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>> As soon as folks are done filling out the cards,

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then we will begin and call everything to order.

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>> All right, good evening.

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It is Tuesday September 8th 28 2026 --

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Tuesday September 8th.

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I will now call this meeting to order.

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If you are able, please stand for the Pledge of Allegiance.

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I pledge allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America,

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and to the Republic for which it stands, one Nation under God,

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indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.

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>> Thank you comment staff.

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Will you please call the roll.

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>>

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[Roll call]

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>> Thank all.

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>> Chair, just for the record, alternate Commissioner Bell will

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be serving as a regular commissioner this evening as we

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have two absences.

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>> Thank you.

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I shall now read the civility statement

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because you're appointed governing

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board we will treat each other and the public with patience,

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civility and courtesy as a model of the same behavior we wish

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to reflect in the Martinez for the conduct of all city

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business and community participation.

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This includes respect for everyone's First Amendment

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rights to voice their opinions on matters within the city

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subject matter jurisdiction, even if that opinion is

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different from our own.

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The decisions made tonight will be

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for the benefit of the Martinez community.

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And not for personal gain.

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Or first item is for items that are not listed on the agenda

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this evening.

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And just to clarify, these are items

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that are within the subject matter

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jurisdiction of the commission, but are not on tonight's agenda

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up here there will be opportunity

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to comment on items on the agenda for tonight

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later this evening.

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Does anyone have comments for items not on tonight's agenda?

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No one online, I assume?

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>> There are no hands raised.

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>> Okay.

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Thank you.

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We will close that public comment.

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Our first item is going to be a presentation from the Bay area

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sun shares program.

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>> All right good evening planning Commission and members

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of the public.

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I am Carrie Rivers, a management analyst in the city's community

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and economic Development Department

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supporting sustainability programing.

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I will be providing a presentation,

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a brief presentation on the Bay Area SunShares Program.

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To start with some background, Bay area sun shares

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is a solar and battery storage discount program

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of nonprofit act now Bay area.

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It is an opportunity for a residential property owners,

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in all nine Bay area counties, to sign up during an enrollment

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period from September 1st through November 15th.

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The SunShares has led to in ten years almost eight megawatts

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of solar installed and over 500 battery storage units installed.

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With SunShares the selected partner installers

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go through an RFP and vetting process

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with an evaluation committee.

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The program then negotiates discounts on quality,

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solar, and storage offerings from the selective installers

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and prices are turnkey so they reflect

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the whole cost of getting solar and battery

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storage from equipment to labor, permitting and installation,

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and warranties.

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SunShares provides a no obligation proposal

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to residential homeowners so they can receive the proposal,

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decide if they want to move forward with it,

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but are not obligated to do so.

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To sign the contract.

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There are a few different options.

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For the program, people can choose

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to install solar only, battery storage

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only, a combination of both, or if they

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have an existing solar system in place,

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they can choose to add battery storage

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to it, or additional solar.

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Two participate, there is a form on the Bay area SunShares

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website.

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People must sign up from September 1st through November

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15th in the enrollment period they can decide which

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of the Pre-vetted installers they are interested in getting

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a proposal from.

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Then they will receive -- they will be contacted

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by the installer.

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They will get an evaluation of the needs for their site,

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and they receive that no obligation proposal that

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includes the product offerings and pricing.

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Then participants would review the proposals

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and decide whether or not they want

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to move forward with signing a contract with the installer.

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And the deadline for that is a month after the enrollment

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period ends on December 15th.

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>> The fall 2026 installers are listed on this slide.

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While the program is available to Martinez residents,

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and throughout the Bay area, the city

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does not specifically endorse the contractors

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that have been selected for the Bay Area SunShares Program.

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Anyone who chooses to participate

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is doing so at their own risk.

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For anyone that is interested in getting more information

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about the program, they can attend

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one of three upcoming webinars offered by Bay area SunShares.

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The city has also saved the webinars

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on the city event calendar.

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But there is one next week in October and again in November.

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Opportunities to have a Q and A, and learn more about what

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the process looks like.

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That is it.

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To find out more information, you

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can go to Bay area SunShares dot org.

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Find the FAQ pages.

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And you can sign up in the enrollment period from now

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through November 15th.

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For specific questions you can contact the Bay Area SunShares

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program manager.

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>> Thank you very much.

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I appreciate you coming out and giving us the presentation.

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Especially in the light of economic factors

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and the rising cost of energy.

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It is very important for all of us

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to consider the different options that

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may be available to us.

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Particularly when it comes to solar.

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Does anyone on the commission have any questions?

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Thank you very much.

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We are going to proceed a little bit out of order.

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We had one more but we are going to move that

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to the end of the meeting.

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I don't believe we have any consent item

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calendars this week.

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Otherwise come out we will move forward

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to the first regular agenda item this evening.

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That first item is to conduct the public hearing

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and adopt Planning Commission resolution number 26 dash ten,

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approving a request for a design review.

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The minor exception and a tree permit to construct a new 3712

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square foot single family dwelling to increase the maximum

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permitted height to 29ft where 25ft is permitted,

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and to remove two protected trees located on a vacant

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and unaddressed parcel on Saint Mary's Street in the residential

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R-6 Zoning District.

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Assessor's parcel number (370) 110-0392.

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Subject to conditions of approval

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and I believe staff have a briefing for us.

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Thank you.

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>> Chair Evans, prior to starting the presentation,

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given that we have a high volume number of the public present

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this evening, I thought it would be helpful to quickly walk

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through how each item is going to work.

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For this first item, staff, the project planner

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assigned to the project will provide a presentation.

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After their presentation, the applicant

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will have an opportunity to present the project to.

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And the applicant includes the applicant property owner,

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and any professionals hired for the project.

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Upon the completion of that presentation,

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the public comment period will be opened.

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Each member of the public who wishes to speak on this item

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will have up to three minutes to speak.

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At the end of public comment, the applicant team

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will then have up to five minutes

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to respond to any comments they have heard, at which point

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the Planning Commission will then

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close the public portion of the meeting,

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deliberate, and make a determination for the project.

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For all members of the public and applicant teams

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who wish to speak you will be using the podium

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in the middle of the chamber.

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>> Thank you very much for that.

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A couple of items to add.

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For those of us on the commission,

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keep in mind as we are working through our own process

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and where we are going to land on these things,

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if you have additional questions for the applicant,

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or their consultants when they come back up,

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we will have to reopen public comment after they speak.

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Keep that in mind.

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Also, for the public, again we thank you

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all for coming out here.

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There is a lot of comment on the items on the agenda

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this evening.

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Hence the limit to three minutes.

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We want to make sure that everyone gets an opportunity

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to speak please be cognizant of your neighbors and your time.

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I know it is a lot to get through.

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I know a lot of you care deeply about what

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we are discussing tonight.

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Let's try to keep it under three minutes so all of us

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get a chance to speak.

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Thank you.

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>> Thank you Joseph Evans and hello everyone planning

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Commission and members of the public.

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I am the assistant planner here and I will give a presentation

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on Saint Mary's Street for design review

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and minor exception for single family dwelling.

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A little bit about the subject site.

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It is zoned R 6.0 which is the Single Family Zoning district.

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The general Plan designation is residential low with a lot size

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of 16,244ft².

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The existing use is a vacant lot surrounded

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by other vacant lots and some single family residential homes.

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Saint Mary's Street has had a significant

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historical and geologic, and sloped stability

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concerns in the past.

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June 24th, 1955 the city approved track map 2226

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subdividing the area near the subject site.

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Shortly after the subdivision -- the street suffered significant

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failure due to poor construction and it was reconstructed from

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the city in 1955.

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In 1978, the City Council adopted resolution 61-78 which

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prohibited building permits on those lots and their existing

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condition and required reconstruction work

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and acceptable soils and geologic reports before

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development could proceed.

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In 2008, the City Council adopted a resolution 00508.

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For some of the lots including the subject site,

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allowing building permits to be issued after competing --

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completing soils and geologic reports that had been submitted

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and accepted through the city's peer review process.

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Since my time being here, we have had many inquiries

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on a handful of these empty lots.

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And this is the first project that

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has reviewed the previous conditions of both

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of those resolutions.

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And submitted a complete application

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for this development.

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A little bit about the project.

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They are going to construct -- they're proposing to construct

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a 3712 single family dwelling unit.

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They are increasing to -- requesting to increase

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the maximum permitted height to 29ft where 25ft is permitted.

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And requesting to remove two protected oak trees.

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Here's the proposed front elevation.

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This would be the elevation facing when

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you are on Saint Mary's Street.

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Here you have the proposed rear elevation.

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And then here you have the proposed side elevation.

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I wanted to indicate where the proposed roof

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ridgeline would be.

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That is marked in red.

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Then you have the maximum 25ft height limit indicated in blue.

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I just wanted to highlight that there.

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The same on this elevation where red is the proposed roof

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ridgeline, and 25 is where the maximum height is.

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That is why they are requesting the minor exception for 29ft.

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Here are proposed renderings that

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were sent from the applicant.

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Here are the renderings from the Hillside.

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I wanted to point out that this lot is on a slope

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as you can see, that is the approximate location

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of the site.

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As you can see on the left image,

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you have the dwelling units down below by Canyon Way.

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And then on the image on the right

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is where the approximate location of the lot is as well.

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Here, since it is on a Hillside, staff

265
00:17:59,235 --> 00:18:02,497
is required to make the design review findings.

266
00:18:02,497 --> 00:18:06,134
Those are the design review findings here, and can be found

267
00:18:06,134 --> 00:18:07,977
in the resolution as well.

268
00:18:07,977 --> 00:18:12,761
To summarize that, the proposed single family dwelling unit

269
00:18:12,761 --> 00:18:15,141
incorporates a contemporary architectural style

270
00:18:15,141 --> 00:18:18,121
with a design that steps down into the Hillside reducing

271
00:18:18,121 --> 00:18:21,410
the massing while maintaining the natural slope

272
00:18:21,410 --> 00:18:23,441
of the existing lot.

273
00:18:24,305 --> 00:18:27,305
In addition, minor exception findings

274
00:18:27,753 --> 00:18:31,170
are required to be found for the height and the project complies

275
00:18:31,170 --> 00:18:35,701
with all of the applicable zoning regulations in the R 6.0

276
00:18:35,701 --> 00:18:38,209
Zoning District and is consistent with the intent

277
00:18:38,209 --> 00:18:39,381
of the zoning district.

278
00:18:39,381 --> 00:18:41,100
The majority of the dwelling unit

279
00:18:41,100 --> 00:18:44,641
remains below the applicable height unit and the proposed

280
00:18:44,641 --> 00:18:46,371
height design and massing are appropriate

281
00:18:46,371 --> 00:18:52,971
to the steep Hillside and the conditions of the subject site.

282
00:18:53,721 --> 00:18:56,481
We have received for public comments

283
00:18:56,481 --> 00:18:58,761
with concerns for the project.

284
00:18:58,761 --> 00:19:01,641
The concerns are related to size, height,

285
00:19:01,641 --> 00:19:05,481
potential visual impact on the surrounding neighborhood.

286
00:19:05,481 --> 00:19:09,351
Oppositions to remove the protected oak trees.

287
00:19:09,351 --> 00:19:12,951
Concerns regarding the landslides, soil stability,

288
00:19:12,961 --> 00:19:17,810
and the development on the steep Hillside,

289
00:19:17,810 --> 00:19:20,681
including concerns with storm water runoff.

290
00:19:21,261 --> 00:19:23,661
Concerns about construction equipment.

291
00:19:24,401 --> 00:19:27,751
Materials and debris, and the impact to neighbors.

292
00:19:27,751 --> 00:19:30,751
Concerns about reviewing the project

293
00:19:31,921 --> 00:19:34,710
and the environmental conditions.

294
00:19:34,710 --> 00:19:36,711
The concerns that residents did not

295
00:19:36,711 --> 00:19:38,781
receive sufficient notice or adequate time

296
00:19:38,781 --> 00:19:40,881
to review the project as well.

297
00:19:40,881 --> 00:19:45,681
Those were all incorporated in the public comment

298
00:19:46,761 --> 00:19:47,594
that was emailed to.

299
00:19:47,594 --> 00:19:50,520
I believe public commission has already seen and read those

300
00:19:50,520 --> 00:19:50,945
as well.

301
00:19:50,945 --> 00:19:56,945
To respond to the comments, the proposed single family dwelling

302
00:19:57,100 --> 00:19:59,931
unit includes a step down design to reduce the massing

303
00:19:59,931 --> 00:20:02,801
while maintaining the natural slope of the lot it does comply

304
00:20:02,801 --> 00:20:05,310
with all applicable development standards,

305
00:20:05,310 --> 00:20:07,721
except for the minor exception in height.

306
00:20:07,721 --> 00:20:11,711
This lot has been zoned for single family dwelling

307
00:20:11,711 --> 00:20:14,985
units and development for many decades,

308
00:20:14,985 --> 00:20:19,785
as indicated in the previous resolutions in 1955 and 2005.

309
00:20:21,609 --> 00:20:28,209
The arbors report that is also attached and has been prepared,

310
00:20:28,305 --> 00:20:30,814
there is a minimal amount of trees being removed.

311
00:20:30,814 --> 00:20:33,231
Only what is necessary for the development of the project.

312
00:20:33,231 --> 00:20:36,517
There is a condition of approval for the replacement of trees,

313
00:20:36,517 --> 00:20:41,113
or in lieu payment consistent with the city standards.

314
00:20:41,113 --> 00:20:45,449
The city engineer and a third party peer reviewer

315
00:20:45,449 --> 00:20:48,121
has reviewed the geotechnical reports

316
00:20:48,121 --> 00:20:52,180
and will satisfied all geotechnical health and safety

317
00:20:52,180 --> 00:20:54,460
requirements for the soil stability.

318
00:20:54,460 --> 00:20:57,431
Some modifications required are included as conditions

319
00:20:57,431 --> 00:20:59,831
of approval as well.

320
00:20:59,936 --> 00:21:03,801
Applicants have also submitted a stormwater control plan

321
00:21:03,801 --> 00:21:05,681
that has been reviewed by the City Engineer

322
00:21:05,681 --> 00:21:08,321
and shall receive approval by the City Engineer

323
00:21:08,321 --> 00:21:10,321
prior to construction.

324
00:21:10,481 --> 00:21:13,120
Which requires no drainage off site to.

325
00:21:13,120 --> 00:21:16,720
Condition of approval number 18 includes conditions

326
00:21:17,401 --> 00:21:19,401
for construction activities.

327
00:21:19,681 --> 00:21:23,267
The proposed project must follow standard city guidelines

328
00:21:23,267 --> 00:21:24,761
and practices.

329
00:21:24,761 --> 00:21:30,161
Public notices have, and are sent ten days prior

330
00:21:30,481 --> 00:21:34,371
to the meeting consistent with state law as well.

331
00:21:34,371 --> 00:21:39,771
Categorical exemptions under CEQA may apply to the project

332
00:21:40,852 --> 00:21:45,841
so a full Environmental impact report is not required.

333
00:21:45,841 --> 00:21:49,691
With that being said, there are additional conditions

334
00:21:49,691 --> 00:21:50,747
of approval.

335
00:21:50,747 --> 00:21:55,547
One is to include a hold harmless agreement.

336
00:21:55,571 --> 00:21:59,551
The applicant shall enter into a hold harmless agreement

337
00:21:59,551 --> 00:22:05,551
with the city consistent with condition of approval number C

338
00:22:05,641 --> 00:22:06,185
12.

339
00:22:06,185 --> 00:22:09,785
The approval with prior resolution 61-78.

340
00:22:09,881 --> 00:22:12,106
Hold harness agreement shall be reviewed

341
00:22:12,106 --> 00:22:13,689
by the city Engineer and City Attorney

342
00:22:13,689 --> 00:22:17,117
and must be executed prior to issuance of a building permit

343
00:22:17,117 --> 00:22:19,961
and or site development permit.

344
00:22:19,961 --> 00:22:23,810
The second additional condition of approval

345
00:22:23,810 --> 00:22:25,321
will be the geotechnical report revisions.

346
00:22:25,321 --> 00:22:29,641
The applicant shall incorporate all requested edits provided

347
00:22:29,641 --> 00:22:34,353
by BSK associates in their letter dated August 21st 2026,

348
00:22:34,353 --> 00:22:36,391
in response to geotechnical report provided

349
00:22:36,391 --> 00:22:37,396
by the applicant.

350
00:22:37,396 --> 00:22:40,205
Subject to approval by the City engineer,

351
00:22:40,205 --> 00:22:43,481
or designee, prior to issuance of a building permit

352
00:22:43,481 --> 00:22:47,110
and or a site development permit.

353
00:22:47,110 --> 00:22:50,985
With that being said, my recommendation is to conduct

354
00:22:50,985 --> 00:22:54,321
a public hearing and adopt planning Commission Resolution

355
00:22:54,321 --> 00:22:57,793
number 26-ten, approving a request for design review,

356
00:22:57,793 --> 00:23:02,211
a minor exception, and a tree permit to construct a new 3712

357
00:23:02,211 --> 00:23:05,225
square foot single family dwelling unit,

358
00:23:05,225 --> 00:23:08,601
to increase the maximum permitted height to 29ft,

359
00:23:08,601 --> 00:23:12,641
where 25ft is permitted, and to remove two protected trees

360
00:23:12,641 --> 00:23:15,721
located on a vacant and unaddressed parcel on Saint

361
00:23:15,721 --> 00:23:19,921
Mary's Street in the residential 6.0 Zoning District.

362
00:23:21,561 --> 00:23:25,761
With that, I can answer any questions.

363
00:23:27,556 --> 00:23:29,181
>> Thank you very much for that report.

364
00:23:29,181 --> 00:23:31,781
Definitely gives us additional context for the briefing

365
00:23:31,781 --> 00:23:33,170
that we received previously.

366
00:23:33,170 --> 00:23:35,889
And it gives us some context for your findings.

367
00:23:35,889 --> 00:23:38,881
I also want to mention to the Commission

368
00:23:38,881 --> 00:23:44,481
that we keep in mind to tailor your questions to the findings.

369
00:23:44,481 --> 00:23:47,201
That is what we are voting on this evening.

370
00:23:47,201 --> 00:23:49,607
The findings provided to us by staff.

371
00:23:49,607 --> 00:23:53,121
A couple of things that just jump out

372
00:23:53,121 --> 00:23:56,504
at me, based upon my background, that I wanted to briefly go over

373
00:23:56,504 --> 00:23:57,560
with you.

374
00:23:57,560 --> 00:24:00,656
You did mention the slope requirement.

375
00:24:01,430 --> 00:24:04,297
Looking at the slope, it is El Nino year.

376
00:24:04,297 --> 00:24:10,897
If you could just briefly mention what some of the swipe

377
00:24:12,401 --> 00:24:15,581
BMPs that might address the site in itself

378
00:24:15,581 --> 00:24:20,981
and that may put some folks minds at ease.

379
00:24:21,318 --> 00:24:22,443
>> That is a good question.

380
00:24:22,443 --> 00:24:23,771
They did work with the city engineer

381
00:24:23,771 --> 00:24:25,185
and sent that information over.

382
00:24:25,185 --> 00:24:28,134
I would like the applicant to answer that question when

383
00:24:28,134 --> 00:24:30,321
it is their turn to speak.

384
00:24:30,321 --> 00:24:31,410
>> All right.

385
00:24:31,410 --> 00:24:33,210
I will hold that question for them.

386
00:24:33,210 --> 00:24:36,926
And I think most of my questions for modifications come fire,

387
00:24:36,926 --> 00:24:39,753
and things like that I will hold for the applicant.

388
00:24:39,753 --> 00:24:42,153
Does anyone have any?

389
00:24:44,801 --> 00:24:48,201
>> Is part of the construction safety standards by Martinez

390
00:24:48,201 --> 00:24:52,401
including an erosion control plan during construction.

391
00:24:53,100 --> 00:24:56,361
>> There is a condition of approval for erosion control

392
00:24:56,361 --> 00:24:58,350
measures -- measurements.

393
00:24:58,350 --> 00:25:04,350
I think that will be determined by the city engineer >>

394
00:25:05,184 --> 00:25:07,601
That is also usually addressed during the site development

395
00:25:07,601 --> 00:25:11,214
permit, which is usually the grading permit.

396
00:25:11,214 --> 00:25:13,214
>> Thank you.

397
00:25:17,185 --> 00:25:21,985
>> Can you explain requires no drainage off site.

398
00:25:23,810 --> 00:25:25,977
>> That is typically a requirement in most

399
00:25:25,977 --> 00:25:28,421
of the conditions of approval.

400
00:25:28,421 --> 00:25:30,881
Any storm water runoff should not

401
00:25:30,881 --> 00:25:34,140
be drained into a neighboring property.

402
00:25:34,140 --> 00:25:36,991
So since they are on the downslope,

403
00:25:36,991 --> 00:25:40,181
the requirement would be to not have any of that stormwater

404
00:25:40,181 --> 00:25:44,981
runoff into the property below the project site.

405
00:25:47,100 --> 00:25:51,361
>> It is going to go to the city system?

406
00:25:51,361 --> 00:25:53,201
>> Correct.

407
00:25:53,201 --> 00:25:55,201
>> Thank you.

408
00:25:59,296 --> 00:26:01,521
>> What would an acceptable In-lieu tree replacement

409
00:26:01,521 --> 00:26:03,521
include?

410
00:26:06,521 --> 00:26:11,147
>> The in lieu fee payment is included in our city user fee

411
00:26:11,147 --> 00:26:11,647
schedule.

412
00:26:11,647 --> 00:26:13,821
I don't have it up right now.

413
00:26:13,821 --> 00:26:18,576
Typically, if -- they have the two options of paying that

414
00:26:18,576 --> 00:26:19,760
payment.

415
00:26:19,760 --> 00:26:21,147
It is on our website and online.

416
00:26:21,147 --> 00:26:23,681
Or they could replace those trees

417
00:26:23,681 --> 00:26:27,942
and put two other trees on site in a different area.

418
00:26:27,942 --> 00:26:30,525
>> Two other trees of similar species come a different species

419
00:26:30,525 --> 00:26:33,353
come a recommended by the city?

420
00:26:33,353 --> 00:26:34,478
>> Recommended by the city.

421
00:26:34,478 --> 00:26:36,354
We have a recommended tree list where

422
00:26:36,354 --> 00:26:38,826
they can pick trees from this.

423
00:26:38,826 --> 00:26:41,774
I believe it has to be a certain size.

424
00:26:41,774 --> 00:26:44,774
15 inch box at the minimum.

425
00:26:45,481 --> 00:26:47,521
>> Just a small clarification.

426
00:26:47,521 --> 00:26:51,349
It is a 15 gallon tree and the city's in lieu fee

427
00:26:51,349 --> 00:26:53,349
is $270 per tree.

428
00:26:55,869 --> 00:26:58,161
>> However, it would be the commission's purview if you

429
00:26:58,161 --> 00:27:00,822
wanted to specify a very specific species other than what

430
00:27:00,822 --> 00:27:03,747
is included on the list, or if you feel because of the project

431
00:27:03,747 --> 00:27:06,747
that additional mitigation is warranted.

432
00:27:07,374 --> 00:27:12,174
>> Is it possible to relocate the existing trees?

433
00:27:12,334 --> 00:27:15,401
>> It would be up to the Planning Commission if that is

434
00:27:15,401 --> 00:27:16,681
something.

435
00:27:16,681 --> 00:27:20,701
>> Trees of that size, normally there would be a concern about

436
00:27:20,701 --> 00:27:23,609
their survival, if you go to move a tree of that age.

437
00:27:23,609 --> 00:27:25,331
It is not guaranteed.

438
00:27:25,331 --> 00:27:31,331
It is not something I would recommend attempting to do.

439
00:27:31,841 --> 00:27:34,761
>> Just looking at turning over all of these stones.

440
00:27:34,761 --> 00:27:36,761
Thank you.

441
00:27:37,427 --> 00:27:41,761
>> I was also going to ask a similar question regarding

442
00:27:41,761 --> 00:27:44,507
possible conditions of approval on these specific trees.

443
00:27:44,507 --> 00:27:47,697
I don't know much about California oaks,

444
00:27:47,697 --> 00:27:51,921
but I imagine that the trees on the list that the city have

445
00:27:51,921 --> 00:27:53,267
are drought resistant.

446
00:27:53,267 --> 00:27:58,241
California being native, it probably is on that list.

447
00:27:58,241 --> 00:27:59,201
>> That is correct.

448
00:27:59,201 --> 00:28:01,921
Native and drought tolerant would be

449
00:28:01,921 --> 00:28:04,229
many of the trees on the list.

450
00:28:04,229 --> 00:28:06,100
They have already also been approved.

451
00:28:06,100 --> 00:28:10,561
They were rooted and approved by other certified arborists

452
00:28:10,561 --> 00:28:14,161
and the fire department as well.

453
00:28:18,528 --> 00:28:19,945
>> Just to follow up on the trees.

454
00:28:19,945 --> 00:28:22,651
Usually it is a mitigation.

455
00:28:22,651 --> 00:28:24,521
If you remove something.

456
00:28:24,521 --> 00:28:29,369
Usually the mitigation is not a ratio of 1 to 1

457
00:28:29,369 --> 00:28:32,110
it is usually 2 to 1 or 3 to 1.

458
00:28:32,110 --> 00:28:36,211
So where do we stand on that?

459
00:28:36,561 --> 00:28:38,334
>> Let me grab the conditions of approval.

460
00:28:38,334 --> 00:28:40,338
But it depends on the size.

461
00:28:40,338 --> 00:28:44,691
If it is a smaller tree, it would be a ratio of 1 to 1.

462
00:28:44,691 --> 00:28:49,641
If it is a larger tree based on diameter of the tree,

463
00:28:49,641 --> 00:28:51,723
then it would be 2 to 1.

464
00:28:51,723 --> 00:28:54,374
But it is listed in the conditions of approval.

465
00:28:54,374 --> 00:28:57,881
If you would like I can grab that for you.

466
00:28:57,881 --> 00:29:00,854
>> That replacement ratio comes directly from the city's tree

467
00:29:00,854 --> 00:29:02,854
protection ordinance.

468
00:29:08,667 --> 00:29:11,670
>> Is it 1 to 1 then?

469
00:29:13,179 --> 00:29:15,721
>> It is one replacement tree for trees that are smaller than

470
00:29:15,721 --> 00:29:17,281
24in in diameter.

471
00:29:17,281 --> 00:29:22,321
Trees that are larger than 24in in diameter require 215 gallon

472
00:29:22,321 --> 00:29:23,121
sized trees.

473
00:29:23,121 --> 00:29:26,667
But again, because this is a discretionary project,

474
00:29:26,667 --> 00:29:29,974
the commission could ask for additional mitigation measures,

475
00:29:29,974 --> 00:29:31,594
or alternative mitigation measures,

476
00:29:31,594 --> 00:29:34,521
if you think it is appropriate.

477
00:29:34,521 --> 00:29:37,341
>> To add on to that, in condition number seven,

478
00:29:37,341 --> 00:29:39,326
215 gallon tree replacements.

479
00:29:39,326 --> 00:29:41,312
In the arborist report it does include

480
00:29:41,312 --> 00:29:42,354
the size of the diameter.

481
00:29:42,354 --> 00:29:46,554
That is why it is only two.

482
00:29:50,463 --> 00:29:52,505
>> In California and coast live Oaks are included

483
00:29:52,505 --> 00:29:54,905
as a recommended species.

484
00:29:55,906 --> 00:29:57,281
>> I have one question for staff.

485
00:29:57,281 --> 00:29:58,781
Is there any kind of vegetation plan

486
00:29:58,781 --> 00:30:02,344
that is going to be proposed on the remaining soil.

487
00:30:02,344 --> 00:30:09,880
That is quite a bit of bare land there once it is constructed.

488
00:30:09,880 --> 00:30:15,181
>> A landscape plan is submitted and included as a part of it.

489
00:30:15,181 --> 00:30:18,947
That will be something that staff will review.

490
00:30:18,947 --> 00:30:19,453
>> Okay.

491
00:30:19,453 --> 00:30:23,321
And did you say there is an Adu incorporated?

492
00:30:23,321 --> 00:30:23,961
>> No.

493
00:30:23,961 --> 00:30:24,601
No Adu.

494
00:30:24,601 --> 00:30:29,401
This is just a single family dwelling unit.

495
00:30:29,881 --> 00:30:30,401
>> Okay.

496
00:30:30,401 --> 00:30:32,401
Thank you.

497
00:30:36,500 --> 00:30:37,422
>> Do you have any more questions?

498
00:30:37,422 --> 00:30:39,248
Anyone else?

499
00:30:39,248 --> 00:30:41,253
Thank you comment staff.

500
00:30:41,253 --> 00:30:46,653
I believe the applicant has a presentation for us.

501
00:30:58,341 --> 00:31:00,841
>> Howard if you could please talk to the commission and use

502
00:31:00,841 --> 00:31:06,580
the microphone come up >> I have been your neighbor for 25 years.

503
00:31:06,580 --> 00:31:08,861
I'm a homeowner on Rowland Hills Drive.

504
00:31:08,861 --> 00:31:12,729
I went to study architecture when dinosaurs

505
00:31:12,729 --> 00:31:15,507
ruled Mac roamed the earth.

506
00:31:15,507 --> 00:31:19,161
I was lucky enough to be influenced by the greatest

507
00:31:19,161 --> 00:31:22,161
American architect Franklin Rice who

508
00:31:22,641 --> 00:31:25,641
was an espoused organic architecture.

509
00:31:25,721 --> 00:31:27,941
Meaning the house is the part of the surroundings.

510
00:31:27,941 --> 00:31:30,467
One thing really stood sure.

511
00:31:30,467 --> 00:31:32,773
This is not my first Hillside home.

512
00:31:32,773 --> 00:31:35,594
But I stuck to his rule.

513
00:31:35,594 --> 00:31:38,360
The house shouldn't be on the hill Comei

514
00:31:38,360 --> 00:31:39,369
the house should be of the hill.

515
00:31:39,369 --> 00:31:40,678
And that is what we have done.

516
00:31:40,678 --> 00:31:43,145
This is not ego but in my opinion com

517
00:31:43,145 --> 00:31:44,425
a mission accomplished here.

518
00:31:44,425 --> 00:31:51,705
There is a lot of excavation that wants to go into the hill.

519
00:31:51,705 --> 00:31:52,913
I want to show you something.

520
00:31:52,913 --> 00:31:55,627
I'm going to show you the area that is over the height limit.

521
00:31:55,627 --> 00:31:57,537
It is a very small area.

522
00:31:57,537 --> 00:31:59,937
Here is the garage.

523
00:32:01,801 --> 00:32:04,361
>> Howard comment if you can please stay at the microphone.

524
00:32:04,361 --> 00:32:06,361
Thank you.

525
00:32:08,601 --> 00:32:11,171
Howard comment in order for the public online

526
00:32:11,171 --> 00:32:12,812
to be able to hear comment we need

527
00:32:12,812 --> 00:32:16,412
you to stay at the microphone.

528
00:32:20,901 --> 00:32:23,267
>> I am with you and I am hearing Mac I'm always here

529
00:32:23,267 --> 00:32:24,845
for any questions any time.

530
00:32:24,845 --> 00:32:26,389
My website is Howard architect.com

531
00:32:26,389 --> 00:32:28,531
and I am local like you are.

532
00:32:28,531 --> 00:32:29,421
Thank you very much.

