meeting. Please read the following instructions carefully. You may download the Zoom client or connect to the meeting in‐ browser. If using your browser, make sure you are using a current, up‐to‐date browser: Chrome 30, Firefox 27, Microsoft Edge 12, Safari 7. Certain functionality may be disabled in older browsers including Internet Explorer. You may be asked to enter an email address and name. We request that you identify yourself by name as this will be visible online and will be used to notify you that it is your turn to speak. When you wish to speak on an Agenda Item, click on “raise hand.” The Clerk will activate and unmute speakers in turn. Speakers will be notified shortly before they are called to speak. When called, please limit your remarks to the time limit allotted. A timer will be shown on the computer to help keep track of your comments. 3. Spoken public comments using a smart phone will be accepted  through the teleconference meeting. To address the Commission, download the Zoom application onto your phone from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store and enter the Meeting ID below. Please follow the instructions above. 4. Spoken public comments using a phone use the telephone number listed below. When you wish to speak on an agenda item hit *9 on your phone so we know that you wish to speak. You will be asked to provide your first and last name before addressing the Commission. You will be advised how long you have to speak. When called please limit your remarks to the agenda item and time limit allotted. CLICK HERE TO JOIN    Meeting ID: 916 4155 9499   Phone:1‐669‐900‐6833  Americans with Disability Act (ADA) It is the policy of the City of Palo Alto to offer its public programs, services and meetings in a manner that is readily accessible to all. Persons with disabilities who require materials in an appropriate alternative format or who require auxiliary aids to access City meetings, programs, or services may contact the City’s ADA Coordinator at (650) 329‐2550 (voice) or by emailing ada@cityofpaloalto.org. Requests for assistance or accommodations must be submitted at least 24 hours in advance of the meeting, program, or service. PLANNING AND TRANSPORTATION COMMISSIONRegular MeetingWednesday, December 13, 2023Council Chambers & Hybrid6:00 PMPursuant to AB 361 Palo Alto City Council meetings will be held as “hybrid” meetings with theoption to attend by teleconference/video conference or in person. To maximize public safetywhile still maintaining transparency and public access, members of the public can choose toparticipate from home or attend in person. Information on how the public may observe andparticipate in the meeting is located at the end of the agenda. Masks are strongly encouraged ifattending in person. The meeting will be broadcast on Cable TV Channel 26, live onYouTube https://www.youtube.com/c/cityofpaloalto, and streamed to Midpen MediaCenter https://midpenmedia.org. Commissioner names, biographies, and archived agendas andminutes are available at http://bit.ly/PaloAltoPTC. VIRTUAL PARTICIPATION CLICK HERE TO JOIN (https://cityofpaloalto.zoom.us/j/91641559499)Meeting ID: 916 4155 9499    Phone: 1(669)900‐6833PUBLIC COMMENTSPublic comments will be accepted both in person and via Zoom for up to three minutes or anamount of time determined by the Chair. All requests to speak will be taken until 5 minutesafter the staff’s presentation. Written public comments can be submitted in advance toPlanning.Commission@CityofPaloAlto.org and will be provided to the Commission and availablefor inspection on the City’s website. Please clearly indicate which agenda item you arereferencing in your subject line.Spokespersons that are representing a group of five or more people who are identified aspresent at the meeting at the time of the spokesperson's presentation will be allowed up tofifteen (15) minutes at the discretion of the Chair, provided that the non‐speaking membersagree not to speak individually. The Chair may limit Public Comments to thirty (30) minutes forall combined speakers. The Chair may reduce the allowed time to speak for Study Sessions andAction Items to two (2) minutes or less to accommodate a larger number of speakers.PowerPoints, videos, or other media to be presented during public comment are accepted onlyby email to Planning.Commission@CityofPaloAlto.org at least 24 hours prior to the meeting.Once received, the Clerk will have them shared at public comment for the specified item. Touphold strong cybersecurity management practices, USB’s or other physical electronic storagedevices are not accepted.TIME ESTIMATES Listed times are estimates only and are subject to change at any time, including while the meeting is in progress. The Commission reserves the right to use more or less time on any item, to change the order of items and/or to continue items to another meeting. Particular items may be heard before or after the time estimated on the agenda. This may occur in order to best manage the time at a meeting or to adapt to the participation of the public. CALL TO ORDER/ ROLL CALL PUBLIC COMMENT  Members of the public may speak to any item NOT on the agenda. Three (3) minutes per speaker. AGENDA CHANGES, ADDITIONS AND DELETIONS The Chair or Board majority may modify the agenda order to improve meeting management. CITY OFFICIAL REPORTS 1.Director's Report, Meeting Schedule and Assignments ACTION ITEMS Public Comment is Permitted. Applicants/Appellant Teams: Fifteen (15) minutes, plus three (3) minutes rebuttal. All others: Five(5) minutes per speaker. 2.PUBLIC HEARING / QUASI‐JUDICIAL. 949 Scott Street [22PLN‐00410]: Request for Planning and Transportation Commission Hearing Following the Proposed Director's Decision Approving a Variance application to Allow a New Single‐Story, Single‐Family Home with a Basement to Encroach into the Front, Side, and Rear Setbacks and Deviate from Standards for Below Grade Patio Side and Rear Setbacks, and Number of Parking Spaces. Zoning District: R‐2. Environmental Assessment: Exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act per Section 15303.      6:10 PM – 7:10 PM 3.Recommendation on an Ordinance Amending Palo Alto Municipal Code Title 18 (Zoning) Chapters 18.14 (Housing Incentives), 18.76 (Permits and Approvals), and 18.77 (Processing of Permits and Approvals) to Implement Housing Element Program 1.3 Creating By‐ Right Zoning Approval for Specific Housing Element Inventory Sites 7:10 PM – 9:10 PM 4.PUBLIC HEARING / QUASI‐JUDICIAL. 420 Acacia [23PLN‐00059]: Recommendation on Applicant’s Request for Approval of a Vesting Tentative Map to Allow for a Condominium Subdivision to Create 16 Units on a Single 35,573 Square Foot Parcel. The Subdivision map Would Facilitate Construction of the Previously Approved 33,833 Square Foot Mixed‐ use Development Project (23PLN‐00058). Environmental Assessment: Exempt from the Provisions of the California Environmental Quality Act in Accordance with CEQA Guidelines Section 15332 (In‐fill Development). Zoning District: Split Zoning Designation of RM‐30 and R‐1 (Multi‐Family and Single‐Family Residential). For More Information Contact the Project Planner Claire Raybould at Claire.Raybould@cityofpaloalto.org​​. 9:10 PM – 10:30 PM COMMISSIONER QUESTIONS, COMMENTS, ANNOUNCEMENTS OR FUTURE MEETINGS AND AGENDAS Members of the public may not speak to the item(s). ADJOURNMENT PUBLIC COMMENT INSTRUCTIONS Members of the Public may provide public comments to teleconference meetings via email, teleconference, or by phone. 1. W r i t t e n   p u b l i c   c o m m e n t s  m a y   b e   s u b m i t t e d   b y   e m a i l   t o planning.commission@cityofpaloalto.org. 2. Spoken public comments using a computer will be accepted through the teleconference meeting. To address the Commission, click on the link below to access a Zoom‐based meeting. Please read the following instructions carefully. You may download the Zoom client or connect to the meeting in‐ browser. If using your browser, make sure you are using a current, up‐to‐date browser: Chrome 30, Firefox 27, Microsoft Edge 12, Safari 7. Certain functionality may be disabled in older browsers including Internet Explorer. You may be asked to enter an email address and name. We request that you identify yourself by name as this will be visible online and will be used to notify you that it is your turn to speak. When you wish to speak on an Agenda Item, click on “raise hand.” The Clerk will activate and unmute speakers in turn. Speakers will be notified shortly before they are called to speak. When called, please limit your remarks to the time limit allotted. A timer will be shown on the computer to help keep track of your comments. 3. Spoken public comments using a smart phone will be accepted  through the teleconference meeting. To address the Commission, download the Zoom application onto your phone from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store and enter the Meeting ID below. Please follow the instructions above. 4. Spoken public comments using a phone use the telephone number listed below. When you wish to speak on an agenda item hit *9 on your phone so we know that you wish to speak. You will be asked to provide your first and last name before addressing the Commission. You will be advised how long you have to speak. When called please limit your remarks to the agenda item and time limit allotted. CLICK HERE TO JOIN    Meeting ID: 916 4155 9499   Phone:1‐669‐900‐6833  Americans with Disability Act (ADA) It is the policy of the City of Palo Alto to offer its public programs, services and meetings in a manner that is readily accessible to all. Persons with disabilities who require materials in an appropriate alternative format or who require auxiliary aids to access City meetings, programs, or services may contact the City’s ADA Coordinator at (650) 329‐2550 (voice) or by emailing ada@cityofpaloalto.org. Requests for assistance or accommodations must be submitted at least 24 hours in advance of the meeting, program, or service. PLANNING AND TRANSPORTATION COMMISSIONRegular MeetingWednesday, December 13, 2023Council Chambers & Hybrid6:00 PMPursuant to AB 361 Palo Alto City Council meetings will be held as “hybrid” meetings with theoption to attend by teleconference/video conference or in person. To maximize public safetywhile still maintaining transparency and public access, members of the public can choose toparticipate from home or attend in person. Information on how the public may observe andparticipate in the meeting is located at the end of the agenda. Masks are strongly encouraged ifattending in person. The meeting will be broadcast on Cable TV Channel 26, live onYouTube https://www.youtube.com/c/cityofpaloalto, and streamed to Midpen MediaCenter https://midpenmedia.org. Commissioner names, biographies, and archived agendas andminutes are available at http://bit.ly/PaloAltoPTC. VIRTUAL PARTICIPATION CLICK HERE TO JOIN (https://cityofpaloalto.zoom.us/j/91641559499)Meeting ID: 916 4155 9499    Phone: 1(669)900‐6833PUBLIC COMMENTSPublic comments will be accepted both in person and via Zoom for up to three minutes or anamount of time determined by the Chair. All requests to speak will be taken until 5 minutesafter the staff’s presentation. Written public comments can be submitted in advance toPlanning.Commission@CityofPaloAlto.org and will be provided to the Commission and availablefor inspection on the City’s website. Please clearly indicate which agenda item you arereferencing in your subject line.Spokespersons that are representing a group of five or more people who are identified aspresent at the meeting at the time of the spokesperson's presentation will be allowed up tofifteen (15) minutes at the discretion of the Chair, provided that the non‐speaking membersagree not to speak individually. The Chair may limit Public Comments to thirty (30) minutes forall combined speakers. The Chair may reduce the allowed time to speak for Study Sessions andAction Items to two (2) minutes or less to accommodate a larger number of speakers.PowerPoints, videos, or other media to be presented during public comment are accepted onlyby email to Planning.Commission@CityofPaloAlto.org at least 24 hours prior to the meeting.Once received, the Clerk will have them shared at public comment for the specified item. Touphold strong cybersecurity management practices, USB’s or other physical electronic storagedevices are not accepted.TIME ESTIMATESListed times are estimates only and are subject to change at any time, including while themeeting is in progress. The Commission reserves the right to use more or less time on any item,to change the order of items and/or to continue items to another meeting. Particular items maybe heard before or after the time estimated on the agenda. This may occur in order to bestmanage the time at a meeting or to adapt to the participation of the public.CALL TO ORDER/ ROLL CALLPUBLIC COMMENT Members of the public may speak to any item NOT on the agenda. Three (3) minutes per speaker.AGENDA CHANGES, ADDITIONS AND DELETIONSThe Chair or Board majority may modify the agenda order to improve meeting management.CITY OFFICIAL REPORTS1.Director's Report, Meeting Schedule and AssignmentsACTION ITEMSPublic Comment is Permitted. Applicants/Appellant Teams: Fifteen (15) minutes, plus three (3) minutes rebuttal. All others:Five(5) minutes per speaker.2.PUBLIC HEARING / QUASI‐JUDICIAL. 949 Scott Street [22PLN‐00410]: Request forPlanning and Transportation Commission Hearing Following the Proposed Director'sDecision Approving a Variance application to Allow a New Single‐Story, Single‐FamilyHome with a Basement to Encroach into the Front, Side, and Rear Setbacks and Deviatefrom Standards for Below Grade Patio Side and Rear Setbacks, and Number of ParkingSpaces. Zoning District: R‐2. Environmental Assessment: Exempt from the CaliforniaEnvironmental Quality Act per Section 15303.      6:10 PM – 7:10 PM3.Recommendation on an Ordinance Amending Palo Alto Municipal Code Title 18 (Zoning)Chapters 18.14 (Housing Incentives), 18.76 (Permits and Approvals), and 18.77(Processing of Permits and Approvals) to Implement Housing Element Program 1.3Creating By‐ Right Zoning Approval for Specific Housing Element Inventory Sites7:10 PM – 9:10 PM4.PUBLIC HEARING / QUASI‐JUDICIAL. 420 Acacia [23PLN‐00059]: Recommendation onApplicant’s Request for Approval of a Vesting Tentative Map to Allow for a CondominiumSubdivision to Create 16 Units on a Single 35,573 Square Foot Parcel. The Subdivisionmap Would Facilitate Construction of the Previously Approved 33,833 Square Foot Mixed‐use Development Project (23PLN‐00058). Environmental Assessment: Exempt from theProvisions of the California Environmental Quality Act in Accordance with CEQAGuidelines Section 15332 (In‐fill Development). Zoning District: Split Zoning Designationof RM‐30 and R‐1 (Multi‐Family and Single‐Family Residential). For More Information Contact the Project Planner Claire Raybould at Claire.Raybould@cityofpaloalto.org​​. 9:10 PM – 10:30 PM COMMISSIONER QUESTIONS, COMMENTS, ANNOUNCEMENTS OR FUTURE MEETINGS AND AGENDAS Members of the public may not speak to the item(s). ADJOURNMENT PUBLIC COMMENT INSTRUCTIONS Members of the Public may provide public comments to teleconference meetings via email, teleconference, or by phone. 1. W r i t t e n   p u b l i c   c o m m e n t s  m a y   b e   s u b m i t t e d   b y   e m a i l   t o planning.commission@cityofpaloalto.org. 2. Spoken public comments using a computer will be accepted through the teleconference meeting. To address the Commission, click on the link below to access a Zoom‐based meeting. Please read the following instructions carefully. You may download the Zoom client or connect to the meeting in‐ browser. If using your browser, make sure you are using a current, up‐to‐date browser: Chrome 30, Firefox 27, Microsoft Edge 12, Safari 7. Certain functionality may be disabled in older browsers including Internet Explorer. You may be asked to enter an email address and name. We request that you identify yourself by name as this will be visible online and will be used to notify you that it is your turn to speak. When you wish to speak on an Agenda Item, click on “raise hand.” The Clerk will activate and unmute speakers in turn. Speakers will be notified shortly before they are called to speak. When called, please limit your remarks to the time limit allotted. A timer will be shown on the computer to help keep track of your comments. 3. Spoken public comments using a smart phone will be accepted  through the teleconference meeting. To address the Commission, download the Zoom application onto your phone from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store and enter the Meeting ID below. Please follow the instructions above. 4. Spoken public comments using a phone use the telephone number listed below. When you wish to speak on an agenda item hit *9 on your phone so we know that you wish to speak. You will be asked to provide your first and last name before addressing the Commission. You will be advised how long you have to speak. When called please limit your remarks to the agenda item and time limit allotted. CLICK HERE TO JOIN    Meeting ID: 916 4155 9499   Phone:1‐669‐900‐6833  Americans with Disability Act (ADA) It is the policy of the City of Palo Alto to offer its public programs, services and meetings in a manner that is readily accessible to all. Persons with disabilities who require materials in an appropriate alternative format or who require auxiliary aids to access City meetings, programs, or services may contact the City’s ADA Coordinator at (650) 329‐2550 (voice) or by emailing ada@cityofpaloalto.org. Requests for assistance or accommodations must be submitted at least 24 hours in advance of the meeting, program, or service. PLANNING AND TRANSPORTATION COMMISSIONRegular MeetingWednesday, December 13, 2023Council Chambers & Hybrid6:00 PMPursuant to AB 361 Palo Alto City Council meetings will be held as “hybrid” meetings with theoption to attend by teleconference/video conference or in person. To maximize public safetywhile still maintaining transparency and public access, members of the public can choose toparticipate from home or attend in person. Information on how the public may observe andparticipate in the meeting is located at the end of the agenda. Masks are strongly encouraged ifattending in person. The meeting will be broadcast on Cable TV Channel 26, live onYouTube https://www.youtube.com/c/cityofpaloalto, and streamed to Midpen MediaCenter https://midpenmedia.org. Commissioner names, biographies, and archived agendas andminutes are available at http://bit.ly/PaloAltoPTC. VIRTUAL PARTICIPATION CLICK HERE TO JOIN (https://cityofpaloalto.zoom.us/j/91641559499)Meeting ID: 916 4155 9499    Phone: 1(669)900‐6833PUBLIC COMMENTSPublic comments will be accepted both in person and via Zoom for up to three minutes or anamount of time determined by the Chair. All requests to speak will be taken until 5 minutesafter the staff’s presentation. Written public comments can be submitted in advance toPlanning.Commission@CityofPaloAlto.org and will be provided to the Commission and availablefor inspection on the City’s website. Please clearly indicate which agenda item you arereferencing in your subject line.Spokespersons that are representing a group of five or more people who are identified aspresent at the meeting at the time of the spokesperson's presentation will be allowed up tofifteen (15) minutes at the discretion of the Chair, provided that the non‐speaking membersagree not to speak individually. The Chair may limit Public Comments to thirty (30) minutes forall combined speakers. The Chair may reduce the allowed time to speak for Study Sessions andAction Items to two (2) minutes or less to accommodate a larger number of speakers.PowerPoints, videos, or other media to be presented during public comment are accepted onlyby email to Planning.Commission@CityofPaloAlto.org at least 24 hours prior to the meeting.Once received, the Clerk will have them shared at public comment for the specified item. Touphold strong cybersecurity management practices, USB’s or other physical electronic storagedevices are not accepted.TIME ESTIMATESListed times are estimates only and are subject to change at any time, including while themeeting is in progress. The Commission reserves the right to use more or less time on any item,to change the order of items and/or to continue items to another meeting. Particular items maybe heard before or after the time estimated on the agenda. This may occur in order to bestmanage the time at a meeting or to adapt to the participation of the public.CALL TO ORDER/ ROLL CALLPUBLIC COMMENT Members of the public may speak to any item NOT on the agenda. Three (3) minutes per speaker.AGENDA CHANGES, ADDITIONS AND DELETIONSThe Chair or Board majority may modify the agenda order to improve meeting management.CITY OFFICIAL REPORTS1.Director's Report, Meeting Schedule and AssignmentsACTION ITEMSPublic Comment is Permitted. Applicants/Appellant Teams: Fifteen (15) minutes, plus three (3) minutes rebuttal. All others:Five(5) minutes per speaker.2.PUBLIC HEARING / QUASI‐JUDICIAL. 949 Scott Street [22PLN‐00410]: Request forPlanning and Transportation Commission Hearing Following the Proposed Director'sDecision Approving a Variance application to Allow a New Single‐Story, Single‐FamilyHome with a Basement to Encroach into the Front, Side, and Rear Setbacks and Deviatefrom Standards for Below Grade Patio Side and Rear Setbacks, and Number of ParkingSpaces. Zoning District: R‐2. Environmental Assessment: Exempt from the CaliforniaEnvironmental Quality Act per Section 15303.      6:10 PM – 7:10 PM3.Recommendation on an Ordinance Amending Palo Alto Municipal Code Title 18 (Zoning)Chapters 18.14 (Housing Incentives), 18.76 (Permits and Approvals), and 18.77(Processing of Permits and Approvals) to Implement Housing Element Program 1.3Creating By‐ Right Zoning Approval for Specific Housing Element Inventory Sites7:10 PM – 9:10 PM4.PUBLIC HEARING / QUASI‐JUDICIAL. 420 Acacia [23PLN‐00059]: Recommendation onApplicant’s Request for Approval of a Vesting Tentative Map to Allow for a CondominiumSubdivision to Create 16 Units on a Single 35,573 Square Foot Parcel. The Subdivisionmap Would Facilitate Construction of the Previously Approved 33,833 Square Foot Mixed‐use Development Project (23PLN‐00058). Environmental Assessment: Exempt from theProvisions of the California Environmental Quality Act in Accordance with CEQAGuidelines Section 15332 (In‐fill Development). Zoning District: Split Zoning Designationof RM‐30 and R‐1 (Multi‐Family and Single‐Family Residential). For More InformationContact the Project Planner Claire Raybould at Claire.Raybould@cityofpaloalto.org​​.9:10 PM – 10:30 PMCOMMISSIONER QUESTIONS, COMMENTS, ANNOUNCEMENTS OR FUTURE MEETINGS ANDAGENDAS Members of the public may not speak to the item(s). ADJOURNMENT PUBLIC COMMENT INSTRUCTIONS Members of the Public may provide public comments to teleconference meetings via email, teleconference, or by phone. 