533
00:32:29,421 --> 00:32:31,421
I appreciate it.

534
00:32:32,801 --> 00:32:34,751
>> Stay at the microphone come on Howard.

535
00:32:34,751 --> 00:32:36,751
Thank you.

536
00:32:37,441 --> 00:32:39,761
We are going to have a couple of questions

537
00:32:39,761 --> 00:32:43,650
for you come up particularly about the design itself.

538
00:32:43,650 --> 00:32:46,670
What sort of fire mitigation measures

539
00:32:46,670 --> 00:32:49,147
are you going to be taking for this home.

540
00:32:49,147 --> 00:32:52,401
>> The house will be fire Sprinklered off of a domestic

541
00:32:52,401 --> 00:32:54,401
system.

542
00:32:55,410 --> 00:32:57,974
That is the code requirement.

543
00:32:57,974 --> 00:33:01,101
>> I was just going to add that I believe it is in the fire

544
00:33:01,101 --> 00:33:03,891
severity zone comment which would require that the project

545
00:33:03,891 --> 00:33:09,291
comply with wildland interface code which is additional fire

546
00:33:09,291 --> 00:33:11,856
sprinkling and other fire mitigation.

547
00:33:11,856 --> 00:33:14,961
It is part of building code.

548
00:33:14,961 --> 00:33:19,791
>> And I assume there will be some sort of natural barrier

549
00:33:19,791 --> 00:33:24,321
going around the property to mitigate fire as well.

550
00:33:24,321 --> 00:33:26,721
>> The exterior materials to.

551
00:33:26,801 --> 00:33:29,153
Noncombustible stucco and the roof is metal.

552
00:33:29,153 --> 00:33:31,153
No wood .

553
00:33:32,663 --> 00:33:34,521
We have done our best there.

554
00:33:34,521 --> 00:33:36,729
The paving is permeable.

555
00:33:36,729 --> 00:33:43,321
It -- I think my client can talk to the stormwater retention

556
00:33:43,321 --> 00:33:44,463
better than I can.

557
00:33:44,463 --> 00:33:47,341
But we are going to great lengths to that to.

558
00:33:47,341 --> 00:33:49,101
Pages and pages.

559
00:33:49,101 --> 00:33:53,121
>> Do you have your client present that can brief us.

560
00:33:53,121 --> 00:33:56,121
What is your name, sir.

561
00:33:57,361 --> 00:34:00,981
Can you approach the microphone and briefly describe

562
00:34:00,981 --> 00:34:03,381
the Swipp mitigation plan.

563
00:34:08,921 --> 00:34:10,921
>> Good evening everyone.

564
00:34:12,267 --> 00:34:14,767
>> Can you briefly describe the plan related to the severity

565
00:34:14,767 --> 00:34:18,121
of the slope at this site.

566
00:34:18,121 --> 00:34:21,481
>> The civil engineer in coordination with

567
00:34:21,481 --> 00:34:26,785
the geotechnical, atom is the civil engineer and Peter

568
00:34:26,785 --> 00:34:31,585
and Ross and Patrick are my geotechnical engineers.

569
00:34:31,641 --> 00:34:36,721
This, by the way, happens to be the third geotechnical engineer

570
00:34:36,721 --> 00:34:39,921
who said this lot can be developed.

571
00:34:39,921 --> 00:34:43,521
The first one was William Langbehn .

572
00:34:45,938 --> 00:34:47,761
He said that 25 years ago.

573
00:34:47,761 --> 00:34:51,361
Peter, Mr. Ross and Patrick Drummond

574
00:34:51,553 --> 00:34:54,340
did the testing last year.

575
00:34:54,340 --> 00:34:56,601
The testing and all of the details

576
00:34:56,601 --> 00:34:58,650
and said it can be developed.

577
00:34:58,650 --> 00:35:01,980
And then we got Adam and his team

578
00:35:01,980 --> 00:35:04,961
who are the civil engineers and the draining.

579
00:35:04,961 --> 00:35:06,945
As far as the water drainage is concerned,

580
00:35:06,945 --> 00:35:13,545
all of the water that is coming down in any storm

581
00:35:13,873 --> 00:35:18,673
in the impermeable area, which is roughly 2500ft²,

582
00:35:23,617 --> 00:35:26,170
will all be caught.

583
00:35:26,911 --> 00:35:30,961
All of the water from the roof will be taken into pipes

584
00:35:30,961 --> 00:35:36,361
and diverted into concrete box , which is slightly over 1800

585
00:35:40,325 --> 00:35:40,825
gallons.

586
00:35:40,825 --> 00:35:44,100
And he did a hydrology report, looking

587
00:35:44,100 --> 00:35:49,233
at a 100 year study of the storms and peak drainage,

588
00:35:49,233 --> 00:35:51,151
and peak rainfall.

589
00:35:51,151 --> 00:35:55,351
The maximum amount of the concrete box

590
00:35:56,921 --> 00:36:01,465
that we needed to retain the water was 1200 gallons.

591
00:36:01,465 --> 00:36:09,237
We are about above two times the amount of what we would require.

592
00:36:09,237 --> 00:36:13,718
That concrete box will be in the lowest deck around the pool

593
00:36:13,718 --> 00:36:14,218
area.

594
00:36:14,218 --> 00:36:18,461
It will catch all of the water and that will then

595
00:36:18,461 --> 00:36:19,689
be drained down.

596
00:36:19,689 --> 00:36:27,229
There is a 50 foot easement at the side of lot 71, which I own.

597
00:36:27,229 --> 00:36:33,229
That will go straight down to the city stormwater drainage

598
00:36:36,141 --> 00:36:36,641
system.

599
00:36:36,641 --> 00:36:41,881
There will be no water that will be going down over the slopes.

600
00:36:41,881 --> 00:36:44,827
As far as the house is concerned,

601
00:36:44,827 --> 00:36:49,627
they recommended ten foot drilled spiral concrete Piers

602
00:36:52,461 --> 00:36:54,161
for the foundation which will then

603
00:36:54,161 --> 00:36:57,161
be anchored into the granite.

604
00:36:58,753 --> 00:37:01,524
The granite is below the clay.

605
00:37:01,524 --> 00:37:04,610
The clay is about 24ft.

606
00:37:04,610 --> 00:37:08,777
We will drill through that and drill an additional ten feet.

607
00:37:08,777 --> 00:37:15,377
The concrete Piers will be 24 to 35ft deep into the granite

608
00:37:16,145 --> 00:37:16,849
bedrock.

609
00:37:16,849 --> 00:37:21,649
That is for the stability of the house.

610
00:37:23,241 --> 00:37:25,274
>> Thank you for that.

611
00:37:25,274 --> 00:37:28,341
That takes care of rainfall after construction.

612
00:37:28,341 --> 00:37:30,741
During construction, particularly, we

613
00:37:31,100 --> 00:37:32,254
mentioned erosion control.

614
00:37:32,254 --> 00:37:34,296
There being a concern with the amount of sediment

615
00:37:34,296 --> 00:37:37,561
that is going to be carried by the rainfall this winter.

616
00:37:37,561 --> 00:37:40,561
Particularly post removing the trees,

617
00:37:41,247 --> 00:37:43,625
if it is approved to move forward.

618
00:37:43,625 --> 00:37:46,331
What have your consultants told you

619
00:37:46,331 --> 00:37:50,531
about their mitigation for the additional erosion?

620
00:37:50,984 --> 00:37:51,901
>> Excellent question.

621
00:37:51,901 --> 00:37:53,815
Peter said we are going to start in May.

622
00:37:53,815 --> 00:37:55,941
We are not going to build during the rainy season

623
00:37:55,941 --> 00:37:59,961
at all because we just don't want to get into that problem.

624
00:37:59,961 --> 00:38:03,961
Then we will have the landscape architect and engineer involved,

625
00:38:03,961 --> 00:38:07,774
including the civil engineer, and Peter and Patrick.

626
00:38:07,774 --> 00:38:11,481
We have Peter who is the geotechnical engineer.

627
00:38:11,481 --> 00:38:16,211
Patrick is a geologist who will mitigate all of the drainage

628
00:38:16,211 --> 00:38:18,611
with the civil engineer.

629
00:38:18,751 --> 00:38:21,223
Any issues that would come up.

630
00:38:21,223 --> 00:38:24,641
We are going to build from May and hopefully

631
00:38:24,641 --> 00:38:28,601
we should be putting up the framing within another three

632
00:38:28,601 --> 00:38:31,281
months of that period so we will be in the dry season

633
00:38:31,281 --> 00:38:33,681
predominantly throughout the building.

634
00:38:33,921 --> 00:38:37,401
>> And what is your current total timeline to finish

635
00:38:37,401 --> 00:38:39,401
construction?

636
00:38:40,410 --> 00:38:45,841
>> If I start in May, we will say 6 to 9 months.

637
00:38:45,841 --> 00:38:47,341
>> 6 to 9 months until completion.

638
00:38:47,341 --> 00:38:49,341
Okay.

639
00:38:50,410 --> 00:38:52,441
That is very fast.

640
00:38:54,534 --> 00:38:55,953
>> It may go longer.

641
00:38:55,953 --> 00:38:59,401
If it goes a year, we will be out of the peak rainy

642
00:38:59,401 --> 00:39:03,721
season for the most important part, which is the foundation.

643
00:39:03,721 --> 00:39:04,921
>> When you are digging.

644
00:39:04,921 --> 00:39:05,641
Okay.

645
00:39:05,641 --> 00:39:08,694
The only remaining question that I

646
00:39:08,694 --> 00:39:13,423
had was regarding the additional lot that you say that you owned.

647
00:39:13,423 --> 00:39:18,654
This may be a little too prudent since you may have not thought

648
00:39:18,654 --> 00:39:19,321
about it yet.

649
00:39:19,321 --> 00:39:23,921
Do you have any plans of building on that additional lot?

650
00:39:23,921 --> 00:39:26,947
>> At the current time I just want to keep it.

651
00:39:26,947 --> 00:39:27,685
I love gardening.

652
00:39:27,685 --> 00:39:32,485
At the current time that is my plan.

653
00:39:33,201 --> 00:39:37,321
But even in the gardening, I have

654
00:39:37,321 --> 00:39:38,634
to look at the counter cost.

655
00:39:38,634 --> 00:39:43,241
The county has a whole list of drought tolerant native plants

656
00:39:43,241 --> 00:39:44,857
for this environment.

657
00:39:44,857 --> 00:39:48,730
I also have to consult with the landscape architect

658
00:39:48,730 --> 00:39:52,105
to make sure that whatever plants we used

659
00:39:52,105 --> 00:39:57,180
will retain the soil and the slope and hold it together.

660
00:39:57,180 --> 00:39:58,887
So that is very important.

661
00:39:58,887 --> 00:40:01,745
And then you have the problem of gophers to.

662
00:40:01,745 --> 00:40:04,741
My neighbor said she has them.

663
00:40:04,741 --> 00:40:06,875
They are digging them up.

664
00:40:06,875 --> 00:40:08,861
I have to find gopher resistant plants.

665
00:40:08,861 --> 00:40:10,694
>> That it was going to be my next question.

666
00:40:10,694 --> 00:40:13,501
It has to do with biology.

667
00:40:13,501 --> 00:40:16,849
You mentioned having a geotechnical consultant.

668
00:40:16,849 --> 00:40:21,490
Have you had a biologist come out?

669
00:40:21,161 --> 00:40:22,994
>> I have the arborist.

670
00:40:22,994 --> 00:40:25,208
But not a biologist.

671
00:40:25,208 --> 00:40:27,250
>> I have built all over the state of California.

672
00:40:27,250 --> 00:40:29,617
There is always concerns with protected species.

673
00:40:29,617 --> 00:40:33,741
Particularly on a lot such as yours that is undeveloped.

674
00:40:33,741 --> 00:40:38,214
If you haven't had a biologist come out to make sure

675
00:40:38,214 --> 00:40:40,521
that you don't have any protected species on the land,

676
00:40:40,521 --> 00:40:42,505
that might be something that gets

677
00:40:42,505 --> 00:40:45,151
included with the conditions of approval.

678
00:40:45,151 --> 00:40:47,641
From taking a look at it myself, it

679
00:40:47,641 --> 00:40:51,201
is highly possible that there might be something like that.

680
00:40:51,201 --> 00:40:53,301
It is something you will have to look into.

681
00:40:53,301 --> 00:40:56,661
I think I have taken up a lot of time asking my questions.

682
00:40:56,661 --> 00:40:59,217
Does anyone else have any questions

683
00:40:59,217 --> 00:41:02,817
for the client or their architect?

684
00:41:05,993 --> 00:41:06,868
>> I have a question.

685
00:41:06,868 --> 00:41:08,341
What triggered the height increase

686
00:41:08,341 --> 00:41:10,451
that is being proposed around the garage period

687
00:41:10,451 --> 00:41:13,451
can you talk through that?

688
00:41:14,561 --> 00:41:15,107
>> Yes.

689
00:41:15,107 --> 00:41:17,641
The first drawings we did, we used another architect

690
00:41:17,641 --> 00:41:20,641
and at that time it was a similar size.

691
00:41:20,641 --> 00:41:23,867
It turned out to be one massive box.

692
00:41:23,867 --> 00:41:29,267
As they said it was a very boxy house.

693
00:41:29,521 --> 00:41:33,517
So then we got Howard who has a lot of experience

694
00:41:33,517 --> 00:41:38,917
building the house tiered and stacked into the slope.

695
00:41:40,681 --> 00:41:43,810
What was your question?

696
00:41:44,939 --> 00:41:47,189
>> To make us understand the reason behind the request

697
00:41:47,189 --> 00:41:53,342
for the four foot height >> Whenever we tried to go below

698
00:41:53,342 --> 00:41:55,680
the 25ft.

699
00:41:55,680 --> 00:41:59,967
The four feet, there were several things we had to do.

700
00:41:59,967 --> 00:42:02,269
The garage was stepped up to the side.

701
00:42:02,269 --> 00:42:05,605
If we drop the garage four feet, then the height of the garage

702
00:42:05,605 --> 00:42:09,490
would go to only seven feet, which is impractical.

703
00:42:09,490 --> 00:42:13,849
If we raised it, and the second thing

704
00:42:14,161 --> 00:42:17,505
was if we drop the garage down, also the slope

705
00:42:17,505 --> 00:42:22,225
became a treacherous 25% slope entering into the garage.

706
00:42:22,225 --> 00:42:29,810
Anything more than 15% -- that was asking for every car to have

707
00:42:29,810 --> 00:42:30,174
an accident.

708
00:42:30,174 --> 00:42:31,903
That was the reason.

709
00:42:31,903 --> 00:42:37,289
So we had to increase the ceiling height only

710
00:42:37,289 --> 00:42:40,254
at that portion, as Howard was trying to say.

711
00:42:40,254 --> 00:42:42,914
It was probably within a ten foot area

712
00:42:42,914 --> 00:42:46,121
where it goes above the height limit.

713
00:42:46,121 --> 00:42:48,441
The rest of it is all below.

714
00:42:48,441 --> 00:42:50,441
25ft.

715
00:42:50,721 --> 00:42:52,721
>> Thank you.

716
00:42:55,989 --> 00:42:58,340
>> Whenever we have work in an area such as this,

717
00:42:58,340 --> 00:43:01,921
where there is already residential is, --

718
00:43:01,921 --> 00:43:03,921
residential communities with people living there

719
00:43:03,921 --> 00:43:05,181
because there's always a concern.

720
00:43:05,181 --> 00:43:07,764
What additional steps are you taking in terms of construction,

721
00:43:07,764 --> 00:43:13,764
to minimize the noise and impact to the surrounding area?

722
00:43:14,401 --> 00:43:17,465
>> I'm going to set up a boundary both for safety

723
00:43:17,465 --> 00:43:22,265
and also so that everything will be enclosed.

724
00:43:22,317 --> 00:43:23,751
That is what we will do.

725
00:43:23,751 --> 00:43:27,337
We will also follow the city ordinance, which is,

726
00:43:27,337 --> 00:43:31,623
I believe if I'm not mistaken, from 7:00 AM until 6:00 PM.

727
00:43:31,623 --> 00:43:33,641
We will not be working every day.

728
00:43:33,641 --> 00:43:35,641
7:00 AM until 6:00 pm.

729
00:43:35,874 --> 00:43:38,851
There are some days we will a week or two

730
00:43:38,851 --> 00:43:41,721
and then others will be much shorter times.

731
00:43:41,721 --> 00:43:42,994
It will vary.

732
00:43:42,994 --> 00:43:46,113
But those are what will follow the city ordinance.

733
00:43:46,113 --> 00:43:50,601
We are not going to be working after hours or on weekends.

734
00:43:50,601 --> 00:43:52,685
>> No weekend work, no after hours work.

735
00:43:52,685 --> 00:43:56,401
And you are going to have traffic mitigation,

736
00:43:56,401 --> 00:43:59,401
traffic control there as >> Yes.

737
00:44:01,377 --> 00:44:03,460
It is a quiet cul de sac at the end of the street,

738
00:44:03,460 --> 00:44:05,460
but absolutely.

739
00:44:07,230 --> 00:44:09,481
>> I have one question to ask regarding construction trucks

740
00:44:09,481 --> 00:44:10,971
and vehicles during construction.

741
00:44:10,971 --> 00:44:15,526
Many times you will have as many as four or 5 or 6 vehicles

742
00:44:15,526 --> 00:44:18,193
up there at a time during framing and foundation,

743
00:44:18,193 --> 00:44:19,489
and so forth.

744
00:44:19,489 --> 00:44:24,654
Do you have any kind of accommodations for parking?

745
00:44:24,654 --> 00:44:25,427
>> Yes, correct.

746
00:44:25,427 --> 00:44:27,193
I'm going to create the driveway first

747
00:44:27,193 --> 00:44:28,881
and that will be the staging area.

748
00:44:28,881 --> 00:44:30,321
That is a significant size.

749
00:44:30,321 --> 00:44:32,601
All of the contractors have said that should

750
00:44:32,601 --> 00:44:36,633
be more than enough for parking and for equipment

751
00:44:36,633 --> 00:44:39,633
as we move in stages.

752
00:44:47,944 --> 00:44:49,721
>> Is that it?

753
00:44:49,721 --> 00:44:51,281
>> A super El Nino is coming.

754
00:44:51,281 --> 00:44:53,747
It is probably going to be here tomorrow or later.

755
00:44:53,747 --> 00:44:56,521
Do you think there is going to be damage

756
00:44:56,521 --> 00:45:00,121
to the property during El Nino?

757
00:45:01,921 --> 00:45:04,339
>> We are going to build after the rainy season.

758
00:45:04,339 --> 00:45:06,881
>> Before you start construction is there a possibility there

759
00:45:06,881 --> 00:45:14,681
could be some damage because of the amount of rain that is >> I

760
00:45:16,180 --> 00:45:18,643
don't think so because the lot has been there since 1955 and we

761
00:45:18,643 --> 00:45:23,913
have had bouts of heavy rain come and everything.

762
00:45:23,913 --> 00:45:26,812
And we have never had it.

763
00:45:26,812 --> 00:45:29,861
But if there is any, we will fix it and repair it.

764
00:45:29,861 --> 00:45:30,993
But I don't anticipate.

765
00:45:30,993 --> 00:45:34,474
And all of the vegetation there has been there.

766
00:45:34,474 --> 00:45:36,814
Like all of the oak trees there.

767
00:45:36,814 --> 00:45:39,801
I love nature and gardening.

768
00:45:39,801 --> 00:45:42,441
We are going to protect all of them.

769
00:45:42,441 --> 00:45:45,647
They are well rooted into the slope.

770
00:45:45,647 --> 00:45:48,470
I don't anticipate anything.

771
00:45:49,107 --> 00:45:53,121
>> The oak trees will come out when?

772
00:45:53,121 --> 00:45:58,481
>> Right at construction >> Will be in May of next year?

773
00:45:58,481 --> 00:46:02,670
>> 106in in diameter and the second one is 14in.

774
00:46:02,670 --> 00:46:04,467
They are not massive.

775
00:46:06,501 --> 00:46:07,100
>> Okay.

776
00:46:07,100 --> 00:46:08,441
Thank you.

777
00:46:08,441 --> 00:46:10,321
>> Thank you.

778
00:46:10,321 --> 00:46:10,969
>> Thank you.

779
00:46:10,969 --> 00:46:13,921
We appreciate you answering our questions.

780
00:46:13,921 --> 00:46:15,921
>> Thank you.

781
00:46:19,499 --> 00:46:22,410
>> As opposed to the houses on Canyon Way when you drive down

782
00:46:22,410 --> 00:46:27,129
the street come the houses have two stories in some editions.

783
00:46:27,129 --> 00:46:29,334
When you drive up Saint Mary's, you

784
00:46:29,334 --> 00:46:31,977
will not be able to see the house from the street,

785
00:46:31,977 --> 00:46:33,632
as you are driving up the street.

786
00:46:33,632 --> 00:46:35,961
You can only see it when you come up to the cul de sac

787
00:46:35,961 --> 00:46:41,961
and come back down Saint Mary's and look this way.

788
00:46:48,881 --> 00:46:50,839
>> We will have an opportunity to -- thank you.

789
00:46:50,839 --> 00:46:54,809
We will have an opportunity for public comment later.

790
00:46:54,809 --> 00:46:56,777
Thank you.

791
00:46:56,777 --> 00:46:59,570
We will keep moving along.

792
00:46:59,570 --> 00:47:00,189
Thank you, Howard.

793
00:47:00,189 --> 00:47:02,371
Is the appellant here?

794
00:47:02,371 --> 00:47:03,341
No.

795
00:47:03,341 --> 00:47:05,341
Not here.

796
00:47:05,961 --> 00:47:08,987
>> There is not an appellant for this project.

797
00:47:08,987 --> 00:47:09,543
>> Okay.

798
00:47:09,543 --> 00:47:10,430
Fantastic.

799
00:47:10,430 --> 00:47:12,410
We will move on to public comment.

800
00:47:12,410 --> 00:47:15,686
Those of you that have filled out a speaker card,

801
00:47:15,686 --> 00:47:18,740
I will go through the speaker card period

802
00:47:18,740 --> 00:47:20,161
please forgive me if I butcher your name.

803
00:47:20,161 --> 00:47:22,747
I may just go by first names to make sure.

804
00:47:22,747 --> 00:47:25,961
If you have not turned in a speaker card,

805
00:47:25,961 --> 00:47:27,855
please turn it in to staff.

806
00:47:27,855 --> 00:47:29,257
Thank you very much.

807
00:47:29,257 --> 00:47:33,981
Again, we will be limited to three minutes, just based

808
00:47:33,981 --> 00:47:37,401
on the sheer volume of speakers that we have tonight.

809
00:47:37,401 --> 00:47:38,681
We will move forward.

810
00:47:38,681 --> 00:47:45,281
I think that I have three members of the circle --

811
00:47:46,270 --> 00:47:46,974
family.

812
00:47:46,974 --> 00:47:49,374
Dante, evergreen and Miramar.

813
00:47:53,761 --> 00:47:55,641
Sit right there.

814
00:47:55,641 --> 00:47:59,921
Each one of you will have three minutes.

815
00:47:59,921 --> 00:48:01,231
>> Good evening, commissioners.

816
00:48:01,231 --> 00:48:03,145
I'm a resident of Saint Mary's Street.

817
00:48:03,145 --> 00:48:04,687
I thank you for allowing me to speak.

818
00:48:04,687 --> 00:48:07,574
I am asking you to consider whether this particular project

819
00:48:07,574 --> 00:48:09,817
is appropriate for this sensitive Hillside

820
00:48:09,817 --> 00:48:11,609
and for the neighborhood that surrounds it.

821
00:48:11,609 --> 00:48:13,321
The city's own records documented

822
00:48:13,321 --> 00:48:15,817
history of roadway and slope instability

823
00:48:15,817 --> 00:48:17,361
on Saint Mary's Street.

824
00:48:17,361 --> 00:48:19,981
The current geotechnical report confirms the presence

825
00:48:19,981 --> 00:48:22,321
of artificial fill and historical slope concerns

826
00:48:22,321 --> 00:48:24,361
yet the proposal does not adequately

827
00:48:24,361 --> 00:48:27,536
address the impact of constructing a 3700 square foot

828
00:48:27,536 --> 00:48:30,641
three story home come requiring deep Piers,

829
00:48:30,641 --> 00:48:32,618
retaining walls, grading, concrete work

830
00:48:32,618 --> 00:48:33,451
and heavy equipment.

831
00:48:33,451 --> 00:48:35,266
All of that construction traffic must

832
00:48:35,266 --> 00:48:37,706
use a narrow residential street with restricted parking

833
00:48:37,706 --> 00:48:40,398
and limited room for larger vehicles to stage or maneuver.

834
00:48:40,398 --> 00:48:42,481
The city should require detailed construction plan

835
00:48:42,481 --> 00:48:45,730
showing where trucks, equipment, deliveries and workers will go.

836
00:48:45,730 --> 00:48:47,105
How the roadway will be protected

837
00:48:47,105 --> 00:48:50,401
and how emergency access will be maintained at all times.

838
00:48:50,401 --> 00:48:53,129
The size of the proposed home is also a concern.

839
00:48:53,129 --> 00:48:56,321
I have reviewed 20 homes on Saint Mary's Street and Canyon

840
00:48:56,321 --> 00:48:56,821
Way.

841
00:48:56,821 --> 00:49:01,131
The average size is approximately 2156ft² of living

842
00:49:01,131 --> 00:49:01,631
space.

843
00:49:01,631 --> 00:49:06,910
While the largest is about 2900ft² of livable space this

844
00:49:06,910 --> 00:49:10,560
proposed home contains 3264ft² of living space,

845
00:49:10,560 --> 00:49:13,713
which is over 300ft larger than the largest existing home

846
00:49:13,713 --> 00:49:17,347
in more than 1000ft² larger than the neighborhood average.

847
00:49:17,347 --> 00:49:20,100
It is also three stories in an area primarily characterized

848
00:49:20,100 --> 00:49:22,410
by one and two story homes.

849
00:49:22,410 --> 00:49:23,921
Finally, the project requires the removal

850
00:49:23,921 --> 00:49:27,231
of two protected coast oaks, including a healthy 31 foot

851
00:49:27,231 --> 00:49:27,731
tree.

852
00:49:27,731 --> 00:49:29,791
Before removing mature protected trees,

853
00:49:29,791 --> 00:49:31,993
the city should determine whether they

854
00:49:31,993 --> 00:49:34,581
are truly unavoidable or simply incompatible

855
00:49:34,581 --> 00:49:37,555
with these current size and configuration of the house.

856
00:49:37,555 --> 00:49:41,121
I might add, now knowing that the fee to remove a protected

857
00:49:41,121 --> 00:49:44,934
tree is only $200 and change, it is a sad reflection

858
00:49:44,934 --> 00:49:47,921
of how we value the beauty and environment that makes Martinez

859
00:49:47,921 --> 00:49:50,186
a wonderful place to live.

860
00:49:50,186 --> 00:49:52,541
Commissioners, I ask you to continue or deny

861
00:49:52,541 --> 00:49:55,561
this application until these concerns are fully addressed.

862
00:49:55,561 --> 00:49:58,959
I ask the applicant to return with a smaller, lower impact

863
00:49:58,959 --> 00:50:00,667
design that better fits the neighborhood,

864
00:50:00,667 --> 00:50:03,981
protects mature trees, and minimizes impacts to residents

865
00:50:03,981 --> 00:50:05,747
and city infrastructure.

866
00:50:05,747 --> 00:50:07,747
Thank you.

867
00:50:09,361 --> 00:50:11,361
>> Thank you.

868
00:50:17,365 --> 00:50:19,109
>> Hello Council people.

869
00:50:19,109 --> 00:50:22,809
I am young and I am anxious, but I feel very strongly

870
00:50:22,809 --> 00:50:24,361
about this issue.

871
00:50:24,361 --> 00:50:29,641
I understand that people need places to build houses.

872
00:50:29,641 --> 00:50:35,821
People -- but I also think that the city needs to consider

873
00:50:35,821 --> 00:50:37,521
the people who already live here.

874
00:50:37,521 --> 00:50:40,481
Especially during construction period the project like this

875
00:50:40,481 --> 00:50:43,841
could mean large trucks, construction equipment, noise,

876
00:50:43,841 --> 00:50:46,451
parts of these streets being difficult to use.

877
00:50:46,451 --> 00:50:49,410
Possible impact to young children or animals that

878
00:50:49,410 --> 00:50:52,410
could be sensitive to noise.

879
00:50:52,761 --> 00:50:56,361
For families getting to school, doctors

880
00:50:56,787 --> 00:51:00,650
and dentist appointments, work in other community services

881
00:51:00,650 --> 00:51:01,833
as part of everyday life.

882
00:51:01,833 --> 00:51:03,377
I myself am disabled.

883
00:51:03,377 --> 00:51:06,361
If the street is blocked, I have no way

884
00:51:06,361 --> 00:51:09,924
to adequately access the Alhambra High

885
00:51:09,924 --> 00:51:11,617
School that I attend.

886
00:51:11,617 --> 00:51:15,129
I cannot walk down the hill because of my disability.

887
00:51:15,129 --> 00:51:17,661
It would be incredibly, physically taxing

888
00:51:17,661 --> 00:51:18,857
and possibly dangerous.

889
00:51:18,857 --> 00:51:22,521
I also have stress induced non-epileptic seizures.

890
00:51:22,521 --> 00:51:27,330
It is a legitimate worry for my own health and safety.

891
00:51:27,330 --> 00:51:31,833
I worry about the trucks and the roads,

892
00:51:32,665 --> 00:51:37,241
and possible medical emergencies like heart attacks, strokes.

893
00:51:37,241 --> 00:51:38,246
It is hot here.

894
00:51:38,246 --> 00:51:40,672
It is getting hotter every year.

895
00:51:40,672 --> 00:51:44,100
People like to go outside and enjoy nature.

896
00:51:44,100 --> 00:51:45,933
You don't know what is going to happen.

897
00:51:45,933 --> 00:51:48,100
The human body is very unpredictable.

898
00:51:48,100 --> 00:51:54,100
The possibility of a unnecessary truck for an unnecessary house

899
00:51:54,601 --> 00:51:56,801
blocking necessary medical attention

900
00:51:56,801 --> 00:52:00,153
for the people that currently live in the neighborhood

901
00:52:00,153 --> 00:52:01,185
is worrying.

902
00:52:01,185 --> 00:52:04,654
If approved, I am asking that the city make

903
00:52:04,654 --> 00:52:09,161
sure that the people who already live on Saint Mary's Street

904
00:52:09,161 --> 00:52:12,385
can safely get where they need to go while construction

905
00:52:12,385 --> 00:52:14,385
is happening.

906
00:52:18,574 --> 00:52:19,116
>> Thank you.

907
00:52:19,116 --> 00:52:22,116
We appreciate you coming out.

908
00:52:28,498 --> 00:52:29,165
>> Good evening.

909
00:52:29,165 --> 00:52:30,650
Members of the City Council and Planning Commission.

910
00:52:30,650 --> 00:52:33,147
I am here tonight to express an opposition to the proposed

911
00:52:33,147 --> 00:52:35,101
housing development and specifically

912
00:52:35,101 --> 00:52:39,481
to the loss of mature trees and the natural habitat that

913
00:52:39,481 --> 00:52:41,601
makes the residential neighborhood unique.