1. W r i t t e n   p u b l i c   c o m m e n t s  m a y   b e   s u b m i t t e d   b y   e m a i l   t o planning.commission@cityofpaloalto.org. 2. Spoken public comments using a computer will be accepted through the teleconference meeting. To address the Commission, click on the link below to access a Zoom‐based meeting. Please read the following instructions carefully. You may download the Zoom client or connect to the meeting in‐ browser. If using your browser, make sure you are using a current, up‐to‐date browser: Chrome 30, Firefox 27, Microsoft Edge 12, Safari 7. Certain functionality may be disabled in older browsers including Internet Explorer. You may be asked to enter an email address and name. We request that you identify yourself by name as this will be visible online and will be used to notify you that it is your turn to speak. When you wish to speak on an Agenda Item, click on “raise hand.” The Clerk will activate and unmute speakers in turn. Speakers will be notified shortly before they are called to speak. When called, please limit your remarks to the time limit allotted. A timer will be shown on the computer to help keep track of your comments. 3. Spoken public comments using a smart phone will be accepted  through the teleconference meeting. To address the Commission, download the Zoom application onto your phone from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store and enter the Meeting ID below. Please follow the instructions above. 4. Spoken public comments using a phone use the telephone number listed below. When you wish to speak on an agenda item hit *9 on your phone so we know that you wish to speak. You will be asked to provide your first and last name before addressing the Commission. You will be advised how long you have to speak. When called please limit your remarks to the agenda item and time limit allotted. CLICK HERE TO JOIN    Meeting ID: 916 4155 9499   Phone:1‐669‐900‐6833  Americans with Disability Act (ADA) It is the policy of the City of Palo Alto to offer its public programs, services and meetings in a manner that is readily accessible to all. Persons with disabilities who require materials in an appropriate alternative format or who require auxiliary aids to access City meetings, programs, or services may contact the City’s ADA Coordinator at (650) 329‐2550 (voice) or by emailing ada@cityofpaloalto.org. Requests for assistance or accommodations must be submitted at least 24 hours in advance of the meeting, program, or service. Item No. 1. Page 1 of 2 Planning & Transportation Commission Staff Report From: Planning and Development Services Director Lead Department: Planning and Development Services Meeting Date: December 13, 2023 Report #: 2311-2256 TITLE Director's Report, Meeting Schedule and Assignments RECOMMENDATION Staff recommends that the Planning and Transportation Commission (PTC) review and comment as appropriate. BACKGROUND This document includes the following items:  PTC Meeting Schedule  PTC Representative to City Council (Rotational Assignments)  Upcoming PTC Agenda Items Commissioners are encouraged to contact Veronica Dao (Veronica.Dao@CityofPaloAlto.org) to notify staff of any planned absences one month in advance, if possible, to ensure the availability of a PTC quorum. PTC Representative to City Council is a rotational assignment where the designated commissioner represents the PTC’s affirmative and dissenting perspectives to Council for quasijudicial and legislative matters. Representatives are encouraged to review the City Council agendas (https://www.cityofpaloalto.org/City-Hall/City-Council/Council-Agendas-Minutes) for the months of their respective assignments to verify if attendance is needed or contact staff. Prior PTC meetings are available online at https://midpenmedia.org/category/government/city- of-palo-alto/boards-and-commissions/planning-and-transportation-commission. UPCOMING PTC ITEMS Tentative Items: January 17, 2024: 2501 Embarcadero Road, Advance Water Purification System Item 1 Staff Report     Packet Pg. 5     Item No. 1. Page 2 of 2 January 31, 2024 TBD February 12, 2024 Joint meeting with City Council to review Housing Element revisions in response to HCD comments ATTACHMENTS Attachment A: 2023-2024 Schedule & Assignments AUTHOR/TITLE: Amy French, Chief Planning Official Item 1 Staff Report     Packet Pg. 6     Planning & Transportation Commission 2023-2024 Meeting Schedule & Assignments 2023-2024 Schedule Meeting Dates Time Location Status Planned Absences 1/11/2023 6:00 PM Hybrid Cancelled 1/25/2023 6:00 PM Hybrid Cancelled 2/08/2023 6:00 PM Hybrid Regular 2/22/2023 6:00 PM Hybrid Regular 3/08/2023 6:00 PM Hybrid Regular 3/29/2023 6:00 PM Hybrid Regular 4/12/2023 6:00 PM Hybrid Cancelled Bryna Chang 4/26/2023 6:00 PM Hybrid Regular Bart Hechtman 5/08/2023 6:00 PM Hybrid Joint Session w/ Council 5/10/2023 6:00 PM Hybrid Regular 5/31/2023 6:00 PM Hybrid Regular 6/14/2023 6:00 PM Hybrid Regular Bart Hechtman 6/28/2023 6:00 PM Hybrid Regular Bryna Chang 7/12/2023 6:00 PM Hybrid Regular Bart Hechtman 7/26/2023 6:00 PM Hybrid Regular George Lu 8/09/2023 6:00 PM Hybrid Regular 8/30/2023 6:00 PM Hybrid Regular 9/13/2023 6:00 PM Hybrid Regular 9/27/2023 6:00 PM Hybrid Cancelled 10/11/2023 6:00 PM Hybrid Regular 10/25/2023 5:00 PM Hybrid Special 11/08/2023 6:00 PM Hybrid Regular 11/29/2023 6:00 PM Hybrid Regular 12/13/2023 6:00 PM Hybrid Regular 12/27/2023 6:00 PM Hybrid Cancelled 1/10/2024 6:00 PM Hybrid Cancelled 1/17/2024 6:00 PM Hybrid Special 1/31/2024 6:00 PM Hybrid Regular 2/12/2024 6:00 PM Hybrid Joint Session w/ Council 2/14/2024 6:00 PM Hybrid Cancelled 2023-2024 Assignments - Council Representation (primary/backup) January 2024 February 2024 March 2024 April 2024 May 2024 June 2024 Cari Templeton Keith Reckdahl Bart Hechtman Doria Summa Bryna Chang George Lu Doria Summa Allen Akin Keith Reckdahl Cari Templeton George Lu Bryna Chang July 2024 August 2024 September 2024 October 2024 November 2023 December 2023 Allen Akin Bart Hechtman Doria Summa George Lu Bart Hechtman Keith Reckdahl Cari Templeton Bryna Chang Allen Akin Bart Hechtman George Lu Doria Summa Item 1 Attachment A - PTC 2023 Schedule & Assignments     Packet Pg. 7     Item No. 2. Page 1 of 7 Planning & Transportation Commission Staff Report From: Planning and Development Services Director Lead Department: Planning and Development Services Meeting Date: December 13, 2023 Report #: 2311-2264 TITLE PUBLIC HEARING / QUASI-JUDICIAL. 949 Scott Street [22PLN-00410]: Request for Planning and Transportation Commission Hearing Following the Proposed Director's Decision Approving a Variance application to Allow a New Single-Story, Single-Family Home with a Basement to Encroach into the Front, Side, and Rear Setbacks and Deviate from Standards for Below Grade Patio Side and Rear Setbacks, and Number of Parking Spaces. Zoning District: R-2. Environmental Assessment: Exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act per Section 15303. RECOMMENDATION Staff recommends the Planning and Transportation Commission (PTC) take the following action(s): 1. Recommend approval of the Variance application for the proposed project based on the attached findings. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The applicant requests approval of a Variance to demolish a single-family home and build a new single-family home with a basement on a substandard lot. The proposed director’s decision to approve the project did not become final, because a request for hearing was filed within 14 days. This report summarizes the findings associated with the approval. The PTC is requested to review the application and make a recommendation to the City Council for a final decision. BACKGROUND Project Information Owner:Simon and Shamim Tong Architect:Dan Rhoads, Young & Borlik Architects Representative:N/A Legal Counsel:N/A Property Information Address:949 Scott Street Neighborhood:University South Item 2 Staff Report     Packet Pg. 8     Item No. 2. Page 2 of 7 Lot Dimensions & Area:50 feet wide by 30 feet deep; 1,500 square feet (sf) Housing Inventory Site:N/A Located w/in a Plume:N/A Protected/Heritage Trees:Two street trees in front of property Historic Resource(s):See attached DPR Form – Building Does Not Qualify for CRHR/NRHR Existing Improvement(s):834 square foot single-family house Existing Land Use(s):Single-Family Residential Adjacent Land Uses & Zoning: North: R-2 (Two Family Residential District) West: R-2 (Two Family Residential District) East: R-2 (Two Family Residential District) South: R-2 (Two Family Residential District) Special Setbacks:N/A Aerial View of Property: Source: Google Land Use Designation & Applicable Plans/Guidelines Zoning Designation:R-2 (Two Family Residential District) Comp. Plan Designation:SOFA 1 CAP Context-Based Design:N/A Downtown Urban Design:N/A SOFA II CAP:N/A Baylands Master Plan:N/A Item 2 Staff Report     Packet Pg. 9     Item No. 2. Page 3 of 7 ECR Guidelines ('76 / '02):N/A Proximity to Residential Uses or Districts (150'):Yes Located w/in AIA (Airport Influence Area):N/A Prior City Reviews & Action City Council:None. PTC:None. HRB:None. ARB:None. The project received a proposed Director’s Decision on October 26, 2023. A neighbor submitted a request for hearing of the Director’s Decision, pursuant to Palo Alto Municipal Code (PAMC) Section 18.77.060, on November 13, 2023. Therefore, the Director’s Decision did not become final. PROJECT DESCRIPTION The project site is an existing single-family house in the R-2 Zoning District, which is required to conform to the Development Standards in PAMC 18.10.040. The requested Variance application is to allow a new single-story, single-family home’s first floor and basement to encroach into the front, side, and rear setbacks. The Variance application also requests to deviate from the lot coverage, below grade patio rear setback, and number of parking stall requirements. Due to the unique size of the parcel, only 1,500 square feet (sf), staff determined the Variance application would be able to meet the findings for approval, as explained in Attachment D. Requested Entitlements, Findings and Purview: The following discretionary applications are being requested and subject to PTC purview: •Variance: The process for evaluating this type of application is set forth in PAMC 18.76.030. A Variance is intended to provide a way for a site with special physical constraints, resulting from natural or built features, to be used in ways similar to other sites in the same vicinity and zoning district; and provide a way to grant relief when strict application of the zoning regulations would subject development of a site to substantial hardships, constraints, or practical difficulties that do not normally arise on other sites in the same vicinity and zoning district. As set forth in PAMC 18.77.060 (d, e, and f), this project was approved at the Staff level and the neighbor requested a hearing, therefore the project requires Planning and Transportation Commission review before the project is forwarded to the City Council for final action. Variance applications are evaluated to specific findings. All findings must be made in the affirmative to approve the project. The draft findings to approve a Variance application are provided in Attachment D. Item 2 Staff Report     Packet Pg. 10     Item No. 2. Page 4 of 7 ANALYSIS The existing one-story home was constructed in 1922 in a simple Craftsman style. The rectangular-plan house, clad in stucco, sits on a concrete foundation, and is capped by an asphalt shingle hipped roof. Fenestration consists of symmetrical multi-lite wood windows with wood sills. The primary facade terminates in a hipped roof with a slight overhang. The proposed replacement home is also rectangular in shape, with a contemporary design featuring an off- center pedestrian entry adjacent to a one car garage facing the street. While the new design differs from the design of the existing home, there are no design guidelines in PAMC section 18.10 that would dictate the proposed design needs to meet any contextual/neighborhood compatibility design requirements. As shown in the image below, the standard setbacks for an R-2 lot are: 20-foot front and rear yard setback, and six-foot interior side yard setbacks. If these setbacks are applied to the property, the result is a developable area of 180 sf – which is less than a third of the size allowed by the underlying zone district (45% - 675 sf). Source: Young & Borlik Architects The existing home has a roughly 11-foot front yard setback, three-foot and two-foot-eight-inch interior side yard setbacks, and three-foot-eleven-inch rear yard setback. The existing building has a floor area and lot coverage of 834.8 sf and 860 sf, respectively. The proposed building will maintain the existing front yard setback, increase the side/rear yard setbacks to four feet and reduce the floor area and lot coverage to be 673.3 sf. The significant difference between the existing and proposed building is the introduction of a one car garage and a basement that will follow the footprint of the proposed house. During the review of the application, staff discussed with the applicant changing the design to eliminate the proposed garage (to protect the existing street trees) or an alternative concept Item 2 Staff Report     Packet Pg. 11     Item No. 2. Page 5 of 7 for an above ground, two-story home (to mitigate the amount of below grade construction proposed). The applicant noted a preference for a comfortable living space that also provided on-site parking for the homeowner, given the street parking in the area is often limited and difficult to find. They also noted a two-story home requires the Individual Review process, and would likely require more Variances from the City’s rules than what they proposed (e.g. to the substandard height limit (17 feet), daylight plane, floor area, permitted encroachments, etc.). As a result, staff believe that the proposed design properly balances complying with the City’s development standards, as much as possible due to the site development constraints, while correcting some existing non-conforming conditions of the underlying structure. Neighborhood Setting and Character The project is located in the University South neighborhood, which is surrounded by single- and two-family residences. It is near the Palo Alto Sub-Acute Rehabilitation Center and Scott Park. Buildings in the neighborhood vary between one and three stories and are a mix of older and newer structures. As noted in the Variance Findings, the lot is not similar in size to the majority of lots on the same block and has unique hardships to developing any building that will conform to the City’s zoning requirements without the use of a Variance application. Consistency with the Comprehensive Plan, Area Plans and Guidelines1 The property is located within the South of Forest Area Phase 1 Coordinated Area Plan (SOFA 1 CAP) Comprehensive Plan designation, however it is not subject to the SOFA 1 CAP policies and programs as noted in Chapter IV(A)(1) as the property retained its original zoning classification through that process. The Comprehensive Plan provides the basis for the City’s development regulations and is used by City staff to regulate building and development and make recommendations on projects. On balance, the project is consistent with the policies in the Comprehensive Plan and therefore fulfills the goals of the Plan as well. A detailed review of the project’s consistency with the Comprehensive Plan is provided in Attachment D. Zoning Compliance2 Staff reviewed the proposed project’s consistency with applicable zoning standards. A summary table is provided in Attachment C. The bold text indicates aspects where the project deviates from the underlying district’s standards. Consistency with Variance Findings Staff has prepared a detailed review of the proposed project’s consistency with the Findings for approval. The draft findings, tailored to the project, are provided in Attachment D. The proposed project appears to meet all applicable findings for Variance approval. 1 The Palo Alto Comprehensive Plan is available online: http://www.cityofpaloalto.org/gov/topics/projects/landuse/compplan.asp 2 The Palo Alto Zoning Code is available online: http://www.amlegal.com/codes/client/palo-alto_ca Item 2 Staff Report     Packet Pg. 12     Item No. 2. Page 6 of 7 FISCAL/RESOURCE IMPACT This project is an application affecting a private property where all the costs associated with it will be borne out by the applicant. While an existing City street tree will be removed to accommodate the proposed driveway, the applicant will be responsible for planting one tree in the public right of way immediately adjacent to the site, and another within a half-mile of the property to increase the City’s tree canopy and achieve the No-Net-Loss Canopy replacement requirements noted in the City’s Tree Technical Manual. PUBLIC COMMENTS The Palo Alto Municipal Code requires notice of this public hearing be published in a local paper and mailed to owners and occupants of property within 600 feet of the subject property at least ten days in advance. Notice of a public hearing for this project was published in the Daily Post on December 1, 2023, which is 12 days in advance of the meeting. Postcard mailing occurred on November 29, 2022, which is 14 days in advance of the meeting. As of the writing of this report, one individual reached out to staff and provided written comments on the application and the neighbor that requested the hearing reached out to staff over the phone and in person to discuss their concerns with the application. The written comments have been provided as Attachment F to this staff report. In general, the neighbor that requested the hearing is concerned with the number of variances requested by the applicant, the aesthetic design of the proposed building, the impacts to existing trees on site, and the potential parking/quality of life impacts associated with the new construction. ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW The subject project has been assessed in accordance with the authority and criteria contained in the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), the State CEQA Guidelines, and the environmental regulations of the City. The City’s consultant, Page & Turnbull evaluated the existing building and found it ineligible for the California Register of Historic Resources (Attachment G). Specifically, the project is Exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act per Section 15303. ALTERNATIVE ACTIONS In addition to the recommended action, the PTC may: 1. Recommend project denial with modified findings or conditions; or 2. Continue the project to a date (un)certain. ATTACHMENTS Attachment A – Location Map Attachment B – Applicant’s Project Description Attachment C – Zoning Comparison Table Attachment D – Draft Findings Attachment E – Draft Conditions of Approval Attachment F – Appeal & Public Comments Attachment G – Page & Turnbull Historic Evaluation Item 2 Staff Report     Packet Pg. 13     Item No. 2. Page 7 of 7 Attachment H – Project Plans AUTHOR/TITLE: Garrett Sauls, Planner Item 2 Staff Report     Packet Pg. 14     50.0' 112.5' 112.5' 150.0' 112.5' 50.0' 5' 2 5' 56.0' 112.5' 56.5' 112.5' 100.0' 112.5' 100.0' 112.5' 100.0' 50.0' 100.0' 50.0' 100.0' 50.0' 100.0' 50.0' 50.0' 100.0' 50.0' 100.0' 50.0' 100.0' 50.0' 100.0' 50.0' 112.5' 50.0' 112.5' 50.0' 125.0' 50.0' 125.0'50.0' 125.0' 50.0' 125.0' 70.0' 50.0'70.0' 50.0' 30.0' 50.0' 30.0' 50.0' 50.0' 112.5' 50.0' 112.5' 100.0' 112.5' 100.0' 112.5' 100.0' 52.5' 100.0' 52.5' 100.0' 60.0' 100.0' 60.0' 50.0' 112.5' 50.0' 112.5' 50.0' 112.5' 50.0' 112.5' 50.0' 112.5' 50.0' 112.5' 50.0' 58.6' 27.3'16.5' 117.3' 75.0' 90.0' 50.0' 210.0' 110.0' 14.0' 30.0' 14.0' 70.0' 75.0' 22.7'16.5' 27.3' 58.6' 50.0' 150.0' 70.0' 150.0' 70.0' 200.0' 75.0' 200.0' 75.0' 110.0' 14.0' 30.0' 61.0' 140.0' 75.0' 50.0' 78.0' 50.0' 78.0' 50.0' 34.5'50.0' 34.5' 50.0' 90.0' 50.0' 112.5' 50.0' 112.5' 50.0' 112.5' 50.0' 112.5' 50.0' 112.5' 50.0' 112.5' .0' 112.5' 50.0' 112.5' 50.0' 75.0' 50.0' 75.0' 50.0' 75.0' 50.0' 75.0' 60.0' 150.0' 200.0' 200.0' 65.0' 100.0' 50.0' 100.0' 50.0' 100.0' 500 100.0' 50.0' 100.0' 50.0' 50.0' 1 105.0' 118.5' 50.0' 50.0' 150.0'68.5'50.0' 150.0' 65.0' 150.0'50.0' 150.0' 50.0' 150.0' 175.0' 281 943 327 942 928 930 931933 1010 376 370 358A 358 326 959 947 933 935 943 951 1 1005 350 915 352 354 940 930 920 912 362 370 900 1027 1017-1023 980960 990 342-352 301 319 960 935 949928 936 940-946 353 367 361 310 936 1035 1037 1001 SCOTT STREET ADDISON AVENUE REET WAVERLEY STREET Scott ParkScott Street Mini Park This map is a product of the City of Palo Alto GIS This document is a graphic representation only of best available sources. Legend Project Site Current Features 0' 51' Attachment A: Location map CITY OF PALO ALTOINCORPORATED CAL I F ORN I A P a l o A l t o T h e C i t y o f AP R I L 1 6 1 8 9 4 The City of Palo Alto assumes no responsibility for any errors. ©1989 to 2016 City of Palo Alto gsauls, 2023-11-21 14:58:15 Attachment A. Location Map (\\cc-maps\Encompass\Admin\Personal\Planning.mdb) Item 2 Attachment A - Location Map     Packet Pg. 15     July 6, 2023 City of Palo Alto Planning & Development Division 250 Hamilton Avenue Palo Alto, CA 94301 Attn: Amy French, Chief Planning Official Jodie Gerhardt, Manager of Current Planning Garret Sauls, Project Planner Re: Variance Findings for 949 Scott St. The letter is to accompany our application for the proposed project at 949 Scott St. to build a new single-family residence on the property to replace the existing residence. The purpose of this letter is to address the findings and justifications to request a variance to encroach into the front, side, and rear yard setbacks with both first floor and basement. Additionally, we are requesting a variance to provide only one off-street covered parking space (where none currently exists), to exceed the maximum lot coverage, and the below grade patio allowance. Introduction: The lot is zoned as R-2 within a mixed residential R-2 district. The property is substandard in size is 30 feet wide by 50 feet deep for a total of 1,500 sf. The