914
00:52:41,601 --> 00:52:44,921
This proposal calls for the removal of three trees.

915
00:52:44,921 --> 00:52:48,661
Two of which meet the definition of protected trees

916
00:52:48,661 --> 00:52:51,310
under Martinez Tree protection policies.

917
00:52:51,310 --> 00:52:52,641
The city has adopted these policies

918
00:52:52,641 --> 00:52:54,910
for an important reason.

919
00:52:54,910 --> 00:52:58,641
Mature trees provide ornamental esthetic and community benefit

920
00:52:58,641 --> 00:53:02,570
that cannot simply be replaced by planting a smaller tree

921
00:53:02,570 --> 00:53:03,411
or other landscaping.

922
00:53:03,411 --> 00:53:07,961
As I understand it the proposed approach essentially

923
00:53:07,961 --> 00:53:10,601
allows the developer to either pay,

924
00:53:10,601 --> 00:53:13,787
as we have now heard, very minimal fee,

925
00:53:13,787 --> 00:53:16,481
or replace the tree with lesser greenery that

926
00:53:16,481 --> 00:53:18,669
may take decades to mature.

927
00:53:18,669 --> 00:53:21,241
And may never provide the same environmental value

928
00:53:21,241 --> 00:53:23,417
as the trees being removed.

929
00:53:23,417 --> 00:53:25,867
This is particularly concerning in this neighborhood

930
00:53:25,867 --> 00:53:29,761
because it is known for its lush landscape and mature trees.

931
00:53:29,761 --> 00:53:32,747
Trees that take decades to grow into the canopy

932
00:53:32,747 --> 00:53:34,810
that we see today.

933
00:53:34,810 --> 00:53:36,241
These trees are not simply landscaping.

934
00:53:36,241 --> 00:53:38,521
They are part of the character and the identity

935
00:53:38,521 --> 00:53:40,410
of this neighborhood.

936
00:53:40,410 --> 00:53:43,900
They provide shade, privacy, beauty, habitat,

937
00:53:43,900 --> 00:53:46,987
and a sense of place that cannot be replaced overnight.

938
00:53:46,987 --> 00:53:51,177
The existing trees also support the significant natural habitat

939
00:53:51,177 --> 00:53:53,810
for birds and other wildlife.

940
00:53:53,810 --> 00:53:57,581
Habitat that is an integral part of this neighborhood,

941
00:53:57,581 --> 00:54:01,734
and is closely connected to its existing topography.

942
00:54:01,734 --> 00:54:03,734
And landscape.

943
00:54:03,961 --> 00:54:08,521
Removing mature trees can disrupt the ecosystem in ways

944
00:54:08,521 --> 00:54:10,751
that cannot be adequately addressed,

945
00:54:10,751 --> 00:54:14,701
by simply planting replacement greenery and calling it an equal

946
00:54:14,701 --> 00:54:15,201
substitute.

947
00:54:15,201 --> 00:54:18,201
I recognize that the city of Martinez needs housing.

948
00:54:18,201 --> 00:54:20,694
And I support thoughtful development

949
00:54:20,694 --> 00:54:23,501
that respects the needs of our community.

950
00:54:23,501 --> 00:54:26,612
This development is not what it is.

951
00:54:26,612 --> 00:54:30,971
It should not come at an expense of --

952
00:54:30,971 --> 00:54:32,461
I am sorry.

953
00:54:32,461 --> 00:54:34,897
It should not come at the expense of protection

954
00:54:34,897 --> 00:54:36,561
that the city itself has determined

955
00:54:36,561 --> 00:54:39,921
necessary to preserve our environment in our neighborhood

956
00:54:39,921 --> 00:54:40,421
character.

957
00:54:40,421 --> 00:54:43,441
If the city has adopted tree protection and replacement

958
00:54:43,441 --> 00:54:46,233
policies, I believe those policies should mean more

959
00:54:46,233 --> 00:54:50,201
than providing a financial option when compliance becomes

960
00:54:50,201 --> 00:54:51,151
inconvenient.

961
00:54:51,151 --> 00:54:55,281
A fine should not become a price of admission

962
00:54:55,281 --> 00:54:57,254
for removing protected species.

963
00:54:57,254 --> 00:55:00,256
I respectfully ask for the Council and Planning Commission

964
00:55:00,256 --> 00:55:02,521
to require the developer to explore

965
00:55:02,521 --> 00:55:07,321
every reasonable alternative to preserving these mature trees,

966
00:55:07,761 --> 00:55:10,810
and to carefully consider the permanent environment

967
00:55:10,810 --> 00:55:14,281
in the neighborhood impact of their removal.

968
00:55:15,841 --> 00:55:18,941
>> Thank you very much for coming out.

969
00:55:18,941 --> 00:55:20,145
We really appreciate it.

970
00:55:20,145 --> 00:55:22,650
And we thank you our daughter.

971
00:55:22,650 --> 00:55:26,313
If more young people were civically minded and engaged,

972
00:55:26,313 --> 00:55:28,713
it would be better.

973
00:55:37,807 --> 00:55:39,807
>> Jim.

974
00:55:42,661 --> 00:55:43,203
>> Pardon me.

975
00:55:43,203 --> 00:55:44,495
I am pretty stiff from sitting.

976
00:55:44,495 --> 00:55:46,161
I'm not used to doing that very often.

977
00:55:46,161 --> 00:55:49,301
My first comment, I would ask each of you

978
00:55:49,301 --> 00:55:50,745
before you approve this, that you

979
00:55:50,745 --> 00:55:56,145
drive through our neighborhood and see this monstrosity mansion

980
00:55:57,801 --> 00:56:01,187
that this person wants to build.

981
00:56:01,187 --> 00:56:03,561
So out of character for our neighborhood,

982
00:56:03,561 --> 00:56:04,441
it is unbelievable.

983
00:56:04,441 --> 00:56:06,818
If you saw the neighborhood yourself come at you

984
00:56:06,818 --> 00:56:09,621
would look at it and say, this has no place here.

985
00:56:09,621 --> 00:56:10,501
It doesn't fit in.

986
00:56:10,501 --> 00:56:11,921
All of the houses are small.

987
00:56:11,921 --> 00:56:14,371
They are wood in construction.

988
00:56:14,371 --> 00:56:16,291
It doesn't blend in.

989
00:56:16,291 --> 00:56:18,121
Earlier there was a diagram shown

990
00:56:18,121 --> 00:56:19,841
of the house from the distance.

991
00:56:19,841 --> 00:56:22,305
My house looks down on that property.

992
00:56:22,305 --> 00:56:25,601
As he takes out trees, it's going

993
00:56:25,601 --> 00:56:30,431
to impact our view, which has been a country view for the 14

994
00:56:30,431 --> 00:56:32,157
years we have lived here.

995
00:56:32,157 --> 00:56:34,881
Other neighbors are going to talk about very specific things

996
00:56:34,881 --> 00:56:36,241
they are concerned about.

997
00:56:36,241 --> 00:56:38,897
I don't mind if somebody builds, but that

998
00:56:38,897 --> 00:56:42,434
is just something that is out of sorts with the environment

999
00:56:42,434 --> 00:56:43,374
we are in.

1000
00:56:43,374 --> 00:56:47,151
We have four herds of deer that roam around the neighborhood.

1001
00:56:47,151 --> 00:56:49,287
We have three different types of owls.

1002
00:56:49,287 --> 00:56:52,941
We have all sorts of animals that habitat

1003
00:56:52,941 --> 00:56:54,291
all around the neighborhood.

1004
00:56:54,291 --> 00:56:56,349
I think this is going to have an impact on that.

1005
00:56:56,349 --> 00:56:58,865
It is going to have an impact on our bottom line

1006
00:56:58,865 --> 00:56:59,673
of homeownership.

1007
00:56:59,673 --> 00:57:02,169
We are going to have to look at this particular house

1008
00:57:02,169 --> 00:57:06,900
and I don't care what the architect says, because I

1009
00:57:06,900 --> 00:57:07,289
used to regulate them.

1010
00:57:07,289 --> 00:57:10,387
I don't believe them most of the time.

1011
00:57:10,387 --> 00:57:12,801
Any change to the neighborhood is not

1012
00:57:12,801 --> 00:57:15,729
going to be for the better if it is that size of a house.

1013
00:57:15,729 --> 00:57:17,730
I just plead with you.

1014
00:57:17,730 --> 00:57:18,810
Don't settle now.

1015
00:57:18,810 --> 00:57:19,161
Wait a while.

1016
00:57:19,161 --> 00:57:20,290
Go visit the neighborhood.

1017
00:57:20,290 --> 00:57:23,641
You are looking for -- add it yourself and I'm sure you will

1018
00:57:23,641 --> 00:57:25,484
say, this doesn't fit in with that.

1019
00:57:25,484 --> 00:57:29,669
The last comment I want to make before I sit down

1020
00:57:29,669 --> 00:57:31,481
is on the process.

1021
00:57:31,481 --> 00:57:33,345
We didn't hear about this.

1022
00:57:33,345 --> 00:57:35,691
We received a letter Wednesday night.

1023
00:57:35,691 --> 00:57:37,351
This past Wednesday night.

1024
00:57:37,351 --> 00:57:39,985
Less than a week before this particular body is meeting.

1025
00:57:39,985 --> 00:57:41,601
I think that is really unfair.

1026
00:57:41,601 --> 00:57:44,545
We talked to people down the hill on Canyon Way.

1027
00:57:44,545 --> 00:57:46,641
They said they never received a notice.

1028
00:57:46,641 --> 00:57:48,241
Maybe they did and they threw it out.

1029
00:57:48,241 --> 00:57:50,401
They thought it was junk mail or something.

1030
00:57:50,401 --> 00:57:52,194
But having less than a week.

1031
00:57:52,194 --> 00:57:56,321
Six days, two of them, city hall is closed,

1032
00:57:56,321 --> 00:57:59,547
or three because of Saturday, Sunday and Monday.

1033
00:57:59,547 --> 00:58:01,161
There was nobody we could talk to.

1034
00:58:01,161 --> 00:58:05,433
I have been going by for months, over a year, actually you're

1035
00:58:05,433 --> 00:58:09,567
going down for a meeting with Mr. Thomas and saying,

1036
00:58:09,567 --> 00:58:10,554
what is going on.

1037
00:58:10,554 --> 00:58:13,281
I was there two weeks before the letter was sent out

1038
00:58:13,281 --> 00:58:15,961
and he never mentioned watch out because this

1039
00:58:15,961 --> 00:58:18,470
is going to be coming to your house soon.

1040
00:58:18,470 --> 00:58:21,540
I don't think he was trying to blindside me or was dishonest

1041
00:58:21,540 --> 00:58:23,141
but I don't think he understood public meetings

1042
00:58:23,141 --> 00:58:26,961
and what that means for good governance and building faith.

1043
00:58:26,961 --> 00:58:28,898
The public and the people that you serve.

1044
00:58:28,898 --> 00:58:33,329
I think if you do this again, you really

1045
00:58:33,329 --> 00:58:35,178
should give more notice to people.

1046
00:58:35,178 --> 00:58:37,950
This hearing could have been held in two weeks

1047
00:58:37,950 --> 00:58:39,945
and we would have had plenty of time to get the other neighbors

1048
00:58:39,945 --> 00:58:41,681
around who don't know this is going on,

1049
00:58:41,681 --> 00:58:44,419
because they have gone on vacation or on holiday.

1050
00:58:44,419 --> 00:58:47,101
And say this is pretty important.

1051
00:58:47,101 --> 00:58:50,521
You might want to contribute to the dialog by coming here

1052
00:58:50,521 --> 00:58:53,201
or writing, or something like that period we were not able

1053
00:58:53,201 --> 00:58:55,201
to do that. .

1054
00:58:56,270 --> 00:58:57,721
>> Thank you.

1055
00:58:57,721 --> 00:58:59,265
>> Thank you for having us here.

1056
00:58:59,265 --> 00:59:01,947
And thank you for coming.

1057
00:59:01,947 --> 00:59:03,793
It is good to have young people involved.

1058
00:59:03,793 --> 00:59:05,481
You are very articulate.

1059
00:59:05,481 --> 00:59:07,761
Your parents should be very proud.

1060
00:59:07,761 --> 00:59:08,306
Thank you.

1061
00:59:08,306 --> 00:59:10,121
All of you.

1062
00:59:10,121 --> 00:59:10,738
>> Thank you.

1063
00:59:10,738 --> 00:59:14,338
Next we have Mr. James Miller.

1064
00:59:22,126 --> 00:59:22,793
>> Good evening.

1065
00:59:22,793 --> 00:59:24,850
>> You will have three minutes.

1066
00:59:24,850 --> 00:59:25,161
Thank you.

1067
00:59:25,161 --> 00:59:28,761
>> My wife and I have lived on Saint Mary's Street for almost

1068
00:59:28,761 --> 00:59:29,494
28 years.

1069
00:59:29,494 --> 00:59:32,465
In that time the changes have been people moving in

1070
00:59:32,465 --> 00:59:33,614
and people moving on.

1071
00:59:33,614 --> 00:59:35,427
But no new houses.

1072
00:59:35,427 --> 00:59:37,961
Let alone anything with the impact

1073
00:59:37,961 --> 00:59:40,145
of this project on the scale with the rest

1074
00:59:40,145 --> 00:59:41,141
of the neighborhood.

1075
00:59:41,141 --> 00:59:45,541
When our next door neighbors Dante and Rena moved in, they

1076
00:59:45,541 --> 00:59:48,721
wanted to know what it is like moving -- living here.

1077
00:59:48,721 --> 00:59:50,231
I told them it is peaceful.

1078
00:59:50,231 --> 00:59:52,210
The Oak woodland.

1079
00:59:52,210 --> 00:59:53,961
The profusion of songbirds.

1080
00:59:53,961 --> 00:59:56,881
The quiet hawks and the owls at night.

1081
00:59:56,881 --> 00:59:57,801
A peaceful.

1082
00:59:57,801 --> 01:00:02,601
I am here to talk about the trees.

1083
01:00:02,641 --> 01:00:04,641
Sorry, Dante.

1084
01:00:05,810 --> 01:00:09,540
Everybody has already talked about the trees already.

1085
01:00:09,540 --> 01:00:11,381
I don't know how much I need to add

1086
01:00:11,381 --> 01:00:14,561
but I would like to describe what the woodland is like.

1087
01:00:14,561 --> 01:00:18,907
It covers the whole east side of the hill

1088
01:00:18,907 --> 01:00:21,201
along Saint Mary's Street.

1089
01:00:21,201 --> 01:00:27,201
And then it merges with the woodlands in the neighboring

1090
01:00:27,971 --> 01:00:28,934
parklands.

1091
01:00:28,934 --> 01:00:30,750
It is beautiful.

1092
01:00:30,750 --> 01:00:34,841
People walk up our street all of the time for exercise

1093
01:00:34,841 --> 01:00:37,321
and to look at the view.

1094
01:00:37,321 --> 01:00:39,473
And look at the oak trees.

1095
01:00:39,473 --> 01:00:42,473
They are important to us.

1096
01:00:42,494 --> 01:00:47,294
In the arborist report, he evaluated seven trees

1097
01:00:48,841 --> 01:00:53,770
and recommended for preservation and three for removal.

1098
01:00:53,770 --> 01:00:55,474
There are many more trees on the lot that

1099
01:00:55,474 --> 01:00:58,417
were not covered in the report.

1100
01:00:58,417 --> 01:01:03,817
I believe we should have a tree map available

1101
01:01:04,540 --> 01:01:07,931
that shows all of the trees on the lot.

1102
01:01:07,931 --> 01:01:13,931
The arborist report stated that they had narrowed it down

1103
01:01:17,141 --> 01:01:20,137
to three trees for removal.

1104
01:01:20,137 --> 01:01:24,161
They had to be removed because of the direct and unavoidable

1105
01:01:24,161 --> 01:01:26,387
conflict of the proposed new construction.

1106
01:01:26,387 --> 01:01:31,787
They never really talk about whether they attempted any

1107
01:01:37,481 --> 01:01:42,281
alternative methods of construction that would allow --

1108
01:01:45,127 --> 01:01:47,410
that would spare the trees.

1109
01:01:47,410 --> 01:01:51,561
I believe that is actually required by Martinez municipal

1110
01:01:51,561 --> 01:01:53,561
code .

1111
01:01:54,730 --> 01:01:57,673
Which requires developers to exhaust alterations

1112
01:01:57,827 --> 01:02:00,227
before approving any impacts.

1113
01:02:01,411 --> 01:02:03,941
There is no way of knowing from the arborist report

1114
01:02:03,941 --> 01:02:06,729
whether that was actually ever done.

1115
01:02:06,729 --> 01:02:08,991
I would be very interested in seeing

1116
01:02:08,991 --> 01:02:12,111
what the alternative proposals were like,

1117
01:02:12,111 --> 01:02:16,302
and whether they actually did consider downsizing

1118
01:02:16,302 --> 01:02:19,302
as one of the alternatives.

1119
01:02:19,667 --> 01:02:22,670
That is about it.

1120
01:02:22,825 --> 01:02:27,641
They Saint Mary's community has turned out in force.

1121
01:02:27,641 --> 01:02:30,641
We are passionate about preserving

1122
01:02:31,147 --> 01:02:33,981
the semi-rural character of the neighborhood.

1123
01:02:33,981 --> 01:02:36,894
Our trees are really important to us.

1124
01:02:36,894 --> 01:02:38,110
>> Thank you.

1125
01:02:38,110 --> 01:02:40,110
We appreciate it.

1126
01:02:40,201 --> 01:02:42,201
>> Thank you.

1127
01:02:45,548 --> 01:02:46,904
>> Next up, Maria .

1128
01:02:46,904 --> 01:02:49,904
You also have three minutes.

1129
01:02:56,968 --> 01:02:58,930
>> Thank you for having us.

1130
01:02:58,930 --> 01:02:58,760
I appreciate it.

1131
01:02:58,760 --> 01:03:00,641
I wanted to talk about the precedent of it.

1132
01:03:00,641 --> 01:03:05,241
Once you set a precedent, then there are a lot more lots,

1133
01:03:05,241 --> 01:03:06,810
as you know.

1134
01:03:06,810 --> 01:03:07,343
You can look and see.

1135
01:03:07,343 --> 01:03:10,567
Be sure and be careful about what precedent you set.

1136
01:03:10,567 --> 01:03:14,241
Hopefully he is a really honest guy and the lot right next door

1137
01:03:14,241 --> 01:03:15,783
he will keep as a guard in.

1138
01:03:15,783 --> 01:03:16,801
But he doesn't have to.

1139
01:03:16,801 --> 01:03:20,781
Once you set the precedent, it can keep going down the line.

1140
01:03:20,781 --> 01:03:22,141
All the way down.

1141
01:03:22,141 --> 01:03:23,401
It is quiet.

1142
01:03:23,401 --> 01:03:25,381
It is probably 15 lots.

1143
01:03:25,381 --> 01:03:26,378
I don't know.

1144
01:03:26,378 --> 01:03:29,661
There is a lot of space between where he is building

1145
01:03:29,661 --> 01:03:31,700
and where it stops.

1146
01:03:31,700 --> 01:03:35,922
And the problem is, we fill that up, it is huge.

1147
01:03:35,922 --> 01:03:37,151
It is water.

1148
01:03:37,151 --> 01:03:39,540
We all live off of the pump down there.

1149
01:03:39,540 --> 01:03:41,100
I don't know if you know that there is a water

1150
01:03:41,100 --> 01:03:42,886
pump that is pretty old.

1151
01:03:42,886 --> 01:03:44,921
It is more at the bottom.

1152
01:03:44,921 --> 01:03:47,720
The street itself is narrow.

1153
01:03:47,720 --> 01:03:49,747
It wouldn't handle it.

1154
01:03:49,747 --> 01:03:52,635
Most of us don't have a ton of garage space.

1155
01:03:52,635 --> 01:03:54,321
A lot of us park on the street.

1156
01:03:54,321 --> 01:03:57,260
I know for myself, I have three cars.

1157
01:03:57,260 --> 01:04:00,475
I do have a one car garage and I often put one in there.

1158
01:04:00,475 --> 01:04:01,976
But two are on the street.

1159
01:04:01,976 --> 01:04:03,682
That is true for many of the houses.

1160
01:04:03,682 --> 01:04:06,281
There is not a lot of garage space.

1161
01:04:06,281 --> 01:04:09,345
And even nowadays, even if you have a garage,

1162
01:04:09,345 --> 01:04:11,534
it doesn't mean he won't park on the street.

1163
01:04:11,534 --> 01:04:14,421
A lot of people put other stuff in their garage.

1164
01:04:14,421 --> 01:04:17,441
That precedent, once you guys set this precedent,

1165
01:04:17,441 --> 01:04:19,861
then we can have this problem where it just

1166
01:04:19,861 --> 01:04:21,196
keeps going down the line.

1167
01:04:21,196 --> 01:04:24,214
You talked about stormwater and where it is going.

1168
01:04:24,214 --> 01:04:27,452
Each house is going to have to do that.

1169
01:04:27,452 --> 01:04:30,600
I just don't think that Hillside could support

1170
01:04:30,600 --> 01:04:34,200
multiple houses drilled into the granite,

1171
01:04:34,425 --> 01:04:36,340
like he is talking about.

1172
01:04:36,340 --> 01:04:37,254
It is just too much.

1173
01:04:37,254 --> 01:04:40,630
Be careful when you set a precedent.

1174
01:04:40,630 --> 01:04:44,460
Once you say yes to him, you are going to say yes to him

1175
01:04:44,460 --> 01:04:45,132
again on his other lot.

1176
01:04:45,132 --> 01:04:47,935
Then there is a lot next to it and a lot next to it.

1177
01:04:47,935 --> 01:04:49,560
All of a sudden you will get to a point

1178
01:04:49,560 --> 01:04:52,401
where there is going to be a major landslide.

1179
01:04:52,401 --> 01:04:55,581
A major catastrophe with the water supply.

1180
01:04:55,581 --> 01:04:56,231
Something.

1181
01:04:56,231 --> 01:04:57,180
Fire.

1182
01:04:57,180 --> 01:04:58,421
Something is going to happen.

1183
01:04:58,421 --> 01:05:01,547
I just don't think that street can support.

1184
01:05:01,547 --> 01:05:04,921
And I agree with Jim saying, drive over there

1185
01:05:04,921 --> 01:05:05,987
and take a look.

1186
01:05:05,987 --> 01:05:09,227
See for yourself what do you think as far as,

1187
01:05:09,227 --> 01:05:10,993
what can that street support.

1188
01:05:10,993 --> 01:05:14,791
How many houses can that support before you set a precedent

1189
01:05:14,791 --> 01:05:16,507
to allow another house.

1190
01:05:16,507 --> 01:05:18,507
Thank you.

1191
01:05:19,761 --> 01:05:21,235
>> Thank you.

1192
01:05:21,235 --> 01:05:24,289
Next up we have Michael Deckert.

1193
01:05:24,289 --> 01:05:27,289
Did I get that right?

1194
01:05:30,921 --> 01:05:33,921
We appreciate you coming out.

1195
01:05:34,681 --> 01:05:37,681
You will have three minutes.

1196
01:05:39,161 --> 01:05:42,223
>> I have lived in Martinez now for 18 years.

1197
01:05:42,223 --> 01:05:46,169
I am the last new home on Saint Mary's, up at the top.

1198
01:05:46,169 --> 01:05:48,377
I don't know how many of you have had the opportunity

1199
01:05:48,377 --> 01:05:51,103
to come up there and see our street,

1200
01:05:51,103 --> 01:05:54,189
so I am very privileged to be up there.

1201
01:05:54,189 --> 01:05:59,846
I just want to find out how many of you know how

1202
01:05:59,846 --> 01:06:04,460
we get our water to our homes.

1203
01:06:04,101 --> 01:06:05,238
You do?

1204
01:06:05,238 --> 01:06:08,238
We use a pump system.

1205
01:06:08,601 --> 01:06:13,181
That pump system goes out 4 to 6 times a year.

1206
01:06:13,181 --> 01:06:17,549
I call the water department directly from my house to say,

1207
01:06:17,549 --> 01:06:21,281
I can hear the water evacuating through my house

1208
01:06:21,281 --> 01:06:24,281
and going down the hill.

1209
01:06:25,321 --> 01:06:28,324
What you have here, this is nothing

1210
01:06:28,324 --> 01:06:30,841
that I really tried to get together because I didn't

1211
01:06:30,841 --> 01:06:32,361
have time to get it prepped.

1212
01:06:32,361 --> 01:06:35,501
But if you look at the screen, my water pressure

1213
01:06:35,501 --> 01:06:38,249
is barely 40 pounds right now.

1214
01:06:38,249 --> 01:06:43,321
It has always been that way at the top of the hill.

1215
01:06:43,321 --> 01:06:47,814
Like I said come on I have the personal phone number of one

1216
01:06:47,814 --> 01:06:51,481
of the managers who I can call in the middle of the night,

1217
01:06:51,481 --> 01:06:54,401
because I have an advanced sickness that has taken away

1218
01:06:54,401 --> 01:06:56,641
my insides, pretty much.

1219
01:06:56,641 --> 01:06:59,661
He will tell me come on Michael, I will get somebody out

1220
01:06:59,661 --> 01:07:00,411
there immediately.

1221
01:07:00,411 --> 01:07:04,785
What I'm getting at here is, our internal system

1222
01:07:04,785 --> 01:07:07,307
in the underground is antiquated.

1223
01:07:07,307 --> 01:07:12,107
We have had in 18 years, one time where

1224
01:07:12,161 --> 01:07:15,116
we had that system worked on.

1225
01:07:15,116 --> 01:07:19,969
What I am getting at is, how will this new home at 3700ft²

1226
01:07:19,969 --> 01:07:22,969
come on compared to my 2200.

1227
01:07:23,352 --> 01:07:26,421
Water going up a grade, which is what we do,

1228
01:07:26,421 --> 01:07:28,721
lose it's its friction as it goes.

1229
01:07:28,721 --> 01:07:33,875
Our pumps may be 80 pounds down below, but hitting me at 40.

1230
01:07:33,875 --> 01:07:40,332
I just had it confirmed because Jim just put in an Adu.

1231
01:07:40,332 --> 01:07:41,857
Nice four walnut.

1232
01:07:41,857 --> 01:07:43,721
It was approved and everything was done.

1233
01:07:43,721 --> 01:07:45,761
It is a beautiful unit.

1234
01:07:45,761 --> 01:07:48,867
Their current water pressure is 30 pounds

1235
01:07:48,867 --> 01:07:50,718
going through the house.

1236
01:07:50,718 --> 01:07:55,881
Now when you add a house onto the articulation part,

1237
01:07:55,881 --> 01:07:58,469
somewhere down in this area, what

1238
01:07:58,469 --> 01:08:02,177
is it going to do to all of our homes.

1239
01:08:02,177 --> 01:08:05,777
Nobody has answered the water situation.

1240
01:08:06,737 --> 01:08:13,337
My water goes off, like I said, 4 to 6 times per year.

1241
01:08:14,481 --> 01:08:21,361
Not to make it sound funny, but I'm going to try something here.

1242
01:08:21,361 --> 01:08:23,361
Listen to this.

1243
01:08:26,410 --> 01:08:29,641
If I can get it going.

1244
01:08:33,921 --> 01:08:38,829
I would like to send you to what it sounds like in my house.

1245
01:08:38,829 --> 01:08:41,520
I have had three new water heaters

1246
01:08:41,520 --> 01:08:44,810
in 15 years because of mud.

1247
01:08:44,810 --> 01:08:46,741
I have had four refrigerators.

1248
01:08:46,741 --> 01:08:50,849
All new toilets because I dish out mud to get that out.

1249
01:08:50,849 --> 01:08:55,789
The guys have finally done well by helping me out.

1250
01:08:55,789 --> 01:08:58,987
We had a fire eight years ago.

1251
01:08:58,987 --> 01:09:02,587
In our backyard, it was terrible.

1252
01:09:04,161 --> 01:09:06,494
I worry about this too.

1253
01:09:06,494 --> 01:09:08,894
Jim worked so hard.

1254
01:09:09,974 --> 01:09:12,379
>> I really appreciate you bringing it up here

1255
01:09:12,379 --> 01:09:13,837
>> Please consider the water thing.

1256
01:09:13,837 --> 01:09:16,121
It is out of control.

1257
01:09:16,121 --> 01:09:17,561
>> That is a very good point.

1258
01:09:17,561 --> 01:09:21,121
I appreciate you bringing it up.

1259
01:09:21,121 --> 01:09:22,947
Thank you.

1260
01:09:22,947 --> 01:09:25,947
Next up, we have Zach.

1261
01:09:27,109 --> 01:09:30,709
You will also have three minutes.

1262
01:09:39,141 --> 01:09:39,683
>> Thank you.

1263
01:09:39,683 --> 01:09:41,516
My concerns are mainly on the visual aspect.

1264
01:09:41,516 --> 01:09:45,117
I live next to this lot, right adjacent to it.

1265
01:09:45,117 --> 01:09:48,536
I cannot really tell exactly what the size of this is going

1266
01:09:48,536 --> 01:09:49,360
to be.

1267
01:09:49,360 --> 01:09:52,198
I would like to have story poles put up

1268
01:09:52,198 --> 01:09:55,809
to show the size and impact it will have on the view.

1269
01:09:55,809 --> 01:09:58,721
Also, marking the trees that will be removed,

1270
01:09:58,721 --> 01:10:03,111
so we know what impact that will have on the view also.

1271
01:10:03,111 --> 01:10:06,132
I think that would really help us to kind of clear some of that

1272
01:10:06,132 --> 01:10:06,681
up.

1273
01:10:06,681 --> 01:10:09,521
Also, looking for the images that were shown,

1274
01:10:09,521 --> 01:10:12,752
I can't exactly tell which lot it is being built on.

1275
01:10:12,752 --> 01:10:16,347
If this is the lot with the PGA easement or the lot

1276
01:10:16,347 --> 01:10:17,540
further down.

1277
01:10:17,540 --> 01:10:19,241
Some of the images that were shown

1278
01:10:19,241 --> 01:10:21,641
didn't really clarify that.

1279
01:10:23,433 --> 01:10:27,633
My main recommendation would be story poles.

1280
01:10:32,729 --> 01:10:33,271
>> Thank you.

1281
01:10:33,271 --> 01:10:34,630
We appreciate that.

1282
01:10:34,630 --> 01:10:37,630
Next up, we have Peter.

1283
01:10:37,441 --> 01:10:38,650
>> Hello.

1284
01:10:38,650 --> 01:10:39,641
Thanks for having me.

1285
01:10:39,641 --> 01:10:44,361
I keep hearing about the minor exception for the height

1286
01:10:44,361 --> 01:10:45,610
exception.

1287
01:10:45,610 --> 01:10:49,861
And they keep mentioning minor, minor, every time.

1288
01:10:50,505 --> 01:10:54,954
Personally, I have the house that is across the street

1289
01:10:54,954 --> 01:10:58,181
and down, the very last house on the top of the hill

1290
01:10:58,181 --> 01:11:01,814
before we get up into the cul de sac on the top, which is direct.

1291
01:11:01,814 --> 01:11:05,801
This new home would be adjacent this way.

1292
01:11:05,801 --> 01:11:09,921
People keep saying you should come up and see the hill,

1293
01:11:09,921 --> 01:11:10,821
if you haven't.

1294
01:11:10,821 --> 01:11:12,854
It is probably one of the most beautiful views

1295
01:11:12,854 --> 01:11:15,810
in the city of Martinez.

1296
01:11:15,810 --> 01:11:18,921
From my kitchen window, and my living room window,

1297
01:11:18,921 --> 01:11:22,612
I look this way, which is towards that lot,

1298
01:11:22,612 --> 01:11:26,514
and I see Mount Babel and down below that is the John Muir

1299
01:11:26,514 --> 01:11:27,361
House.

1300
01:11:27,361 --> 01:11:28,961
The railroad tracks.

1301
01:11:28,961 --> 01:11:31,940
It is a beautiful view.

1302
01:11:31,940 --> 01:11:33,970
It is the only section like that,

1303
01:11:33,970 --> 01:11:36,450
other than the folks that live up on the top of the cul de sac.

1304
01:11:36,450 --> 01:11:37,938
For the rest of the street, where

1305
01:11:37,938 --> 01:11:39,961
you have that kind of the view.

1306
01:11:39,961 --> 01:11:44,520
Folks come up come up my parents used

1307
01:11:44,520 --> 01:11:46,385
to meet all of the neighbors because everyone would come

1308
01:11:46,385 --> 01:11:49,137
there with their children, with their dogs,

1309
01:11:49,137 --> 01:11:52,925
and stop right there along where the empty lots are.

1310
01:11:52,925 --> 01:11:54,941
That is kind of where the neighborhood gathering

1311
01:11:54,941 --> 01:11:56,641
spot would be.

1312
01:11:56,641 --> 01:11:59,858
People would come up and walk and go up the cul de sac

1313
01:11:59,858 --> 01:12:04,580
at the top and come back down.

1314
01:12:04,201 --> 01:12:09,209
I am very very concerned about this four foot exception.

1315
01:12:09,209 --> 01:12:10,432
And I agree.

1316
01:12:10,432 --> 01:12:15,557
We need to have some story poles before you okay that four foot

1317
01:12:15,557 --> 01:12:16,570
exception.

1318
01:12:16,570 --> 01:12:19,441
Is it going to block the view that we

1319
01:12:19,441 --> 01:12:25,761
have had for a quarter of a century in my family,

1320
01:12:25,761 --> 01:12:26,937
from that spot.

1321
01:12:26,937 --> 01:12:29,810
I honestly believe it is going to block

1322
01:12:29,810 --> 01:12:33,861
the view, which would be devastating for that property.

1323
01:12:33,861 --> 01:12:35,511
For my property.

1324
01:12:35,511 --> 01:12:39,556
I would ask that before you make the exception,

1325
01:12:39,556 --> 01:12:42,121
maybe come visit the street.

1326
01:12:42,121 --> 01:12:45,132
At the very least come and we do need to see the story

1327
01:12:45,132 --> 01:12:47,601
poles put up so that we can see what it actually

1328
01:12:47,601 --> 01:12:49,233
is going to be blocking.

1329
01:12:49,233 --> 01:12:51,521
And again, as far as the animals go,

1330
01:12:51,521 --> 01:12:54,771
that is where they all come up from the street.

1331
01:12:54,771 --> 01:12:55,797
Right through their.

1332
01:12:55,797 --> 01:12:58,421
That open area in the bottom.

1333
01:12:58,421 --> 01:13:01,421
The deer, wild turkeys, foxes.

1334
01:13:01,441 --> 01:13:06,557
All of the animals that come up around that, which

1335
01:13:06,557 --> 01:13:08,921
makes it wonderful up there.

1336
01:13:08,921 --> 01:13:12,741
You will see the deer trail and come across coming

1337
01:13:12,741 --> 01:13:14,605
to the back behind my house.

1338
01:13:14,605 --> 01:13:17,594
I am really worried that it is going to really affect

1339
01:13:17,594 --> 01:13:19,647
the quality of life.

1340
01:13:19,647 --> 01:13:20,961
In the future.

1341
01:13:20,961 --> 01:13:23,614
And again, once you make the exception,

1342
01:13:23,614 --> 01:13:27,661
and he does own the next lot right there and there is another

1343
01:13:27,661 --> 01:13:30,241
lot that would be directly --

1344
01:13:30,241 --> 01:13:33,777
there is a lot directly across from me, a lot here and his lot

1345
01:13:33,777 --> 01:13:34,277
here.

1346
01:13:34,277 --> 01:13:36,257
Which is Mount Babel.

1347
01:13:36,257 --> 01:13:39,781
I am very concerned about that.

1348
01:13:39,781 --> 01:13:41,976
Hopefully you would consider that.

1349
01:13:41,976 --> 01:13:43,601
Thank you.

1350
01:13:43,601 --> 01:13:45,587
>> Thank you, Peter.

1351
01:13:45,587 --> 01:13:48,587
Next up we have Mark.

1352
01:13:55,667 --> 01:13:56,334
>> Good evening.

1353
01:13:56,334 --> 01:13:57,709
I would like to thank the members

1354
01:13:57,709 --> 01:14:00,325
of the committee for your time and attention to this matter.

1355
01:14:00,325 --> 01:14:03,111
My name is Mark and I reside at the end of the cul de sac

1356
01:14:03,111 --> 01:14:03,911
at Saint Mary's.

1357
01:14:03,911 --> 01:14:06,100
My grandfather is a fireman in San Francisco

1358
01:14:06,100 --> 01:14:07,570
for his whole career.

1359
01:14:07,570 --> 01:14:10,101
He instilled in me the essence of fast response

1360
01:14:10,101 --> 01:14:11,209
during his duties.

1361
01:14:11,209 --> 01:14:13,961
What is proposed for with the subject construction

1362
01:14:13,961 --> 01:14:15,701
raises very real concerns regarding

1363
01:14:15,701 --> 01:14:18,901
the ability of multiple large fire and emergency vehicles

1364
01:14:18,901 --> 01:14:21,721
during the construction period, to reach

1365
01:14:21,721 --> 01:14:23,181
the end of Saint Mary's Street.

1366
01:14:23,181 --> 01:14:27,505
With street parking also, after completion pier keeping in mind,

1367
01:14:27,505 --> 01:14:29,121
Saint Mary's Street is the only access

1368
01:14:29,121 --> 01:14:32,281
for the homes on the end of the cul de sac.

1369
01:14:32,281 --> 01:14:36,377
Once vehicles and construction materials parked and stored

1370
01:14:36,377 --> 01:14:38,681
on the street during construction, which

1371
01:14:38,681 --> 01:14:42,681
may take months to complete, another concern

1372
01:14:42,681 --> 01:14:46,651
would be overflowing street parking from the subject

1373
01:14:46,651 --> 01:14:48,771
residence after completion, making it difficult

1374
01:14:48,771 --> 01:14:51,410
or hampering first responder vehicles

1375
01:14:51,410 --> 01:14:53,713
heading up Saint Mary's Street.

1376
01:14:53,713 --> 01:14:57,913
And, the issue of hampered rapid exit.

1377
01:14:58,441 --> 01:15:02,190
If we need to grab our grab and go bags and get out of there.

1378
01:15:02,190 --> 01:15:06,819
Any obstacles are going to be a problem.

1379
01:15:07,801 --> 01:15:12,841
One item I want to bring up, that the gentleman talked about,

1380
01:15:12,841 --> 01:15:16,807
hampering traffic access during the construction period.

1381
01:15:16,807 --> 01:15:19,356
He said that he was going to build the driveway first.

1382
01:15:19,356 --> 01:15:20,731
There has been minor construction

1383
01:15:20,731 --> 01:15:23,606
on Saint Mary's Street over the past year or so.

1384
01:15:23,606 --> 01:15:28,521
I can tell you that there is no way a driveway is going

1385
01:15:28,521 --> 01:15:31,361
to fit cement mixtures, sheetrock, lumber,

1386
01:15:31,361 --> 01:15:34,901
all of these stuff that is going to be stored on the street

1387
01:15:34,901 --> 01:15:36,371
during the construction process.

1388
01:15:36,371 --> 01:15:39,161
That is not an answer.

1389
01:15:39,161 --> 01:15:42,461
That is all that I have to say.

1390
01:15:42,461 --> 01:15:45,461
Thank you for your time.

1391
01:15:46,410 --> 01:15:46,665
>> Thank you.

1392
01:15:46,665 --> 01:15:48,809
We appreciate you coming out tonight.

1393
01:15:48,809 --> 01:15:51,209
Last we have Barbara.

1394
01:15:57,271 --> 01:15:58,354
>> My name is Barbara Moy.

1395
01:15:58,354 --> 01:16:01,799
I'm a resident in property owner at the top of the cul de sac.

1396
01:16:01,799 --> 01:16:03,910
A lot of things were mentioned.

1397
01:16:03,910 --> 01:16:06,691
I most concerned about Swipp stability.

1398
01:16:08,671 --> 01:16:11,547
After 50 or 60 years of instability.

1399
01:16:11,547 --> 01:16:14,209
Over the period of time the city spent a lot of time and money

1400
01:16:14,209 --> 01:16:17,947
trying to stabilize the slope in two phases.

1401
01:16:17,947 --> 01:16:20,734
There are cracks in the roadway right now.

1402
01:16:20,734 --> 01:16:25,467
A couple of years ago, the roadway was redone.

1403
01:16:25,467 --> 01:16:27,441
I see feathering cracks.

1404
01:16:27,441 --> 01:16:29,857
When the building is built, there

1405
01:16:29,857 --> 01:16:33,321
is more pressure on the hill.

1406
01:16:33,321 --> 01:16:38,721
There was a project applicant hired a geotechnical engineering

1407
01:16:40,521 --> 01:16:42,221
firm, which he mentioned today.

1408
01:16:42,221 --> 01:16:44,841
He also identified many, many things

1409
01:16:44,841 --> 01:16:47,841
which identified conditions of approval.

1410
01:16:48,314 --> 01:16:50,651
Things that needed to be done to make sure the Hillside

1411
01:16:50,651 --> 01:16:51,471
was stable.

1412
01:16:51,471 --> 01:16:54,389
That included specific types of fill.

1413
01:16:54,389 --> 01:16:58,187
The type of compaction they are going to use on the soil.

1414
01:16:58,187 --> 01:17:00,121
Construction methods.

1415
01:17:00,121 --> 01:17:02,721
How the foundation should be built. What the finished grade

1416
01:17:02,721 --> 01:17:03,665
should be.

1417
01:17:03,665 --> 01:17:05,707
They did mention piles.

1418
01:17:05,707 --> 01:17:07,281
Subsurface preparation.

1419
01:17:07,281 --> 01:17:10,810
Handling of Rainwater during construction pier

1420
01:17:10,810 --> 01:17:12,634
even though we have a document that

1421
01:17:12,634 --> 01:17:16,521
says it is provided by the technical engineer

1422
01:17:16,521 --> 01:17:17,894
double geotechnical engineer.

1423
01:17:17,894 --> 01:17:20,777
How do we make sure that the city enforces every part

1424
01:17:20,777 --> 01:17:22,270
of those recommendations.

1425
01:17:22,270 --> 01:17:25,449
You mentioned earlier a firm called BSK.

1426
01:17:25,449 --> 01:17:27,347
Is that the third party Geotech.

1427
01:17:27,347 --> 01:17:27,847
Okay.

1428
01:17:27,847 --> 01:17:28,347
Thank you.

1429
01:17:28,347 --> 01:17:29,705
I wanted to understand that.

1430
01:17:29,705 --> 01:17:32,186
I want to know what due diligence happens

1431
01:17:32,186 --> 01:17:37,185
during the actual review of the plans from site prep,

1432
01:17:37,185 --> 01:17:39,650
to grading, to actual construction,

1433
01:17:39,650 --> 01:17:41,233
and how that is controlled.

1434
01:17:41,233 --> 01:17:46,341
Have we done due diligence and looked at the compaction rates.

1435
01:17:46,341 --> 01:17:47,834
There is pre-construction.

1436
01:17:47,834 --> 01:17:50,785
There is during construction and post construction.

1437
01:17:50,785 --> 01:17:54,961
What is the due diligence we have for testing materials.

1438
01:17:54,961 --> 01:17:57,361
Testing the appropriate compaction.

1439
01:17:57,931 --> 01:18:00,281
And we talked about Rainwater.

1440
01:18:00,281 --> 01:18:04,490
Another suggestion was the Rainwater system --

1441
01:18:04,490 --> 01:18:07,369
system be maintained throughout its life if the property is

1442
01:18:07,369 --> 01:18:13,369
sold, we have to ensure that the Rainwater system , grading,

1443
01:18:13,401 --> 01:18:14,651
and water flow is maintained.

1444
01:18:14,651 --> 01:18:17,730
I want to make sure the city is doing due diligence,

1445
01:18:17,730 --> 01:18:20,751
if the project is approved, that everything

1446
01:18:20,751 --> 01:18:23,151
is watched like hawks.

1447
01:18:23,151 --> 01:18:25,551
Thank >> Thank you, Barbara.

1448
01:18:27,541 --> 01:18:29,147
Is there anyone else that did not

1449
01:18:29,147 --> 01:18:33,921
fill out a speaker card, that wishes to speak on this item.

1450
01:18:33,921 --> 01:18:36,321
Is there anyone online?

1451
01:18:45,397 --> 01:18:47,601
>> There are no hands raised.

1452
01:18:47,601 --> 01:18:48,113
>> Okay.

1453
01:18:48,113 --> 01:18:53,161
We will officially close public comment on this agenda item.

1454
01:18:53,161 --> 01:18:57,147
Now we move on to the part of our evening where we

1455
01:18:57,147 --> 01:19:01,791
as a commission -- >> Chair, before closing the public

1456
01:19:01,791 --> 01:19:04,160
comment period the applicant does get an opportunity

1457
01:19:04,160 --> 01:19:06,641
to respond to any of the public comments that were made as part

1458
01:19:06,641 --> 01:19:07,163
of the item.

1459
01:19:07,163 --> 01:19:09,521
They get up to five minutes.

1460
01:19:09,521 --> 01:19:12,727
>> I will reopen public comment to allow for the client

1461
01:19:12,727 --> 01:19:16,161
to answer any of the questions that he heard this evening from

1462
01:19:16,161 --> 01:19:18,161
the public.

1463
01:19:24,190 --> 01:19:25,857
>> Thank you very much future neighbors.

1464
01:19:25,857 --> 01:19:32,875
I appreciate and I am glad you are also disabled like I am.

1465
01:19:32,875 --> 01:19:34,683
I am a retired physician.

1466
01:19:34,683 --> 01:19:36,932
I practiced for 40 years.

1467
01:19:36,932 --> 01:19:39,141
I have a -- had a stroke.

1468
01:19:39,141 --> 01:19:42,155
That is why I walk with a cane and this is my disabled house

1469
01:19:42,155 --> 01:19:44,497
that I'm going to be living in with me and my wife.

1470
01:19:44,497 --> 01:19:49,581
We just have one daughter, 21 years old, who is at UCLA law.

1471
01:19:49,581 --> 01:19:52,761
We just have three occupants in the house.

1472
01:19:52,761 --> 01:19:53,601
Two cars.

1473
01:19:53,601 --> 01:19:55,601
99% of the time.

1474
01:19:55,601 --> 01:20:00,401
Only 5% of the car our daughter comes home from UCLA.

1475
01:20:00,401 --> 01:20:04,181
We will a third car be parked on the driveway.

1476
01:20:04,181 --> 01:20:06,241
I am a physician.

1477
01:20:06,241 --> 01:20:07,501
Retired physician.

1478
01:20:07,501 --> 01:20:12,410
And obviously I would never block any emergency vehicles

1479
01:20:12,410 --> 01:20:17,441
or cars, or a driveway, or any normal person

1480
01:20:18,361 --> 01:20:23,987
would never block anybody going down the end of the road.

1481
01:20:23,987 --> 01:20:26,987
That should alleviate your concerns.

1482
01:20:27,831 --> 01:20:32,907
I two, like the 19,000 homes that are in this community,

1483
01:20:32,907 --> 01:20:38,187
out of which 200, by the way, are more than 3500ft²,

1484
01:20:38,187 --> 01:20:42,987
and 120 of them are also more than 3500ft²,

1485
01:20:44,410 --> 01:20:47,641
built on sloping lots in Martinez.

1486
01:20:48,481 --> 01:20:52,401
I am looking for an approval for this project.

1487
01:20:52,401 --> 01:20:57,201
I have no problems complying with anybody's concerns.

1488
01:20:57,281 --> 01:20:59,145
It goes through the city.

1489
01:20:59,145 --> 01:21:01,670
They say yes, this makes sense.

1490
01:21:01,670 --> 01:21:03,100
We follow international building codes.

1491
01:21:03,100 --> 01:21:05,561
We follow California building codes.

1492
01:21:05,561 --> 01:21:11,670
The 40 psi water is actually a normal pressure in the house.

1493
01:21:11,670 --> 01:21:13,561
Put my number says if it ever drops

1494
01:21:13,561 --> 01:21:15,881
he will add a booster pump.

1495
01:21:15,881 --> 01:21:20,481
There is an answer to any problem or solution.

1496
01:21:20,481 --> 01:21:24,361
I can not 100% guarantee that you will

1497
01:21:24,361 --> 01:21:27,361
have 100% view of the mountain.

1498
01:21:29,841 --> 01:21:32,513
I am risking building my house and somebody may

1499
01:21:32,513 --> 01:21:38,100
come next door and next door and try to get another view.

1500
01:21:38,100 --> 01:21:42,531
Just like my current home in Las Vegas, when I moved in

1501
01:21:42,531 --> 01:21:44,840
I was the only house.

1502
01:21:44,840 --> 01:21:46,484
I had 360 degree view.

1503
01:21:47,561 --> 01:21:51,161
260 -- 270 degree has been blocked off.

1504
01:21:51,245 --> 01:21:52,821
I have no complaint.

1505
01:21:52,821 --> 01:21:56,305
They have every right to live in that community

1506
01:21:56,305 --> 01:22:00,861
because that is the purpose of those lots they are there

1507
01:22:00,861 --> 01:22:03,574
for people to buy and build upon.

1508
01:22:03,574 --> 01:22:08,757
That is how these lots are they are there for people

1509
01:22:08,757 --> 01:22:10,241
to buy and build upon.

1510
01:22:10,241 --> 01:22:11,841
That is exactly what I did.

1511
01:22:11,841 --> 01:22:14,884
The problem with these smaller homes

1512
01:22:14,884 --> 01:22:18,161
is exactly what I told you what happened here the box size.

1513
01:22:18,161 --> 01:22:19,781
It drops at 25 degrees.

1514
01:22:19,781 --> 01:22:22,481
If any one of you can come up with an answer

1515
01:22:22,481 --> 01:22:26,633
to a driveway which is going to be less than 15% slope,

1516
01:22:26,633 --> 01:22:31,561
two stories, I would have Howard redraw that house no problem.

1517
01:22:31,561 --> 01:22:33,741
It is only me and my wife.

1518
01:22:33,741 --> 01:22:35,681
We can live in a two story home.

1519
01:22:35,681 --> 01:22:40,710
The other reason is because I have Parkinson's and I'm

1520
01:22:40,710 --> 01:22:42,710
looking towards the future.

1521
01:22:42,710 --> 01:22:45,741
Every hallway Howard has made in the house is bigger.

1522
01:22:45,741 --> 01:22:47,451
Every room is bigger.

1523
01:22:47,451 --> 01:22:49,221
Every bathroom is bigger.

1524
01:22:49,221 --> 01:22:53,981
Everything is looking forward to me being in a wheelchair,

1525
01:22:53,981 --> 01:22:55,449
possibly, permanently.

1526
01:22:55,449 --> 01:22:57,132
That is what it is.

1527
01:22:57,132 --> 01:22:59,991
With that, I hope you will approve

1528
01:22:59,991 --> 01:23:02,211
come out with conditions.

1529
01:23:02,211 --> 01:23:03,441
It doesn't matter.

1530
01:23:03,441 --> 01:23:08,481
It can have conditions A B C and D and we will follow it.

1531
01:23:08,481 --> 01:23:10,481
And I thank you.

1532
01:23:10,481 --> 01:23:11,201
>> Thank you.

1533
01:23:11,201 --> 01:23:12,721
We appreciate you coming back up.

1534
01:23:12,721 --> 01:23:14,905
I am sorry to hear about your Parkinson's.

1535
01:23:14,905 --> 01:23:17,609
It is truly a horrible disease.

1536
01:23:17,609 --> 01:23:24,147
Staff, do we need to open it back up for public comment.

1537
01:23:24,147 --> 01:23:27,201
>> You can now close the public comment portion.

1538
01:23:27,201 --> 01:23:29,100
>> We will now close public comment.

1539
01:23:29,100 --> 01:23:35,100
To the rest of my commissioners, and to the public,

1540
01:23:35,737 --> 01:23:38,161
we are all residents of this community.

1541
01:23:38,161 --> 01:23:40,105
We are all your neighbors.

1542
01:23:40,105 --> 01:23:44,121
Like you all we care deeply about the city.

1543
01:23:44,121 --> 01:23:45,823
We are all volunteers here trying

1544
01:23:45,823 --> 01:23:49,311
to look out for what is best for all of us.

1545
01:23:49,311 --> 01:23:53,806
We are all parents here we have children that go to our schools.

1546
01:23:53,806 --> 01:23:59,561
We are limited in what the authority is that we have.

1547
01:23:59,561 --> 01:24:03,801
We have to very stringently look at the findings that

1548
01:24:03,801 --> 01:24:05,471
have been provided to us.

1549
01:24:05,471 --> 01:24:08,689
That is what we have to vote on this evening.

1550
01:24:08,689 --> 01:24:10,621
Listening to all of you, and being

1551
01:24:10,621 --> 01:24:13,107
a member of this community, I have

1552
01:24:13,107 --> 01:24:15,741
been up in that area in the past before.

1553
01:24:15,741 --> 01:24:17,121
It is beautiful.

1554
01:24:17,121 --> 01:24:21,861
And I do share many of the concerns that you have.

1555
01:24:21,861 --> 01:24:25,905
Particularly related to the wildlife that is there.

1556
01:24:25,905 --> 01:24:27,905
The water pressure.

1557
01:24:27,961 --> 01:24:30,703
And also understand the need for story poles.

1558
01:24:30,703 --> 01:24:34,749
But I do want to open it up to the rest of this body

1559
01:24:34,749 --> 01:24:36,834
to hear what you all think.

1560
01:24:36,834 --> 01:24:38,921
Do you share the same concerns.

1561
01:24:38,921 --> 01:24:41,321
What are your thoughts?

1562
01:24:43,581 --> 01:24:45,981
>> I will start out.

1563
01:24:46,564 --> 01:24:50,681
I appreciate the work that the architect and the applicant

1564
01:24:50,681 --> 01:24:52,481
has done in this project.

1565
01:24:52,481 --> 01:24:55,595
I have always been an advocate that I am not

1566
01:24:55,595 --> 01:25:01,412
so much against size of homes, but how it fits into the site.

1567
01:25:01,412 --> 01:25:05,573
The site is -- you can make a small house look big and a big

1568
01:25:05,573 --> 01:25:06,281
house look small.

1569
01:25:06,281 --> 01:25:09,107
It is just a matter of how you approach it.

1570
01:25:09,107 --> 01:25:12,649
I would like to see story poles put up here

1571
01:25:12,649 --> 01:25:15,170
from a standpoint of actually seeing

1572
01:25:15,170 --> 01:25:18,577
the massing of the house and the views that would be eliminated.

1573
01:25:18,577 --> 01:25:24,191
But also I would like to see the actual droop lines --

1574
01:25:24,191 --> 01:25:26,549
drip lines from those trees.

1575
01:25:26,549 --> 01:25:28,338
Some are showing a five foot drip line.

1576
01:25:28,338 --> 01:25:30,869
You may have a more accurate description of that.

1577
01:25:30,869 --> 01:25:34,841
I hope the applicant put an elevator in the house

1578
01:25:34,841 --> 01:25:37,449
because using with using a cane, that is probably

1579
01:25:37,449 --> 01:25:39,812
a necessary thing to have in the house.

1580
01:25:39,812 --> 01:25:42,981
As far as the water pressure, I can appreciate that.

1581
01:25:42,981 --> 01:25:46,521
On all hillsides, there are pumping stations.

1582
01:25:46,521 --> 01:25:50,446
I suggest the gentleman that mentioned about the water.

1583
01:25:50,446 --> 01:25:53,291
I hope you have a backflow preventer on your house.

1584
01:25:53,291 --> 01:25:57,393
Otherwise your water goes down the hill, which is required.

1585
01:25:57,393 --> 01:26:00,561
But I can appreciate when you are pumping station goes out.

1586
01:26:00,561 --> 01:26:02,457
I live in a property on the Hillside.

1587
01:26:02,457 --> 01:26:04,715
When the pumping station goes out my water pressure

1588
01:26:04,715 --> 01:26:06,369
is not enough to brush my teeth.

1589
01:26:06,369 --> 01:26:08,570
I can understand that.

1590
01:26:08,570 --> 01:26:10,449
That is my concern.

1591
01:26:10,449 --> 01:26:14,667
The story poles, to let everybody see it.

1592
01:26:14,667 --> 01:26:17,697
I know the street very well and the cul de sac.

1593
01:26:17,697 --> 01:26:18,489
The parking issues.

1594
01:26:18,489 --> 01:26:22,660
I would also ask one other thing is the staging plan of what

1595
01:26:22,660 --> 01:26:23,827
it does during construction.

1596
01:26:23,827 --> 01:26:25,981
Just for purposes of construction vehicles,

1597
01:26:25,981 --> 01:26:27,100
and so forth.

1598
01:26:27,100 --> 01:26:30,410
I know that is asking a lot for the parking,

1599
01:26:30,410 --> 01:26:32,141
creating a parking area for cars,

1600
01:26:32,141 --> 01:26:33,761
but that is usually the number one

1601
01:26:33,761 --> 01:26:35,661
complaint during construction.

1602
01:26:35,661 --> 01:26:37,491
A lot of cities are now requesting, just

1603
01:26:37,491 --> 01:26:40,472
for the sake of the neighbors, so they

1604
01:26:40,472 --> 01:26:42,347
don't have to be worried about people parking

1605
01:26:42,347 --> 01:26:44,245
and taking up the whole block in front

1606
01:26:44,245 --> 01:26:45,761
of their house and their street.

1607
01:26:45,761 --> 01:26:47,634
Especially on a cul de sac area.

1608
01:26:47,634 --> 01:26:51,834
That would be my comment on that.

1609
01:26:57,207 --> 01:27:01,730
>> It was mentioned about how the city and forced

1610
01:27:01,730 --> 01:27:06,353
the conditions in the geological report can you explain how that

1611
01:27:06,353 --> 01:27:06,977
is done.

1612
01:27:06,977 --> 01:27:10,577
For me and for the audience.

1613
01:27:16,162 --> 01:27:18,204
>> I think it is in the applicant's best interest

1614
01:27:18,204 --> 01:27:21,100
to ensure that their house does not collapse.

1615
01:27:21,100 --> 01:27:24,100
More importantly, more relevant is,

1616
01:27:26,410 --> 01:27:28,393
there will be building permits submitted to the city.

1617
01:27:28,393 --> 01:27:30,560
The city will review it and the engineering division

1618
01:27:30,560 --> 01:27:34,100
who is responsible for reviewing the peer review and the soils

1619
01:27:34,100 --> 01:27:36,641
report and the Geotech report will review the building permit

1620
01:27:36,641 --> 01:27:40,929
to ensure that the designs are consistent with what is provided

1621
01:27:40,929 --> 01:27:45,501
in those reports, and while construction is underway there,

1622
01:27:45,501 --> 01:27:50,730
there are continuous inspections by our building division

1623
01:27:50,730 --> 01:27:52,507
that will ensure that foundations

1624
01:27:52,507 --> 01:27:54,561
and other components of the project

1625
01:27:54,561 --> 01:27:59,601
are consistent with what is shown on the plans.

1626
01:27:59,601 --> 01:28:01,601
>> Thank you.

1627
01:28:02,161 --> 01:28:04,781
I concur with fellow commissioner

1628
01:28:04,781 --> 01:28:06,377
about the story poles.

1629
01:28:06,377 --> 01:28:08,136
I think that should be done.

1630
01:28:08,136 --> 01:28:12,121
And actually, personally I would love to see the site.

1631
01:28:12,121 --> 01:28:14,112
I can do it on my own.

1632
01:28:14,112 --> 01:28:18,501
But I think it is a really good idea to see that.

1633
01:28:18,501 --> 01:28:25,101
And also, someone mentioned three map here can that be done?

1634
01:28:25,481 --> 01:28:30,281
There are more trees than we have talked about.

1635
01:28:30,281 --> 01:28:33,814
>> On the site there is a site plan that includes all

1636
01:28:33,814 --> 01:28:36,487
of the trees that are currently there and what is being proposed

1637
01:28:36,487 --> 01:28:38,487
to be removed.

1638
01:28:38,841 --> 01:28:42,810
>> Also, the arborist report might not specifically mention

1639
01:28:42,810 --> 01:28:44,427
all of the trees.

1640
01:28:44,427 --> 01:28:49,521
That is likely because they are not in proximity to the home.

1641
01:28:49,521 --> 01:28:52,996
Therefore, will not be affected by the actual project.

1642
01:28:52,996 --> 01:28:55,177
Perhaps they just were not included

1643
01:28:55,177 --> 01:28:56,817
for that specific reason.

1644
01:28:56,817 --> 01:29:02,761
But all of the trees are at least mapped on the site plan.

1645
01:29:02,761 --> 01:29:04,761
>> Thank you.

1646
01:29:21,610 --> 01:29:24,361
>> Based upon what some of the commissioners have inquired

1647
01:29:24,361 --> 01:29:30,961
about, I think there has been some comments by the public

1648
01:29:34,321 --> 01:29:38,663
related to limiting development on this particular lot I think

1649
01:29:38,663 --> 01:29:43,481
it is important to mention that this area has been zoned

1650
01:29:43,481 --> 01:29:45,201
for residential development.

1651
01:29:45,201 --> 01:29:48,921
Sometimes this body, we do get an opportunity,

1652
01:29:48,921 --> 01:29:50,875
when staff brings it to us.

1653
01:29:50,875 --> 01:29:53,273
And there is a question of rezoning,

1654
01:29:53,273 --> 01:29:57,641
that we do have some control or say.

1655
01:29:57,641 --> 01:29:59,449
Unfortunately, this particular instance,

1656
01:29:59,449 --> 01:30:01,785
it has already been rezoned in the parcels

1657
01:30:01,785 --> 01:30:04,561
have already been purchased by members of the public.

1658
01:30:04,561 --> 01:30:07,500
Limiting the development on that area,

1659
01:30:07,500 --> 01:30:09,741
we don't really have the authority to do.

1660
01:30:09,741 --> 01:30:14,145
We do have the ability to take your concerns into consideration

1661
01:30:14,145 --> 01:30:19,610
to try to make it so those concerns are addressed

1662
01:30:19,610 --> 01:30:22,461
and that the work is done safely,

1663
01:30:22,461 --> 01:30:26,610
with minimal impact to the neighborhood.

1664
01:30:27,241 --> 01:30:30,153
Someone in the public also mentioned

1665
01:30:30,153 --> 01:30:32,801
that this sets a precedent.

1666
01:30:32,801 --> 01:30:34,681
I completely agree.

1667
01:30:34,681 --> 01:30:37,100
It does set a precedent.