property appears to have been subdivided off the rear of 353 Addison Ave. at some point in the past when such actions where allowable. The context is a mixture of single-family homes of varying architectural style, size, and era of construction. The existing development on the property is a one-story single-family home of 835 sf. The existing residence encroaches within the setback distances on all sides. The existing front setback of the home is 10’-9 (6’-8” to the entry porch) where 20 feet would be required. The existing side setbacks are 2’-10 on the right side and 3’-0” on the left side, where 6 feet would be required. The existing rear setback is 3’-11”, where 20 feet would be required. The home was designated as potentially eligible for the CRHR, however upon the research by Page & Turnbull it was not determined to be historically significant. For substandard lots in the R-2 districts, zoning section 18.10.150 provides allowance for replacing lawfully created structures with new structures without compliance with height and habitable floor area limitations, provided the new structure does not exceed 17 feet in height or create habitable area above the first floor level. This section provides an allowance for this proposed new home to replace the existing structure, however it would require a variance approval to keep the same location and setbacks. Item 2 Attachment B - Applicant's Project Description     Packet Pg. 16     Re: 949 Scott St. variance request July 7, 2022 Pg. 2 of 5 We respectfully ask for granting of the variances for the success of this project, based on the four findings and conditions below. Findings: 1. The granting of the application will not be detrimental or injurious to property or improvements in the vicinity, and will not be detrimental to the public health, safety, general welfare, or convenience The proposed single-family home will maintain the existing use on the property, consistent with the current presence in the overall neighborhood. The placement of the proposed new residence will have side setbacks with greater distances than the existing setbacks to property lines, increasing separations between neighboring structures. The above ground footprint will be reduced from the existing conditions, creating additional distance and privacy between neighboring structures. At the proposed 4’-0 side and rear setbacks it would be equivalent to what is currently allowable for Accessory Dwelling Units on any single family lot in the city. To comply with current building codes, the new structure will be equipped with an automatic fire sprinkler system per NFPA-13D standards. With respect to the construction assembly, the exterior walls and eaves on the left and rear sides will comply with requirements when building less than 5 feet but at least 3 feet of the property line. For the right side it will comply with the additional requirements when building between 3 feet and 0 feet of the property line. The replacement of the existing residence will result in removal of a wood burning masonry fireplace, which is in line with the goals of the City of Palo Alto and the Bay Area Air Quality Management District. The new structure will also be more energy efficient and will rely on electricity for all appliances instead of natural gas, which is in line with the goals of the City’s energy reach code. The proposed design will be providing one off-street parking spaces, where it currently does not provide any. This is particularly notable for such a narrow dead-end street with limited vehicular clearances. 2. The granting of the application is consistent with the Palo Alto Comprehensive Plan and the purposes of Title 18 (Zoning) The district is zoned R-2 to allow for one- and two-family development. Reconstructing the property with a new single-family residence will maintain the objectives of the zoning. The residence will be one story above grade, as is consistent with substandard lot limitations. Noise producing equipment will be situated in a location that complies with the minimum setbacks and decibel ratings. The proposed size of home would be comparable to many of the ADU projects being encouraged and approved to be built throughout Palo Alto under current State guidelines. Item 2 Attachment B - Applicant's Project Description     Packet Pg. 17     Re: 949 Scott St. variance request July 7, 2022 Pg. 3 of 5 Additionally regarding the lot size, this existing parcel could be equivalent to a parcel that would be created today under the State SB-9 guidelines. So neither the lot size or home size are outside the normal range of current scale under the overall zoning intent. 3. Because of special circumstances, including (but not limited to) size, shape, topography, location, or surroundings, the strict application of the requirements and regulations prescribed in Title 18 substantially deprives such property of privileges enjoyed by other property in the vicinity and in the same zoning district as the subject property. Special circumstances that are expressly excluded from consideration are: A) The personal circumstances of the property owner B) Any changes in the size or shape of the property made by the property owner or his predecessors in interest while the property was subject to the same zoning designation. If standard setbacks are applied, the resulting buildable area would only be 18 feet wide by 10 foot deep rectangle of 180 sf. This would not be feasible for any type of new residential structure to be built. A typical one car garage of 10 foot by 20 foot interior would not even fit within the required setback distances. As far as can be ascertained, there are no other properties in the neighborhood with such small property dimensions. From our study, there are no feasible home designs that would comply with all of the zoning without some kind of variance approval. Item 2 Attachment B - Applicant's Project Description     Packet Pg. 18     Re: 949 Scott St. variance request July 7, 2022 Pg. 4 of 5 Sketch 1: the allowable building area on this property if standard minimum setbacks where applied. 4. The granting of the application shall not affect substantial compliance with the regulations or constitute a grant of special privileges inconsistent with the limitations upon other properties in the vicinity and in the same zoning district as the subject property. The zoning ordinance for substandard lots zoned R-2 provides an allowance for grandfathered uses, allowing replacement lawfully created structures with new structures without compliance with height and floor limitations. 18.10.150 Grandfathered Uses (f) Existing Homes on Substandard Lots In the R-2 district, single-family and two-family homes on substandard lots, as defined in Section 18.10.040(b), and flag lots existing on August 1, 1991 and which prior to that date were lawful, complying structures, may remain and be remodeled, improved, or replaced without complying with the height and habitable floor limitations for substandard lots specified in Section 18.10.040, provided that: (1) any such remodeling, improvement, or replacement does not result in a height above seventeen feet or any additional habitable floor area above a first habitable floor, except that any structure damaged or destroyed by a natural disaster (such as fire, flood or earthquake) may be replaced to its previous size without regard to the height and habitable floor limitations imposed by this section; and (2) in the case of a conflict between the provisions of this section and the provisions of Chapter 18.70, this section shall control. With the combination of this zoning section and the variance approval, the proposed structure will replace a lawful pre-existing residence of equal size, and will not exceed 17 feet in height or contain a habitable floor above the first floor. With respect to parking: it was suggested that the property could/should be built without including any off-street parking. However that would mean this residence is solely reliant on street parking, which is very limited in this area. As a short narrow block, the street parking is typically full at most times of day. There is a nearby medical rehabilitation center which also regularly contributes to the competition for street parking. So without dedicated off-street parking access for this property, all daily activities of loading and unloading personal items between the home and transportation will be a continual challenge. With the limited width of the lot, we won’t physically have enough width for a full two-car garage width, so an oversized one-car garage is all that can fit. Since there will be no options for driveway parking with the short front setback, the garage will be a critical amenity for this residence. Additionally, the extra garage width will allow for storage of other personal belongings that could typically be stored in yard space on a normal-sized property. With such limited space around the sides and rear, there isn’t room for any items that could typically to be stored outside the residence, or be kept under a porch, or in a rear shed or elsewhere. Item 2 Attachment B - Applicant's Project Description     Packet Pg. 19     Re: 949 Scott St. variance request July 7, 2022 Pg. 5 of 5 With respect to the two existing Street Trees: With a narrower driveway, it could be possible to keep both street trees, though it would be extremely tight. There is only 14 feet distance between the two trees, so even with a 10 foot wide driveway it would still just barely clear the trunks. We are currently proposing to remove only one of the trees to facilitate the new driveway. For the remaining street tree in front of this property, we have adjusted the driveway dimensions to create 6 feet of separation between tree and the driveway. For the replacement of the other tree, we could propose moving it to the right side to create more separation. But there is a street light not far away on that side, and the neighbors driveway just beyond that, so it would not be a location with improved clearances for the tree to grow. So ultimately we are proposing to relocate the one street trees to the left of the remaining tree, just in front of the neighboring property, spaced equally to their current location in front of 949. There is a wide open section of the sidewalk planter that is not planted, so a replacement street tree would have ample room to grow, not affect any utilities, and be clearly away from any driveways. Summary: In weighing different design directions and options for this parcel, we have arrived at our current proposed development as submitted with this application. We feel this embodies the best use of the property, is the most compatible with the context of the surrounding neighborhood, and poses the least impacts to the overall neighborhood, environment, and public welfare, and will be consistent with the Title 18 zoning intentions. We appreciate your time in the review and consideration of our application and are available to answer any questions or to provide additional information. Sincerely, Daniel S. Rhoads, Architect Y&B Architects Inc. Item 2 Attachment B - Applicant's Project Description     Packet Pg. 20     ATTACHMENT C ZONING COMPARISON TABLE 949 Scott Street – 22PLN-00410 Table 1: COMPARISON WITH CHAPTER 18.10 (R-2 DISTRICT) Regulation Required Existing Proposed Minimum/Maximum Site Area, Width and Depth 6,000-11,999 sf area, 60 ft width, 100 ft depth 1,500 sf 1,500 sf Minimum Front Yard (2) 20 ft 10 ft, 9.5 in 10 ft, 9.5 in Rear Yard 20 ft 3 ft, 11.5 in 4 ft Interior Side Yard 6 ft 3 ft, 0.5 in; 2 ft, 8 in 4 ft Street Side Yard 16 ft N/A N/A Special Setback 24 feet – see Chapter 20.08 & zoning maps N/A N/A Max. Building Height 17 ft due to substandard size 14 16 ft, 11 in Side Yard Daylight Plane 10 feet at interior side lot line then 45 degree angle (3) Complies Complies Front and Rear Yard Daylight Plane 16 feet at rear setback line then 60 degree angle (3) Complies Complies Max. Site Coverage 40% for single story, 35% for multi-story with an additional 5% for covered patio/ overhangs (600 sf) 57.3% (860 sf)44.88% (673.3 sf) Max. Total Floor Area Ratio 45% for first 5,000 sf lot size and 30% for lot size in excess of 5,000 sf (675 sf) and additional 200 sf for one covered parking space (4) 55.66% (834.8 sf)44.88% (673.3 sf) Max. House Size 6,000 sf 834.8 sf 673.3 Minimum site area permitting two-family use 7,500 sf 1,500 sf 1,500 sf Item 2 Attachment C - Zoning Comparison Table     Packet Pg. 21     (1) Minimum Lot Size: Any lot less than the minimum lot size may be used in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 18.40. (2) R-2 Floodzone Heights: Provided, in a special flood hazard area as defined in Chapter 16.52, the maximum heights are increased by one-half of the increase in elevation required to reach base flood elevation, up to a maximum building height of 33 feet. (3) R-2 Floodzone Daylight Plane: Provided, if the site is in a special flood hazard area and is entitled to an increase in the maximum height, the heights for the daylight planes shall be adjusted by the same amount. (4) Exemption from Floor Area for Covered Parking Required for Two-Family Uses: In the R-2 and RMD districts, for two-family uses, floor area limits may be exceeded by a maximum of two hundred square feet, for purposes of providing one required covered parking space. (5) Maximum House Size: The gross floor area of attached garages and attached accessory dwelling units and junior accessory dwelling units are included in the calculation of maximum house size. If there is no garage attached to the house, then the square footage of one detached covered parking space shall be included in the calculation. This provision applies only to single-family residences, not to duplexes allowed in the R-2 and RMD districts. Table 2: CONFORMANCE WITH SECTION 18.10.060 and CHAPTER 18.52 (Off-Street Parking) for Single Family Residential Uses Type Required Existing Proposed Vehicle Parking 2 parking spaces per unit, of which one must be covered None One covered parking stall in garage Bicycle Parking None N/A N/A Item 2 Attachment C - Zoning Comparison Table     Packet Pg. 22     ATTACHMENT D VARIANCE FINDINGS FOR APPROVAL 949 Scott Street 22PLN-00410 Variance approval is based on the findings indicated under PAMC Section 18.76.030(c) and is subject to the Findings listed below: 1. Because of special circumstances applicable to the subject property, including (but not limited to) size, shape, topography, location, or surroundings, the strict application of the requirements and regulations prescribed in this title substantially deprives such property of privileges enjoyed by other property in the vicinity and in the same zoning district as the subject property. The City’s standard dimensions for a new R-2 lot are 60 feet wide by 100 feet deep while the property’s dimensions are 30 feet wide by 50 feet deep as shown in the image below. When applying the standard setbacks to the property it leaves an area of 180 square feet to develop a new single-family home where a 675 square foot home is permitted to be developed based on the City’s Floor Area Ratio (FAR) allowance of 45% of the first 5,000 square feet. The existing building is roughly 840 square feet and the applicant’s proposal will replace it with a home that is below the City’s allowed FAR – at 673 square feet. While the property at 362 Channing Avenue is similar in size, neither represent a predominant pattern in the neighborhood as most properties are wider and deeper than the subject property. Due to this uniqueness, strict application of the standard requirements would deprive the homeowner of their ability to build a home close to the size permitted by the City’s zoning code. Item 2 Attachment D - Draft Findings     Packet Pg. 23     2. The granting of the application shall not affect substantial compliance with the regulations or constitute a grant of special privileges inconsistent with the limitations upon other properties in the vicinity and in the same zoning district as the subject property. The current building exists at a roughly 2’-8” rear setback, 3’ to 3’-11” interior side setbacks, and 10’-9” front setback. The proposed building will result in the rear and interior side setbacks being improved to a four foot setback, which is a consistent setback requirement for new ADUs and homes built through the Senate Bill 9 process, and the front yard setback will remain the same. The substantial changes made to the design of the building will be the inclusion of one on-site parking space, where there are currently none, and a basement underneath the footprint of the ground floor above it, which will not be visible to residents off-site. Per the Zoning Code, basements are not included in the floor area for the site and are not permitted in the setbacks for the property, outside of where the primary house can expand into. As noted in Finding 1, however, strict application of those rules would only permit a 180 square foot basement under the first floor of the structure which may lead to design challenges and functional limitations to a building meeting those standards. Due to the unique size of this parcel and physical limits of where a house can be built, allowing a basement under the proposed building would not grant this property owner a special privilege that other owners in the vicinity do not already enjoy. 3. The granting of the application is consistent with the Palo Alto Comprehensive Plan and the purposes of the Zoning Ordinance. The proposed development is consistent with the purposes of the Zoning Ordinance in that it replaces an existing single-family home with another single-family home and seeks to improve on legal, non-conforming conditions to the site related to FAR, parking, and setbacks. In addition, the application is consistent with the following Comprehensive Plan policies: Policy L-1.3: Infill development in the urban service area should be compatible with its surroundings and the overall scale and character of the city to ensure a compact, efficient development pattern. The proposed building will be compatible with its surroundings in that it is designed as a single- family home. The building will be designed as a single-story structure and the ground floor footprint will be reduced from the existing conditions on site, which will help to ensure the scale of the building is in keeping with the existing, surrounding buildings. Additionally, the new building is designed to meet the single-family daylight plane requirements in the R-2 zone district so there will be no added massing to the structure that will overly impact neighboring properties. Policy L-3.5: Avoid negative impacts of basement construction for single-family homes on adjacent properties, public resources, and the natural environment. Item 2 Attachment D - Draft Findings     Packet Pg. 24     The proposed basement will not impact adjacent properties as it will be contained within the boundaries of the property. The construction of the basement will not affect any adjacent trees on neighboring properties. The City has adopted a dewatering process for basement construction in the event the water table is high within this area to accommodate this construction. Policy N-2.8: Require new commercial, multi-unit and single-family housing projects to provide street trees and related irrigation systems. The proposed application will include two street trees: one as a replacement adjacent to the property in the right of way and another within a half mile from the property in the right of way. This will benefit public health by expanding tree canopy coverage within the public right of way where it does not currently exist. 4. The granting of the application will not be detrimental or injurious to property or improvements in the vicinity will not be detrimental to the public health, safety, general welfare, or convenience. The proposed structure would not be detrimental or injurious to property or negatively impact the public health, safety or general welfare of those in the nearby vicinity. All proposed construction would be located within the lot’s area. While one existing street tree will be removed to accommodate the proposed driveway, the City will be receiving two replacement trees: one adjacent to the property and another placed within a half mile from the property, both in the public right of way. This will benefit public health by expanding tree canopy coverage within the public right of way where it does not currently exist. Item 2 Attachment D - Draft Findings     Packet Pg. 25     ATTACHMENT E DRAFT CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL 949 SCOTT STREET 22PLN-00410 PLANNING 1.CONFORMANCE WITH PLANS: Construction and development shall conform to the approved plans entitled, "Tong Residence,” stamped as received by the City on August 29, 2023 on file with the Planning Department, 250 Hamilton Avenue, Palo Alto, California except as modified by these conditions of approval. 2.BUILDING PERMIT. Apply for a building permit and meet any and all conditions of the Planning and Building Departments. 3.BUILDING PERMIT PLAN SET: A copy of this cover letter and conditions of approval shall be printed on the second page of the plans submitted for building permit. 4.PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: All modifications to the approved project shall be submitted for review and approval prior to construction. If during the Building Permit review and construction phase, the project is modified by the applicant, it is the responsibility of the applicant to contact the Planning Division/project planner directly to obtain approval of the project modification. It is the applicant’s responsibility to highlight any proposed changes to the project and to bring it to the project planner’s attention. 5.LANDSCAPE MAINTENANCE. All landscape material shall be well maintained and replaced if the plant material dies or if the irrigation equipment fails. Planters shall not drain onto sidewalk, ground, or public right of ways. 6.PROJECT EXPIRATION. The project approval shall automatically expire after two years from the original date of approval if, within such two year period, the proposed use of the site or the construction of buildings has not commenced pursuant to and in accordance with the provisions of the permit or approval. Application for a one-year extension of this entitlement may be made prior to the expiration. (PAMC 18.77.090(a)) 7.INDEMNITY: To the extent permitted by law, the Applicant shall indemnify and hold harmless the City, its City Council, its officers, employees and agents (the “indemnified parties”) from and against any claim, action, or proceeding brought by a third party against the indemnified parties and the applicant to attack, set aside or void, any permit or approval authorized hereby for the Project, including (without limitation) reimbursing the City for its actual attorneys’ fees and costs incurred in defense of the litigation. The City may, in its sole discretion, elect to defend any such action with attorneys of its own choice. 8.FINAL INSPECTION: A Planning Division Final inspection will be required to determine substantial compliance with the approved plans prior to the scheduling of a Building Division final. Any revisions during the building process must be approved by Planning, including but not limited to; materials, landscaping and hard surface locations. Contact your Project Planner, Garrett Sauls at Garrett.Sauls@CityofPaloalto.org to schedule this inspection. BUILDING 9.A building permit is required the proposed structure. Item 2 Attachment E - Draft Conditions of Approval     Packet Pg. 26     URBAN FORESTRY 10.The proposed removal of street tree #1, a six-inch Crepe Myrtle, to accommodate a new designated driveway for at 949 Scott Street is approved. The replacement requirement is two new 36-inch box, drought tolerant trees. One tree will be planted near frontage of address in the public right of way and the other planted in the ROW within a half mile radius. The offsite replacement tree location is to be determined once work commences. The applicant must keep Urban Forestry updated on the time of proposed home demolition in order for a 14-day Public notice to be posted to the street tree prior to its removal. A no-fee TRE application will be applied to the building permit when submitted. ZERO WASTE 11.REQUIRED DECONSTRUCTION. In conformance with PAMC 5.24, deconstruction and source separation are required for all residential and commercial projects where structures (other than a garage or ADU) are being completely removed, demolition is no longer allowed. Deconstruction takes longer than traditional demolition, it is important to plan ahead. For more information, visit www.cityofpaloalto.org/deconstruction. 12.SALVAGE SURVEY FOR REUSE. A Salvage Survey is required for deconstruction permit applications. The survey shall be conducted by a City approved reuse vendor. The survey submittal shall include an itemized list of materials that are salvageable for reuse from the project. The applicant shall source separate and deliver materials for reuse. Certification is required indicating that all materials identified in the survey are properly salvaged. Contact The ReUse People to schedule this FREE survey by phone (888) 588-9490 or e- mail info@thereusepeople.org. More information can be found at www.TheReusePeople.org. Please upload a completed copy to the deconstruction permit. 13.SOURCE SEPARATION FOR RECYCLING. The applicant shall source separate deconstruction materials into specific categories for recycling. Additional staging areas for source separated materials will need to be considered. All materials shall be delivered to one of the City approved materials recovery facilities listed in Green Halo, all records shall be uploaded to www.greenhalosystems.com. For more information, refer to www.cityofpaloalto.org/deconstruction. FIRE 14.Install a NFPA 13-D fire sprinkler system with coverage throughout the house including closets and bathroom. PUBLIC WORKS ENGINEERING 15.PUBLIC WORKS STANDARD CONDITIONS SHEET: The Department of Public Work’s full-sized "Standard Conditions" sheet shall be included in the improvement plans and the applicant shall comply with all conditions listed in the sheet. The sheet can be obtained at the following link under “Public Works Plan Review Documents”: https://www.cityofpaloalto.org/Departments/Public-Works/Engineering- Services/Forms-and-Permits 16.SIDEWALK, DRIVEWAY, CURB & GUTTER: The applicant shall meet with a Public Works inspector by calling 650-496-6929 to determine portions of sidewalk, curb, gutter, and driveway approaches that shall be replaced along the project frontage. These portions shall be indicated on the site improvement plans. In addition, a Site Inspection Directive sheet shall be completed, signed by the inspector, and scanned onto the plan set. The sheet can be obtained at the following link: Item 2 Attachment E - Draft Conditions of Approval     Packet Pg. 27     https://www.cityofpaloalto.org/files/assets/public/public-works/engineering-services/webpages/forms- and-permits/other-guidelines/pwe-siteinspection-directive_rev-2021.pdf 17.DRIVEWAY APPROACHES: The applicant shall comply with all regulations in PAMC Chapter 12.08 for driveway approaches. A summary of those regulations can be obtained at the following link: https://www.cityofpaloalto.org/civicax/filebank/blobdload.aspx?t=69580.09&BlobID=66035 18.STORM WATER POLLUTION PREVENTION SHEET: The City's full-sized "Pollution Prevention - It's Part of the Plan" sheet shall be included in the improvement plans. The sheet can be obtained at the following link under “Public Works Plan Review Documents”: https://www.cityofpaloalto.org/Departments/Public- Works/Engineering-Services/Forms-and-Permits 19.IMPERVIOUS SURFACE AREA WORKSHEET: The applicant shall fill out and include with the building permit submittal the Impervious Area Worksheet for Land Developments. The sheet can be obtained at the following link under “Public Works Plan Review Documents”: https://www.cityofpaloalto.org/Departments/Public-Works/Engineering-Services/Forms-and-Permits 20.GRADING & DRAINAGE PLAN: The plan set shall include a grading & drainage plan prepared by a licensed professional. See the Grading & Drainage Plan Guidelines for New Single Family Residences: https://www.cityofpaloalto.org/files/assets/public/public-works/engineeringservices/webpages/forms-and- permits/grading-drainage-residential-guidelines.pdf 21.C.3 STORMWATER REGULATIONS: This project creates or replaces over 2,500 square feet of impervious surface area. The applicant shall implement one or more of the following site design measures on improvement plans: a. Direct roof runoff into cisterns or rain barrels for reuse. b. Direct roof runoff onto vegetated areas. c. Direct runoff from sidewalks, walkways, and/or patios onto vegetated areas. d. Direct runoff from driveways and/or uncovered parking lots onto vegetated areas. e. Construct sidewalks, walkways, and/or patios with permeable surfaces. f. Construct driveways, and/or uncovered parking lots with permeable surfaces. 22.STREETWORK PERMIT: All improvement plans shall include the following note adjacent to proposed work in the public right-of-way. “Any construction within the public right-of-way requires an approved Street Work Permit from Public Works Engineering”. 23.DEMOLITION PLAN: The following note shall be placed adjacent to all affected trees on the Demolition Plan: “Excavation and trenching is restricted within the Tree Protection Zone (refer to T-1 Tree Protection Sheet) or as approved by the Urban Forestry Division at 650-496-5953. Any changes shall be approved by the same”. 24.CONSTRUCTION STAGING: All improvement plans shall include the following note on the Site Plan and the Grading & Drainage Plan. “All construction materials and equipment shall be staged, stored, and stockpiled onsite and not on any public street”. 25.EXCAVATION & GRADING PERMIT: The site plan shall include an earthworks table showing the cut and fill volumes. If the total is more than 100 cubic yards, an Excavation and Grading Permit shall be obtained per Item 2 Attachment E - Draft Conditions of Approval     Packet Pg. 28     PAMC Chapter 16.28 prior to building permit approval. The permit application and all required documents shall be submitted to Public Works Engineering. The application can be obtained at the following link: https://www.cityofpaloalto.org/Departments/Public-Works/Engineering-Services/Forms-and-Permits 26.CONSTRUCTION DEWATERING: This project may require dewatering during construction due to the groundwater level relative to the excavation. Refer to the following link and navigate to “Construction Dewatering Plan Design Guidelines” for more information: https://www.cityofpaloalto.org/Departments/Public-Works/Engineering-Services/Forms-and-Permits 27.BASEMENT DRAINAGE: A drainage system is required for all exterior basement-level spaces such as lightwells, patios, or stairwells. This system consists of a sump, a sump pump, a backflow preventer, and a closed pipe from the pump to a dissipation device onsite at least 10 feet from back of sidewalk and 3 feet from side and rear property lines, such as a bubbler box in a landscaped area. NOTE: Perforated pipe drainage systems at the exterior of the basement walls or under the slab are not allowed for sites on the bay side of Foothill Expressway. 28.EXCAVATION SHORING: Shoring Plans prepared by a licensed professional engineer shall be submitted with the Grading and Excavation Permit. Shoring and tiebacks shall not extend onto adjacent private property or into the City right-of-way without having first obtained written permission from the private property owner(s) and/or an encroachment permit from the Department of Public Works. a.LOGISTICS PLAN: A construction logistics plan shall be provided addressing all impacts to the public including, at a minimum: work hours, noticing of affected businesses, bus stop relocations, construction signage, dust control, noise control, storm water pollution prevention, job trailer, contractors’ parking, truck routes, staging, concrete pours, crane lifts, scaffolding, materials storage, pedestrian safety, and traffic control. All truck routes shall conform to the City of Palo Alto’s Trucks and Truck Route Ordinance, Chapter 10.48, and the route map. NOTE: Some items/tasks on the logistics plan may require an encroachment permit. Logistics Plan Preparation Guidelines can be found here: https://www.cityofpaloalto.org/files/assets/public/public-works/engineering- services/webpages/forms-and-permits/logistics-plan-preparation-guidelines-2021.pdf Item 2 Attachment E - Draft Conditions of Approval     Packet Pg. 29     Item 2 Attachment F - Appeal & Public Comments     Packet Pg. 30     Andrew Martin 940 Scott St Palo Alto, CA 94301 Garrett Sauls Department of Planning City of Palo Alto 250 Hamilton Ave Palo Alto, CA 94301 23 March, 2023 Dear City Planning Staff, I am writing this letter to register concerns regarding the proposed redevelopment and variance for 949 Scott Street, File number 22PLN-00410. The plans for 949 Scott contain many of the rudimentary building blocks for a house on paper but are designed in a way that seem inconsistent with the intended zoning use. I am concerned that, in practice, this design may be less of a single-family home and more of a garage extension. As such, this may be reducing, not maintaining density and be in violation of the General Housing Plan and SB330. In our neighborhood most houses have "curb appeal" - that is, they have a front door or clear entry, they have windows or some visibility from the street, and they have a front yard and/or porch. If none of these are met, and if the primary living quarters, kitchen, living room, are all underground, is it still a viable family house? Is it consistent with the General plan? Would such a property be the future home of a new family? Or, is it possible such a development would become an extension to a nearby residence – a large, albeit very expensive, garage and bonus space? Senate Bill 330 expressly redefines "lower density" to include any action that has the effect of reducing housing density: “Lower density” includes any conditions that have the same effect or impact on the ability of the project to provide housing. One could assert, and the City of Palo Alto has argued similarly in the past, that designing a house that serves, in effect, to form a multi-lot compound violates SB330 in word or certainly in spirit. As designed, 949 Scott may no longer be a realistic home for a future family but, de facto, an accessory unit for the 935 property and thus further reduce density in the neighborhood. In 2008 there were three single-family homes adjacent on the odd side of Scott street numbered 935, 943, and 949. One buyer then purchased both 935 and 943, removed the existing houses, combined the two properties into a 10k sq ft lot, and built a 5,500 sq ft home. In 2019, a new Item 2 Attachment F - Appeal & Public Comments     Packet Pg. 31     owner bought 935 Scott and the adjacent substandard lot of 949 Scott. The two homes sat unoccupied for four years until both properties were bought by the current applicants in 2022, where 935 is the primary residence and 949 is adjacent. Palo Alto has many residents who own multiple properties - which is certainly legal. However, if the properties are developed in such a way that they form a compound where residents are not occupying the properties, where neighbors have fewer neighbors, this should be of concern for the Council. Could it be that in a 15 year span we will go from 3 family housing units to just 1 on this stretch of Scott St? Furthermore, the proposed plans are not consistent with and will have a negative impact on the immediate neighborhood in other ways: ● ● ● ● ● From the street, the proposed plans do not resemble a home, but rather a garage entry in San Francisco where the sidewalk blends into a door with little between. If approved, this small property (less than 1498 sq ft) would be the only double-wide cutout on Scott - with almost the entire frontage of the lot as entrance to the garage. Since the lot is so small, the front setback, as designed, does not leave space to park on what would be a driveway - you go from street to sidewalk to garage. If approved, the double driveway would require the removal of two street trees - leaving that side of the block relatively barren. If approved, the proposed two car garage would take 2-3 street parking spots. Parking is a challenge on the street during the day with the close proximity to Scott Park, the basketball hoop, and Palo Alto Sub-Acute visitors. I would welcome a revised design that has more features resembling a home and less impact on the existing neighborhood, such as a front door or entry way, perhaps a one-lane parklet or single garage, loss of only one parking space, loss of only one street tree, all provided off-street parking is really essential for such a small lot. If we were to grant a variance on this house, let it be to have NO parking as on-site parking isn't really compatible with such a small lot. The variance is an opportunity for the City to ensure the proposed plans are in the best interest of its residents and its larger plan. In the case of the currently proposed design for 949 Scott, I struggle to see how the 2-car garage concept is compatible and may be in violation of the General Plan and SB330 by effectively reducing density. Over 10 years ago, our family moved to downtown Palo Alto because we wanted our children to grow up in a neighborhood with a sidewalk and with neighbors. We are thrilled to have the applicants move in across the street, to have another home serving treats on Halloween and another family joining the annual block party. I hold out hope that with 949 there is or will be space for one more family in the future. Sincerely, -Andy Martin Item 2 Attachment F - Appeal & Public Comments     Packet Pg. 32     From: To: Andrew Martin Sauls, Garrett Subject: Date: 949 Scott Friday, May 19, 2023 6:20:09 AM CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautious of opening attachments and clicking on links. Hi Garrett, I recently found that there had been some updates with 949 Scott. I was able to view a rendering of the second version and view the plans. I wanted to share my feedback with you and the planning department. 1. The rendering and plans are not in-sync. The curb cut is larger in the rendering than plans - it is hard for people evaluate if not matching. (Or, perhaps I could have seen an incorrect rendering). 2. The proposed plans do not seem very residential in nature. A few examples: - there isn’t a distinct pedestrian walkway from the sidewalk to the door - there is no roof element covering the front entrance. The existing structure has a small porch as do must other homes. - the wide driveway and excessive paving leave little space for any front yard. - the front door leads to the garage Zoning is meant to control use of land. Is this consistent with the zoning? 3. In addition to these points, the strongest challenge to the proposal is, once again, the intended use of the this property if these plans are approved. - a design that requires one to enter the garage and walk through it (so long as there isn’t a car inside) and the go down to the basement seems suspect given the current home. - as the submitters of these plans are also the owners of the adjacent 10+M property, does it seem like these plans are an extension of their adjacent lot or a real attempt at building a better single family residence? How common is it for a neighbor to support a setback reduction when both properties lie on the shared setbacks? While the city may not be able to reject a set of plans based on an interpretation of intended use, they can certainly exercise the right to refuse any variances. The approval of variances for this design by the city effectively endorses a reduction in housing and is contrary to the intent, and perhaps actual word, of both city code and state law (SB330). If the result of this project were a new home that would enhance our neighborhood and provide a place for someone to realistically move into I would be supportive of granting variances. Unfortunately, I do not see that in these plans. Item 2 Attachment F - Appeal & Public Comments     Packet Pg. 33     Sincerely, Andrew Martin 940 Scott 650-380-3405 Item 2 Attachment F - Appeal & Public Comments     Packet Pg. 34     From:Andrew Martin To:Sauls, Garrett Subject: Date: Re: 949 Scott Street - 22PLN-00410 Thursday, November 2, 2023 5:24:03 PM Attachments:image003.png image007.png image009.png image034.png image019.png image028.png image015.png image001.png image014.png image029.png image030.png image027.png image023.png image035.png image012.png image025.png image032.png image018.png image024.png image017.png image033.png image036.png image020.png image022.png Thank you for the information. On Thu, Nov 2, 2023 at 1:18ꢀPM Sauls, Garrett <Garrett.Sauls@cityofpaloalto.org> wrote: Hi Andrew, The City issued a decision letter for the application on October 25 but notice cards didn’t get sent out until October 26. As a result, the 14 day appeal period will continue through November 9. Should anyone wish to appeal the decision, they will need to fill out the attached form and send it to myself or those listed in the form, as well as pay the appeal fee prior to the end of business day on November 9 (5:00pm). If no appeal is received, then the decision will be final on November 10. Let me know if you have any questions. Best regards, Garrett Sauls Planner Planning and Development Services Department (650) 329-2471 | Garrett.Sauls@CityofPaloAlto.org NEW Parcel Report | Palo Alto Municipal Code | Online Permitting System | Planning Application Forms & Handouts | Planning Applications Mapped From: Andrew Martin <123andy@gmail.com> Sent: Thursday, November 2, 2023 12:54 PM To: Sauls, Garrett <Garrett.Sauls@CityofPaloAlto.org> Subject: Re: 949 Scott Street - 22PLN-00410 Hello Garrett, Can you please provide me with an update of the approval timeline and variance process for the 949 Scott project along with relevant future dates / hearings / deadlines? Thank you. -Andy 650-380-3405 Item 2 Attachment F - Appeal & Public Comments     Packet Pg. 35     On Thu, Mar 23, 2023 at 3:41ꢀPM Sauls, Garrett <Garrett.Sauls@cityofpaloalto.org> wrote: Sorry, Andrew. I think I read Scott in the title of the email and put that as the name instead. Garrett Sauls Planner Planning and Development Services Department (650) 329-2471 | Garrett.Sauls@CityofPaloAlto.org NEW Parcel Report | Palo Alto Municipal Code | Online Permitting System | Planning Application Forms & Handouts | Planning Applications Mapped From: Sauls, Garrett Sent: Thursday, March 23, 2023 3:40 PM To: 'Andrew Martin' <123andy@gmail.com> Subject: RE: 949 Scott Street - 22PLN-00410 Thanks Scott. I read through the letter and will add it to the record as comments against what has been submitted so far. Best regards, Garrett Sauls Planner Planning and Development Services Department (650) 329-2471 | Garrett.Sauls@CityofPaloAlto.org NEW Parcel Report | Palo Alto Municipal Code | Online Permitting System | Planning Application Forms & Handouts | Planning Applications Mapped From: Andrew Martin <123andy@gmail.com> Sent: Thursday, March 23, 2023 3:25 PM To: Sauls, Garrett <Garrett.Sauls@CityofPaloAlto.org> Subject: Re: 949 Scott Street - 22PLN-00410 Thanks Garrett, I reached out a few months ago and gave some feedback. They said they might take it to their architect, but I think this wasn't the case. Attached is my feedback. Thank you, Item 2 Attachment F - Appeal & Public Comments     Packet Pg. 36     -Andy Martin 650-380-3405 On Thu, Mar 23, 2023 at 3:16ꢀPM Sauls, Garrett <Garrett.Sauls@cityofpaloalto.org> wrote: Hi Andrew, I have not received any resubmittal from the applicant. Best regards, Garrett Sauls Planner Planning and Development Services Department (650) 329-2471 | Garrett.Sauls@CityofPaloAlto.org NEW Parcel Report | Palo Alto Municipal Code | Online Permitting System | Planning Application Forms & Handouts | Planning Applications Mapped From: Andrew Martin <123andy@gmail.com> Sent: Thursday, March 23, 2023 3:16 PM To: Sauls, Garrett <Garrett.Sauls@CityofPaloAlto.org> Subject: Re: 949 Scott Street - 22PLN-00410 Hi Garrett, Has there been any update on this proposal? If not, I have an official letter to send to register my issues. -Andy On Fri, Jan 27, 2023 at 1:45ꢀPM Sauls, Garrett <Garrett.Sauls@cityofpaloalto.org> wrote: Hi Andrew, Thanks for letting me know. If you have any questions, feel free to ask. At the moment, we provided comments to the applicant on January 13. I haven’t heard back from them about those comments so I imagine they are working with the homeowner on it. Best regards, Garrett Sauls Planner Planning and Development Services Department (650) 329-2471 | Garrett.Sauls@CityofPaloAlto.org Item 2 Attachment F - Appeal & Public Comments     Packet Pg. 37     NEW Parcel Report | Palo Alto Municipal Code | Online Permitting System | Planning Application Forms & Handouts | Planning Applications Mapped From: Andrew Martin <123andy@gmail.com> Sent: Wednesday, January 25, 2023 12:51 PM To: Sauls, Garrett <Garrett.Sauls@CityofPaloAlto.org> Subject: Re: 949 Scott Street - 22PLN-00410 You don't often get email from 123andy@gmail.com. Learn why this is important Hi Garrett. Just FYI that I have reached out to the owners to talk about the project. I do have some concerns and will address them when we meet. Please keep me posted on the status of this project and any scheduled public meetings or deadlines. Thanks! -Andy Martin On Wed, Jan 4, 2023 at 8:39 AM Sauls, Garrett <Garrett.Sauls@cityofpaloalto.org> wrote: Hi Andrew, Due to new copyright laws that took effect on January 1 we can’t provide unfiltered plan sets anymore unfortunately which is probably why you can’t access the drawings on BuildingEye. I have modified the drawings to include information that we can share and attached it to this email. If you have any questions, please let me know. Best regards, Garrett Sauls Planner Planning and Development Services Department (650) 329-2471 | Garrett.Sauls@CityofPaloAlto.org NEW Parcel Report | Palo Alto Municipal Code | Online Permitting System | Planning Application Forms & Handouts | Planning Applications Mapped From: Andrew Martin <123andy@gmail.com> Sent: Tuesday, January 3, 2023 1:25 PM To: Sauls, Garrett <Garrett.Sauls@CityofPaloAlto.org> Subject: Fwd: 949 Scott Street - 22PLN-00410 Item 2 Attachment F - Appeal & Public Comments     Packet Pg. 38     You don't often get email from 123andy@gmail.com. Learn why this is important CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautious of opening attachments and clicking on links. Hello Garrett, I tried to view the application on the BuildingEye site but there was only reference to an electrical panel upgrade a few years ago. Can you please send me all the plans/information regarding the proposed development for 949 Scott St. I live across the street. Thank you, -Andy Martin 650-380-3405 Item 2 Attachment F - Appeal & Public Comments     Packet Pg. 39     DPR 523A (9/2013) *Required information State of California ⎯ The Resources Agency Primary #______________________________________________ DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND RECREATION HRI #__________________________________________________ PRIMARY RECORD Trinomial______________________________________________ NRHP Status Code Other Listings_____________________________________________________________________ Review Code________ Reviewer________________________ Date_______________ Page 1 of 11 Resource name(s) or number (assigned by recorder) 949 Scott Street P1. Other Identifier: *P2. Location: Not for Publication Unrestricted *a. County Santa Clara *b. USGS 7.5’ Quad Palo Alto, CA Date 2023 *c. Address 949 Scott Street City Palo Alto Zip 94301 d. UTM: (Give more than one for large and/or linear resources) Zone mE/ mN *e. Other Locational Data: Assessor’s Parcel Number 120-17-074 *P3a. Description: (Describe resource and its major elements. Include design, materials, condition, alterations, size, setting, and boundaries.) 