1668
01:30:37,100 --> 01:30:40,587
People are going to build on these lots

1669
01:30:40,587 --> 01:30:42,974
at some point in time in the future.

1670
01:30:42,974 --> 01:30:44,597
Since we are setting the precedent,

1671
01:30:44,597 --> 01:30:46,529
I think we need to set the precedent that it

1672
01:30:46,529 --> 01:30:47,361
is done correctly.

1673
01:30:47,361 --> 01:30:50,721
That we address the things that you all have mentioned.

1674
01:30:50,721 --> 01:30:54,514
And that is the precedent that we set in the city of Martinez.

1675
01:30:54,514 --> 01:30:58,681
That if you are going to develop on land, in a community that

1676
01:30:58,681 --> 01:31:00,932
has been there for decades, there is a certain way

1677
01:31:00,932 --> 01:31:02,321
it has to be done.

1678
01:31:02,321 --> 01:31:04,635
That is the precedent that I want

1679
01:31:04,635 --> 01:31:06,849
us to try to work to achieve.

1680
01:31:06,849 --> 01:31:11,974
Is it possible, in terms of the conditions of approval,

1681
01:31:11,974 --> 01:31:16,774
to include some sort of examination and report

1682
01:31:18,827 --> 01:31:22,910
to be provided by a biologist, in particular.

1683
01:31:22,910 --> 01:31:24,843
To address the wildlife concerns that are there.

1684
01:31:24,843 --> 01:31:28,974
I do know that the state of California requires that if --

1685
01:31:28,974 --> 01:31:32,523
it doesn't matter if it was intended to be a residential

1686
01:31:32,523 --> 01:31:36,401
area, but after so many decades, if it turns into a wildlife

1687
01:31:36,401 --> 01:31:40,801
habitat and it is interrupted, you do have to take measures

1688
01:31:40,801 --> 01:31:45,100
to essentially replace what you have interrupted.

1689
01:31:49,601 --> 01:31:50,661
>> So you can add a condition of approval if you would like.

1690
01:31:50,661 --> 01:31:53,841
There might be a difference of what the biologist determines

1691
01:31:53,841 --> 01:31:55,841
endangered or not endangered.

1692
01:31:55,841 --> 01:31:57,557
What animals go there but you can include

1693
01:31:57,557 --> 01:31:59,957
a condition of approval.

1694
01:32:00,294 --> 01:32:02,203
>> I think if we end up moving forward,

1695
01:32:02,203 --> 01:32:04,580
that is something I would like to do.

1696
01:32:04,580 --> 01:32:09,810
I also think it is pretty unanimous on this body

1697
01:32:09,810 --> 01:32:13,681
that folks need to see story pulls there to understand

1698
01:32:13,681 --> 01:32:17,269
exactly the height and how much of the view

1699
01:32:17,269 --> 01:32:18,689
is going to be taken away.

1700
01:32:18,689 --> 01:32:21,441
I understand that views are not part of the findings for this.

1701
01:32:21,441 --> 01:32:25,641
But I think as a good neighbor policy,

1702
01:32:25,641 --> 01:32:30,161
it helps to take steps to address some of your neighbors

1703
01:32:30,161 --> 01:32:32,397
concerns particularly as you are going to be

1704
01:32:32,397 --> 01:32:33,507
a member of the community.

1705
01:32:33,507 --> 01:32:35,816
You definitely want to start off on a good foot

1706
01:32:35,816 --> 01:32:39,361
here because that possible as a condition of approval.

1707
01:32:39,361 --> 01:32:39,875
>> Yes.

1708
01:32:39,875 --> 01:32:43,361
You can also add a condition of approval.

1709
01:32:43,361 --> 01:32:44,769
>> I want to interject on that.

1710
01:32:44,769 --> 01:32:47,329
If the commission is wanting to see story

1711
01:32:47,329 --> 01:32:49,907
pulls come a staff would recommend that the item be

1712
01:32:49,907 --> 01:32:52,672
continued to a date certain to allow the story pulls

1713
01:32:52,672 --> 01:32:56,801
to be installed to allow the public to visually see them

1714
01:32:56,801 --> 01:32:59,825
and the commission to on the project

1715
01:32:59,825 --> 01:33:02,225
after seeing the installation.

1716
01:33:05,117 --> 01:33:06,825
>> That's been done on the street before.

1717
01:33:06,825 --> 01:33:08,200
Poles were put up and the builder

1718
01:33:08,200 --> 01:33:10,256
decided they didn't want to adapt to the changes,

1719
01:33:10,256 --> 01:33:12,529
and they walked away from the project.

1720
01:33:12,529 --> 01:33:16,129
That has happened on three occasions.

1721
01:33:20,436 --> 01:33:22,561
>> The next person -- question I have is for staff.

1722
01:33:22,561 --> 01:33:24,587
The aging water pump.

1723
01:33:24,587 --> 01:33:29,387
As more homes are built on the Hillside,

1724
01:33:29,569 --> 01:33:31,505
the water pressure is going to drop.

1725
01:33:31,505 --> 01:33:35,352
What is our standard operating procedure in terms of that?

1726
01:33:35,352 --> 01:33:40,814
What do we do about decreasing water pressure and aging water

1727
01:33:40,814 --> 01:33:42,519
infrastructure?

1728
01:33:42,519 --> 01:33:44,686
>> I would have to reach out to the water department

1729
01:33:44,686 --> 01:33:50,651
and our public Works director to see what they are doing in terms

1730
01:33:50,651 --> 01:33:51,806
of timelines and updates.

1731
01:33:51,806 --> 01:33:53,967
That is something that I can provide in the future,

1732
01:33:53,967 --> 01:33:58,692
if that is a concern, to see where things are at,

1733
01:33:58,692 --> 01:34:00,267
at the moment.

1734
01:34:00,267 --> 01:34:03,931
>> I would also recommend, if it is a concern of the commission

1735
01:34:03,931 --> 01:34:06,691
that condition of approval is included,

1736
01:34:06,691 --> 01:34:12,427
that minimum water pressure is maintained at the subject site.

1737
01:34:12,427 --> 01:34:14,391
I believe there is a minimum water

1738
01:34:14,391 --> 01:34:15,783
pressure per city standards.

1739
01:34:15,783 --> 01:34:19,383
I believe it is 40 gallons --

1740
01:34:19,583 --> 01:34:21,610
40 psi.

1741
01:34:21,610 --> 01:34:27,610
Just ensure that level is maintained at the project site.

1742
01:34:28,955 --> 01:34:30,747
>> I have one question for staff regarding,

1743
01:34:30,747 --> 01:34:34,241
what is the fire department's requirements for fire hydrants

1744
01:34:34,241 --> 01:34:37,410
or fire flow in case there is a fire.

1745
01:34:37,410 --> 01:34:39,993
Generally the fire department has certain requirements on that

1746
01:34:39,993 --> 01:34:40,697
as well.

1747
01:34:40,697 --> 01:34:43,351
That would probably take precedence

1748
01:34:43,351 --> 01:34:45,751
over the personal water.

1749
01:34:46,216 --> 01:34:47,841
>> There are certain fire requirements.

1750
01:34:47,841 --> 01:34:51,481
This project was routed to the fire department,

1751
01:34:51,481 --> 01:34:55,681
and did make some comments, but nothing

1752
01:34:55,953 --> 01:34:57,574
that would stop the project.

1753
01:34:57,574 --> 01:35:02,513
If this were to continue, it would still --

1754
01:35:02,513 --> 01:35:04,971
if the project were to move forward to the building permits

1755
01:35:04,971 --> 01:35:08,810
phase, the fire department would review it again and provide

1756
01:35:08,810 --> 01:35:14,445
the input to make sure that the resources and fire access is >>

1757
01:35:14,445 --> 01:35:16,945
Generally they want to see some kind of assurance or booster

1758
01:35:16,945 --> 01:35:20,271
pump, or something in case there is a fire and there is enough

1759
01:35:20,271 --> 01:35:23,218
water to fight the fires up there.

1760
01:35:23,218 --> 01:35:27,401
I know in the Oakland fires we had that real problem where

1761
01:35:27,401 --> 01:35:32,801
we didn't have pressure and couldn't fight the fires.

1762
01:35:33,397 --> 01:35:35,897
>> I live in the part of the city where he have Contra Costa

1763
01:35:35,897 --> 01:35:36,397
Waters.

1764
01:35:36,397 --> 01:35:37,778
There is no city water.

1765
01:35:37,778 --> 01:35:41,310
I would kind of like to understand

1766
01:35:41,310 --> 01:35:46,425
how the water system that serves this area and the pump.

1767
01:35:46,425 --> 01:35:49,401
Is that something that the homeowners

1768
01:35:49,401 --> 01:35:54,201
own as some kind of water district, that

1769
01:35:54,329 --> 01:35:59,178
is connected to the Martinez water system, or water

1770
01:35:59,178 --> 01:35:59,678
department?

1771
01:35:59,678 --> 01:36:05,678
I know they are a separate entity outside of us.

1772
01:36:06,410 --> 01:36:08,841
>> Any infrastructure that is installed within the public

1773
01:36:08,841 --> 01:36:11,381
right of way would be publicly owned infrastructure.

1774
01:36:11,381 --> 01:36:15,631
It is not uncommon for projects for the engineering division

1775
01:36:15,631 --> 01:36:18,310
to require infrastructure improvements

1776
01:36:18,713 --> 01:36:22,289
as part of a development project at the expense of the applicant.

1777
01:36:22,289 --> 01:36:26,832
But then they would be owned by the city,

1778
01:36:26,832 --> 01:36:29,107
or in this case the water department.

1779
01:36:29,107 --> 01:36:32,741
Any improvements that would be installed on private property

1780
01:36:32,741 --> 01:36:35,141
would be privately owned.

1781
01:36:45,230 --> 01:36:46,105
>> Question to staff.

1782
01:36:46,105 --> 01:36:48,281
Somebody mentioned cracks in the road.

1783
01:36:48,281 --> 01:36:51,281
What condition is that road?

1784
01:36:54,441 --> 01:36:56,321
>> Cracks and the road.

1785
01:36:56,321 --> 01:36:58,181
>> That is what I heard.

1786
01:36:58,181 --> 01:37:00,930
>> If it isn't the public right of way,

1787
01:37:00,930 --> 01:37:03,313
that is something that public works also maintains and would

1788
01:37:03,313 --> 01:37:06,107
make sure it is drivable and is up to date.

1789
01:37:06,107 --> 01:37:09,145
If there is any concern or safety,

1790
01:37:09,145 --> 01:37:12,271
you could reach out and submit a request to Public Works

1791
01:37:12,271 --> 01:37:16,915
and they could go ahead and inspect go to the site

1792
01:37:16,915 --> 01:37:21,961
and see what needs to be done for those cracks.

1793
01:37:21,961 --> 01:37:25,301
>> Just to opine further, there is a condition of approval that

1794
01:37:25,301 --> 01:37:30,381
requires the project applicant to fix any roadway issues,

1795
01:37:30,381 --> 01:37:34,410
regardless if they were there before or after the project.

1796
01:37:34,410 --> 01:37:36,329
Again, that nexus would be limited

1797
01:37:36,329 --> 01:37:39,609
to pretty much the centerline of the road,

1798
01:37:39,609 --> 01:37:41,313
adjacent to their property.

1799
01:37:41,313 --> 01:37:44,414
They would not be responsible for the entirety of Saint

1800
01:37:44,414 --> 01:37:46,121
Mary's.

1801
01:37:46,121 --> 01:37:48,121
>> Thank you.

1802
01:38:01,474 --> 01:38:02,599
>> Unfortunately, we can't.

1803
01:38:02,599 --> 01:38:04,631
We have already closed public comment.

1804
01:38:04,631 --> 01:38:06,631
I have questions.

1805
01:38:07,401 --> 01:38:11,981
And I think a lot of us do peer particularly

1806
01:38:11,981 --> 01:38:15,581
relating to wanting to get answers

1807
01:38:15,761 --> 01:38:19,361
on a report on water pressure.

1808
01:38:20,433 --> 01:38:25,233
The erection of story poles and a report

1809
01:38:25,827 --> 01:38:28,497
from a biologist on the wildlife.

1810
01:38:28,497 --> 01:38:32,614
I say that because it impacts the client, particularly.

1811
01:38:32,614 --> 01:38:34,161
The applicant.

1812
01:38:34,161 --> 01:38:38,821
Based upon their findings, it impacts your design drawings,

1813
01:38:38,821 --> 01:38:40,821
your civil drawings.

1814
01:38:41,860 --> 01:38:43,809
That would affect what you are actually

1815
01:38:43,809 --> 01:38:45,111
going to be building outside.

1816
01:38:45,111 --> 01:38:47,873
Could also address some of the concerns that were brought on

1817
01:38:47,873 --> 01:38:49,410
by your neighbor.

1818
01:38:49,410 --> 01:38:52,161
And I think that we need to get answers to those questions.

1819
01:38:52,161 --> 01:38:55,161
See the story poles, before we can say,

1820
01:38:55,161 --> 01:38:58,347
as I mentioned before, we are doing this the right way.

1821
01:38:58,347 --> 01:39:01,410
I don't think this body is saying no,

1822
01:39:01,410 --> 01:39:07,911
but I think we are saying that we do need more information.

1823
01:39:07,911 --> 01:39:10,161
>> Staff can attempt to make a motion for the Planning

1824
01:39:10,161 --> 01:39:12,467
Commission's consideration with what we have heard

1825
01:39:12,467 --> 01:39:15,410
the Commission say, unless there are other commissioners that

1826
01:39:15,410 --> 01:39:17,410
have additional comments.

1827
01:39:17,427 --> 01:39:19,531
>> This is connected to my earlier question about

1828
01:39:19,531 --> 01:39:21,671
the erosion control plan.

1829
01:39:21,671 --> 01:39:25,961
My question is just around the construction safety.

1830
01:39:25,961 --> 01:39:27,776
Conditional approval and understanding

1831
01:39:27,776 --> 01:39:33,810
that in more detail and what is included in the requirement.

1832
01:39:33,810 --> 01:39:35,561
>> We can provide further information on that as well

1833
01:39:35,561 --> 01:39:37,986
added to the conditions of approval.

1834
01:39:37,986 --> 01:39:40,386
More information on that.

1835
01:39:40,841 --> 01:39:45,601
>> I think there should be a motion that is made to table

1836
01:39:45,601 --> 01:39:51,100
this particular agenda item until a later specified date,

1837
01:39:51,810 --> 01:39:56,901
to allow for the addressing of the four questions brought forth

1838
01:39:56,901 --> 01:39:58,901
by this body.

1839
01:40:03,928 --> 01:40:06,737
>> Just to quickly enumerate those .

1840
01:40:06,737 --> 01:40:09,810
The commissioner has a comment before doing those.

1841
01:40:09,810 --> 01:40:13,881
Comments that staff heard were wanting the applicant

1842
01:40:13,971 --> 01:40:16,570
to install story poles.

1843
01:40:16,570 --> 01:40:20,571
Want the plans to be revised to reflect the drip line

1844
01:40:20,571 --> 01:40:23,201
of the trees proposed to be removed,

1845
01:40:23,201 --> 01:40:26,153
as well as the trees proposed dash --

1846
01:40:26,153 --> 01:40:28,421
proposed to be preserved as part of the project.

1847
01:40:28,421 --> 01:40:31,961
A staging plan as it relates to various stages

1848
01:40:31,961 --> 01:40:35,241
throughout construction to ensure adequate accessibility

1849
01:40:35,241 --> 01:40:38,181
for emergency vehicles and adequate safety

1850
01:40:38,181 --> 01:40:40,181
within the neighborhood.

1851
01:40:43,161 --> 01:40:47,841
A biologist to assess the property and any potential

1852
01:40:47,841 --> 01:40:49,841
protected species .

1853
01:40:51,776 --> 01:40:55,574
For additional information in regards to the existing water

1854
01:40:55,574 --> 01:40:57,241
pressure and potential improvements that

1855
01:40:57,241 --> 01:41:01,441
would be required, associated with the project.

1856
01:41:02,641 --> 01:41:05,881
And that is what I am hearing.

1857
01:41:05,881 --> 01:41:08,881
What staff would recommend, given

1858
01:41:09,367 --> 01:41:14,233
the amount of items that are requested by the commission.

1859
01:41:14,233 --> 01:41:19,353
That this item be brought back at the meeting on October 27th,

1860
01:41:19,353 --> 01:41:23,711
to give adequate time for the applicant to respond and gather

1861
01:41:23,711 --> 01:41:25,711
the requested information.

1862
01:41:26,761 --> 01:41:30,861
However, in order to do so, by the shake of the head cometh

1863
01:41:30,861 --> 01:41:35,481
the applicant would need to agree to a 90 day permit

1864
01:41:35,481 --> 01:41:38,601
streamlining act extension for the project.

1865
01:41:38,601 --> 01:41:42,121
And then I would also like to put on the records,

1866
01:41:42,121 --> 01:41:45,841
because the item is being potentially continued to a date

1867
01:41:45,841 --> 01:41:49,441
certain, there will not be additional public notice

1868
01:41:49,441 --> 01:41:50,701
for this item.

1869
01:41:50,701 --> 01:41:52,617
This is the notice.

1870
01:41:52,617 --> 01:41:56,817
The October 27th would be that date.

1871
01:42:00,941 --> 01:42:01,441
>> Okay.

1872
01:42:01,441 --> 01:42:05,641
Can I get a motion for that.

1873
01:42:06,490 --> 01:42:07,841
>> I have a question of what you just said.

1874
01:42:07,841 --> 01:42:09,561
Why is that?

1875
01:42:09,561 --> 01:42:11,434
There is no public notice.

1876
01:42:11,434 --> 01:42:14,170
>> Typically public notice is just provided before the initial

1877
01:42:14,170 --> 01:42:14,850
public hearing.

1878
01:42:14,850 --> 01:42:16,961
Then it is members of the public responsibility

1879
01:42:16,961 --> 01:42:21,231
to follow a project as it continues through the hearing

1880
01:42:21,231 --> 01:42:21,901
process.

1881
01:42:21,901 --> 01:42:23,923
Any member of the public, at any time,

1882
01:42:23,923 --> 01:42:25,497
can reach out to the project planner

1883
01:42:25,497 --> 01:42:27,581
to get an update to see if it is still going

1884
01:42:27,581 --> 01:42:30,801
to be heard on the agenda.

1885
01:42:30,801 --> 01:42:32,801
>> Thank you.

1886
01:42:36,314 --> 01:42:39,727
>> I will move to continue the project until October 27th with

1887
01:42:39,727 --> 01:42:45,187
the time for staff to come back with us with information

1888
01:42:45,187 --> 01:42:49,281
regarding the biologist, story poles to be put up before

1889
01:42:49,281 --> 01:42:52,951
the next ten days prior to the next public hearing.

1890
01:42:52,951 --> 01:42:55,170
Information on the water pressure.

1891
01:42:55,170 --> 01:42:58,451
The drip lines on the site plan, showing the existing

1892
01:42:58,451 --> 01:43:01,313
and proposed choice double trees to be

1893
01:43:01,313 --> 01:43:03,641
removed accurately and a staging plan for parking

1894
01:43:03,641 --> 01:43:05,641
during construction.

1895
01:43:06,254 --> 01:43:08,654
>> I second the motion.

1896
01:43:08,961 --> 01:43:11,361
>> Please record the vote.

1897
01:43:18,274 --> 01:43:20,274
>>

1898
01:43:20,406 --> 01:43:22,406
[Members Voting]

1899
01:43:25,961 --> 01:43:27,761
>> The motion passes.

1900
01:43:27,761 --> 01:43:29,129
>> Thank you all for coming out.

1901
01:43:29,129 --> 01:43:31,121
We really appreciate it.

1902
01:43:31,121 --> 01:43:35,570
We don't always get this much public engagement.

1903
01:43:35,570 --> 01:43:38,141
It has been great for us to see you all out here.

1904
01:43:38,141 --> 01:43:39,174
Hopefully it continues.

1905
01:43:39,174 --> 01:43:41,174
Thank you.

1906
01:43:43,363 --> 01:43:45,821
>> Chair, staff would recommend a two minute recess between

1907
01:43:45,821 --> 01:43:47,821
items.

1908
01:43:48,521 --> 01:43:52,121
>> We will recess for two minutes.

1909
01:49:44,840 --> 01:49:46,264
>> All right come on everyone.

1910
01:49:46,264 --> 01:49:49,284
If you will please grab your seats.

1911
01:49:49,284 --> 01:49:51,284
It is eight:48.

1912
01:49:51,684 --> 01:49:54,935
We will call this meeting back into order.

1913
01:49:54,935 --> 01:50:01,220
We will move on to our next regularly scheduled agenda item.

1914
01:50:01,220 --> 01:50:05,772
Next item is conduct a public hearing and adopt a resolution

1915
01:50:05,772 --> 01:50:08,204
denying the appeal and upholding the zoning

1916
01:50:08,204 --> 01:50:11,804
Administrator's decision to approve planning application

1917
01:50:12,353 --> 01:50:14,353
2026PLN-0029 .

1918
01:50:20,780 --> 01:50:20,785
Yes?

1919
01:50:20,785 --> 01:50:22,910
>> Before getting started on this item I would like

1920
01:50:22,910 --> 01:50:23,996
to outline the process.

1921
01:50:23,996 --> 01:50:26,977
Is a little bit different than the last item.

1922
01:50:26,977 --> 01:50:30,840
>> Before we move on to the staff presentation comment we

1923
01:50:30,840 --> 01:50:32,992
will briefly go on to outline this next item.

1924
01:50:32,992 --> 01:50:36,592
It is a little bit different.

1925
01:50:37,684 --> 01:50:40,644
>> The item will work with staff providing a presentation.

1926
01:50:40,644 --> 01:50:45,493
The applicant team will have up to ten minutes

1927
01:50:45,493 --> 01:50:47,844
to present the project.

1928
01:50:47,844 --> 01:50:50,844
The appellants, plural, will have

1929
01:50:50,937 --> 01:50:55,124
up to ten minutes to present their argument for the project.

1930
01:50:55,124 --> 01:50:59,526
Followed by opening up public comment for up to three minutes

1931
01:50:59,526 --> 01:51:00,225
per speaker.

1932
01:51:00,225 --> 01:51:04,884
That is not an appellant and not part of the applicant team.

1933
01:51:04,884 --> 01:51:09,236
After the public comment period, the appellant team

1934
01:51:09,236 --> 01:51:11,540
will have an additional five minutes

1935
01:51:11,540 --> 01:51:13,724
to provide any additional comments.

1936
01:51:13,724 --> 01:51:18,772
The applicant will have up to five minutes for any comments.

1937
01:51:18,772 --> 01:51:21,896
Then we will close the public portion of the meeting

1938
01:51:21,896 --> 01:51:23,648
and the Commission will deliberate.

1939
01:51:23,648 --> 01:51:29,764
DD will be keeping track of time as she did for the last item.

1940
01:51:29,764 --> 01:51:30,484
>> Thank you.

1941
01:51:30,484 --> 01:51:36,470
Any questions about the scheme or maneuver as we move forward.

1942
01:51:36,470 --> 01:51:39,484
We will keep the ball rolling, staff.

1943
01:51:39,484 --> 01:51:40,564
Thank you.

1944
01:51:40,564 --> 01:51:43,564
>> Thank you chair, Joseph Evans, thank you.

1945
01:51:43,564 --> 01:51:47,604
I'm going to be giving a presentation on 103 Escobar

1946
01:51:47,604 --> 01:51:53,400
Street and the variance and minor exception appeal tonight.

1947
01:51:55,324 --> 01:51:57,324
One second, please .

1948
01:52:04,954 --> 01:52:05,529
Okay.

1949
01:52:05,529 --> 01:52:06,679
Thank you.

1950
01:52:06,679 --> 01:52:09,244
A little bit about the project.

1951
01:52:09,244 --> 01:52:11,236
It is at 103 Escobar Street.

1952
01:52:11,236 --> 01:52:14,234
This is also on a residential single family

1953
01:52:14,234 --> 01:52:16,234
zoning district are 6.0.

1954
01:52:16,470 --> 01:52:19,708
The general plan is a central residential low a.

1955
01:52:19,708 --> 01:52:25,764
The lot size is 5227ft² it is an existing single family

1956
01:52:25,764 --> 01:52:27,564
residential dwelling unit.

1957
01:52:27,564 --> 01:52:32,840
The surrounding land use is also single family residential.

1958
01:52:32,840 --> 01:52:36,284
Prior to the application on September 26th, 2025,

1959
01:52:38,984 --> 01:52:42,364
the applicant submitted a request for historical resales

1960
01:52:42,364 --> 01:52:47,630
evaluation to determine if the single family dwelling unit has

1961
01:52:47,630 --> 01:52:50,524
any historical significance at the local,

1962
01:52:50,524 --> 01:52:51,772
state or federal level.

1963
01:52:51,772 --> 01:52:55,670
On December 15th, 2025, Rincon Consultants determined that it

1964
01:52:55,670 --> 01:52:58,894
would not be considered for historical and ineligible

1965
01:52:58,894 --> 01:53:01,894
for national or California Register.

1966
01:53:03,724 --> 01:53:07,714
After the historic resource evaluation was done,

1967
01:53:07,714 --> 01:53:11,444
the applicant submitted for an application for the proposed

1968
01:53:11,444 --> 01:53:15,624
project and was taken to a Zoning Administrator meeting

1969
01:53:15,624 --> 01:53:17,624
on July 23rd, 2026.

1970
01:53:18,104 --> 01:53:22,524
The project was presented at the Zoning Administrator level,

1971
01:53:22,524 --> 01:53:23,704
at the meeting.

1972
01:53:23,704 --> 01:53:26,954
Public concerns were about height, scale, massing,

1973
01:53:26,954 --> 01:53:31,636
and the existing overgrowth of vegetation and the trees.

1974
01:53:31,636 --> 01:53:34,584
Based on this feedback, the meeting was continued until

1975
01:53:34,584 --> 01:53:36,354
August 13th, 2026.

1976
01:53:36,354 --> 01:53:38,754
The Zoning administrator requested

1977
01:53:39,140 --> 01:53:41,300
that the applicant meet with neighbors

1978
01:53:41,300 --> 01:53:44,234
to discuss their concerns, provide an exhibit,

1979
01:53:44,234 --> 01:53:48,484
or install story poles consider modifications to the project,

1980
01:53:48,484 --> 01:53:50,790
and prune the overgrown vegetation.

1981
01:53:50,790 --> 01:53:55,964
Since then, on August 7th, 2026, the architect and the applicants

1982
01:53:55,964 --> 01:53:58,344
met with neighbors to discuss the project.

1983
01:53:58,344 --> 01:54:00,190
Vegetation has been pruned.

1984
01:54:00,190 --> 01:54:03,190
No changes to the project.

1985
01:54:03,884 --> 01:54:08,840
On August 13th, 2026, Project was presented again

1986
01:54:09,228 --> 01:54:11,364
at the Zoning Administrator meeting.

1987
01:54:11,364 --> 01:54:13,440
Public concerns about the singular

1988
01:54:13,440 --> 01:54:17,244
Story pole that was installed, fire resistance,

1989
01:54:17,484 --> 01:54:21,204
impeding views and lack of sidewalk along the frontage.

1990
01:54:21,204 --> 01:54:23,794
The zoning administrator approved the project

1991
01:54:23,794 --> 01:54:25,684
with additional conditions, which

1992
01:54:25,684 --> 01:54:29,257
include site development permit from the Engineering division

1993
01:54:29,257 --> 01:54:32,254
for frontage improvements and add references

1994
01:54:32,254 --> 01:54:35,350
to the proposed accessory dwelling unit, which I

1995
01:54:35,350 --> 01:54:37,468
will show later in the slides.

1996
01:54:37,468 --> 01:54:41,844
On August 24th, 2026, the appellants filed an appeal

1997
01:54:41,844 --> 01:54:46,364
citing that the size and scale of the proposed project is not

1998
01:54:46,364 --> 01:54:50,401
appropriate for the lot size and the findings made by the zoning

1999
01:54:50,401 --> 01:54:50,984
administrator.

2000
01:54:50,984 --> 01:54:53,844
I will provide more details on the appeal later

2001
01:54:53,844 --> 01:54:57,684
in the presentation but I wanted to give a little bit of context

2002
01:54:57,684 --> 01:54:59,476
of the proposed project.

2003
01:54:59,476 --> 01:55:04,160
The applicants are proposing to construct a 1782 square foot

2004
01:55:04,160 --> 01:55:07,774
addition to the existing single family dwelling

2005
01:55:07,774 --> 01:55:11,780
unit, adding a garage, two bedrooms and two bathrooms.

2006
01:55:11,780 --> 01:55:15,217
In addition to a 401 square foot Adu.

2007
01:55:15,217 --> 01:55:18,174
The new total is 3307ft².

2008
01:55:18,174 --> 01:55:24,174
I would say that it also includes the 400 square foot

2009
01:55:24,870 --> 01:55:28,724
Adu and ADUs are exempt from floor area ratio and lot

2010
01:55:28,724 --> 01:55:29,224
coverage.

2011
01:55:29,224 --> 01:55:30,649
Just to keep that in mind.

2012
01:55:30,649 --> 01:55:34,604
Is the total but it includes the Adu as well.

2013
01:55:34,604 --> 01:55:37,764
Here are the proposed front and rear elevations.

2014
01:55:37,764 --> 01:55:42,175
As you can see on the right, they

2015
01:55:42,175 --> 01:55:46,594
are adding a garage, which they did not have a garage.

2016
01:55:46,594 --> 01:55:48,648
They are adding two covered parking.

2017
01:55:48,648 --> 01:55:50,434
Now they will come into compliance

2018
01:55:50,434 --> 01:55:54,940
with the parking requirements in the R 6.0 zoning district.

2019
01:55:54,940 --> 01:56:00,940
Here are the proposed elevations for the new proposed addition .

2020
01:56:04,510 --> 01:56:07,400
Here is the proposed floor plans.

2021
01:56:07,400 --> 01:56:11,417
You can see the upper floor on the left and the lower floor

2022
01:56:11,417 --> 01:56:14,588
on the right side, which includes the Adu highlighted

2023
01:56:14,588 --> 01:56:18,280
in yellow and the garage space.

2024
01:56:18,280 --> 01:56:24,280
Here are just some elevation comparisons of the existing roof

2025
01:56:24,154 --> 01:56:27,277
ridgeline and what is the proposed roof ridgeline,

2026
01:56:27,277 --> 01:56:31,244
so you have in red what is being proposed in the blue

2027
01:56:31,244 --> 01:56:35,444
is what is existing currently similar elevations,

2028
01:56:36,244 --> 01:56:41,644
but this is going to be from Escobar Street.

2029
01:56:43,684 --> 01:56:47,284
This property also has a slope.

2030
01:56:47,510 --> 01:56:50,844
The slope is on Escobar Street, as you can see

2031
01:56:50,844 --> 01:56:53,844
indicated on this aerial view.

2032
01:56:55,604 --> 01:56:59,204
This was provided by the applicant's.

2033
01:57:00,308 --> 01:57:03,844
It is an image from a neighboring property

2034
01:57:03,844 --> 01:57:06,732
and the views that it has at 103 Escobar Street.

2035
01:57:06,732 --> 01:57:09,124
On the right side you can see where the picture

2036
01:57:09,124 --> 01:57:11,920
was taken on the star.

2037
01:57:11,920 --> 01:57:14,901
That is the approximate area it was taken at.

2038
01:57:14,901 --> 01:57:17,190
There is thin lining and red.

2039
01:57:17,190 --> 01:57:19,724
I just added the proposed roof ridge

2040
01:57:19,724 --> 01:57:23,164
to make it clear for the presentation to where

2041
01:57:23,164 --> 01:57:28,684
the maximum height would be for the new proposed addition.

2042
01:57:28,684 --> 01:57:33,248
Here we have the zoning compliance for our 6.0.

2043
01:57:33,248 --> 01:57:37,784
As you can see, the applicants are requesting a variance

2044
01:57:37,784 --> 01:57:39,640
to standards.

2045
01:57:39,640 --> 01:57:44,316
That includes the front setback, street side yard setback.

2046
01:57:44,316 --> 01:57:46,212
The rear yard coverage.

2047
01:57:46,212 --> 01:57:50,412
FAR and a minor exception for height.

2048
01:57:53,164 --> 01:57:57,364
With this, with the request for variance,

2049
01:57:58,110 --> 01:58:00,464
the staff has to make variance findings.

2050
01:58:00,464 --> 01:58:04,364
Here are the findings that have to be made.

2051
01:58:04,364 --> 01:58:09,894
And here are the minor exception findings that have to be made

2052
01:58:09,894 --> 01:58:15,894
related to height as I mentioned before, on August 24th, 2026,

2053
01:58:19,734 --> 01:58:22,572
the appellants filed an appeal citing the expansion

2054
01:58:22,572 --> 01:58:25,834
into the setbacks obstructing traffic views,

2055
01:58:25,834 --> 01:58:28,844
the size and scale of the proposed project is not

2056
01:58:28,844 --> 01:58:32,484
appropriate for the lot size and height obstructing neighboring

2057
01:58:32,484 --> 01:58:35,497
views that the variance findings do not provide justifications

2058
01:58:35,497 --> 01:58:37,324
for setback deviations.

2059
01:58:37,324 --> 01:58:40,570
Minor exception findings do not provide justifications

2060
01:58:40,570 --> 01:58:42,570
for height deviations.

2061
01:58:44,324 --> 01:58:47,774
This is the response to the appellants

2062
01:58:47,774 --> 01:58:49,204
for the variance portions.

2063
01:58:49,204 --> 01:58:52,404
Neighboring properties within the same R

2064
01:58:52,404 --> 01:58:55,860
6.0 zoning district are of similar or greater size

2065
01:58:55,860 --> 01:58:57,467
than the proposed project and would

2066
01:58:57,467 --> 01:58:59,884
be generally consistent with the scale of the neighborhood

2067
01:58:59,884 --> 01:59:03,954
neighboring properties, such as 20 Escobar Street, 30 Escobar

2068
01:59:03,954 --> 01:59:08,732
Street, 40 Escobar Street all have reduced front yard setbacks

2069
01:59:08,732 --> 01:59:10,360
they are also highlighted.

2070
01:59:10,360 --> 01:59:11,944
They are on the right.

2071
01:59:11,944 --> 01:59:14,697
The adjacent property at 107 Escobar Street

2072
01:59:14,697 --> 01:59:18,297
has a reduced rear yard setback.

2073
01:59:18,348 --> 01:59:22,334
And 110 Escobar Street exceeds the floor area ratio

2074
01:59:22,334 --> 01:59:24,734
of 0.54 R 6.0 zoning district.

2075
01:59:27,124 --> 01:59:29,830
Variance for the setbacks would not provide special privileges

2076
01:59:29,830 --> 01:59:33,424
as neighboring properties have setbacks demonstrating

2077
01:59:33,424 --> 01:59:38,224
it is an existing characteristic throughout the neighborhood.

2078
01:59:39,724 --> 01:59:42,824
This is in regards to the minor exception.

2079
01:59:42,824 --> 01:59:44,840
The concerns for the appellants related

2080
01:59:44,840 --> 01:59:49,400
to the minor exception in the proposed project, obstructing

2081
01:59:49,400 --> 01:59:53,588
views, do not directly pertain to the findings the findings are

2082
01:59:53,588 --> 01:59:56,130
mostly related to compliance with other applicable standards,

2083
01:59:56,130 --> 01:59:58,944
such as the intent of the zoning district

2084
01:59:58,944 --> 02:00:03,304
and ensuring no impact on health or safety

2085
02:00:03,304 --> 02:00:07,273
would result in the minor exception being granted.

2086
02:00:07,273 --> 02:00:10,154
While the proposed project would potentially

2087
02:00:10,154 --> 02:00:12,750
come a slightly alter existing views from neighboring

2088
02:00:12,750 --> 02:00:15,364
properties, the findings do not establish private views

2089
02:00:15,364 --> 02:00:18,244
as a protected right and proposed development

2090
02:00:18,244 --> 02:00:20,844
does not result in an adverse impact that

2091
02:00:20,844 --> 02:00:23,664
would warrant the denial of a minor exception.

2092
02:00:23,664 --> 02:00:28,464
The properties at 100 Escobar Street and 110 Escobar Street

2093
02:00:28,644 --> 02:00:31,400
have received separate entitlements approved

2094
02:00:31,400 --> 02:00:35,400
by previous planning commissions to exceed the 25 foot height

2095
02:00:35,400 --> 02:00:37,100
limit for their single family dwelling units.

2096
02:00:37,100 --> 02:00:41,300
That was in 2007 and one was in 2004.

2097
02:00:43,124 --> 02:00:48,524
Since then, we have had one written public comment

2098
02:00:48,868 --> 02:00:52,937
for the July 23rd, 2026 Zoning Administrator Meeting.

2099
02:00:52,937 --> 02:00:55,433
Another written public comment in support of the project

2100
02:00:55,433 --> 02:01:01,433
for August 13th, and we haven't had any official written

2101
02:01:02,924 --> 02:01:05,324
comments since this meeting.

2102
02:01:06,524 --> 02:01:11,344
With that, staff is recommending to conduct a public hearing

2103
02:01:11,344 --> 02:01:14,344
and adopt resolution number 26-11,

2104
02:01:16,264 --> 02:01:22,264
denying the Appeal by Arthur and Michelle Price rose Brook

2105
02:01:23,268 --> 02:01:25,200
and Jeremy Gilley.

2106
02:01:25,200 --> 02:01:29,220
Jim Hilgendorf and Cynthia McNamara and upholding

2107
02:01:30,454 --> 02:01:33,204
the zoning administrator's decision to approve planning

2108
02:01:33,204 --> 02:01:37,404
application 2026PLN-0029 approving a request from Tony

2109
02:01:39,164 --> 02:01:44,696
and Tiffany to consider a variance to reduce the rear yard

2110
02:01:44,696 --> 02:01:46,868
setback from 25ft to 20ft.

2111
02:01:46,868 --> 02:01:51,924
Reduce the required yard side yard from 3ft to 5ft.

2112
02:01:51,924 --> 02:01:56,840
Reduce the required front yard setback from 20ft to 5ft.

2113
02:01:56,840 --> 02:02:01,171
Decrease -- increase the maximum lot coverage from 40% to 45%

2114
02:02:01,171 --> 02:02:06,571
and increase the maximum floor area ratio from 0.5 to 0.58.

2115
02:02:06,984 --> 02:02:11,140
And a minor exception to increase the building height

2116
02:02:11,140 --> 02:02:15,228
to 27ft seven inches or where 25ft is permitted to construct

2117
02:02:15,228 --> 02:02:19,444
a 1007 foot square foot addition to the existing single family

2118
02:02:19,444 --> 02:02:25,444
dwelling for a total of 3370ft², located at 103 Escobar Street

2119
02:02:27,304 --> 02:02:30,304
and the residential 6.0 Zoning District.

2120
02:02:31,640 --> 02:02:34,664
With that, as Michael mentioned, I

2121
02:02:34,676 --> 02:02:36,980
am happy to answer any questions,

2122
02:02:36,980 --> 02:02:39,254
but we will also have the applicants

2123
02:02:39,254 --> 02:02:41,360
who may be able to answer questions as well

2124
02:02:41,360 --> 02:02:42,514
as the appellants.

2125
02:02:42,514 --> 02:02:44,514
Thank you.

2126
02:02:45,840 --> 02:02:46,590
>> Thank you.

2127
02:02:46,590 --> 02:02:49,300
And I am as well eager to hear from the applicant

2128
02:02:49,300 --> 02:02:50,788
and the appellant.

2129
02:02:50,788 --> 02:02:53,877
I did have 1 or 2 questions for staff.

2130
02:02:53,877 --> 02:02:57,977
I haven't been to this site myself.

2131
02:02:57,977 --> 02:03:02,574
Is there a stop sign on that corner currently?

2132
02:03:02,574 --> 02:03:03,740
No.

2133
02:03:03,740 --> 02:03:04,964
There is not.

2134
02:03:04,964 --> 02:03:07,364
>> Not that I recall.

2135
02:03:10,280 --> 02:03:13,574
>> Was there any effort made by the zoning administrator to look

2136
02:03:13,574 --> 02:03:18,970
into concerns with visibility as this being a corner lot

2137
02:03:18,970 --> 02:03:22,975
and there being an expansion and reduction from --

2138
02:03:22,975 --> 02:03:25,644
of the setback and how that affects the views for possible

2139
02:03:25,644 --> 02:03:30,577
oncoming traffic, since there is not a stop sign there.

2140
02:03:30,577 --> 02:03:35,977
>> What is currently existing is an existing non-conforming three

2141
02:03:36,468 --> 02:03:38,504
foot from the property line.

2142
02:03:38,504 --> 02:03:43,988
Typically what we require is a visibility triangle of 25ft from

2143
02:03:43,988 --> 02:03:44,910
the intersection.

2144
02:03:44,910 --> 02:03:48,510
That was provided by the architect.

2145
02:03:48,815 --> 02:03:49,315
>> Okay.

2146
02:03:49,315 --> 02:03:51,364
That is still maintained.

2147
02:03:51,364 --> 02:03:53,364
>> Correct.

2148
02:03:54,364 --> 02:03:57,364
>> Worthy story pulls ever installed?

2149
02:03:57,644 --> 02:03:59,973
>> There was, and the applicants can confirm,

2150
02:03:59,973 --> 02:04:03,144
but there was one story pole indicating the highest height

2151
02:04:03,144 --> 02:04:06,644
of where they are proposing the project.

2152
02:04:06,644 --> 02:04:07,244
>> All right.

2153
02:04:07,244 --> 02:04:09,501
Do you guys have any questions for staff

2154
02:04:09,501 --> 02:04:15,501
or do you want to move on to the applicant?

2155
02:04:17,503 --> 02:04:18,300
>> Okay.

2156
02:04:18,300 --> 02:04:20,300
Thank you, staff.

2157
02:04:28,546 --> 02:04:31,400
>> The story pulls we cannot do because you cannot get onto

2158
02:04:31,400 --> 02:04:31,740
the roof.

2159
02:04:31,740 --> 02:04:34,897
It is dilapidated and you will pretty much fall through.

2160
02:04:34,897 --> 02:04:36,737
I am Tiffany.

2161
02:04:36,737 --> 02:04:40,596
I am the owner of 103 Escobar Street.

2162
02:04:40,596 --> 02:04:43,694
Before anything else I want to thank Tony, Kirk

2163
02:04:43,694 --> 02:04:45,419
and the planning team for getting us

2164
02:04:45,419 --> 02:04:47,940
this far on this project.

2165
02:04:47,940 --> 02:04:49,644
I also want to thank the neighbors for their patience

2166
02:04:49,644 --> 02:04:50,515
with the project.

2167
02:04:50,515 --> 02:04:52,841
This house is really important to me.

2168
02:04:52,841 --> 02:04:54,323
It has a lot of memories.

2169
02:04:54,323 --> 02:04:55,436
It is a family home.

2170
02:04:55,436 --> 02:04:58,516
It was never meant to be neglected.

2171
02:04:58,516 --> 02:05:00,924
My nanny moved out and the intent

2172
02:05:00,924 --> 02:05:02,284
was to have her move back in.

2173
02:05:02,284 --> 02:05:03,899
Through a series of health issues and problems,

2174
02:05:03,899 --> 02:05:05,372
we never knew what she would need.

2175
02:05:05,372 --> 02:05:07,404
We were never able to do the remodels for her.

2176
02:05:07,404 --> 02:05:10,550
Once it became apparent that she was not

2177
02:05:10,550 --> 02:05:11,900
going to be able to move in at all,

2178
02:05:11,900 --> 02:05:13,984
I bought the home to keep it in the family

2179
02:05:13,984 --> 02:05:16,724
and to be closer to my parents.

2180
02:05:16,724 --> 02:05:20,929
When it came time to decide what to do with the home,

2181
02:05:20,929 --> 02:05:24,314
I chose to modernize the original 1914 home,

2182
02:05:24,314 --> 02:05:27,764
keeping the bones, character, and memories, while making it

2183
02:05:27,764 --> 02:05:29,400
livable again.

2184
02:05:29,400 --> 02:05:34,404
Do we have a slide quacks there we go.

2185
02:05:36,330 --> 02:05:36,830
Perfect.

2186
02:05:36,830 --> 02:05:37,604
Thank you.

2187
02:05:37,604 --> 02:05:41,840
I want to point out that I do want to be a good neighbor.

2188
02:05:41,840 --> 02:05:43,292
I would not be pushing for this if I thought it would

2189
02:05:43,292 --> 02:05:44,393
hurt the people around me.

2190
02:05:44,393 --> 02:05:45,893
The neighbors that are most impacted

2191
02:05:45,893 --> 02:05:50,714
by this remodel behind me, right adjacent, and across from me

2192
02:05:50,714 --> 02:05:52,714
actually support this.

2193
02:05:52,764 --> 02:05:57,319
I have reviewed the appellant's concerns in detail.

2194
02:05:57,319 --> 02:05:59,788
Their size, height, and corner safety.

2195
02:05:59,788 --> 02:06:01,444
I'm going to walk through quickly why I

2196
02:06:01,444 --> 02:06:04,604
don't think they will be negatively impacted by these.

2197
02:06:04,604 --> 02:06:07,844
And I request the commission uphold the original planners

2198
02:06:07,844 --> 02:06:09,844
approval.

2199
02:06:10,684 --> 02:06:15,464
When it comes to size, this home will not look out of place.

2200
02:06:15,464 --> 02:06:20,300
Escobar Street is already a real mix of size, height, shapes,

2201
02:06:20,300 --> 02:06:21,204
and uniqueness.

2202
02:06:21,204 --> 02:06:22,624
It is very eclectic.

2203
02:06:22,624 --> 02:06:26,314
And this remodel comes the original layout and character,

2204
02:06:26,314 --> 02:06:29,372
rather than turning the house into something really oversize.

2205
02:06:29,372 --> 02:06:34,772
We are only adding 871ft² beyond the original footprint

2206
02:06:34,964 --> 02:06:38,820
and living space, plus the small 401 foot Adu.

2207
02:06:38,820 --> 02:06:42,804
We are finally giving this 1914 home the off street

2208
02:06:42,804 --> 02:06:45,537
parking it has never had.

2209
02:06:45,537 --> 02:06:48,118
I know that double --

2210
02:06:48,118 --> 02:06:50,604
I have a typo up there.

2211
02:06:50,604 --> 02:06:51,564
It is 866.

2212
02:06:51,564 --> 02:06:53,724
But it is actually 871.

2213
02:06:53,724 --> 02:06:54,958
Math is hard.

2214
02:06:54,958 --> 02:06:57,240
That is a mistake by me.

2215
02:06:57,240 --> 02:07:00,364
I do want to call out that most of the additions

2216
02:07:00,364 --> 02:07:04,344
is in the third bedroom, which is on the rear west

2217
02:07:04,344 --> 02:07:05,284
side of the house.

2218
02:07:05,284 --> 02:07:07,964
That is screened by hedges and is not encroached

2219
02:07:07,964 --> 02:07:08,904
by the neighbor's.

2220
02:07:08,904 --> 02:07:11,950
The two car garage adds the off street parking

2221
02:07:11,950 --> 02:07:14,284
and there is a 401 Adu.

2222
02:07:14,284 --> 02:07:16,437
Looking at the existing design, I

2223
02:07:16,437 --> 02:07:18,712
want to call out that the current exterior

2224
02:07:18,712 --> 02:07:20,380
and basic geometry of the existing home

2225
02:07:20,380 --> 02:07:21,464
is remaining the same.

2226
02:07:21,464 --> 02:07:25,204
The main space is the kitchen, dining room, primary bedroom,

2227
02:07:25,204 --> 02:07:26,924
is all basically where it was before.

2228
02:07:26,924 --> 02:07:31,724
We are just building back, like I mentioned.

2229
02:07:32,840 --> 02:07:36,440
The proposed remodel presents a one story profile

2230
02:07:36,440 --> 02:07:38,364
from the uphill of Escobar Street.

2231
02:07:38,364 --> 02:07:41,397
Where as the houses on the east side of Escobar

2232
02:07:41,397 --> 02:07:45,735
present a two story profile, which gives it a bigger mass.

2233
02:07:45,735 --> 02:07:48,484
I have just put a couple of these pictures here.

2234
02:07:48,484 --> 02:07:49,924
There is the beautiful Victorian.

2235
02:07:49,924 --> 02:07:54,924
There is my house that we love, and the house right behind me.

2236
02:07:54,924 --> 02:07:57,748
You can see just kind of how eclectic the neighborhood is.

2237
02:07:57,748 --> 02:08:01,948
That is what makes Martinez really special.

2238
02:08:06,604 --> 02:08:11,332
When it comes to height, the extra height mostly

2239
02:08:11,332 --> 02:08:13,404
comes from digging out space for the garage

2240
02:08:13,404 --> 02:08:14,820
below the existing floors.

2241
02:08:14,820 --> 02:08:16,904
Not from building up.

2242
02:08:16,904 --> 02:08:19,901
We also brought the roof pitch down from eight and 12

2243
02:08:19,901 --> 02:08:22,678
to 6 and 12, specifically to soften the impact.

2244
02:08:22,678 --> 02:08:26,164
It is very much in keeping with other historical Martinez roof

2245
02:08:26,164 --> 02:08:26,744
lines.

2246
02:08:26,744 --> 02:08:29,754
The highest point of the ridge is only 19ft long.

2247
02:08:29,754 --> 02:08:32,948
It is downhill on the Escobar grade.

2248
02:08:32,948 --> 02:08:36,170
The split level doesn't really have a significant view impact.

2249
02:08:36,170 --> 02:08:38,784
And then we took some laser measurements

2250
02:08:38,784 --> 02:08:41,301
to show where the highest part of the roof

2251
02:08:41,301 --> 02:08:42,386
would fit on the house.

2252
02:08:42,386 --> 02:08:44,440
I will show those in a moment.

2253
02:08:44,440 --> 02:08:47,497
I also want to call out we have an appendix

2254
02:08:47,497 --> 02:08:51,620
in the back that shows the roof pitch, the size, the lot size

2255
02:08:51,620 --> 02:08:53,409
and everything around Martinez.

2256
02:08:53,409 --> 02:08:54,924
If you want to look at that later

2257
02:08:54,924 --> 02:08:58,461
you will see that we fall right in line.

2258
02:08:58,461 --> 02:09:02,438
This is hard to see, I know.

2259
02:09:02,438 --> 02:09:06,100
But the two on the left show that our highest pitch will

2260
02:09:06,100 --> 02:09:07,492
fall below their floor level.

2261
02:09:07,492 --> 02:09:09,910
That is what those two lines are.

2262
02:09:09,910 --> 02:09:12,157
And then I believe Imanol pulled up

2263
02:09:12,157 --> 02:09:14,824
a bigger version of the picture on the far right.

2264
02:09:14,824 --> 02:09:17,572
But it has an overlay and we have a bigger picture of it

2265
02:09:17,572 --> 02:09:20,238
towards the end that I think my dad will go over as well.

2266
02:09:20,238 --> 02:09:23,220
It shows where the highest point of the ridge is,

2267
02:09:23,220 --> 02:09:25,620
compared to the existing.

2268
02:09:27,644 --> 02:09:30,440
Corner safety and visibility.

2269
02:09:30,559 --> 02:09:32,517
We haven't really touched the existing setback.

2270
02:09:32,517 --> 02:09:34,315
Front is where it has always been.

2271
02:09:34,315 --> 02:09:35,985
We are just widening the kitchen.

2272
02:09:35,985 --> 02:09:37,652
The side lines up with the farthest part

2273
02:09:37,652 --> 02:09:38,569
that is already there.

2274
02:09:38,569 --> 02:09:40,512
We removed the overgrown tuna purse

2275
02:09:40,512 --> 02:09:43,474
that were sticking out past the house line, which actually

2276
02:09:43,474 --> 02:09:47,780
improves the visibility at the corner, rather than hurting it.

2277
02:09:47,780 --> 02:09:50,624
And then we have these triangulation points.

2278
02:09:50,624 --> 02:09:54,450
If you look at the second one from the far right the dash

2279
02:09:54,450 --> 02:09:56,764
right labeled Bayview Street corner you

2280
02:09:56,764 --> 02:09:58,747
can see the middle down Escobar Street here

2281
02:09:58,747 --> 02:10:01,304
you can see all the way up very clearly

2282
02:10:01,304 --> 02:10:04,404
to Bayview around the corner without any safety issues

2283
02:10:04,404 --> 02:10:06,404
at all.

2284
02:10:11,164 --> 02:10:15,300
Lastly, I just want to say, at the end of the day

2285
02:10:15,300 --> 02:10:16,959
this remodel takes a vacant rundown house

2286
02:10:16,959 --> 02:10:19,334
and turns it into a home that fits into the neighborhood.

2287
02:10:19,334 --> 02:10:22,824
It adds usable housing, parking, adds an Adu.

2288
02:10:22,824 --> 02:10:25,299
To increase its property value to surrounding neighbors

2289
02:10:25,299 --> 02:10:27,354
makes the block more appealing and safer.

2290
02:10:27,354 --> 02:10:29,857
I appreciate everyone's time and patience on this.

2291
02:10:29,857 --> 02:10:33,144
I'm hoping the Council will uphold the original approval.

2292
02:10:33,144 --> 02:10:38,544
With that, I will hand it over to Tony.

2293
02:10:52,559 --> 02:10:53,226
>> Good evening.

2294
02:10:53,226 --> 02:10:54,956
Thank you everyone for being here.

2295
02:10:54,956 --> 02:10:56,956
I thank the neighborhood for having the patience

2296
02:10:56,956 --> 02:11:00,484
over the years for this house.

2297
02:11:00,484 --> 02:11:04,454
This house, our house was built in 1914.

2298
02:11:04,454 --> 02:11:08,304
Long before two days existing building and zoning codes

2299
02:11:08,304 --> 02:11:09,684
were established.

2300
02:11:09,684 --> 02:11:12,590
Throughout Martinez, you can find exceptions

2301
02:11:12,590 --> 02:11:17,390
to all of the building and zoning codes.

2302
02:11:18,820 --> 02:11:21,508
Variance are meant to allow changes

2303
02:11:21,508 --> 02:11:24,237
to homes built before the current codes existed.

2304
02:11:24,237 --> 02:11:26,780
I want to talk about the variances

2305
02:11:26,780 --> 02:11:29,990
and what we are seeking on this remodel.

2306
02:11:29,990 --> 02:11:34,190
We want to widen the front kitchen.

2307
02:11:34,964 --> 02:11:40,364
The footprint on the front has been established since 1914.

2308
02:11:40,474 --> 02:11:46,924
By widening the kitchen, we are not encroaching on the street,

2309
02:11:46,924 --> 02:11:48,876
on Escobar, or on the front.

2310
02:11:48,876 --> 02:11:50,959
Although we are doing, in the middle of the house,

2311
02:11:50,959 --> 02:11:51,870
there is a closet.

2312
02:11:51,870 --> 02:11:53,812
We are just bringing that forward

2313
02:11:53,812 --> 02:11:57,124
to the existing pantry that is already there.

2314
02:11:57,124 --> 02:12:03,724
We are not changing the distance from the front to that.

2315
02:12:04,400 --> 02:12:06,470
That exists and we do not encroach on that.

2316
02:12:06,470 --> 02:12:08,470
We are staying with the established footprint

2317
02:12:08,470 --> 02:12:09,630
of the house.

2318
02:12:09,630 --> 02:12:12,897
We are just bringing it forward so

2319
02:12:12,897 --> 02:12:15,945
that when you look at the front of the house,

2320
02:12:15,945 --> 02:12:18,134
the kitchen becomes wider.

2321
02:12:18,134 --> 02:12:20,324
By doing that, we can accommodate

2322
02:12:20,324 --> 02:12:26,700
the two car garage and the Adu, which California and the city

2323
02:12:26,700 --> 02:12:29,204
state they both would like.

2324
02:12:29,204 --> 02:12:32,120
The increased footage is basically

2325
02:12:32,120 --> 02:12:37,196
needed to have just a standard three bedroom two bath.

2326
02:12:37,196 --> 02:12:39,840
That is what everybody wants.

2327
02:12:39,840 --> 02:12:43,457
Right now it is two bedrooms with one bath.

2328
02:12:43,457 --> 02:12:46,343
It is kind of hard.

2329
02:12:46,343 --> 02:12:51,103
The benefits of the remodel, if you look at the picture,

2330
02:12:51,103 --> 02:12:55,548
this was taken from the corner neighbor, looking down.

2331
02:12:55,548 --> 02:13:00,948
You can see the view is not really impacted.

2332
02:13:01,868 --> 02:13:07,268
The house is below the street level on Bayview.

2333
02:13:07,404 --> 02:13:09,683
The floor level is below that.

2334
02:13:09,683 --> 02:13:12,830
The house sits lower.

2335
02:13:12,297 --> 02:13:16,324
That is the view from the corner house, looking out.

2336
02:13:16,324 --> 02:13:19,850
He gave me permission to take pictures and we have others.

2337
02:13:19,850 --> 02:13:25,780
From that you can see the Bay bridge -- the bay bridge.

2338
02:13:25,780 --> 02:13:28,164
You can see the bridge, you can see shell and if you look,

2339
02:13:28,164 --> 02:13:30,377
the setback in front is going to be the same.

2340
02:13:30,377 --> 02:13:35,450
The only thing is the side comes forward to the front.

2341
02:13:35,450 --> 02:13:37,794
You can still see the courthouse.

2342
02:13:37,794 --> 02:13:39,624
You can see downtown Martinez.

2343
02:13:39,624 --> 02:13:42,950
The view isn't impacted on it.

2344
02:13:42,950 --> 02:13:47,244
What it does, as far as benefits to the neighborhood,

2345
02:13:47,244 --> 02:13:49,784
and we should have shown you a picture

2346
02:13:49,784 --> 02:13:51,970
of the front of the house.

2347
02:13:51,970 --> 02:13:54,494
What it does is it improves the value of the neighborhood.

2348
02:13:54,494 --> 02:13:57,737
It keeps the original character of the neighborhood,

2349
02:13:57,737 --> 02:13:59,124
which is important.

2350
02:13:59,124 --> 02:14:04,416
We are dropping down, as stated from eight and 12 to 6 and 12

2351
02:14:04,416 --> 02:14:05,871
to help lessen the impact.

2352
02:14:05,871 --> 02:14:08,443
But it is important to keep the character of the neighborhood

2353
02:14:08,443 --> 02:14:09,593
and the house.

2354
02:14:09,593 --> 02:14:12,484
The impact on the neighborhood is not a negative one.

2355
02:14:12,484 --> 02:14:13,924
It is a positive one.

2356
02:14:13,924 --> 02:14:16,451
It doesn't cause any safety issues

2357
02:14:16,451 --> 02:14:19,804
and it increases the value of the neighborhood

2358
02:14:19,804 --> 02:14:22,147
because the home would be modern and people

2359
02:14:22,147 --> 02:14:26,116
would be more proud to have it in the character of Martinez.

2360
02:14:26,116 --> 02:14:29,400
That is what we are really going for.

2361
02:14:29,400 --> 02:14:33,804
There is no negative and the couple --

2362
02:14:34,364 --> 02:14:40,964
we can only go back because so that we don't encroach

2363
02:14:41,260 --> 02:14:44,972
on the side street and we don't encroach on the neighbor

2364
02:14:44,972 --> 02:14:48,230
the neighbor in front is in favor of it.

2365
02:14:48,230 --> 02:14:50,409
The neighbor on the side is in favor of it.

2366
02:14:50,409 --> 02:14:52,870
They are the ones who are most impacted.

2367
02:14:52,870 --> 02:14:55,440
Other people basically just drive by.

2368
02:14:55,440 --> 02:14:59,404
The neighbors aren't they back, cannot see their house,

2369
02:14:59,404 --> 02:15:03,124
cannot see this house because of the trees and shrubs we have

2370
02:15:03,124 --> 02:15:04,389
back there.

2371
02:15:04,389 --> 02:15:06,404
>> We are at time.

2372
02:15:06,404 --> 02:15:08,404
>> Thank you.

2373
02:15:25,153 --> 02:15:25,986
>> Ma'am, thank you.

2374
02:15:25,986 --> 02:15:29,294
We will have time for public comment a little bit later.

2375
02:15:29,294 --> 02:15:32,294
We understand the emotions here.

2376
02:15:32,354 --> 02:15:34,396
We want to make sure that you have an opportunity

2377
02:15:34,396 --> 02:15:35,777
to speak at the public comment.

2378
02:15:35,777 --> 02:15:38,346
We do want to keep moving.

2379
02:15:38,346 --> 02:15:41,484
To see if there's anyone that has any questions

2380
02:15:41,484 --> 02:15:42,924
for the applicant.

2381
02:15:42,924 --> 02:15:48,924
If not, we will keep moving on to the appellant.

2382
02:15:52,840 --> 02:15:54,840
Thank you.

2383
02:15:58,368 --> 02:16:00,576
>> Good evening mayor commissioners my name is Jeremy

2384
02:16:00,576 --> 02:16:01,760
Gilley.

2385
02:16:01,760 --> 02:16:04,844
I am speaking on behalf of six neighboring households regarding

2386
02:16:04,844 --> 02:16:07,444
the project at 103 Escobar Street.

2387
02:16:07,444 --> 02:16:09,524
We have provided an appeal presentation.

2388
02:16:09,524 --> 02:16:12,568
Staff has already provided a report and response.

2389
02:16:12,568 --> 02:16:15,957
Which we would like to address here today.

2390
02:16:15,957 --> 02:16:18,477
We want to begin by making one thing clear.

2391
02:16:18,477 --> 02:16:21,749
We are not opposed to the owners improving their property.

2392
02:16:21,749 --> 02:16:25,264
We understand that the existing home is in need of updating.

2393
02:16:25,264 --> 02:16:28,140
We support responsible investment in the neighborhood.

2394
02:16:28,140 --> 02:16:30,384
Our concern is whether this project

2395
02:16:30,384 --> 02:16:32,257
has provided the evidence to justify

2396
02:16:32,257 --> 02:16:35,974
the extraordinary package of variances being requested.

2397
02:16:35,974 --> 02:16:39,884
The project would increase the existing home from 1255ft²

2398
02:16:39,884 --> 02:16:41,884
to 3030 --

2399
02:16:44,364 --> 02:16:47,596
3037ft² converting into a two story home.

2400
02:16:47,596 --> 02:16:49,384
Our concerns have been raised repeatedly

2401
02:16:49,384 --> 02:16:52,177
and ignored by the city which is why we are here tonight.