949 Scott Street is located on a 30’ x 50’ lot on the northeast side of Scott Street, between Addison and Channing avenues. Built in 1922, 949 Scott Street is a one-story residence designed in a simple Craftsman style. The rectangular-plan house, clad in stucco, sits on a concrete foundation, and is capped by an asphalt shingle hipped roof. The primary façade faces southwest. Fenestration consists of multi-lite wood windows with wood sills. The primary facade terminates in a hipped roof with a slight overhang. The house is set back in a small yard with a stone walkway enclosed by a wood picket fence. The house appears to be in good condition. Southwest (Primary) Façade The southwest (primary) façade fronts Scott Street. The façade is symmetrical, containing a pair of fixed 12- lite wood windows on either side of the primary entrance (Figure 2 and Figure 3). At the center of the façade is a glazed 12- lite wood door behind a wood storm door, under an extended roof overhang, supported by two paneled square wood columns and accessible by concrete steps. Above the front door within the roof line is a three -pane wood dormer window capped by a hipped roof. (Continued on page 2) *P3b. Resource Attributes: HP2: Single Family Residence *P4. Resources Present: Building Structure Object Site District Element of District Other P5b. Photo: (view and date) Southwest (Primary) Façade *P6. Date Constructed/Age and Sources: Historic Prehistoric Both January 1922. Permit Card *P7. Owner and Address: Simon and Shamim Tong 949 Scott Street Palo Alto, CA 94301 *P8. Recorded by: Page & Turnbull, Inc. 170 Maiden Lane, 5th Floor San Francisco, CA 94108 *P9. Date Recorded: March 13, 2023 *P10. Survey Type: Intensive *P11. Report Citation: None *Attachments: None Location Map Sketch Map Continuation Sheet Building, Structure, and Object Record Archaeological Record District Record Linear Feature Record Milling Station Record Rock Art Record Artifact Record Photograph Record  Other (list) P5a. Photo Item 2 Attachment G - Page & Turnbull Historic Evaluation     Packet Pg. 40     State of California ⎯ The Resources Agency Primary # __________________________________________________ DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND RECREATION HRI # _____________________________________________________ CONTINUATION SHEET Trinomial __________________________________________________ Page 2 of 11 Resource Name or # (Assigned by recorder) 949 Scott Street *Recorded by Page & Turnbull, Inc. *Date March 27, 2023  Continuation  Update DPR 523L *P3a. Description (Continued) Figure 1: Aerial view of 949 Scott Street. Subject property outlined in red. Google Maps, 2023. Figure 2: North half of southwest facade. Figure 3: South half of southwest facade. Northwest Façade The northwest façade fronts a narrow gravel pathway and a concrete property wall, accessible by a wood picket gate to the south. The north (left) side includes two double-hung wood windows (Figure 4). At the center of the façade is a six-over-one double-hung wood window, slightly higher than the others on the façade plane. The south (right) side includes two double-hung wood windows (Figure 5). Item 2 Attachment G - Page & Turnbull Historic Evaluation     Packet Pg. 41     State of California ⎯ The Resources Agency Primary # __________________________________________________ DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND RECREATION HRI # _____________________________________________________ CONTINUATION SHEET Trinomial __________________________________________________ Page 3 of 11 Resource Name or # (Assigned by recorder) 949 Scott Street *Recorded by Page & Turnbull, Inc. *Date March 27, 2023  Continuation  Update DPR 523L Figure 4: Northwest facade, looking southeast. Figure 5: Northwest façade, looking northeast. Northeast Façade The northeast (rear) façade fronts a narrow graveled space next to a concrete property wall. The east (left) side has two concrete steps leading up a 10-lite wood door behind a screen door (Figure 6). A small rectangular wood vent sits west of the door. At the center of the façade is projecting vinyl garden window (Figure 7). The west (right) side has a projecting wood shed and a double- hung wood window (Figure 8). Figure 6: Northeast façade, looking west. Figure 7: Northeast facade, looking west. Item 2 Attachment G - Page & Turnbull Historic Evaluation     Packet Pg. 42     State of California ⎯ The Resources Agency Primary # __________________________________________________ DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND RECREATION HRI # _____________________________________________________ CONTINUATION SHEET Trinomial __________________________________________________ Page 4 of 11 Resource Name or # (Assigned by recorder) 949 Scott Street *Recorded by Page & Turnbull, Inc. *Date March 27, 2023  Continuation  Update DPR 523L Figure 8: Northeast facade, looking east. Southeast Façade The southeast façade fronts a gravel walkway and tall hedge, accessible by a wood picket gate to the south. The south (left) corner of the façade contains a square nine-lite fixed wood window (Figure 9). The center has a second square nine-lite fixed wood window. Two double-hung wood windows sit on either side of a square fixed wood window. The rest of the north (right) portion of the façade contains no fenestration (Figure 10). Figure 9: Southeast façade, looking northeast. Figure 10: Southeast façade, looking southwest. Surrounding Neighborhood The immediate surrounding area is primarily residential. Scott Street dead-ends at small public park called Scott Park, which contains picnic tables, a half-court basketball court, a bocce ball court, toddler swings, and lawn . The area showcases a mix of residential styles, including Craftsman, Contemporary, and Spanish Revival. The homes were built starting in 1902 to 2011 (Figure 11-Figure 14). Item 2 Attachment G - Page & Turnbull Historic Evaluation     Packet Pg. 43     State of California ⎯ The Resources Agency Primary # __________________________________________________ DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND RECREATION HRI # _____________________________________________________ CONTINUATION SHEET Trinomial __________________________________________________ Page 5 of 11 Resource Name or # (Assigned by recorder) 949 Scott Street *Recorded by Page & Turnbull, Inc. *Date March 27, 2023  Continuation  Update DPR 523L Figure 11: 353 Addison Avenue. Figure 12: 327 Addison Avenue. Figure 13: 935 Scott Street. Figure 14: 943 and 936 Scott Street. Item 2 Attachment G - Page & Turnbull Historic Evaluation     Packet Pg. 44     DPR 523B (9/2013) *Required information State of California ⎯ The Resources Agency Primary #__________________________________________ DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND RECREATION HRI#______________________________________________ BUILDING, STRUCTURE, AND OBJECT RECORD Page 6 of 11 *NRHP Status Code______6Z______________ *Resource Name or # 949 Scott Street B1. Historic name: B2. Common name: 949 Scott Street B3. Original Use: Residence B4. Present use: Residence *B5. Architectural Style: Craftsman *B6. Construction History: (Construction date, alterations, and date of alterations) Prior to construction in 1922, the site was previously undeveloped. (Refer to continuation sheet, page 7) *B7. Moved? No Yes Unknown Date: Original Location: ____________________________ *B8. Related Features: None B9a. Architect: Unknown b. Builder: Unknown *B10. Significance: Theme N/A Area University South, Palo Alto Period of Significance N/A Property Type Residential Applicable Criteria N/A Historic Context: Palo Alto History The earliest known settlement of the Palo Alto area was by the Ohlone people. The region was colonized in 1769 as part of Alt a California. The Spanish and Mexican governments carved the area into large ranchos which contained portions of land that became Palo Alto including Rancho Corte Madera, Rancho Pastoria de las Borregas, Rancho Rincon de San Francisquito, and Rancho Riconada del Arroyo de San Francisquito.1 These land grants were honored in the cession of California to the United States, but parcels were subdivided and sold throughout the nineteenth century. The current city of Palo Alto contains the fo rmer township of Mayfield, which was located just southwest of Alma Street. In 1882, railroad magnate and California politician Leland Stanford purchased 1,000 acres adjacent to Mayfield to add to his larger estate. Stanford’s vast holdings became known as the Palo Alto Stock Farm. On March 9, 1885, Stanford University was founded on land of the Palo Alto Stock Farm through an endowment act by the California Assembly and Senate. Originally looking to connect Stanford University as a part of the already established town of Mayfield, Stanford asked resid ents of Mayfield to make the town a temperance town. Their refusal in 1886 caused Stanford to found the town of Palo Alto with aid from his friend, Timothy Hopkins of the Southern Pacific Railroad. Hopkins purchased and subdivided 740 acres of private land, that was known initially as University Park (or the Hopkins Tract).2 This land was bounded by the San Francisquito Creek to the north and the railroad tracks and Stanford University campus to the south. A new train stop was created along University Avenue and the new town flourished in its close connection with the university. University Park, under its new name of Palo Alto, was incorporated in 1894. (Refer to continuation sheet, page 9) B11. Additional Resource Attributes: N/A *B12. References: Refer to footnotes B13. Remarks: N/A *B14. Evaluator: Page & Turnbull, Inc. *Date of Evaluation: March 29, 2023 1 Ward Winslow and the Palo Alto Historical Association, Palo Alto: A Centennial History, (Palo Alto: Palo Alto Historical Association,1993), 12-17. 2 City of Palo Alto, Comprehensive Plan 2030 (adopted by City Council, November 13, 2017), 16, accessed January 2, 2019, https://www.cityofpaloalto.org/civicax/filebank/documents/62915. Source: City of Palo Alto, Online Parcel Reports, 2023. Subject Parcel shown outlined in blue. (This space reserved for official comments.) Item 2 Attachment G - Page & Turnbull Historic Evaluation     Packet Pg. 45     State of California ⎯ The Resources Agency Primary # _____________________________________________ DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND RECREATION HRI # ________________________________________________ CONTINUATION SHEET Trinomial _____________________________________________ Page 7 of 11 Resource Name or # 949 Scott Street *Recorded by Page & Turnbull, Inc. *Date March 27, 2023  Continuation  Update DPR 523L *B6. Construction History (continued): 949 Scott Street was constructed in 1922 as a residence in the University South Neighborhood. No known architect or contractor was identified in the course of historic research. The house is visible on a 1924 Sanborn Map then later in a 1941 aerial photo (Figure 15 and Figure 16). The footprint of the house has been the same from 1924 to present. The house was reroofed in 1979, first completed as an unpermitted project, but later corrected that same year. In 1983, a permit was issued to “rebuild fire damaged residence as was existing with new electrical service.” It is not explicitly stated what portion of the residence suffered the damage, and no photos of the house were found from this period . Given that the aerial photos from 1941 and present show the same footprint, as well as wood windows throughout each facade, it could be presumed that the fire damage was on the interior, or the house did not suffer much damage. Other interior improvements were made in 1998, according to permit records. Upon visual inspection, there do not appear to be unpermitted changes to the house. Figure 15: Sanborn Map Company Fire Insurance Map, 1924. 949 Scott Street outlined in red. Source: San Francisco Public Library. Figure 16: Aerial photograph of 949 Scott Street, 1941. Subject property outlined in red. Flight C-7065, Frame 43. Source: University of Santa Barbara. Item 2 Attachment G - Page & Turnbull Historic Evaluation     Packet Pg. 46     State of California ⎯ The Resources Agency Primary # _____________________________________________ DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND RECREATION HRI # ________________________________________________ CONTINUATION SHEET Trinomial _____________________________________________ Page 8 of 11 Resource Name or # 949 Scott Street *Recorded by Page & Turnbull, Inc. *Date March 27, 2023  Continuation  Update DPR 523L The following table includes known construction and alterations undertaken at the subject property based on the permits on file at Palo Alto Development Services. *B10. Significance: Historic Context (continued) In its early years, Palo Alto was a temperance town where no alcohol could be served. The residents were mostly middle and working class, with a pocket of university professors clustered in the neighborhood deemed Professorville. The development of a local streetcar in 1906 and the interurban railway to San Jose in 1910 facilitated access to jobs outside the city . They also increased access to Stanford University and encouraged more people to move to Palo Alto.3 In July 1925, Mayfield was officially annexed and consolidated into the City of Palo Alto.4 Like the rest of the nation, Palo Alto suffered through the Great Depression in the 1930s and did not grow substantially. Wor ld War II brought an influx of military personnel and their families to the Peninsula; accordingly, Palo Alto saw rapid growth following the war as many families who had been stationed on the Peninsula by the military or who worked in associated industries chose to stay. Palo Alto’s population more than doubled from 16,774 in 1940 to 33,753 in 1960.5 Palo Alto’s city center greatly expanded in the late 1940s and 1950s, gathering parcels that would house new offices and ligh t industrial uses and lead the city away from its “college town” reputation. Palo Alto annexed a vast area of mostly undeveloped land between 1959 and 1968. This area, west of the Foothill Expressway, has remained protected open space. Small annexations continued into the 1970s, contributing to the discontinuous footprint of the city today. Palo Alto remains closely tied to Stanford University; it is the largest employer in the city. The technology industry dominates other sectors of business, as is the ca se with most cities within Silicon Valley. Palo Alto consciously maintains its high proportion of open space to d evelopment and the suburban feeling and scale of its architecture.6 University South Neighborhood History The current University South neighborhood was located in the southern portion of the original University Park track platted b y Timothy Hopkins. It was the core part of the early city, along with today’s Downtown North neighborhood (located northwest of University Avenue, the main commercial corridor within the original core of Palo Alto). The neighborhood contains the residen tial and commercial areas that lay southeast of University Avenue, although does not encompass Professorville, the residential neighborhood closely associated with early Stanford faculty members and their families. As a result, the neighborhood is U - shaped, bounded by University Avenue at the northwest, Alma Street and the railroad tracks at the south, and Middlefield Road at the northeast. The southeast boundary follows Embarcadero Road but steps northwest to Addison Avenue, so as to exclude Professorville. The 1895 Sanborn Fire Insurance Company map illustrates that stores were located along University Avenue, and were particularly concentrated at its southwestern end, where a large lumberyard stood near the railroad . Residences were scattered along the street just east and west of University Avenue on Hamilton and Lytton Avenues. A few churches, hotels, and boarding houses also stood among many vacant lots. Contemporary newspapers called the homes that housed artisans and merchants in this area “neat cottages”—which stood in contrast to the houses occupied by Stanford faculty members, located to the southeast in what is today the Professorville neighborhood. Some grander homes for more affluent residents were sprinkled throughout the current -day University South neighborhood.7 3 Dames & Moore (Michael Corbett and Denise Bradley), Final Survey Report – Palo Alto Historical Survey Update: August 1997-August 2000 prepared for the City of Palo Alto Planning Division (February 2001), 1-4. 4 City of Palo Alto, Comprehensive Plan 2030, 16. 5 “Depression, War, and the Population Boom,” Palo Alto Medical Foundation - Sutter Health, accessed January 2, 2019, http://www.pamf.org/about/pamfhistory/depression.html. 6 City of Palo Alto, Comprehensive Plan 2030, 11-20. 7 Palo Alto AAUW, …Gone Tomorrow? “Neat Cottages” and “Handsome Residences” (Palo Alto: American Association of University Women, 1971, revised 1986) 5. Permit # Date Owner Architect/Contractor Description Unknown 6/6/1979 Dennis Lovett Unknown Reroof (noted that the roof was replaced without a permit in May 1979) B-83-86 2/8/1983 Dennis Lovett Keith Ahhen Rebuild fire damaged residence as was existing with new electrical service 983815 12/17/1998 Jeanne Anne Breen Unknown Heater replaced. Built in shelves and mantel added on the interior Item 2 Attachment G - Page & Turnbull Historic Evaluation     Packet Pg. 47     State of California ⎯ The Resources Agency Primary # _____________________________________________ DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND RECREATION HRI # ________________________________________________ CONTINUATION SHEET Trinomial _____________________________________________ Page 9 of 11 Resource Name or # 949 Scott Street *Recorded by Page & Turnbull, Inc. *Date March 27, 2023  Continuation  Update DPR 523L By 1901, Palo Alto had grown, and the Sanborn map showed more than just the original core. Houses were filling in the lots on the blocks around the railroad while scattered residential development extended up to and beyond Middlefield Road. Additional institutions had been built in the area, including a public school and high school. Ownership and Occupancy Summary The following table outlines the ownership and occupancy history of 949 Scott Street. This information was compiled from Palo Alto City Directories, Santa Clara Assessor records, building permit applications, newspaper articles, and public records available through Ancestry.com. Year of Occupancy Known Occupants (known owners in bold) Occupation 1924-1947 Elizabeth Fu Son Josephine Fu Son (1931-1947) Frances Sims (1924-1927) Teacher Christian Science Practitioner Pastry Maker/Christian Science 1950 Vacant 1953-1955 James H Swezy Isabel Swezy Salesman 1961 Charles E. Stollenwerk Carolyn Stollenwerk Engineer at Lockheed 1962 John J. Bosley Psychologist 1965 William W. Bromund Student 1969 Vacant 1972 No Return 1974 Cheryl Romner Unknown 1976 Andrea Burris Unknown 1979-1983 Dennis Lovett Unknown 1984 Alan L. Svec Jennifer M. Svec Unknown 1986 Robert Leon Baer Technician 1993-1998 Jeanne Anne Heilig Breen Patrick R. Heilig James L. Heilig Jr. David Breen Unknown 2012 Anita Coutts Unknown 2023-Present Simon Tong Shamim Tong Unknown Elizabeth Fu Son, Owner and Occupant 1924-1947 If an owner or occupant resided at 949 Scott Street from its construction in 1922 to 1924, that person is not documented in city directories. Elizabeth Fu Son (spelled Fuson in the U.S. Census records of 1920, 1930, and 1940) lived at 949 Scott Street starting in 1924, according to Palo Alto city directories.8 Originally from Goshen, Indiana and born about 1871, she was a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution and the Presbyterian Church of Palo Alto.9 Elizabeth was a longtime teacher at Miss Harker’s School and lived at the school (addressed 118 Greenwood Avenue) with Catherine Harker and other teacher/lodgers in 1920. She appears to have also owned a property in Goshen, Indiana, as she also appears in a 1920 U.S. Census there with her friend, Frances Sims.10 She lived at 949 Scott Street with Frances Sims from 1924 to 1927, then with her sister Josephine Fu Son from 1931 until 1947. Elizabeth Fu Son lived in the home until her death in 1947. Research did not find Elizabeth Fu Son significant to the overall development of Palo Alto. 8 Note: while the name Fu Son appears to potentially indicate an Asian surname, Ms. Fu Son was white according to U.S. Census r ecords. 