2402
02:16:52,177 --> 02:16:55,414
This is not a remodel that maintains the existing setbacks.

2403
02:16:55,414 --> 02:16:58,444
The staff report repeatedly points to the fact

2404
02:16:58,444 --> 02:17:01,524
that the existing house is already non-conforming

2405
02:17:01,524 --> 02:17:06,324
but an existing non-conforming is not by itself

2406
02:17:06,916 --> 02:17:08,444
a physical hardship.

2407
02:17:08,444 --> 02:17:11,964
The question whether strict application of the zoning

2408
02:17:11,964 --> 02:17:14,937
standards creates the kind of practical difficulties

2409
02:17:14,937 --> 02:17:17,754
or unnecessary physical hardship required

2410
02:17:17,754 --> 02:17:19,148
to adjust five variance.

2411
02:17:19,148 --> 02:17:22,430
There is also a specific zoning issue that we believe

2412
02:17:22,430 --> 02:17:25,694
deserves clarification before the project moves forward

2413
02:17:25,694 --> 02:17:28,884
there are six standards identified with a ten foot

2414
02:17:28,884 --> 02:17:31,188
minimum side yard for a second story.

2415
02:17:31,188 --> 02:17:34,830
The project converts the home into a two story structure.

2416
02:17:34,830 --> 02:17:38,564
The staff report identifies the existing and proposed side yard

2417
02:17:38,564 --> 02:17:39,617
is 7.67ft.

2418
02:17:39,617 --> 02:17:45,170
We asked does the ten foot second story requirement

2419
02:17:45,244 --> 02:17:47,644
apply to the project if it does where

2420
02:17:47,644 --> 02:17:49,932
was the resulting deviation evaluated and granted.

2421
02:17:49,932 --> 02:17:51,980
We are asking the Commission to ensure

2422
02:17:51,980 --> 02:17:53,684
that this issue is clearly addressed

2423
02:17:53,684 --> 02:17:55,299
before the project is approved.

2424
02:17:55,299 --> 02:17:59,804
For finding one, hardship, the zoning administrator's reasoning

2425
02:17:59,804 --> 02:18:03,708
relies heavily on the existing five foot front setback.

2426
02:18:03,708 --> 02:18:07,348
Three foot side setback and the size of the lot.

2427
02:18:07,348 --> 02:18:11,204
With those conditions, the existed before the project.

2428
02:18:11,204 --> 02:18:14,297
The proposal isn't nearly observing the existing

2429
02:18:14,297 --> 02:18:15,977
footprint, it substantially increases

2430
02:18:15,977 --> 02:18:19,194
the home size and mass, and extends

2431
02:18:19,194 --> 02:18:21,594
further into existing setbacks.

2432
02:18:21,664 --> 02:18:25,710
The staff report also describes a conforming design

2433
02:18:25,710 --> 02:18:28,634
as potentially unfeasible and undesirable.

2434
02:18:28,634 --> 02:18:31,884
We respectfully disagree that any smaller scale redesign

2435
02:18:31,884 --> 02:18:32,914
is infeasible.

2436
02:18:32,914 --> 02:18:36,340
Nor that and undesirable design is the same thing

2437
02:18:36,340 --> 02:18:37,844
as a zoning hardship.

2438
02:18:37,844 --> 02:18:41,404
There are many ways to build a larger home on this property.

2439
02:18:41,404 --> 02:18:43,780
The fact that one particular design

2440
02:18:43,780 --> 02:18:46,124
is less desirable to the applicant

2441
02:18:46,124 --> 02:18:48,364
does not establish a physical hardship.

2442
02:18:48,364 --> 02:18:51,164
In fact, following the required setbacks on the property would

2443
02:18:51,164 --> 02:18:54,596
still allow the applicant to construct a home around 2500ft²

2444
02:18:54,596 --> 02:18:59,617
with a garage to meet the fire and parking requirements.

2445
02:18:59,617 --> 02:19:03,453
Finding two requires exceptional and extraordinary circumstances

2446
02:19:03,453 --> 02:19:05,120
applicable to this property that are not

2447
02:19:05,120 --> 02:19:08,308
generally applicable to other properties in the same zoning

2448
02:19:08,308 --> 02:19:09,440
district.

2449
02:19:09,440 --> 02:19:11,404
Staff report points to the property's lot size

2450
02:19:11,404 --> 02:19:14,740
from a Hillside location and existing setbacks.

2451
02:19:14,740 --> 02:19:17,124
These are not necessarily exceptional circumstances.

2452
02:19:17,124 --> 02:19:21,364
The appeal materials identified that about 40% of the immediate

2453
02:19:21,364 --> 02:19:24,204
neighborhood consists of lots about 5000ft².

2454
02:19:24,204 --> 02:19:27,204
Also located along the Hillside.

2455
02:19:27,444 --> 02:19:31,804
We ask what is exceptional about this property that

2456
02:19:31,804 --> 02:19:34,894
prevents a reasonably sized addition from complying

2457
02:19:34,894 --> 02:19:36,234
with the zoning standards.

2458
02:19:36,234 --> 02:19:38,737
Finding three is particularly important

2459
02:19:38,737 --> 02:19:41,244
because the staff report relies on other properties

2460
02:19:41,244 --> 02:19:44,377
in the neighborhood to conclude that the requested variances

2461
02:19:44,377 --> 02:19:46,454
would not provide a special privilege.

2462
02:19:46,454 --> 02:19:50,440
The staff report references a small selection of properties.

2463
02:19:50,440 --> 02:19:53,644
These include properties built in 1952 1939 and 1877.

2464
02:19:55,868 --> 02:19:59,694
Long before the current zoning standards existed.

2465
02:19:59,694 --> 02:20:01,590
None of the referenced properties

2466
02:20:01,590 --> 02:20:04,524
are granted every variance being requested.

2467
02:20:04,524 --> 02:20:07,724
The fact that an existing non-conforming structure

2468
02:20:07,724 --> 02:20:10,656
has been allowed to remain does not

2469
02:20:10,656 --> 02:20:12,552
establish a new applicant is entitled

2470
02:20:12,552 --> 02:20:14,244
to receive a variance today.

2471
02:20:14,244 --> 02:20:17,840
And if the city is relying on reference properties

2472
02:20:17,840 --> 02:20:19,812
as evidence the project deserves similar relief,

2473
02:20:19,812 --> 02:20:21,564
we believe the Commission should ask

2474
02:20:21,564 --> 02:20:22,964
whether those properties actually

2475
02:20:22,964 --> 02:20:26,740
received comparable variances or whether they simply

2476
02:20:26,740 --> 02:20:28,937
predate the applicable zoning requirements.

2477
02:20:28,937 --> 02:20:30,472
Numbers matter here.

2478
02:20:30,472 --> 02:20:34,440
Is it five feet, is it ten feet, is it three feet.

2479
02:20:34,440 --> 02:20:36,300
Staff report also stated the property

2480
02:20:36,300 --> 02:20:39,844
is the only existing, non-conforming corner

2481
02:20:39,844 --> 02:20:42,356
lot that has the existing residence three feet

2482
02:20:42,356 --> 02:20:43,884
from the street side property.

2483
02:20:43,884 --> 02:20:48,379
Which is a special privilege that no other property has.

2484
02:20:48,379 --> 02:20:50,884
However, the report failed to address

2485
02:20:50,884 --> 02:20:54,264
that the structure and roof, which we have not talked about,

2486
02:20:54,264 --> 02:20:58,404
are further encroaching on the street corner, and the street

2487
02:20:58,404 --> 02:21:02,224
side property by two feet and three feet, respectively.

2488
02:21:02,224 --> 02:21:05,864
Finding four asks whether the variance would provide

2489
02:21:05,864 --> 02:21:09,740
a special privilege inconsistent with the limitations placed

2490
02:21:09,740 --> 02:21:11,996
on other properties in the same zoning district in addition

2491
02:21:11,996 --> 02:21:14,400
to the special privilege just mentioned,

2492
02:21:14,400 --> 02:21:18,204
the property proposes 45% lot coverage and 0.5841 ten

2493
02:21:20,276 --> 02:21:24,476
is referenced as the property exceeding far.

2494
02:21:25,524 --> 02:21:29,544
But this is the historic Tucker Mansion, built in 1877.

2495
02:21:29,544 --> 02:21:31,119
National Historic Site.

2496
02:21:31,119 --> 02:21:34,852
Using this home as justification for a current build

2497
02:21:34,852 --> 02:21:36,444
is frankly absurd.

2498
02:21:36,444 --> 02:21:39,840
Granting this variance would indeed

2499
02:21:39,840 --> 02:21:41,556
provide yet another exceptional special privilege

2500
02:21:41,556 --> 02:21:43,632
to this property at 103.

2501
02:21:43,632 --> 02:21:47,832
California Code 65 906 states that any variance granted

2502
02:21:48,868 --> 02:21:53,164
shall not constitute a grant of special privileges.

2503
02:21:53,164 --> 02:21:55,340
For finding five we ask the Commission

2504
02:21:55,340 --> 02:21:56,664
to consider the site location.

2505
02:21:56,664 --> 02:21:59,929
This property is at the corner of Escobar and Bayview

2506
02:21:59,929 --> 02:22:01,804
where visibility become a pedestrian movement

2507
02:22:01,804 --> 02:22:04,484
and emergency access are already concerns the proposed

2508
02:22:04,484 --> 02:22:07,244
structure moves substantial building mass into areas

2509
02:22:07,244 --> 02:22:09,844
currently providing separation from the street pier

2510
02:22:09,844 --> 02:22:11,974
the question is whether the evidence before you

2511
02:22:11,974 --> 02:22:16,544
adequately demonstrates the granting the variances will not

2512
02:22:16,544 --> 02:22:19,977
create adverse impacts on the surrounding area.

2513
02:22:19,977 --> 02:22:23,844
This includes encroachment on city property, where the roof

2514
02:22:23,844 --> 02:22:25,396
overhangs to the property line.

2515
02:22:25,396 --> 02:22:27,684
Access for fire trucks.

2516
02:22:27,684 --> 02:22:31,680
Housing density, and a high fire hazard severity zone.

2517
02:22:31,680 --> 02:22:32,844
The availability of fire insurance

2518
02:22:32,844 --> 02:22:36,364
for residents and safety for pedestrians and vehicles.

2519
02:22:36,364 --> 02:22:39,477
Including the potential need for stop and yield signs.

2520
02:22:39,477 --> 02:22:41,994
Fire safety for housing density is the only concern

2521
02:22:41,994 --> 02:22:45,577
here addressed by the draft planning resolution.

2522
02:22:45,577 --> 02:22:50,904
The proposed roof is also a relatively moderate 612 pitch.

2523
02:22:50,904 --> 02:22:53,724
The concern is the combination of height roof form building

2524
02:22:53,724 --> 02:22:55,164
mass and the Hillside setting.

2525
02:22:55,164 --> 02:22:57,529
The lower roof pitch such as 312 or 412,

2526
02:22:57,529 --> 02:22:59,324
which is common in the neighborhood,

2527
02:22:59,324 --> 02:23:01,910
could allow the property to be substantially improved,

2528
02:23:01,910 --> 02:23:04,276
while reducing the overall visual mass

2529
02:23:04,276 --> 02:23:07,304
and helping the project remain within the city's height

2530
02:23:07,304 --> 02:23:07,804
standard.

2531
02:23:07,804 --> 02:23:12,424
The fact is that the pitch is not a necessary design element.

2532
02:23:12,424 --> 02:23:14,444
In addition, there is no reference elevation

2533
02:23:14,444 --> 02:23:18,440
on the plans, which limits recourse against the applicant's

2534
02:23:18,440 --> 02:23:20,817
razing the structure and further obstructing views.

2535
02:23:20,817 --> 02:23:23,124
Reducing surrounding property values.

2536
02:23:23,124 --> 02:23:27,440
This has a detrimental impact on adjacent properties.

2537
02:23:27,440 --> 02:23:29,874
Commissioners, we believe that having existing nonconformances

2538
02:23:29,874 --> 02:23:33,970
is not the same as establishing the legal findings

2539
02:23:33,970 --> 02:23:35,854
necessary for granting those nonconformances.

2540
02:23:35,854 --> 02:23:37,417
Especially new ones.

2541
02:23:37,417 --> 02:23:40,556
We believe that any of these findings failing the test

2542
02:23:40,556 --> 02:23:42,876
should be adequate to deny the variance request.

2543
02:23:42,876 --> 02:23:44,519
We find that the requested variances

2544
02:23:44,519 --> 02:23:46,109
fail all five findings.

2545
02:23:46,109 --> 02:23:49,454
We respectfully ask you to evaluate

2546
02:23:49,454 --> 02:23:51,977
existing Non-conformities and new expansion

2547
02:23:51,977 --> 02:23:53,784
of the Non-conformities.

2548
02:23:53,784 --> 02:23:55,268
Physical hardship.

2549
02:23:55,268 --> 02:23:58,937
The use of existing historical structures for new variances.

2550
02:23:58,937 --> 02:24:02,537
Assumptions and generalizations, versus numerical evidence

2551
02:24:03,190 --> 02:24:04,924
supporting each required finding.

2552
02:24:04,924 --> 02:24:07,594
The second story side yard requirement.

2553
02:24:07,594 --> 02:24:10,228
The corner and street impacts.

2554
02:24:10,228 --> 02:24:12,964
A survey of the existing lots.

2555
02:24:12,964 --> 02:24:15,374
And whether the requested height is appropriate.

2556
02:24:15,374 --> 02:24:18,737
For the stated reasons on behalf of the neighboring households,

2557
02:24:18,737 --> 02:24:20,894
we respectfully request that you deny

2558
02:24:20,894 --> 02:24:23,880
the requested variances and minor exception as currently

2559
02:24:23,880 --> 02:24:24,380
proposed.

2560
02:24:24,380 --> 02:24:27,724
We are not asking that the property remain unchanged.

2561
02:24:27,724 --> 02:24:31,764
We are asking that it be improved within the city zoning

2562
02:24:31,764 --> 02:24:34,556
standards and that any request of deviation

2563
02:24:34,556 --> 02:24:37,337
be supported by clear, numeric evidence satisfying

2564
02:24:37,337 --> 02:24:40,424
every required finding period we believe the California

2565
02:24:40,424 --> 02:24:43,724
law and Martinez Municipal Code were designed specifically

2566
02:24:43,724 --> 02:24:46,854
to protect the community for excessive variances

2567
02:24:46,854 --> 02:24:49,644
and ensure residents can count on certain protections

2568
02:24:49,644 --> 02:24:51,729
to maintain the character of neighborhoods.

2569
02:24:51,729 --> 02:24:56,484
If this extraordinary set of variances approved then we

2570
02:24:56,484 --> 02:24:57,884
establish a new precedent.

2571
02:24:57,884 --> 02:25:02,684
Every new build in R6, in Martinez simply

2572
02:25:03,524 --> 02:25:05,972
needs 2.2103 Escobar Street as the reason they

2573
02:25:05,972 --> 02:25:07,764
should be granted any variance they desire.

2574
02:25:07,764 --> 02:25:11,264
We ask what reason do we have for establishing these zoning

2575
02:25:11,264 --> 02:25:14,920
requirements if we choose to throw them away without regard.

2576
02:25:14,920 --> 02:25:16,336
If we grant these variances today,

2577
02:25:16,336 --> 02:25:20,524
we ruin the integrity of this zoning district for tomorrow,

2578
02:25:20,524 --> 02:25:24,188
and these neighbors will have to live with the consequences.

2579
02:25:24,188 --> 02:25:26,524
I do have questions.

2580
02:25:26,524 --> 02:25:33,724
I can hold them for the next portion, if that is necessary.

2581
02:25:35,124 --> 02:25:37,124
>> You have questions?

2582
02:25:37,497 --> 02:25:39,124
>> I do have questions.

2583
02:25:39,124 --> 02:25:40,541
>> What is the procedure for that.

2584
02:25:40,541 --> 02:25:42,827
That is the first time I have had an appellant that

2585
02:25:42,827 --> 02:25:44,776
had a question.

2586
02:25:44,776 --> 02:25:47,276
>> Any member of the public can say whatever they wish about

2587
02:25:47,276 --> 02:25:49,356
a project during their time to speak.

2588
02:25:49,356 --> 02:25:53,868
And then afterwards, at the direction of the commission,

2589
02:25:53,868 --> 02:25:55,499
we can respond to.

2590
02:25:55,499 --> 02:25:57,332
>> When we have the time for public comment,

2591
02:25:57,332 --> 02:26:00,317
if you have not filled out a comment card, it is fine.

2592
02:26:00,317 --> 02:26:01,484
You can fill that out after.

2593
02:26:01,484 --> 02:26:05,284
At that time you can come with your questions.

2594
02:26:05,284 --> 02:26:08,324
>> Can I quickly ask if the ten foot side yard requirement

2595
02:26:08,324 --> 02:26:10,524
for a second story does apply to this project,

2596
02:26:10,524 --> 02:26:14,124
and why it was not evaluated.

2597
02:26:14,724 --> 02:26:16,324
>> Can I clarify.

2598
02:26:16,324 --> 02:26:21,150
He is allowed to ask -- as the appellant he is allowed to ask

2599
02:26:21,150 --> 02:26:23,692
these questions now and it is the direction of the commission

2600
02:26:23,692 --> 02:26:26,680
if you want staff to respond to that question or not.

2601
02:26:26,680 --> 02:26:29,324
It is not during public comment period.

2602
02:26:29,324 --> 02:26:33,338
During his presentation as the >> Taking that

2603
02:26:33,338 --> 02:26:35,255
into consideration with the time that we have.

2604
02:26:35,255 --> 02:26:41,255
I can grant him a time extension to do that.

2605
02:26:42,696 --> 02:26:44,904
>> Or you can wait until his rebuttal period as well.

2606
02:26:44,904 --> 02:26:46,237
>> You do get a rebuttal period.

2607
02:26:46,237 --> 02:26:49,184
Do you want to save your questions for that period.

2608
02:26:49,184 --> 02:26:52,201
>> I would appreciate the first question being asked since we

2609
02:26:52,201 --> 02:26:52,826
took some time.

2610
02:26:52,826 --> 02:26:56,532
If we can clarify if the ten foot side setback is required

2611
02:26:56,532 --> 02:26:59,740
for the second story, and why that was not evaluated,

2612
02:26:59,740 --> 02:27:02,140
I would appreciate that.

2613
02:27:03,604 --> 02:27:06,137
>> I am okay with giving the time to answer that question,

2614
02:27:06,137 --> 02:27:10,337
if you have an answer readily available.

2615
02:27:17,780 --> 02:27:19,478
>> The appellant is correct .

2616
02:27:22,119 --> 02:27:24,244
I apologize on behalf of staff that that was missed

2617
02:27:24,244 --> 02:27:25,332
during the review process.

2618
02:27:25,332 --> 02:27:27,748
The second story portion of the project,

2619
02:27:27,748 --> 02:27:30,644
there is an increased setback requirement

2620
02:27:30,644 --> 02:27:32,580
for second story portion, which would

2621
02:27:32,580 --> 02:27:37,412
be on the downhill side, which is a ten foot setback.

2622
02:27:37,412 --> 02:27:42,670
We mistakenly identified it as a five foot required setback.

2623
02:27:42,670 --> 02:27:45,680
>> I just wanted to clarify with that variance,

2624
02:27:45,680 --> 02:27:47,860
that means there is a variance exception in every single

2625
02:27:47,860 --> 02:27:49,784
dimension of this property.

2626
02:27:49,784 --> 02:27:51,784
Thank you.

2627
02:27:52,684 --> 02:27:54,684
>> Thank you.

2628
02:27:55,404 --> 02:27:58,404
>> Any questions for the appellant ?

2629
02:28:00,397 --> 02:28:00,910
Okay.

2630
02:28:00,910 --> 02:28:04,390
We don't have any questions for the appellant.

2631
02:28:04,390 --> 02:28:06,980
We will move on to the public comment.

2632
02:28:06,980 --> 02:28:08,620
And just so everybody understands,

2633
02:28:08,620 --> 02:28:11,454
at the end of public comment, both the applicant

2634
02:28:11,454 --> 02:28:14,184
and the appellant will have an opportunity for rebuttal.

2635
02:28:14,184 --> 02:28:17,784
We will move on to Frank.

2636
02:28:20,924 --> 02:28:23,190
Thank you for coming out.

2637
02:28:23,190 --> 02:28:26,190
You will have three minutes.

2638
02:28:26,364 --> 02:28:29,497
>> I am Frank, I am at 530 Bayview.

2639
02:28:29,497 --> 02:28:33,861
What we would like to see is what the size of the roof

2640
02:28:33,861 --> 02:28:35,746
is really going to be.

2641
02:28:35,746 --> 02:28:38,964
We really would like to see the story pulls put up.

2642
02:28:38,964 --> 02:28:42,452
The one pole that is up doesn't give us

2643
02:28:42,452 --> 02:28:47,627
any clue to how the roof line is going to be

2644
02:28:47,627 --> 02:28:50,270
going towards Escobar Street.

2645
02:28:50,844 --> 02:28:53,244
That is about it.

2646
02:28:58,961 --> 02:29:00,363
>> Thank you, Frank.

2647
02:29:00,363 --> 02:29:03,932
We will move on to Jamie.

2648
02:29:03,932 --> 02:29:06,932
Did I get that right?

2649
02:29:09,604 --> 02:29:13,184
>> I think everybody has talked about the same thing.

2650
02:29:13,184 --> 02:29:16,421
The house being too big for the size of the lot.

2651
02:29:16,421 --> 02:29:20,395
Assuming it is not just for financial gain,

2652
02:29:20,395 --> 02:29:24,502
my question is, what is the true hardship

2653
02:29:24,502 --> 02:29:30,502
in building an appropriate sized house for that size lot.

2654
02:29:30,977 --> 02:29:34,870
We always -- all want something to be done there.

2655
02:29:34,870 --> 02:29:37,290
It has been a blight for ten years now.

2656
02:29:37,290 --> 02:29:40,890
I live at across the street.

2657
02:29:41,300 --> 02:29:44,244
It doesn't affect me as much as the other neighbors.

2658
02:29:44,244 --> 02:29:46,356
I would like to see some improvement there

2659
02:29:46,356 --> 02:29:48,926
and the hazards that are around the house

2660
02:29:48,926 --> 02:29:54,440
that we have had to live with for 18 to 20 years now.

2661
02:29:54,440 --> 02:29:58,612
We have been good neighbors to the neighbor

2662
02:29:58,612 --> 02:30:03,174
by not calling code enforcement and getting the dilapidated boat

2663
02:30:03,174 --> 02:30:04,684
pulled out of the driveway.

2664
02:30:04,684 --> 02:30:07,284
The children could climb into and hurt themselves.

2665
02:30:07,284 --> 02:30:10,804
We would appreciate it if the neighbors show us

2666
02:30:10,804 --> 02:30:13,170
the same respect and put together

2667
02:30:13,170 --> 02:30:16,257
a package that is appropriate for the size of the lot,

2668
02:30:16,257 --> 02:30:21,644
instead of asking for a variance on four sides.

2669
02:30:21,644 --> 02:30:23,581
The lot is what it is.

2670
02:30:23,581 --> 02:30:25,964
It should support the house it can support.

2671
02:30:25,964 --> 02:30:31,568
It shouldn't be built to a mini mansion for the neighborhood.

2672
02:30:31,568 --> 02:30:35,277
That is all that I want to say.

2673
02:30:35,277 --> 02:30:37,277
Thank you.

2674
02:30:37,364 --> 02:30:39,124
>> Thank you.

2675
02:30:39,124 --> 02:30:41,524
We have Laura next.

2676
02:30:43,484 --> 02:30:44,412
Thank you.

2677
02:30:44,412 --> 02:30:46,544
You have three minutes.

2678
02:30:46,544 --> 02:30:47,419
>> Thank you so much.

2679
02:30:47,419 --> 02:30:48,790
My name is Laura.

2680
02:30:48,790 --> 02:30:49,871
I live across the street from the property.

2681
02:30:49,871 --> 02:30:52,284
I am delighted to learn that this property may finally

2682
02:30:52,284 --> 02:30:53,950
receive some love.

2683
02:30:53,950 --> 02:30:56,400
It has been a fire hazard and attractive nuisance

2684
02:30:56,400 --> 02:30:58,888
since I married into the neighborhood in 2008.

2685
02:30:58,888 --> 02:31:01,714
We are really excited to see that they

2686
02:31:01,714 --> 02:31:04,499
might make some improvement and rebuild the home.

2687
02:31:04,499 --> 02:31:08,464
The current requirements were established for a reason,

2688
02:31:08,464 --> 02:31:09,517
I have to imagine.

2689
02:31:09,517 --> 02:31:12,204
And just because this home that was built in 1914

2690
02:31:12,204 --> 02:31:14,310
doesn't meet the current requirements

2691
02:31:14,310 --> 02:31:16,297
doesn't mean that this body needs

2692
02:31:16,297 --> 02:31:19,624
to continue a cycle of granting every possible variance

2693
02:31:19,624 --> 02:31:21,220
for this home.

2694
02:31:21,220 --> 02:31:25,530
I heard folks speaking about needing a three bedroom two bath

2695
02:31:25,530 --> 02:31:26,300
home.

2696
02:31:26,300 --> 02:31:28,750
My home is an example of a four bedroom two

2697
02:31:28,750 --> 02:31:31,767
and a half bath home that fits in a much smaller footprint

2698
02:31:31,767 --> 02:31:33,875
than this home is being proposed and fits

2699
02:31:33,875 --> 02:31:36,159
into the 5000 square foot lot that we have.

2700
02:31:36,159 --> 02:31:38,619
It is hard to understand what the hardship is

2701
02:31:38,619 --> 02:31:39,994
that conforming with requirements

2702
02:31:39,994 --> 02:31:41,876
would bring to this applicant.

2703
02:31:41,876 --> 02:31:44,828
The last thing is that I am concerned about impact

2704
02:31:44,828 --> 02:31:47,432
to fire safety and insurance rates we already

2705
02:31:47,432 --> 02:31:49,724
have difficulty getting insurance in this neighborhood.

2706
02:31:49,724 --> 02:31:52,932
Our insurance companies say the fire truck cannot turn around

2707
02:31:52,932 --> 02:31:54,924
at the corner of Bayview and Escobar.

2708
02:31:54,924 --> 02:31:56,764
I have some concerns about encroachment

2709
02:31:56,764 --> 02:32:00,574
and additional difficulty with the swing of the fire truck.

2710
02:32:00,574 --> 02:32:02,324
Additional impacts financially on us

2711
02:32:02,324 --> 02:32:06,240
in terms of securing fire insurance moving forward.

2712
02:32:06,240 --> 02:32:08,364
I really appreciate the work of this commission

2713
02:32:08,364 --> 02:32:09,816
and I look forward to hearing how

2714
02:32:09,816 --> 02:32:12,524
you weigh the community concerns with the needs of the applicant.

2715
02:32:12,524 --> 02:32:14,384
Thank you.

2716
02:32:14,384 --> 02:32:15,332
>> Thank you.

2717
02:32:15,332 --> 02:32:16,270
We appreciate that.

2718
02:32:16,270 --> 02:32:18,396
Is there anyone else in the public

2719
02:32:18,396 --> 02:32:20,364
this evening that would like to speak comment

2720
02:32:20,364 --> 02:32:23,924
that hasn't filled out a card.

2721
02:32:23,924 --> 02:32:25,164
Please approach.

2722
02:32:25,164 --> 02:32:26,507
Say your name.

2723
02:32:26,507 --> 02:32:28,700
You will have three minutes and when

2724
02:32:28,700 --> 02:32:32,160
you are done come if you could please fill out a speaker card.

2725
02:32:32,160 --> 02:32:32,660
>> Gotcha.

2726
02:32:32,660 --> 02:32:33,617
Thank you very much.

2727
02:32:33,617 --> 02:32:37,956
My name is Phil I'm representing 530 Bayview Drive.

2728
02:32:37,956 --> 02:32:43,524
We are concerned about how the height of the roof

2729
02:32:43,524 --> 02:32:44,652
will be determined.

2730
02:32:44,652 --> 02:32:48,890
Where does that measurement start and where does it end.

2731
02:32:48,890 --> 02:32:51,470
There has been no answer on that.

2732
02:32:51,470 --> 02:32:55,144
My concern is that height can change

2733
02:32:55,144 --> 02:32:59,000
with however they are going to start building this house.

2734
02:32:59,000 --> 02:33:00,244
That is a concern there.

2735
02:33:00,244 --> 02:33:06,364
The other main concern for us is the safety issue with the fire

2736
02:33:06,364 --> 02:33:08,424
life safety in the area.

2737
02:33:08,424 --> 02:33:14,314
Another neighbor brought that up to where the fire trucks cannot

2738
02:33:14,314 --> 02:33:16,714
maneuver Escobar onto Bayview.

2739
02:33:17,754 --> 02:33:20,836
My concern about having the house moving

2740
02:33:20,836 --> 02:33:25,360
up forward towards the curb more is

2741
02:33:26,437 --> 02:33:29,910
what happens if in the future, we

2742
02:33:29,910 --> 02:33:34,308
have to widen the road to conform with emergency vehicles

2743
02:33:34,308 --> 02:33:36,624
getting up to Bayview Drive.

2744
02:33:36,624 --> 02:33:38,900
My mother is 93 years old.

2745
02:33:38,900 --> 02:33:44,124
There is problems with getting emergency vehicles up there now.

2746
02:33:44,124 --> 02:33:48,400
There is very restricted view of Bayview derived from where

2747
02:33:48,400 --> 02:33:49,404
they are at right now.

2748
02:33:49,404 --> 02:33:51,440
That is a concern.

2749
02:33:51,440 --> 02:33:52,277
That is a major concern.

2750
02:33:52,277 --> 02:33:55,684
We are in a high fire zone area.

2751
02:33:55,684 --> 02:33:58,200
It has been determined.

2752
02:33:58,200 --> 02:34:01,108
There has got to be that part of the planning.

2753
02:34:01,108 --> 02:34:05,292
On Bayview Drive, if you park a car on one side of the street,

2754
02:34:05,292 --> 02:34:07,684
it turns into a one lane road.

2755
02:34:07,684 --> 02:34:10,884
That is the concern with widening the lot,

2756
02:34:10,884 --> 02:34:13,950
being able to park on Bayview and Escobar.

2757
02:34:13,950 --> 02:34:19,950
How is that going to be considered by the planning.

2758
02:34:24,840 --> 02:34:28,284
Other things, such as, like I said,

2759
02:34:28,964 --> 02:34:31,684
parking and overall safety within the neighborhood

2760
02:34:31,684 --> 02:34:34,364
is extremely important to us.

2761
02:34:34,364 --> 02:34:36,900
The story poles are really important to us

2762
02:34:36,900 --> 02:34:40,838
as well because we look right onto that roof.

2763
02:34:40,838 --> 02:34:44,586
Do want to know how is it going to impact our view.

2764
02:34:44,586 --> 02:34:47,257
I know that is not a right anymore, I guess,

2765
02:34:47,257 --> 02:34:49,409
but it is important to us.

2766
02:34:49,409 --> 02:34:55,470
We want to know how that will impact home values in the area.

2767
02:34:55,470 --> 02:35:00,116
We are asking, respectfully, if you would consider these

2768
02:35:00,116 --> 02:35:02,116
concerns .