9 “Elizabeth Fu Son dies; funeral set for Monday,” The Peninsula Times Tribune, July 5, 1947, Accessed March 7, 2023, https://www.newspapers.com/image/838649384/?article=0935b9d8-feb8-487d-8070- 029a999e1046&focus=0.3694026,0.65429586,0.48802704,0.76918787&xid=3355&_gl=1*g9pkxt*_ga*MTU2MTA4MzQ1OC4xNjUyODkxMzA5*_g a_4QT8FMEX30*MTY3ODIyNjE5Mi4xNjAuMS4xNjc4MjI2NDMwLjYwLjAuMA..*_ga_B2YGR3SSMB*ODM4MzdkZTEtZGNjOC00MzZlLWExY2ItZTI 4YTRmYTk1MjFkLjgwLjEuMTY3ODIyNjQzMS42MC4wLjA.&_ga=2.115031559.1615584679.1678220685-1561083458.1652891309. 10 U.S. Federal Census, 1920 for Elizabeth Fuson. Accessed March 27, 2023 from ancestry.com. Item 2 Attachment G - Page & Turnbull Historic Evaluation     Packet Pg. 48     State of California ⎯ The Resources Agency Primary # _____________________________________________ DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND RECREATION HRI # ________________________________________________ CONTINUATION SHEET Trinomial _____________________________________________ Page 10 of 11 Resource Name or # 949 Scott Street *Recorded by Page & Turnbull, Inc. *Date March 27, 2023  Continuation  Update DPR 523L All other owners and occupants lived at 949 Scott Street for a relatively short period of time. Design of 949 Scott Street 949 Scott Street is designed in a simple Craftsman style, which was popular in California from the 1900s to the 1930s. The Craftsman style was utilized predominantly in residential properties and evolved from the English Arts and Crafts Movement an d later, the work of innovative American architects working in the Midwest and California, in particular Frank Lloyd Wright and Greene & Greene. The style was strongly associated with the graphic designs and furnishings of William Morris and the architecture of M.H. Baillie Scott and Charles F. A. Voyse y. The Craftsman magazine, published in America from 1901 to 1917, further disseminated the ideals of the Movement, such as anti-industrialism and emphasis on handcrafted products in North America. The Craftsman style took off in California during the firs t decade of the twentieth century in response to the work of Greene & Greene in Southern California and the Bay Area. Additional influences included Japanese architecture and the native - grown Bay Region Tradition of Northern California. Ranging from the el aborate one-off homes of the wealthy in Pasadena and the Berkeley hills to the rows of bungalows of Oakland, Los Angeles and San Jose, Craftsman dwellings are typically characterized low-pitched gabled roofs with wide, unenclosed eave overhangs, decorative beams or braces, tapered square columns or pedestals and extending porch elements. In Palo Alto, as in many contemporary smaller California communities, the Craftsman style is the dominant residential style present within many neighborhoods in the city. 949 Scott Street characteristics of Craftsman style include overhanging eaves, a centered dormer window, and a projecting porch supported by square columns. Statement of Significance: In order for a property to be considered eligible for the California Register of Historical Resources (California Register), the property must possess significance and retain integrity to convey that significance. The criteria for significance are: Criterion 1 (Events): Associated with events that have made a significant contribution to the broad patterns of local or regional history or the cultural heritage of California or the United States. 949 Scott Street does not appear to be individually eligible for listing in the California Register under Criterion 1 (Events), as the subject building does not appear to have contributed to the broad patterns of history in Palo Alto, the state, or the nation. The property was constructed in 1922 in the University South neighborhood of Palo Alto. At the time of the subject building’s construction, the subdivision was one of several in the area undergoing increasing development and infill, and the property i s not significant to the development of University South neighborhood. No significant events were known to have occurred at 949 Scott Street, such that it would be individually eligible under Criterion 1. The house at 949 Scott Street does not appear to be individually eligible for listing in the California Register under Criterion 1. Criterion 2 (Persons): Associated with the lives of persons important to local, California or national history. 949 Scott Street does not appear to be individually eligible for listing in the California Register under Criterion 2 (Persons). Since its construction in 1922, the subject property has had one long term owner and many short-term owners and occupants. Elizabeth Fu Son owned and lived at 949 Scott Street from 1924 to 1947. Research was unable to uncover significant professional or personal achievements by Elizabeth Fu Son that would make the subject building individually eligible for listing on the California Register. Therefore, 949 Scott Street does not appear to be individually eligible for the California Register under Criterion 2 (Persons). Criterion 3 (Architecture): Embodies the distinctive characteristics of a type, period, region or method of construction or represents the work of a master or possesses high artistic values. 949 Scott Street does not appear to be individually eligible for listing in the California Register under Criterion 3 (Architecture). The residence was constructed in 1922 by an unknown architect or builder. The house was designed in a simple Craftsman style, which was common in the 1920s in Palo Alto. The design is without exposed rafters, patterned windowpanes, or other details often seen in the Craftsman style, and does not possess high artistic values. Therefore, 949 Scott Street does not appear to rise to a level of individual significance under Criterion 3. The property does not appear to be eligible as a contributor to a historic distric t, as the subject block features a variety of architectural styles. However, the evaluation of a potential district is outside the scope of this report. The house at 949 Scott Street does not appear to be individually eligible for listing in the California Register under Criterion 3. Criterion 4 (Information Potential): Has yielded, or has the potential to yield, information important to the prehistory or history of the local area, California or the nation. The property at 949 Scott Street does not appear to be individually eligible for listing in the California Register under Criterion 4 as a building or property that has the potential to provide information important to the prehistory or history of the City of Palo Alto, state, or nation. It does not feature construction or material types, or embody engineering practices that would, with additional study, provide important information. Evaluation of this property was limited to age-eligible resources above ground and did not involve survey or evaluation of the subject property for the purposes of archaeological information. Item 2 Attachment G - Page & Turnbull Historic Evaluation     Packet Pg. 49     State of California ⎯ The Resources Agency Primary # _____________________________________________ DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND RECREATION HRI # ________________________________________________ CONTINUATION SHEET Trinomial _____________________________________________ Page 11 of 11 Resource Name or # 949 Scott Street *Recorded by Page & Turnbull, Inc. *Date March 27, 2023  Continuation  Update DPR 523L Conclusion The property at 949 Scott Street does not appear to be individually eligible for listing in the California Register of Historical Resources under any criteria. The California Historical Resource Status Code (CHRSC) of “6Z” has been assigned to the property, meaning “Found ineligible for National Register, California Register, or Local Designation through survey evaluation.”11 Resources California State Office of Historic Preservation Department of Parks and Recreation. Technical Assistance Bulletin #8: User’s Guide to the California Historical Resource Status Codes & Historical Resource Inventory Directory. Sacramento November 2004. City of Palo Alto. Comprehensive Plan 2030 (adopted by City Council, November 13, 2017). Accessed March 21, 2023. https://www.cityofpaloalto.org/civicax/filebank/documents/62915. Dames & Moore (Michael Corbett and Denise Bradley). Final Survey Report – Palo Alto Historical Survey Update: August 1997- August 2000. Prepared for the City of Palo Alto Planning Division. February 2001. “Depression, War, and the Population Boom.” Palo Alto Medical Foundation - Sutter Health. Accessed March 21, 2023. http://www.pamf.org/about/pamfhistory/depression.html. “Elizabeth Fu Son dies; funeral set for Monday.” The Peninsula Times Tribune. July 5, 1947. Accessed March 7, 2023. https://www.newspapers.com/image/838649384/?article=0935b9d8 -feb8-487d-8070- 029a999e1046&focus=0.3694026,0.65429586,0.48802704,0.76918787&xid=3355&_gl=1*g9pkxt*_ga*MTU2MTA4MzQ1 OC4xNjUyODkxMzA5*_ga_4QT8FMEX30*MTY3ODIyNjE5Mi4xNjAuMS4xNjc4MjI2NDMwLjYwLjAuMA..*_ga_B2YGR3S SMB*ODM4MzdkZTEtZGNjOC00MzZlLWExY2ItZTI4YTRmYTk1MjFkLjgwLjEuMTY3ODIyNjQzMS42MC4wLjA.&_ga=2.1 1503155 9.1615584679.1678220685-1561083458.1652891309. Palo Alto AAUW. …Gone Tomorrow? “Neat Cottages” and “Handsome Residences.” Palo Alto: American Association of University Women.1971, revised 1986. Palo Alto City Directories. 1920-2002. Ancestry.com. Sanborn Fire Insurance Maps. San Francisco Public Library. The Peninsula Times Tribune. “Community Calendar.” May 18, 1928. Accessed January 6, 2023. https://www.newspapers.com/image/838344054/?terms=%22240%20Rinconada%20Avenue%22&match=1. United States Federal Census for 1920, 1930, 1940. Accessed March 27, 2023 from Ancestry.com. Winslow, Ward and the Palo Alto Historical Association. Palo Alto: A Centennial History. Palo Alto Historical Association. 1993. 11 California State Office of Historic Preservation Department of Parks and Recreation, Technical Assistance Bulletin #8: User’s Guide to the California Historical Resource Status Codes & Historical Resource Inventory Directory, Sacramento, November 2004. Item 2 Attachment G - Page & Turnbull Historic Evaluation     Packet Pg. 50     If you need assistance reviewing the above documents, please contact the Project Planner or call the Planner-on-Duty at 650-617-3117 or email planner@cityofpaloalto.org Attachment H Project Plans In order to reduce paper consumption, a limited number of hard copy project plans are provided to Commission members for their review. The same plans are available to the public, at all hours of the day, via the following online resources. Directions to review Project plans and environmental documents online: 1. Go to: bit.ly/PApendingprojects 2. Scroll down to find or search for “949 Scott” and click the address link 3. On this project-specific webpage you will find a link to the project plans and other important information Direct Link to Project Webpage: https://www.cityofpaloalto.org/Departments/Planning-Development-Services/Current- Planning/Projects/949-Scott-Street Item 2 Attachment H - Project Plans     Packet Pg. 51     Item No. 3. Page 1 of 3 Planning & Transportation Commission Staff Report From: Planning and Development Services Director Lead Department: Planning and Development Services Meeting Date: December 13, 2023 Report #: 2311-2301 TITLE Recommendation on an Ordinance Amending Palo Alto Municipal Code Title 18 (Zoning) Chapters 18.14 (Housing Incentives), 18.76 (Permits and Approvals), and 18.77 (Processing of Permits and Approvals) to Implement Housing Element Program 1.3 Creating By- Right Zoning Approval for Specific Housing Element Inventory Sites RECOMMENDATION Staff recommends that the Planning and Transportation Commission (PTC) review and recommend City Council adoption of the attached draft ordinance (Attachment A) to implement Housing Element Program 1.3 creating by-right zoning approval for specific Housing Element inventory sites, and making conforming changes to Title 18. BACKGROUND The Housing Element is one of seven mandatory elements that must be included in Palo Alto’s Comprehensive Plan. This element evaluates housing needs and issues in the City, and contains goals, policies, programs, and implementing objectives that the City uses to guide actions related to housing. The City Council adopted the 2023-2031 Housing Element (Housing Element) on May 8, 2023. The State Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) provided a letter on August 3, 2023, requesting additional revisions to the Housing Element. Staff anticipates the Housing Element will be brought to the City Council for re- adoption to address HCD’s requested revisions in early 2024. More information about the Housing Element can be found at the project website: www.paloaltohousingelement.com. The adopted Housing Element includes 122 implementation programs with several key programs needing to be completed by January 2024; the implementation of Program 1.3, Sites Used in Previous Housing Cycle, is one of those programs that must be completed. Council took action on November 13, 2023 adopting an ordinance implementing Housing Element programs 1.1A and 1.1B (rezoning housing inventory sites) and creating a new chapter of the PAMC. Program 1.3 implementation was inadvertently omitted from that ordinance. Ordinance Review Process Item 3 Staff Report     Packet Pg. 52     Item No. 3. Page 2 of 3 To implement Program 1.3 by the January 31, 2024 deadline, staff will prepare an urgency ordinance concurrently with the permanent ordinance, based on the PTC recommendation. Both the urgency and permanent ordinance are anticipated to be considered by the City Council on January 22, 2024. With this action, the urgency ordinance will become effective immediately for 45 days and the permanent ordinance will go into effect prior to the expiration of the urgency period. PROJECT DESCRIPTION AND ANALYSIS By-Right State Law for Recycled Sites Housing Element Program 1.3 implements a requirement of state law that requires a “by-right” approval process for certain housing projects on housing opportunity sites that were included in a prior housing element(s). The attached ordinance (Attachment A) would provide a new mechanism for by-right zoning approval of qualifying projects on these “recycled” Housing Element sites. Pursuant to state law, jurisdictions cannot require a discretionary approval process,1 for projects utilizing certain Housing Element inventory sites which were used in prior Housing Elements cycles, were designated as lower income, and meet the following specific criteria: 1. Non-vacant sites in one previous housing element cycle, or vacant sites included in two previous housing element cycles; 2. 20% of units affordable to lower income households; and 3. Sufficient water, sewer, and other dry utilities available and accessible. In total, 16 sites in listed in Program 1.3 meet criterion 1 above. Criteria 2 and 3 would not be established until a development proposal is submitted. As defined in state law, by-right zoning approval means the City cannot require a conditional use permit, planned unit development permit, or other discretionary local government review, or any approval that would constitute a “project” under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). In addition to these procedural requirements, state law requires that recycled sites be zoned to require a minimum of 20 dwelling units per acre, while allowing at 30+ dwelling units per acre. State law may also require density and development standards for these sites that would allow at least 16 units per site. The recently adopted ordinance implementing Housing Element Program 1.1 satisfied all of these requirements. The attached ordinance defines projects entitled to multi-family housing as a “use by-right” in a new Section 18.14.060. 1 Projects requiring subdivision would not be eligible for by-right approval and still be subject to all requirements of the Subdivision Map Act and the City’s subdivision ordinance, including any discretionary review required thereunder. Item 3 Staff Report     Packet Pg. 53     Item No. 3. Page 3 of 3 Existing Development Review Process Under the City’s current development review process, multifamily developments are subject to the architectural review process set forth in PAMC Section 18.77.070. This allows the Architectural Review Board (ARB) to make a recommendation to the Planning and Development Services Department Director (Director). Appeals, if filed, are heard by the City Council. There is also an alternative streamlined review process (PAMC Section 18.77.073) for multi- family projects which utilize the objective design standards outlined in PAMC Chapter 18.24. This streamlined process allows applicants with compliant projects to go through a staff level review and attend one study session with the ARB prior to the Director’s decision. All appeals through the streamlined process go directly to City Council. New By-right Review Process for Eligible Sites The draft ordinance outlines a new ministerial approval process for by-right projects which includes staff review for compliance with the City’s objective standards in the Comprehensive Plan, Specific Plans, Area Plans, PAMC (including Section 18.77.074), and other rules and regulations. At the discretion of the Director, applicants may also have their projects reviewed by the ARB at a study session. No CEQA review would be associated with developments eligible for the by-right process. The Director would make the final staff level decision on by-right projects. This process is similar to how 525 East Charleston Road was processed under AB 2162. The attached ordinance makes minor changes to Chapters 18.76 (Permits and Approvals) and 18.77 (Processing of Permits and Approvals) to clarify which projects are entitled to streamlined review and which to ministerial review. The ordinance also clarifies that such projects are required to obtain a planning entitlement prior to issuance of a building permit, even if they are only subject to ministerial review. FISCAL/RESOURCE IMPACT This action has no fiscal impact. ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW The adoption of this ordinance would implement Program 1.3, Sites Used in Previous Housing Cycle, of the adopted Housing Element. An Addendum to the Comprehensive Plan Environmental Impact Report (EIR) was prepared to analyze the potential environmental impacts of the Housing Element and the sites inventory contained therein. This environmental analysis under CEQA includes all components of the Housing Element, including implementation of Program 1.3 and the associated text amendments. ATTACHMENTS Attachment A: Draft Ordinance AUTHOR/TITLE: Coleman Frick, Principal Planner Item 3 Staff Report     Packet Pg. 54     *NOT YET APPROVED* Atachment A 1 0160132_20231204_ay16 Ordinance No. _____ Ordinance of the Council of the City of Palo Alto Amending Chapters 18.14 (Housing Incentives), 18.76 (Permits and Approvals), and 18.77 (Processing Permits and Approvals) of Title 18 (Zoning) of the Palo Alto Municipal Code to Implement Programs 1.3 of the City of Palo Alto 2023-2031 Housing Element The Council of the City of Palo Alto ORDAINS as follows: SECTION 1. Findings and Declara�ons. (a) On May 8, 2023, the City Council adopted the City of Palo Alto 2023-2031 Housing Element (“Housing Element”) pursuant to Government Code Sec�on 65585. (b) In accordance with AB 1397 (2017), Program 1.3, Sites Used in Previous Housing Cycle, requires rezoning and a “by right” approval process for qualifying projects proposed on certain housing opportunity sites that were included as opportunity sites in prior housing elements. (c) Government Code Sec�on 65583.2, subdivision (c) and the Housing Element require that the City complete its implementa�on of Program 1.3 by January 31, 2024, which is one year from the statutory deadline for adop�on of the Housing Element. (d) Ordinance No. XXXX, adopted on December 11, 2023, accomplished the required rezoning for all sites subject to Program 1.3. (e) This ordinance implements the “by right” development process for sites subject to Program 1.3 and makes conforming changes to exis�ng provisions of Title 18. SECTION 2. Sec�on 18.14.050 (By Right Status of Qualifying Projects on Specified Housing Opportunity Sites) of Chapter 18.14 (Housing Incen�ves) of Title 18 (Zoning) of the Palo Alto Municipal Code is added to read as follows: 18.14.050 By Right Status of Qualifying Projects on Specified Housing Opportunity Sites (a) Mul�-family residen�al projects on housing opportunity sites shall be a “use by right,” subject to the following requirements: (1) The site is designated in Appendix D of the Housing Element to accommodate lower income households and it is either: (A) a nonvacant site included in one prior housing element; or (B) a vacant site that has been included in two or more consecu�ve, prior housing elements; (2) The site was not previously approved to develop a por�on of City’s regional housing need alloca�on; (3) The project restricts at least 20 percent of the units to rents or sales prices affordable to lower income households. (4) The site has sufficient water, sewer, and other dry u�li�es available and accessible. Item 3 Attachment A - Draft Ordinance Amending Ch 18.14, 18.76 and 18.77 of Title 18     Packet Pg. 55     *NOT YET APPROVED* Atachment A 2 0160132_20231204_ay16 (b) “use by right” shall have the same meaning as provided in Government Code Sec�on 65583.2, subdivision (i). (c) Qualifying projects shall be reviewed pursuant to Sec�on 18.77.074. SECTION 3. Sec�on 18.77.020 (Architectural Review) of Chapter 18.76 (Permits and Approvals) of Title 18 (Zoning) of the Palo Alto Municipal Code is amended to read as follows (addi�ons underlined, dele�ons struck through, and omited text le� unchanged indicated by [. . .]): 18.76.020 Architectural Review (a) Purpose [. . .] (b) Applicability No permit required under Title 2, Title 12 or Title 16 shall be issued for a major or minor project, as set forth in this sec�on, unless an applica�on for architectural review is reviewed, acted upon, and approved or approved with condi�ons as set forth in Sec�on 18.77.070. (1) Exempt Projects. The following projects do not require architectural review: [. . .] (C) Housing development projects, as defined in Government Code Sec�on 65589.5(h)(2) (the Housing Accountability Act), but only to the extent if such projects qualify for ministerial review under Government Code sec�ons 65913.4 or 65951, or if they comply with all applicable objec�ve standards, in this code and the City’s discre�on is thereby qualify for streamlining under limited by Government Code sec�ons 65589.5, 65913.4, or 65905.5. Such projects shall be subject to the processes set forth in Sec�ons 18.77.073 or 18.77.074, as applicable. [. . .] SECTION 4. Sec�on 18.76.025 (Mul�-Family Residen�al Projects Exempt Architectural Review) of Chapter 18.76 (Permits and Approvals) of Title 18 (Zoning) of the Palo Alto Municipal Code is added to read as follows: 18.76.025 Mul�-Family Residen�al Projects Exempt from Architectural Review No permit required under Title 2, Title 12 or Title 16 shall be issued for a mul�-family residen�al project that is exempt from Architectural Review under Sec�on 18.76.020, subdivision (b)(1)(C), unless it first receives a planning approval from the Planning Director under this Sec�on. Projects subject to ministerial review or that are defined as a “use by right” under state law shall be reviewed under Sec�on 18.77.074. Projects that are not subject to ministerial review, but that comply with all applicable objec�ve standards, shall be reviewed under Sec�on 18.77.073. // // Item 3 Attachment A - Draft Ordinance Amending Ch 18.14, 18.76 and 18.77 of Title 18     Packet Pg. 56     *NOT YET APPROVED* Atachment A 3 0160132_20231204_ay16 SECTION 5. Sec�on 18.77.073 (Streamlined Housing Development Project Review Process) of Chapter 18.77 (Processing of Permits and Approvals) of Title 18 (Zoning) of the Palo Alto Municipal Code is amended to read as follows (addi�ons underlined, dele�ons struck through, and omited text le� unchanged indicated by [. . .]): 18.77.073 Streamlined Housing Development Project Review Process (a) Applicability This sec�on shall apply to applica�ons for residen�al mixed-use and mul�family housing development projects, as defined in Government Code Sec�on 65589.5(h)(2), that comply with all applicable objec�ve standards in this code and for which the City’s discre�on is thereby qualify for streamlining under limited by Government Code sec�ons 65589.5, or 65905.5. [. . .] SECTION 6. Sec�on 18.77.074 (Ministerial and By Right Review Processes) of Chapter 18.77 (Processing of Permits and Approvals) of Title 18 (Zoning) of the Palo Alto Municipal Code is added to read as follows: 18.77.074 Ministerial and By Right Review Process (a) Purpose and Applicability This sec�on is intended to define a streamlined, ministerial review process for qualifying Housing Development Projects that are submited pursuant to streamlining provisions in AB 2162 (2018), AB 1397 (2017), and SB 35 (2017). This sec�on shall apply to mul�-family residen�al projects that are subject to ministerial review or defined as a “use by right” in state law, including, but not limited to, Government Code Sec�ons 65651, 65583, 65583.2, and 65913.4. This sec�on does not apply to the crea�on of an accessory dwelling unit and/or junior accessory dwelling unit. The review required by this sec�on shall not involve the exercise of discre�on in a manner that would cons�tute a “project ” for purposes of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). This sec�on does not, however, excuse a project involving a subdivision from compliance with Title 21 and the subdivision map processes set forth therein, which may result in a “project ” for purposes of CEQA. (b) Staff level review. Applica�ons under this sec�on shall be reviewed by City staff for compliance with applicable objec�ve standards in the City’s Comprehensive Plan, Specific Plans, Area Plans, Municipal Code, and other rules and regula�ons. A decision on the applica�on shall be made by the Planning Director within any �meframes dictated by applicable state law. (c) Public study session. Prior to preparing a writen decision, the Director may, in his or her sole discre�on, refer the applica�on to the Architectural Review Board or to other advisory boards or commissions for informal review. The recommenda�ons of such boards and commissions shall not be binding. (d) Public no�ces. No�ce of a public mee�ng to consider the applica�on shall be given at least seven days prior to the mee�ng by mailing to the applicant and all residents and owners of property within 600 feet Item 3 Attachment A - Draft Ordinance Amending Ch 18.14, 18.76 and 18.77 of Title 18     Packet Pg. 57     *NOT YET APPROVED* Atachment A 4 0160132_20231204_ay16 of the project. No�ce shall include the address of the property, a brief descrip�on of the proposed project, and the date and �me of the hearing. SECTION 7. If any sec�on, subsec�on, sentence, clause, or phrase of this Ordinance is for any reason held to be invalid or uncons�tu�onal by a decision of any court of competent jurisdic�on, such decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining por�ons of this Ordinance. The City Council hereby declares that it would have passed this Ordinance and each and every sec�on, subsec�on, sentence, clause, or phrase not declared invalid or uncons�tu�onal without regard to whether any por�on of the ordinance would be subsequently declared invalid or uncons�tu�onal. SECTION 8. In accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), the City prepared an Addendum to the 2017 Comprehensive Plan Environmental Impact Report (EIR), analyzing the poten�al environmental impacts of the 2023-2031 Housing Element. On May 8, 2023, the City Council adopted Resolu�on No. 10107, finding that the Addendum and the 2017 EIR adequately analyzed the environmental impacts of the Housing Element, including Program 1.3 of the Housing Element, which this ordinance implements. SECTION 9. This ordinance shall be effec�ve on the thirty-first date a�er the date of its adop�on. INTRODUCED: PASSED: AYES: NOES: ABSENT: ABSTENTIONS: ATTEST: ____________________________ ____________________________ City Clerk Mayor APPROVED AS TO FORM: APPROVED: ____________________________ ____________________________ Assistant City Atorney City Manager ____________________________ Director of Planning and Development Services Item 3 Attachment A - Draft Ordinance Amending Ch 18.14, 18.76 and 18.77 of Title 18     Packet Pg. 58     Item No. 4. Page 1 of 7 Planning & Transportation Commission Staff Report From: Planning and Development Services Director Lead Department: Planning and Development Services Meeting Date: December 13, 2023 Report #: 2311-2245 TITLE PUBLIC HEARING / QUASI-JUDICIAL. 420 Acacia [23PLN-00059]: Recommendation on Applicant’s Request for Approval of a Vesting Tentative Map to Allow for a Condominium Subdivision to Create 16 Units on a Single 35,573 Square Foot Parcel. The Subdivision map Would Facilitate Construction of the Previously Approved 33,833 Square Foot Mixed-use Development Project (23PLN-00058). Environmental Assessment: Exempt from the Provisions of the California Environmental Quality Act in Accordance with CEQA Guidelines Section 15332 (In-fill Development). Zoning District: Split Zoning Designation of RM-30 and R-1 (Multi-Family and Single-Family Residential). For More Information Contact the Project Planner Claire Raybould at Claire.Raybould@cityofpaloalto.org RECOMMENDATION Staff recommends the Planning and Transportation Commission (PTC) take the following action(s): 1. Consider the project exempt from CEQA in accordance with CEQA Guidelines Section 15532 (in-fill) as documented in Attachment D. 2.Recommend approval of the Vesting Tentative Map to the City Council based on findings and subject to conditions of approval in the Draft Record of Land Use Action (RLUA) in Attachment B. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The applicant requests approval of a Vesting Tentative Map to allow sixteen residential condominium units on a single, existing, 35,573 square foot (sf) parcel located at 420 Acacia Avenue. Through a separate, Streamlined Housing Development Review Entitlement Process, the applicant proposed, and the Director of Planning approved, construction of a sixteen-unit residential townhome project, two units of which would be provided at below market rate. BACKGROUND Project Information Owner:Acacia Camino Investors LLC Item 4 Staff Report     Packet Pg. 59     Item No. 4. Page 2 of 7 Civil Engineer:BKF Representative:Dividend Homes Legal Counsel:Not Applicable Property Information Address:420 Acacia Avenue Neighborhood:North Ventura Lot Dimensions & Area:Approximately 278 ft x 109 ft Housing Inventory Site:Not Applicable (Identified as pipeline project in Housing Element) Located w/in a Plume:Yes (see discussion below) Protected/Heritage Trees:Protected trees (see discussion below) Historic Resource(s):Not Applicable Existing Improvement(s):Surface Parking Lot Existing Land Use(s):Multi-family and single-family split land use designation; existing use surface parking lot Adjacent Land Uses & Zoning: North: Single-family Residential (R-1 Zoning) West: Surface parking and former Cannery building (RM-30 Zoning) (area to be rezoned and redeveloped in accordance with the Sobrato Development Agreement) East: Surface parking lot (CS Zoning) (to be redeveloped with 129- unit affordable multi-family development) South: Commercial Land Uses (retail, commercial rec) (CS Zoning) Special Setbacks:None Aerial View of Property: Source: Google Satellite Maps Item 4 Staff Report     Packet Pg. 60     Item No. 4. Page 3 of 7 Land Use Designation & Applicable Plans/Guidelines Comp. Plan Designation:Split land use designation of Multi-family and Single-family Zoning Designation:Split zoning designation of RM-30 and R-1 Yes Yes Yes Baylands Master Plan/Guidelines (2008/2005) El Camino Real Guidelines (1976) Housing Development Project Downtown Urban Design Guidelines (1993) South El Camino Real Guidelines (2002) Utilizes Chapter 18.24 - Objective Standards Individual Review Guidelines (2005) Within 150 feet of Residential Use or District Context-Based Design Criteria applicable SOFA Phase 1 (2000)Within Airport Influence Area SOFA Phase 2 (2003) Prior City Reviews & Action City Council:None PTC:None HRB:None ARB:None The proposed subdivision map has not gone to any other boards or commissions for review. However, the proposed improvements associated with the map were reviewed by the ARB on October 5, 2023.1 Project Description The project includes a request for approval of a Vesting Tentative Map to create sixteen condominium units (on a single parcel totaling 35,573 sf (0.8 ac). Approval of the map also includes acceptance of proposed utility easements on the parcel, which are required per City of Palo Alto Utility standards. A location map is included in Attachment A. The proposed Vesting Tentative Map is included in Attachment D. 1 The October 5, 2023 Architectural Review Board Staff Report for the 420 Acacia project is available online at: https://www.cityofpaloalto.org/files/assets/public/v/1/agendas-minutes-reports/agendas-minutes/architectural- review-board/2023/arb-10.05-420-acacia.pdf Item 4 Staff Report     Packet Pg. 61     Item No. 4. Page 4 of 7 The proposed development associated with this condominium subdivision was approved by the Director of Planning and Services on December 6, 2023 following a study session with the Architectural Review Board on October 5, 2023 in accordance with the Streamlined Housing Development Review Process. It includes demolition of the existing surface parking lot and its replacement with three two and three-story buildings with a total of sixteen townhome units. Requested Entitlements, Findings and Purview The following discretionary applications are being requested and subject to PTC purview: • Vesting Tentative Map: The process for evaluating this type of application is set forth in Title 21 of the Palo Alto Municipal Code (PAMC) and California Government Code 66474. The process for approval of a Vesting Tentative Map for a condominium subdivision is outlined in PAMC Sections 21.12.010 and 21.13.020. Vesting Tentative maps require Planning and Transportation Commission (PTC) review. The PTC reviews whether the amended subdivision is consistent with the Subdivision Map Act (in particular, Government Code 66474), Title 21 of the Palo Alto Municipal Code, the Palo Alto Comprehensive Plan, and other applicable provisions of the Palo Alto Municipal Code and State Law. The PTC’s recommendation is forwarded to the City Council for final approval. In accordance with Title 21 of the Palo Alto Municipal Code, all entitlements are required to be completed prior to approval of the Vesting Tentative Map. In compliance with this requirement, the applicant’s request for Streamlined Housing Development Review was approved on December 4, 2023. ANALYSIS The proposed project and relevant discussion and findings herein reflect the Vesting Tentative Map. The Director of Planning and Development Services previously approved the proposed site improvements associated with this condominium subdivision. The map will also include dedication of relevant public utility easements associated with the new site improvements. Neighborhood Setting and Character The project is located within the North Ventura neighborhood within 0.5 mile of the California Avenue Caltrain Station and adjacent a high-quality transit corridor on El Camino Real. The site abuts single-family residences to the north along Olive Avenue and commercial uses (e.g. retail and commercial recreation [equinox gym]) across Acacia Avenue. To the east, the Sobrato property (200-404 Portage) has been approved for redevelopment in accordance with a recently approved Development Agreement. Under the Development Agreement the portion of the former cannery building adjacent to 420 Acacia, part of which is currently occupied by Playground Global, would remain and continue to be occupied with the existing R&D tenants on the site. A parking structure would be developed adjacent to 420 Acacia, the ramp to which would connect to the shared driveway access at the east end of the site. To the west, a 129-unit Item 4 Staff Report     Packet Pg. 62     Item No. 4. Page 5 of 7 affordable housing project has been approved to replace the surface parking lot between the subject property and El Camino Real. Consistency with the Comprehensive Plan, Area Plans and Guidelines2 The proposed Vesting Tentative Map is consistent with the Comprehensive Plan, in that the site is designated primarily as “Multifamily” land use category and will be developed as a multi- family development on that portion of the site. The map facilitates the redevelopment of a parcel within the City’s urban service area which is consistent Policy L-1.2 of the Comprehensive Plan. The associated development to be constructed on the lot would add new residential units that contribute to the housing inventory including two affordable housing units, consistent with Goal 2 of the Housing Element, which states “assist in the provision of safe, attainable, and sustainable housing, especially affordable housing, to meet the needs of all economic segments of the community.” Consistencies with other Comprehensive Plan policies are included in Attachment B of this report. Zoning Compliance3 The site is zoned primarily as RM-30 (multi-family residential) with a small portion of the parcel zoned as R-1 (single-family residential). The proposed units are all located within the area of the site zoned R-30, while private and common open space is located within the area zoned R-1. The proposed multi-family development is a permitted use within the RM-30 Zone. The size of the parcel would not change and is consistent with code requirements for the RM-30 Zone District, which has a minimum lot size of 8,500 sf and minimum dimensions of 70 feet in width by 100 feet in depth. Staff finds that the proposed Vesting Tentative Map complies with these code requirements for parcels. Private Street Width The proposed project includes new private streets that do not meet the minimum width of 32 feet set forth in PAMC 21.20.240. The applicant requested a waiver from this development standard in accordance with State Density Bonus Law to allow for a private street that is 22 feet in width. Approval of this waiver was granted as part of the approval of the proposed development under the Streamlined Housing Development Project review. The waiver also applies to the subdivision map process. The proposed improvements, including the street width, were reviewed by all departments as part of the streamlined housing development review process. Reviewers included, but were not limited too, City of Palo Alto Fire Department, Public Works Engineering, Office of Transportation and the Building Department. The proposed project, with the proposed 22-foot street width, meets all safety requirements, including, but not limited to, fire safety and traffic safety. FISCAL/RESOURCE IMPACT The developer would be required to pay all applicable development impact fees estimated to total $1,093,305 for the subdivision and the proposed improvements, plus the applicable public 2 The Palo Alto Comprehensive Plan is available online: bit.ly/PACompPlan2030 3 The Palo Alto Zoning Code is available online: bit.ly/PAZoningCode Item 4 Staff Report     Packet Pg. 63     Item No. 4. Page 6 of 7 art fees, as documented in Condition of Approval #6 in Attachment B and detailed further in Condition of Approval #15 in the Approval Letter for the Streamlined Housing Development Project Review Approval. STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT The Palo Alto Municipal Code requires notice of this public hearing be published in a local paper and mailed to owners and occupants of property within 600 feet of the subject property at least ten days in advance. Notice of a public hearing for this project was published in the Daily Post on December 1, 2023, which is 13 days in advance of the meeting. Postcard mailing occurred on November 29, 2023. Public Comments As of the writing of this report, no project-related, public comments were received related to the Vesting Tentative Map. Comments received on the proposed Streamlined Housing Review application are outlined in the Architectural Review staff report.4 Key comments from nearby residents included: • Concerns about the placement of the trash enclosure due to noise/smell • Request from one resident to meet directly with the landscape architect to discuss plantings along the rear of the property • Request to resolve the drainage issue on neighboring properties and to remove the soil berm along the rear of the property for drainage and security • Request to extend the 8-foot-high concrete block wall from the Sobrato property along the rear of this property as well Modifications were made based on feedback from the ARB as well as neighboring residents to improve the design and address these comments. The landscape architect made several attempts to connect with the adjacent resident who requested a meeting but did not receive a response. However, modifications to the final landscaping along the rear of the property were made in response to general feedback from adjacent residents in order to provide better screen the trash enclosure. The soil berm is being removed as part of the proposed project and the drainage is designed to ensure that the historic drainage pattern is maintained. ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW The subject project has been assessed in accordance with the authority and criteria contained in the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), the State CEQA Guidelines, and the environmental regulations of the City. Specifically, the proposed Vesting Tentative Map is exempt from CEQA in accordance with CEQA Guidelines Section 15315 and 15332. ALTERNATIVE ACTIONS In addition to the recommended action, the Planning and Transportation Commission may: 4 The October 5, 2023 Architectural Review Board Staff Report for the 420 Acacia project is available online at: https://www.cityofpaloalto.org/files/assets/public/v/1/agendas-minutes-reports/agendas-minutes/architectural- review-board/2023/arb-10.05-420-acacia.pdf Item 4 Staff Report     Packet Pg. 64     Item No. 4. Page 7 of 7 1. Approve the project with modified findings or conditions; 2. Continue the project to a date (un)certain; or 3. Recommend project denial based on revised findings ATTACHMENTS Attachment A: Location Map Attachment B: Draft Record of Land Use Action Attachment C: Vesting Tentative Map and Environmental Analysis AUTHOR/TITLE: Claire Raybould, AICP, Senior Planner Item 4 Staff Report     Packet Pg. 65     199.7' 50.0' 50.0' 119.7' 50.0' 119.7' 50.0' 119.7' 115.7' 119.7' 115.7' 139.5' 50.0' 139.5' 50.0' 139.6' 50.0' 139.6' 50.0' 119.7' 50.0' 119.7' 50.0' 119.7' 50.0' 119.7' 50.0' 119.7' 50.0' 119.7' 50.0' 119.7' 50.0' 119.7' 50.0' 66.9' 200.0' 66.9' 200.0' 5 50.0' 119.7' 119.7' 65.7' 119.7' 65.6' 119.7' 50.0' 119.7' 50.0' 119.7' 50.0' 119.7' 50.0' 119.7' 19.7' 50.0' 50.0' 119.7' 119.7' 50.0' 119.7' 0.0' 119.7' 119.7' 50.0' 119.7' 50.0'50.0' 119.7' 50.0' 119.7' 50.0' 47.9' 200.0' 72.6' 200.0' 72.6' 148.7' 51.0' 200.0' 199.7' 165.4 85.1 34.6 150.0' 50.0' 1 149.7' 149.7' 50.0' 85.1 30.0' 18.0' 190.0' 275.0' '' 119.5' 119.5' 119.5' 119.5' 119.5' 119.5' 119.5' 119.5' 119.5' 119.5' 50.0' 50.0' 50.0' 50.0' 50.0' 50.0' 50.0' 50.0' 50.0' 50.0' 50.0' 50.0' 250.0' 20.0' 20.0' 78.5'78.5' 164.9 199.7 109.85' 458.75' 239.70' 150.05' 129.85' 308.64' 129.85' 102.65' 129.85' 102.56 129.85' 205.99' 129.85' 206.05' 478.7' 109.8' 150.0' 21.8' 109.8' 19.8' 3159 411 435 425 435 3200 455 395 385 375 365 412 420 430 440 450 421 411 2904 456 470 3051 3225 451 441 431 421 411 405 399 34 370 380 461 3017 3001 3127 3111 440 360 429 3101 AC ACIA A V E NU E PORTAGE AVENUE OLIVE AVENUE REET EL CAMINO REALEL CAMINO REAL 1 This map is a product of the City of Palo Alto GIS This document is a graphic representation only of best available sources. Legend Project Site 0'115' Attachment A: Location Map 420 Acacia CITYOF PALO ALTOI N C O R P O R A T E D CAL I F OR N I A P a l o A l t o T h e C i t y o f A P R I L 1 6 1 8 9 4 The City of Palo Alto assumes no responsibility for any errors ©1989 to 2016 City of Palo Alto chodgki, 2023-09-25 10:33:15 (\\cc-maps\Encompass\Admin\Personal\Planning.mdb) R-1 RM-30 CS Item 4 Attachment A-Location Map     Packet Pg. 66     1 ATTACHMENT B ACTION NO. 2024-__ DRAFT RECORD OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PALO ALTO LAND USE ACTION FOR 420 ACACIA Avenue: VESTING TENTATIVE MAP, 23PLN-00059 At its meeting on ______, 2024, the City Council of the City of Palo Alto (“City Council”) approved the Vesting Tentative Map for the development of a one-lot subdivision to create 16 residential condominium units, including a density bonus waiver from street width requirements making the following findings, determinations and declarations: SECTION 1.Background. A. On March 8, 2023, Dividend Homes applied for a Vesting Tentative Map for the development of a one (1) parcel, 16-unit condominium subdivision project, including a density bonus waiver from street width requirements to permit a 22-foot wide private street. (“The Project”). B. The project site is comprised of one existing lot (APN No. 132-38-042) of approximately 35,573 square feet. The site contains an existing paved surface level parking lot. Single family residential uses abut the site to the north. Commercial land uses are located adjacent to the lot to the east and south. A five-story 129-unit affordable housing project has been approved to the west, replacing a surface level parking lot along El Camino Real. C. Following staff review, the Planning and Transportation Commission reviewed the project and recommended approval on December 13, 2023, subject to conditions of approval. D. On _________ the City Council held a duly noticed public hearing, at which evidence was considered and all persons were afforded an opportunity to be heard in accordance with the City Council’s policies and procedures. SECTION 2. Environmental Review. The City, as the lead agency for the Project, has determined that the project is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) in accordance with CEQA Guideline section 15132, which provides an exemption for infill development projects. Documentation to support the exemption is available as part of the public record on file with the Planning and Development Services Division. SECTION 3. Vesting Tentative Map Findings. A legislative body of a city shall deny approval of a Parcel Map, if it makes any of the following findings (California Government Code Section 66474). The City Council cannot make these findings for the following reasons: Item 4 Attachment B- Draft Record of Land Use Action     Packet Pg. 67     2 1.That the proposed map is not consistent with applicable general and specific plans as specified in Section 65451: The site is consistent with the Comprehensive Plan as described below. 2.That the design or improvement of the proposed subdivision is not consistent with applicable general and specific plans: There is no adopted specific plan for this project site. The proposed vesting tentative map and related improvements is consistent with the Comprehensive Plan in that it facilitates housing development on a site designated for multi-family use and in a transit-oriented location within the urban services area, consistent with Goal 2 of the Housing Element and Goal L1.2 of the Land Use Element. The proposed density (20 DU/AC) is consistent with the allowable density (16 to 30 DU/AC) in the multi-family land use designation as outlined in the Land Use Element. The project replaces paved surface level parking with housing in a transit-oriented area and improves the city’s jobs housing imbalance consistent with the Transportation Element’s goals and policies to reduce vehicle miles traveled. 3. That the site is not physically suitable for the type of development: The Project site is suitable for multi-family residential development in that it’s located within the multi-family zone district on a site designated on the City’s Land Use Map for multi-family use. The existing parcel meets the minimum code requirements for the RM-30 zone district with respect to lot area, width and depth. The parcel would not change with approval of this condominium subdivision. The proposed number of condominium units complies with the applicable densities set forth in the land use element and zone district. 4.That the site is not physically suitable for the proposed density of development: The project would create a total of sixteen multi-family residential units which is 20 dwelling units (DU) per acre. This density complies with the maximum allowable residential density as calculated for the total site area (30 DU/acre = 24 DU). Building, Palo Alto Fire Department, Planning, Transportation, and Public Works Engineering have reviewed the requested density bonus waiver to permit a 22-foot street width to ensure that all necessary requirements for safety, including but not limited to, fire safety and traffic safety (e.g. curb cut location, back-up space, turning radius, etc.) have been met. 5.That the design of the subdivision or the proposed improvements are likely to cause substantial environmental damage or substantially and avoidably injure fish or wildlife or their habitat: The project is located within the built environment that does not contain quality habitat for fish or other wildlife on the site or within the vicinity of the site. The nearest stream is approximately 700 feet south east from the project site. The adopted Palo Alto 2030 Item 4 Attachment B- Draft Record of Land Use Action     Packet Pg. 68     3 Comprehensive Plan includes Map N-1, which identified sensitive animal and plant species within the Palo Alto quadrangle, a large geographic area that includes the urban portions along the bay and within the foothills, based on information in the California natural Diversity Database (CNDDB). Based on this map, and the urban nature of the site, the subject property does not contain any habitat for endangered, rare, or threatened species and has not historically supported any of these species. 6.That the design of the subdivision or type of improvements is likely to cause serious public health problems: The subdivision of this parcel and associated improvements would not have the potential to result in serious health problems. The proposed multi-family use would not include use or storage of hazardous materials and the use is located within the urban environment adjacent to other residential uses. The site is not located on a hazardous waste site pursuant to government code 65962.5. 7.That the design of the subdivision or the type of improvements will conflict with easements, acquired by the public at large, for access through or use of, property within the proposed subdivision. In this connection, the governing body may approve a map if it finds that alternate easements, for access or for use, will be provided, and that these will be substantially equivalent to ones previously acquired by the public. This subsection shall apply only to easements of record or to easements established by judgment of a court of competent jurisdiction and no authority is hereby granted to a legislative body to determine that the public at large has acquired easements for access through or use of property within the proposed subdivision. There are no public access easements over the property currently. Therefore, the design of the subdivision will not conflict with any public easements for access through, or use of, the property. An existing shared private access easement with the neighboring property to the east is maintained. New public utility easements will be provided to existing and proposed electrical utilities as part of this subdivision map as required in accordance with City of Palo Alto Utilities standards. SECTION 4. Vesting Tentative Map Approval Granted. Vesting Tentative Map Approval is filed and processed in accordance to PAMC Section 21.13.020 and granted by the City Council under PAMC Sections 21.12 and 21.20 and the California Government Code Section 66474, subject to the conditions of approval in Section 6 of this Record of Land Use Action. SECTION 5. Final Map. The Final Map submitted for review and approval by the City Council shall be in substantial conformance with the Vesting Tentative Map prepared by BKF Engineers titled “Vesting Tentative Map Acacia Avenue at El Camino Real For Condominium Purposes City of Palo Alto, California,” consisting of seven (7) pages, stamped as received November 16, 2023, except as modified to incorporate the conditions of approval in Section 6. A copy of the Vesting Item 4 Attachment B- Draft Record of Land Use Action     Packet Pg. 69     4 Tentative Map is on file in the Department of Planning and Development Services, Current Planning Division. Prior to the expiration of the Vesting Tentative Map approval, the subdivider shall cause the subdivision or any part thereof to be surveyed, and a Final Map, as specified in Chapter 21.08, to be prepared in conformance with the Vesting Tentative Map as conditionally approved, and in compliance with the provisions of the Subdivision Map Act and PAMC Title 21 and submitted to the City Engineer (PAMC Section 21.16.010[a]). SECTION 6. Conditions of Approval. Planning 1.PROJECT PLANS. The Vesting Tentative Map submitted for review and approval by the City Council shall be in substantial conformance with the Vesting Tentative Map titled “Vesting Tentative Map Acacia Avenue at El Camino Real for Condominium Purposes, City of Palo Alto, California”, prepared by BKF Engineers and submitted November 16, 2023, except as modified to incorporate the conditions of this approval. 2. FINAL MAP COVER PAGE. At such time as the Final Map is filed, the cover page shall include the name and title of the Director of Planning and Development Services. 3. STANDARD CC&R REQUIREMENTS. Section 16.38 of Palo Alto’s Municipal Code provides that all condominium and other “community housing projects” shall submit Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions (CC&R’s) to the City Attorney for approval before issuance of the Final Map. The City Attorney has developed the following standard covenants which shall be included in all CC&R’s. a. PROPERTY SHALL COMPLY WITH CITY ZONING ORDINANCES. The property, including all common areas, private streets and, parks within the property, shall at all times comply with the City’s Zoning Code and shall not be used for any purpose other than as permitted in the City Zoning Code. b. MODIFICATIONS TO PROPERTY. Any alterations, modifications, or other improvements to the property shall comply with all applicable City Codes. c. MAINTENANACE AND LANDSCAPING OF COMMON AREAS. The Association is responsible for maintenance and landscaping of all parts of the community housing project which are held in common and such maintenance shall be performed to the standard of maintenance prevalent in the neighborhood. (See PAMC Section 16.38.030(a)). d. TERMINATION OF MANAGER OR MAINTENANCE CONTRACTS. The association may terminate the contract of any person or organization engaged by the developer to perform management or maintenance duties three months after the association Item 4 Attachment B- Draft Record of Land Use Action     Packet Pg. 70     5 assumes control of the community housing project or any time thereafter. (See PAMC Section 16.38.030(b).) e. PROTECTION OF STORM WATER FACILITIES. Neither the association, its residents, nor their agents, employees, representatives, invitees, licensees, customers, or contractors shall alter or modify any storm water facilities in any way including but not limited to placing, maintaining, constructing, or planting any improvements, landscaping or other items, including without limitation decks, stairs, walls, irrigation systems, trees, or any vegetation on any storm water facilities. f. TRASH DISPOSAL AND RECYCLING AREAS SHALL COMPLY WITH CITY ORDINANCES. All trash disposal and recycling areas shall be kept in a clean and sanitary condition and shall comply with all applicable City Ordinances. g. PROHIBITION AGAINST AIR AND WATER POLLUTION. Neither the association, its residents, nor their agents, employees, representatives, invitees, licensees, customers, or contractors shall use the property in any way which emits pollution into the atmosphere in excess of environmental standards set forth by City, State, and Federal laws, ordinances, and regulations. Neither the association, its residents, nor their agents, employees, representatives, invitees, licensees, customers, or contractors shall discharge garbage, trash, waste, or any other substance or materials of any kind into any private or public sewer or waterway on the property in violation of any regulations of any private or public body having jurisdiction over such matters. h. AMENDMENTS TO ORGANIZATION DOCUMENTS REQUIRE CITY APPROVAL. Any amendments or modifications to the organizational documents shall be submitted to the city attorney for approval. No amendment or modification to the organizational documents shall be effective without prior written consent of the city attorney. i. CITY’S RIGHT TO ENFORCE COVENANTS AND RESTRICTIONS. The City is hereby granted the right, but in no event the duty, to enforce the covenants and restrictions set forth in this section of the organizational documents. The association shall recognize that it has the primary responsibility for enforcement of the organizational documents and unequivocally guarantees to institute and expeditiously prosecute any required legal action to obtain compliance with all provisions set forth in the organizational documents. j. NO WAIVER OF CITY’S RIGHTS. No failure of the City to enforce any of the covenants or restrictions contained in the organizational documents will in any event render them ineffective. Item 4 Attachment B- Draft Record of Land Use Action     Packet Pg. 71     6 k. CITY’S REMEDIES TO CURE A BREACH OR VIOLATION. Remedies available to the City to cure any breach or violation of the organizational documents shall be cumulative to any other provisions of law. The City’s failure to exercise any remedy provided for in the organizational documents shall not, under any circumstances, be construed as a waiver of the remedy. l. SEVERABILITY. Invalidation of any one of the City’s required covenants or restrictions by judgment or court order shall in no way affect any other provisions which shall remain in full force and effect. 4. ADDITIONAL CC&R REQUIREMENT. The CC&Rs shall also include a provision that dictates the responsibilities of tenants and maintenance staff for the trash pickup for the townhomes as shown in the approved plan set. 5. FINAL MAP EXPIRATION. A Final Map, in conformance with the approved Vesting Tentative Map, all requirements of the Subdivision Ordinance (PAMC Section 21.16), and to the satisfaction of the City of Palo Alto and its representatives, shall be filed with the Planning Division and the Public Works Engineering Division within two years of the Vesting Tentative Map approval date or this approval will expire. A one-year extension may be granted in accordance with the allowances set forth in the municipal code. 6. DEVELOPMENT IMPACT FEES. The Property Owner or their designee shall pay all applicable development impact fees associated with the proposed development and subdivision prior to issuance of the building permit(s), as detailed in the Streamlined Housing Development Review Approval. 7. INDEMNITY. To the extent permitted by law, the Applicant shall indemnify and hold harmless the City, its City Council, its officers, employees and agents (the “indemnified parties”) from and against any claim, action, or proceeding brought by a third party against the indemnified parties and the applicant to attack, set aside or void, any permit or approval authorized hereby for the Project, including (without limitation) reimbursing the City for its actual attorneys’ fees and costs incurred in defense of the litigation. The City may, in its sole discretion, elect to defend any such action with attorneys of its own choice. Public Works Engineering 8. PUBLIC WORKS APPLICATIONS, FORMS, AND DOCUMENTS. Applicant shall be advised that most forms, applications, and informational documents related to Public Works Engineering conditions can be found at the following link: https://www.cityofpaloalto.org/Departments/Public-Works/Engineering- Services/Forms-and-Permits 9. MAP THIRD-PARTY REVIEW. The City contracts with a third-party surveyor that will review and provide approval of the map’s technical correctness as the City Surveyor, as Item 4 Attachment B- Draft Record of Land Use Action     Packet Pg. 72     7 permitted by the Subdivision Map Act. The Public Works Department will forward a Scope & Fee Letter from the third-party surveyor and the applicant will be responsible for payment of the fee’s indicated therein, which is based on the complexity of the map. 10. STREETWORK PERMIT. The applicant shall obtain a Streetwork Permit from the Department of Public Works for all public improvements. 11. GRADING AND EXCAVATION PERMIT. A Grading Permit is required per PAMC Chapter 16.28. The permit application and all applicable documents (see Section H of application) shall be submitted to Public Works Engineering. Add the following note: “THIS GRADING PERMIT WILL ONLY AUTHORIZE GENERAL GRADING AND INSTALLATION OF THE STORM DRAIN SYSTEM. OTHER BUILDING AND UTILITY IMPROVEMENTS ARE SHOWN FOR REFERENCE INFORMATION ONLY AND ARE SUBJECT TO SEPARATE BUILDING PERMIT APPROVAL.” 12. ENCROACHMENT PERMIT. Prior to any work in the public right-of-way, the applicant shall obtain an encroachment permit from the Public Works Department for any work that encroaches onto the City right-of-way. 13. STORMWATER POLLUTION PREVENTION. All improvement plan sets shall include the “Pollution Prevention – It’s Part of the Plan” sheet. 14. C.3 THIRD-PARTY CERTIFICATION. Applicant shall provide certification from a qualified third-party reviewer that the proposed permanent storm water pollution prevention measures comply with the requirements of Provision C.3 and Palo Alto Municipal Code Chapter 16.11. 15. Submit the following: a. Stamped and signed C.3 data form (April 2023 version) from SCVURPPP. https://scvurppp.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/SCVURPPP-C.3-Data-Form-_- updated__4-12-2023_clean_fillable.pdf b. Final stamped and signed letter confirming which documents were reviewed and that the project complies with Provision C.3 and PAMC 16.11. 16. C.3 STORMWATER AGREEMENT. The applicant shall enter into a Stormwater Maintenance Agreement with the City to guarantee the ongoing maintenance of the permanent storm water pollution prevention measures. The City will inspect the treatment measures yearly and charge an inspection fee. The agreement shall be executed by the applicant team prior to building permit final. 17. C.3 FINAL THIRD-PARTY CERTIFICATION PRIOR TO OCCUPANCY. Within 45 days of the installation of the required storm water treatment measures and prior to the issuance Item 4 Attachment B- Draft Record of Land Use Action     Packet Pg. 73     8 of an occupancy permit for the building, the third-party reviewer shall submit to the City a certification verifying that all the Utilities Electric Engineering 18. Overhead lines along the project frontage on Acacia shall be undergrounded as shown in the approved plans. 19. Public Utility Easements to proposed transformers, as shown on the Vesting Tentative Map and in conformance with city of Palo Alto standards, shall be dedicated to the City prior to final occupancy. Waste-gas-water Engineering 20. METER LAYOUT. Domestic water meter layout: The applicant needs to provide an estimated domestic water load in G.P.M. to design the water service and meter size. A 3" or 4” water meter will require a 4'x8' water meter set with a 2" by-pass per DWG. NO. WD-04. The vault shall be located on private property inside a public utility easement. The applicant's engineer shall obtain, prepare, and record with the county of Santa Clara, and provide the utility engineering section with copies of the public utilities easement on the front of the property adjacent to the City right of way at the water point of service if a 3” or 4” water meter is provided. SECTION 7. Term of Approval. Vesting Tentative Map. All conditions of approval of the Vesting Tentative Map shall be fulfilled prior to approval of a Final Map (PAMC Section 21.16.010[c]). Unless a Final Map is filed, and all conditions of approval are fulfilled within a two-year period from the date of Vesting Tentative Map approval, the Vesting Tentative Map shall expire and all proceedings shall terminate. An extension of time may be granted by the city council after recommendation of the planning commission, upon the written application of the subdivider, prior to the expiration of the Vesting Tentative Map approval, or any previous extension granted. Such extension(s) shall be subject to the maximum limitations set forth in the Subdivision Map Act. PASSED: AYES: NOES: ABSENT: ABSTENTIONS: Item 4 Attachment B- Draft Record of Land Use Action     Packet Pg. 74     9 ATTEST: APPROVED: _________________________ ____________________________ City Clerk Mayor APPROVED AS TO FORM: ___________________________ Deputy City Attorney PLANS AND DRAWINGS REFERENCED: Those plans prepared by BKF Engineers titled “Vesting Tentative Map Acacia Avenue at El Camino Real for Condominium Purposes, City of Palo Alto, California,” consisting of seven pages, dated November 8, 2023 and submitted November 16, 2023. Item 4 Attachment B- Draft Record of Land Use Action     Packet Pg. 75     Attachment C Project Plans Project plans are only available to the public online. Hardcopies of the plans have been provided to Board members. Environmental Document The City, acting as the lead agency, prepared documentation to support a Class 32 (infill development) categorical exemption for the proposed project. Directions to review Project plans online: 1. Go to: bit.ly/PApendingprojects 2. Scroll down to find “420 Acacia Avenue” and click the address link 3. On this project specific webpage you will find a link to the project plans, the documented exemption and other important information Direct Link to Project Webpage: https://www.cityofpaloalto.org/Departments/Planning-Development-Services/Current- Planning/Projects/420-Acacia-Avenue Item 4 Attachment C - Project Plans & Environmental Documents     Packet Pg. 76