2769
02:35:04,340 --> 02:35:06,474
Let's have those concerns addressed.

2770
02:35:06,474 --> 02:35:08,844
Thank you very much.

2771
02:35:08,844 --> 02:35:10,140
>> Thank you.

2772
02:35:10,140 --> 02:35:16,740
Please don't forget to spell -- fill out a speaker card.

2773
02:35:22,444 --> 02:35:26,877
Sir, if you want to speak you can approach.

2774
02:35:26,877 --> 02:35:31,560
You can fill it out after you speak.

2775
02:35:31,560 --> 02:35:33,772
Please state your name for the record and you

2776
02:35:33,772 --> 02:35:35,790
will have three minutes.

2777
02:35:35,790 --> 02:35:37,924
>> It is Evan Walsh Herndon.

2778
02:35:37,924 --> 02:35:41,948
The question is, what is the actual hardship

2779
02:35:41,948 --> 02:35:45,844
that he faces in building a conforming house

2780
02:35:45,844 --> 02:35:49,444
for the size of his lot.

2781
02:35:50,266 --> 02:35:52,266
That is all.

2782
02:35:53,840 --> 02:35:54,257
>> Thank you, Evan.

2783
02:35:54,257 --> 02:35:56,628
Is there anyone else in the public today?

2784
02:35:56,628 --> 02:35:59,628
Do we have anyone online?

2785
02:36:01,404 --> 02:36:02,478
>> Yes, we do.

2786
02:36:02,478 --> 02:36:08,478
First we have someone that is listed as pixel six

2787
02:36:08,828 --> 02:36:11,228
if they could unmute.

2788
02:36:13,444 --> 02:36:16,444
>> They will have three minutes.

2789
02:36:27,107 --> 02:36:28,524
>> Maybe we should go to the next.

2790
02:36:28,524 --> 02:36:32,724
>> Let's move on to the next one.

2791
02:36:34,859 --> 02:36:35,734
>> Then we have John.

2792
02:36:35,734 --> 02:36:38,734
You may unmute and begin.

2793
02:36:44,829 --> 02:36:45,879
>> This is Susie.

2794
02:36:45,879 --> 02:36:47,704
My husband could not make it today.

2795
02:36:47,704 --> 02:36:50,704
We live at 107 Escobar Street.

2796
02:36:50,741 --> 02:36:54,341
We are right below the house.

2797
02:36:54,364 --> 02:37:00,640
I hear all the complaints about the setbacks and the height,

2798
02:37:00,640 --> 02:37:02,232
and everything.

2799
02:37:02,232 --> 02:37:06,964
I know that we are going to be hugely

2800
02:37:06,964 --> 02:37:12,514
affected by this new remodel and we are actually excited for it.

2801
02:37:12,514 --> 02:37:15,804
I think it is time to get this moving.

2802
02:37:15,804 --> 02:37:19,757
This has been a total fire safety for many many years.

2803
02:37:19,757 --> 02:37:21,704
We live right next to them.

2804
02:37:21,704 --> 02:37:23,617
We have squatters going into the house.

2805
02:37:23,617 --> 02:37:25,524
We have people breaking into the house.

2806
02:37:25,524 --> 02:37:29,821
If that house catches on fire or that yard catches on fire,

2807
02:37:29,821 --> 02:37:32,348
our house is going to be gone.

2808
02:37:32,348 --> 02:37:37,292
We are looking forward to getting this project going.

2809
02:37:37,292 --> 02:37:40,750
We have been looking at the plans,

2810
02:37:40,750 --> 02:37:43,924
and we are not affected by the view, or anything.

2811
02:37:43,924 --> 02:37:48,784
But it is right on top of us and we are ready for it.

2812
02:37:48,784 --> 02:37:51,257
We are ready to have a new neighbor.

2813
02:37:51,257 --> 02:37:58,244
I just hope we can get this thing going so we can not have

2814
02:37:58,244 --> 02:38:04,244
a fire hazard right above us , with animals right outside

2815
02:38:04,404 --> 02:38:08,400
our bedroom windows with skunks squirting.

2816
02:38:09,604 --> 02:38:15,257
Anyway, we are ready to get this eyesore taken care of

2817
02:38:15,257 --> 02:38:15,964
and move on.

2818
02:38:15,964 --> 02:38:17,964
That is it.

2819
02:38:18,884 --> 02:38:21,884
Bam thank you very much.

2820
02:38:22,600 --> 02:38:25,600
Is that it for online

2821
02:38:31,427 --> 02:38:35,270
>> We can try pixel six again .

2822
02:38:38,278 --> 02:38:40,844
>> You can tell them to unmute if they are there.

2823
02:38:40,844 --> 02:38:44,444
>> Pixel six, you can go ahead.

2824
02:38:46,924 --> 02:38:48,810
Okay.

2825
02:38:48,810 --> 02:38:49,310
>> Okay.

2826
02:38:49,310 --> 02:38:50,764
Then we move on from online.

2827
02:38:50,764 --> 02:38:57,364
Ma'am, did you want to come up and make a comment?

2828
02:39:17,159 --> 02:39:17,991
>> My name is Rose.

2829
02:39:17,991 --> 02:39:20,391
My husband was John.

2830
02:39:21,524 --> 02:39:26,424
He worked for Martinez for 32 years and died 31 years ago.

2831
02:39:26,424 --> 02:39:32,830
The only concern for me is for him to build the house so high,

2832
02:39:32,830 --> 02:39:34,414
they are going to block my view.

2833
02:39:34,414 --> 02:39:36,878
Why do they want to do that for.

2834
02:39:36,878 --> 02:39:40,795
Why can't they level the house that they have.

2835
02:39:40,795 --> 02:39:45,184
Why do you want to block my view can you tell me that.

2836
02:39:45,184 --> 02:39:48,992
You said they have a right to do that to me.

2837
02:39:48,992 --> 02:39:50,106
I don't think so.

2838
02:39:50,106 --> 02:39:54,306
It is up to you guys, evidently.

2839
02:39:57,440 --> 02:39:59,440
>> Thank you Ma'am.

2840
02:40:00,440 --> 02:40:04,204
We will move on to the rebuttal portion.

2841
02:40:04,204 --> 02:40:08,384
I believe first the appellant will have the opportunity

2842
02:40:08,384 --> 02:40:10,384
for rebuttal, correct?

2843
02:40:16,200 --> 02:40:16,562
>> Thank you.

2844
02:40:16,562 --> 02:40:19,124
Just a few more comments to expand on what we were saying.

2845
02:40:19,124 --> 02:40:21,590
Obviously, a lot of folks are excited to get

2846
02:40:21,590 --> 02:40:22,964
this project started.

2847
02:40:22,964 --> 02:40:23,828
Including us.

2848
02:40:23,828 --> 02:40:26,306
We all want something to be done with this home.

2849
02:40:26,306 --> 02:40:28,514
The reason we want something to be done with the home

2850
02:40:28,514 --> 02:40:33,280
is because it has been neglected and not maintained for decades.

2851
02:40:33,280 --> 02:40:35,964
Animals live in the home.

2852
02:40:35,964 --> 02:40:37,609
People go in the home.

2853
02:40:37,609 --> 02:40:39,546
It sat there.

2854
02:40:39,546 --> 02:40:42,316
A home not being maintained is not

2855
02:40:42,316 --> 02:40:45,998
a reason to grant variances for a new project it

2856
02:40:45,998 --> 02:40:47,124
is the same owners.

2857
02:40:47,124 --> 02:40:49,612
They have had the opportunity to maintain the home.

2858
02:40:49,612 --> 02:40:52,857
This is not something that needed to happen now.

2859
02:40:52,857 --> 02:40:54,964
It could have happened before.

2860
02:40:54,964 --> 02:40:58,346
This is something that should not really

2861
02:40:58,346 --> 02:41:00,554
be a consideration when we are talking about granting

2862
02:41:00,554 --> 02:41:01,964
the variances today.

2863
02:41:01,964 --> 02:41:03,937
Story poles have been mentioned a few times.

2864
02:41:03,937 --> 02:41:05,670
The one pole was put up.

2865
02:41:05,670 --> 02:41:09,604
There are multiple ways, other than getting on the roof itself,

2866
02:41:09,604 --> 02:41:12,713
to install a ridgeline or additional story poles.

2867
02:41:12,713 --> 02:41:15,984
That was not a requirement from the zoning administrator

2868
02:41:15,984 --> 02:41:17,554
in our previous meetings.

2869
02:41:17,554 --> 02:41:19,720
The single pole was done.

2870
02:41:19,720 --> 02:41:21,124
But I think to alleviate concerns,

2871
02:41:21,124 --> 02:41:24,484
it would be nice to have a full ridge line,

2872
02:41:24,484 --> 02:41:26,484
additional story poles.

2873
02:41:26,604 --> 02:41:29,212
More importantly, I think from the city standpoint,

2874
02:41:29,212 --> 02:41:31,454
I have not seen a current survey.

2875
02:41:31,454 --> 02:41:33,697
I don't know that a current survey has been done.

2876
02:41:33,697 --> 02:41:36,239
We are talking about a structure that is going all the way up

2877
02:41:36,239 --> 02:41:38,734
to the property line, according to the drawings that

2878
02:41:38,734 --> 02:41:39,414
were submitted.

2879
02:41:39,414 --> 02:41:43,316
It appears the fence is already over the property line.

2880
02:41:43,316 --> 02:41:46,857
If those things are the case, then

2881
02:41:46,857 --> 02:41:49,574
is this gutter going to be over a future sidewalk,

2882
02:41:49,574 --> 02:41:51,571
or what are we doing.

2883
02:41:51,571 --> 02:41:54,884
How close are we for right at the property line.

2884
02:41:54,884 --> 02:41:56,603
Should we really be evaluating the site

2885
02:41:56,603 --> 02:41:58,228
and getting a proper survey, and making

2886
02:41:58,228 --> 02:42:00,614
sure we understand what the right setbacks are.

2887
02:42:00,614 --> 02:42:04,214
The drawings that we have, this is an older home.

2888
02:42:04,214 --> 02:42:07,570
The assessor's drawings that are approximate from 100 years ago,

2889
02:42:07,570 --> 02:42:08,477
or more.

2890
02:42:08,477 --> 02:42:11,129
A current survey may be appropriate in this case

2891
02:42:11,129 --> 02:42:14,284
to make sure that we understand the exact location

2892
02:42:14,284 --> 02:42:17,444
of the structure and the roof.

2893
02:42:17,444 --> 02:42:21,596
The roof is overhanging an additional three

2894
02:42:21,596 --> 02:42:23,664
feet from the home.

2895
02:42:23,664 --> 02:42:27,980
The current roof ends at the wall of the house.

2896
02:42:27,980 --> 02:42:30,724
There is an extension there because of the slope

2897
02:42:30,724 --> 02:42:32,724
of the hill.

2898
02:42:33,724 --> 02:42:37,900
That roof is going to sit probably less than five feet off

2899
02:42:37,900 --> 02:42:38,614
of the ground, I can estimate.

2900
02:42:38,614 --> 02:42:40,568
Based on the drawings and the slope.

2901
02:42:40,568 --> 02:42:42,810
There is a retaining wall added.

2902
02:42:42,810 --> 02:42:45,232
The roof comes down from the top of the wall height.

2903
02:42:45,232 --> 02:42:48,869
There is a very good chance that the roof additionally

2904
02:42:48,869 --> 02:42:51,872
blocks the view that is not being

2905
02:42:51,872 --> 02:42:55,840
accounted for by the building mass that

2906
02:42:55,840 --> 02:42:56,524
is encompassing the corner.

2907
02:42:56,524 --> 02:42:58,844
When I said it is encroaching an additional two

2908
02:42:58,844 --> 02:43:03,904
feet to the street corner, what we mean is, it is coming out

2909
02:43:03,904 --> 02:43:06,904
and additional feet towards Bayview

2910
02:43:06,922 --> 02:43:08,464
on the front side of the house, which

2911
02:43:08,464 --> 02:43:11,464
is encompassing the north setback

2912
02:43:12,504 --> 02:43:14,644
let me get my directions wrong.

2913
02:43:14,644 --> 02:43:18,604
What I see is the west setback and south setback, I believe.

2914
02:43:18,604 --> 02:43:21,572
It is encompassing that corner, in addition to

2915
02:43:21,572 --> 02:43:23,572
the roof overhang.

2916
02:43:24,524 --> 02:43:26,924
I mentioned the survey.

2917
02:43:27,756 --> 02:43:31,354
Also, asked earlier about the properties that

2918
02:43:31,354 --> 02:43:34,134
were evaluated and referenced for the variances

2919
02:43:34,134 --> 02:43:38,404
and would continue to stress that comparable variances should

2920
02:43:38,404 --> 02:43:39,812
be important here.

2921
02:43:39,812 --> 02:43:43,854
If another property is ten feet, but that is non-conforming

2922
02:43:43,854 --> 02:43:46,300
and now this property is three feet,

2923
02:43:46,300 --> 02:43:49,840
is that really fair to grant those variances

2924
02:43:49,840 --> 02:43:50,634
that are non-conforming.

2925
02:43:50,634 --> 02:43:55,149
Also, I wanted to point out in the staff report it mentioned

2926
02:43:55,149 --> 02:43:57,277
that because the lot was below the 6000ft²,

2927
02:43:57,277 --> 02:44:01,252
it was one of the justifications that did not meet far.

2928
02:44:01,252 --> 02:44:03,634
According to the square footage provided

2929
02:44:03,634 --> 02:44:06,480
it still wouldn't meet the fire requirement

2930
02:44:06,480 --> 02:44:08,929
on a 6000 square foot lot and it still would not

2931
02:44:08,929 --> 02:44:10,308
meet the setback requirement.

2932
02:44:10,308 --> 02:44:14,436
I want to further emphasize that as not

2933
02:44:14,436 --> 02:44:16,324
being adequate justification.

2934
02:44:16,324 --> 02:44:20,400
We also heard from property earlier on a much steeper slope

2935
02:44:20,400 --> 02:44:24,300
that I would consider having a more adequate justification

2936
02:44:24,300 --> 02:44:26,252
for topography as a justification

2937
02:44:26,252 --> 02:44:27,164
to increase height.

2938
02:44:27,164 --> 02:44:30,204
The slope is much gentler on the property.

2939
02:44:30,204 --> 02:44:33,440
And again, it is consistent with the neighborhood.

2940
02:44:33,440 --> 02:44:37,844
Several other homes still meet the 25 foot requirement.

2941
02:44:39,404 --> 02:44:43,770
I guess I will ask if anyone else has any other comments

2942
02:44:43,770 --> 02:44:45,770
at this time.

2943
02:44:50,163 --> 02:44:50,705
>> Thank you.

2944
02:44:50,705 --> 02:44:56,105
We will now move on to the applicant's rebuttal.

2945
02:44:58,890 --> 02:45:00,506
>> I'm going to allow our architect to address most of it.

2946
02:45:00,506 --> 02:45:02,214
The one thing I will say is this property

2947
02:45:02,214 --> 02:45:04,324
wasn't the same owner all of these years.

2948
02:45:04,324 --> 02:45:06,417
My nanny passed away last week.

2949
02:45:06,417 --> 02:45:08,577
She had this property up until two years ago.

2950
02:45:08,577 --> 02:45:10,444
I took this property two years ago

2951
02:45:10,444 --> 02:45:11,964
and we've been working with the city

2952
02:45:11,964 --> 02:45:14,724
planners for the last year it hasn't intentionally

2953
02:45:14,724 --> 02:45:16,724
been neglected.

2954
02:45:26,141 --> 02:45:26,933
>> I'm Kirk Shelby.

2955
02:45:26,933 --> 02:45:27,683
I'm the architect.

2956
02:45:27,683 --> 02:45:29,244
I have a couple of comments.

2957
02:45:29,244 --> 02:45:30,764
One general comment.

2958
02:45:30,764 --> 02:45:33,254
There is always inconsistencies when

2959
02:45:33,254 --> 02:45:35,774
you try to apply zoning requirements to an older

2960
02:45:35,774 --> 02:45:38,644
existing neighborhood, built before such standards were

2961
02:45:38,644 --> 02:45:39,874
established and adopted.

2962
02:45:39,874 --> 02:45:42,908
This is particularly true if the zoning standard adopted

2963
02:45:42,908 --> 02:45:47,284
uses a minimum lot size that is larger than most of the lots

2964
02:45:47,284 --> 02:45:50,337
that it is being applied to.

2965
02:45:50,337 --> 02:45:54,840
The older neighborhood, the more inconsistencies you find.

2966
02:45:54,840 --> 02:45:56,234
You may consider that these inconsistencies are

2967
02:45:56,234 --> 02:45:58,836
what gives older neighborhoods a unique character,

2968
02:45:58,836 --> 02:46:03,534
unlike what can be found in Newark, conforming, more

2969
02:46:03,534 --> 02:46:04,617
homogeneous neighborhoods.

2970
02:46:04,617 --> 02:46:06,949
Fortunately in Martinez you can find

2971
02:46:06,949 --> 02:46:08,116
both types of neighborhoods.

2972
02:46:08,116 --> 02:46:10,491
It is clear that there are other lots in the neighborhood

2973
02:46:10,491 --> 02:46:13,244
in question, which do not meet the zoning standards including

2974
02:46:13,244 --> 02:46:16,996
height, setbacks, minimum lot size, minimum dimensions, etc..

2975
02:46:16,996 --> 02:46:20,352
There are lots that clearly exceed the adopted height

2976
02:46:20,352 --> 02:46:20,852
limits.

2977
02:46:20,852 --> 02:46:23,184
Many of the homes that violate these standards were

2978
02:46:23,184 --> 02:46:25,988
built before these standards were developed and adopted.

2979
02:46:25,988 --> 02:46:29,264
These smaller lot size and more extreme topography

2980
02:46:29,264 --> 02:46:32,644
is the more difficult it is to achieve these zoning standards.

2981
02:46:32,644 --> 02:46:35,500
This is further complicated when you are dealing with an existing

2982
02:46:35,500 --> 02:46:38,608
residence on one of these smaller lots,

2983
02:46:38,608 --> 02:46:40,900
where you are trying to preserve the original character

2984
02:46:40,900 --> 02:46:44,204
of the home while updating it to provide amenities that are not

2985
02:46:44,204 --> 02:46:46,777
typically found in homes over 100 years ago, when

2986
02:46:46,777 --> 02:46:53,840
this was built. The kitchen, I beg to differ with Tony.

2987
02:46:53,840 --> 02:46:55,790
The kitchen has not gotten any wider.

2988
02:46:55,790 --> 02:46:59,370
It has moved location to provide for access to the two car

2989
02:46:59,370 --> 02:46:59,870
garage.

2990
02:46:59,870 --> 02:47:03,440
It is exactly the same width it was before.

2991
02:47:03,440 --> 02:47:03,895
It was 12ft.

2992
02:47:03,895 --> 02:47:05,221
It is 12ft now.

2993
02:47:05,221 --> 02:47:07,964
It slid over to filling the gap that was created.

2994
02:47:07,964 --> 02:47:12,684
The approach and the philosophy was that --

2995
02:47:12,684 --> 02:47:16,364
it is not to encroach any further in terms of distance

2996
02:47:16,364 --> 02:47:19,464
to the property line, with what we were proposing.

2997
02:47:19,464 --> 02:47:24,666
We were also trying not to You get any closer to the down side

2998
02:47:24,666 --> 02:47:27,866
at the 107 neighbor comment because that is the one that has

2999
02:47:27,866 --> 02:47:31,697
the most impact across the street neighbors have the 12ft

3000
02:47:31,697 --> 02:47:33,670
between the property line and the curb.

3001
02:47:33,670 --> 02:47:34,932
The width of the street.

3002
02:47:34,932 --> 02:47:37,224
The 12ft between the property line.

3003
02:47:37,224 --> 02:47:40,184
Their property line and the curb and their setback.

3004
02:47:40,184 --> 02:47:43,448
There is a lot of buffer space between that.

3005
02:47:43,448 --> 02:47:45,587
We are not sitting on top of them.

3006
02:47:45,587 --> 02:47:47,340
The same thing is true with Bayview.

3007
02:47:47,340 --> 02:47:51,440
There is 12ft from our house to the curb.

3008
02:47:51,440 --> 02:47:54,984
There is 20 whatever feet 30ft for Bayview and there is

3009
02:47:54,984 --> 02:47:56,984
a setback there.

3010
02:47:58,124 --> 02:48:02,316
With respect to the second story setback,

3011
02:48:02,316 --> 02:48:07,716
I might have help the planning staff from this.

3012
02:48:08,567 --> 02:48:10,234
We do encroach the ten foot setback only

3013
02:48:10,234 --> 02:48:12,344
in the area where the current house would.

3014
02:48:12,344 --> 02:48:17,817
In other words, there is a gable at the --

3015
02:48:17,817 --> 02:48:20,484
there is a two story section of the house that currently exists.

3016
02:48:20,484 --> 02:48:23,468
The under story where the garage is that extends.

3017
02:48:23,468 --> 02:48:25,684
We are keeping that.

3018
02:48:25,684 --> 02:48:29,284
Where we go beyond that, we Are stepping back four feet.

3019
02:48:29,284 --> 02:48:32,204
If you take the seven feet plus the four feet, you get 11ft.

3020
02:48:32,204 --> 02:48:36,779
The new portion of the house does conform to standards.

3021
02:48:36,779 --> 02:48:41,264
In addition, 13ft of that side that they are saying is two

3022
02:48:41,264 --> 02:48:44,292
story is no longer two story because we have a 20 foot slope

3023
02:48:44,292 --> 02:48:46,324
from corner to corner.

3024
02:48:46,324 --> 02:48:46,924
Upslope.

3025
02:48:46,924 --> 02:48:49,524
By the time you get, if you look at the elevation,

3026
02:48:49,524 --> 02:48:52,536
if you look at the last 13ft, you will see that yes,

3027
02:48:52,536 --> 02:48:56,204
we have some understory, a portion of it,

3028
02:48:56,204 --> 02:48:59,170
but at daylight to grade on the back side.

3029
02:48:59,170 --> 02:49:00,964
We have tried to do that.

3030
02:49:00,964 --> 02:49:03,644
In addition there is a four foot retaining wall

3031
02:49:03,644 --> 02:49:07,840
on the uphill side, simply so we can keep the house where it is.

3032
02:49:07,840 --> 02:49:08,684
It is where it is.

3033
02:49:08,684 --> 02:49:11,324
The subfloor was intended to be where the subfloor is.

3034
02:49:11,324 --> 02:49:14,424
The house was intended to be in the same basic configuration

3035
02:49:14,424 --> 02:49:15,655
that it was.

3036
02:49:15,655 --> 02:49:16,886
Is it exactly?

3037
02:49:16,886 --> 02:49:17,950
No it is not.

3038
02:49:17,950 --> 02:49:19,635
Could it be exactly, yes.

3039
02:49:19,635 --> 02:49:22,279
We could make a one car garage.

3040
02:49:22,279 --> 02:49:24,510
We could do a lot of things.

3041
02:49:24,510 --> 02:49:27,680
It sounds like maybe what the neighbors

3042
02:49:27,680 --> 02:49:29,924
would like us is to demolish the entire house

3043
02:49:29,924 --> 02:49:31,796
and build a house that conforms with what

3044
02:49:31,796 --> 02:49:33,444
the rest of the neighborhood is.

3045
02:49:33,444 --> 02:49:39,184
That is not -- if that is not a hardship, I don't know what is.

3046
02:49:39,184 --> 02:49:42,340
We are trying to keep the house that is there as much as we can,

3047
02:49:42,340 --> 02:49:43,644
and improve on it.

3048
02:49:43,644 --> 02:49:47,844
Additionally, the FAR that is listed at 58,

3049
02:49:47,860 --> 02:49:51,384
includes the area, the gross floor area of the Adu.

3050
02:49:51,384 --> 02:49:53,430
Which my understanding is it shouldn't.

3051
02:49:53,430 --> 02:49:57,160
If you take the Adu outcome of the 400ft² of the Adu,

3052
02:49:57,160 --> 02:50:02,214
if f a are still exceeds five, it is 0.51.

3053
02:50:02,214 --> 02:50:03,344
0.58.

3054
02:50:03,344 --> 02:50:07,732
Additionally, if you look at the appellant's review,

3055
02:50:07,732 --> 02:50:12,489
they used living area as FAR and didn't include gross floor area.

3056
02:50:12,489 --> 02:50:15,574
If you look at the houses, there are a number of houses.

3057
02:50:15,574 --> 02:50:18,492
I don't know the footprints of the houses because I cannot get

3058
02:50:18,492 --> 02:50:19,244
that information.

3059
02:50:19,244 --> 02:50:23,124
But our house is a one story profile from the uphill side.

3060
02:50:23,124 --> 02:50:25,100
A number of houses across the street

3061
02:50:25,100 --> 02:50:27,975
have a two story profile from the uphill side and a two

3062
02:50:27,975 --> 02:50:30,624
and a half story profile from the downhill side.

3063
02:50:30,624 --> 02:50:33,944
There is definitely room for more.

3064
02:50:33,944 --> 02:50:35,184
>> Thank you.

3065
02:50:35,184 --> 02:50:37,244
>> I could go on.

3066
02:50:37,244 --> 02:50:39,164
>> We are limited on time.

3067
02:50:39,164 --> 02:50:41,564
Thank you very much.

3068
02:50:42,344 --> 02:50:45,892
>> We will now close public comment.

3069
02:50:45,892 --> 02:50:53,920
Two staff, there have been a lot of questions that have recently

3070
02:50:53,714 --> 02:50:55,714
been posed .

3071
02:50:57,278 --> 02:51:01,930
There have been a lot of questions recently posed.

3072
02:51:01,930 --> 02:51:07,693
Are there any in particular that staff would like to address?

3073
02:51:14,373 --> 02:51:16,748
>> There were mentions of variances and they are included

3074
02:51:16,748 --> 02:51:21,800
in the findings as well, citing precedents and things like that.

3075
02:51:21,800 --> 02:51:23,708
As mentioned in the presentation,

3076
02:51:23,708 --> 02:51:27,812
there are two variants or use permits.

3077
02:51:27,812 --> 02:51:29,937
They used to call them use permits back in the day.

3078
02:51:29,937 --> 02:51:33,771
It was to exceed the height so that you have a 30 foot --

3079
02:51:33,771 --> 02:51:36,171
32 foot tall dwelling unit.

3080
02:51:36,344 --> 02:51:41,617
And that also had the variance for a five foot side

3081
02:51:41,617 --> 02:51:45,817
yard setback where it typically would be

3082
02:51:46,444 --> 02:51:48,150
ten feet, similar to this case.

3083
02:51:48,150 --> 02:51:49,310
I'm not sure.

3084
02:51:49,310 --> 02:51:52,460
I could look into it whether it is two stories or three stories

3085
02:51:52,460 --> 02:51:54,270
but it is 32ft tall.

3086
02:51:54,270 --> 02:51:56,444
Those are references in the other findings,

3087
02:51:56,444 --> 02:51:59,444
just to make that clear.

3088
02:52:00,644 --> 02:52:01,156
>> Okay.

3089
02:52:01,156 --> 02:52:03,404
So that everyone understands, because everyone

3090
02:52:03,404 --> 02:52:04,862
has different levels of experiences

3091
02:52:04,862 --> 02:52:06,195
that are here with us today.

3092
02:52:06,195 --> 02:52:09,209
And staff provide the historical context and reasoning

3093
02:52:09,209 --> 02:52:10,884
behind our setbacks.

3094
02:52:10,884 --> 02:52:12,337
Some of us know, but just in case

3095
02:52:12,337 --> 02:52:14,670
there are folks who do not really understand the purpose

3096
02:52:14,670 --> 02:52:16,484
and intent behind these setbacks we

3097
02:52:16,484 --> 02:52:20,684
have established in this particular zoning area.

3098
02:52:23,997 --> 02:52:27,914
>> Generally, setbacks are a combination of esthetic,

3099
02:52:27,914 --> 02:52:31,604
as well as ingress and egress to allow adequate access,

3100
02:52:31,604 --> 02:52:33,324
especially for side yard setbacks.

3101
02:52:33,324 --> 02:52:38,764
To allow adequate access to and from the rear yard to the front,

3102
02:52:38,764 --> 02:52:45,364
as well as allow space for driveways, garages, and so on.

3103
02:52:47,968 --> 02:52:50,260
>> We have had a lot of incidences over the years where

3104
02:52:50,260 --> 02:52:53,664
we have had exceptions to the setbacks.

3105
02:52:53,664 --> 02:52:56,710
Would you say that this is something

3106
02:52:56,710 --> 02:53:01,152
that is particularly common as this is a very old city

3107
02:53:01,152 --> 02:53:04,124
and we have been making adjustments to the setbacks,

3108
02:53:04,124 --> 02:53:09,524
and sometimes we have to provide exceptions to that.

3109
02:53:09,924 --> 02:53:10,710
>> Yes.

3110
02:53:10,710 --> 02:53:13,457
The city, through the zoning administrator,

3111
02:53:13,457 --> 02:53:16,404
has granted other minor exceptions,

3112
02:53:16,404 --> 02:53:20,364
depending on the level of the nonconformity.

3113
02:53:20,364 --> 02:53:23,124
Either minor exceptions or variances to setbacks

3114
02:53:23,124 --> 02:53:23,804
historically.

3115
02:53:23,804 --> 02:53:25,804
Yes.

3116
02:53:25,964 --> 02:53:27,840
>> Okay.

3117
02:53:27,840 --> 02:53:30,508
Can you, since the question did come up,

3118
02:53:30,508 --> 02:53:32,217
how would you define, specifically,

3119
02:53:32,217 --> 02:53:35,860
the hardship that we addressed that is in your findings.

3120
02:53:35,860 --> 02:53:37,495
It was brought up by the appellant.

3121
02:53:37,495 --> 02:53:42,295
How do we define hardship is it financial?

3122
02:53:44,644 --> 02:53:47,644
>> Hardship is not necessarily defined.

3123
02:53:49,884 --> 02:53:54,520
I want to make sure that we are clear looking

3124
02:53:54,520 --> 02:53:57,260
at the findings for the variance.

3125
02:53:57,260 --> 02:53:59,984
I'm just going to skim over them really quickly.

3126
02:53:59,984 --> 02:54:02,508
Strict or literal interpretation of the regulation

3127
02:54:02,508 --> 02:54:04,257
would result in a practical difficulty

3128
02:54:04,257 --> 02:54:06,657
or unnecessary physical hardship.

3129
02:54:07,764 --> 02:54:08,904
Not financial.

3130
02:54:08,904 --> 02:54:11,304
There is extraordinary circumstances,

3131
02:54:12,184 --> 02:54:16,644
or conditions applicable to the property that just generally do

3132
02:54:16,644 --> 02:54:18,364
not apply to other properties.

3133
02:54:18,364 --> 02:54:21,184
It would deprive the applicant of privileges enjoyed

3134
02:54:21,184 --> 02:54:22,500
by other property owners.

3135
02:54:22,500 --> 02:54:25,600
It will not constitute a grant of special privileges.

3136
02:54:25,600 --> 02:54:29,148
It will not be detrimental to public health and safety.

3137
02:54:29,148 --> 02:54:32,724
As mentioned in the findings, there

3138
02:54:32,724 --> 02:54:37,754
were a few that are related, I believe, specifically

3139
02:54:37,754 --> 02:54:42,432
to the first finding that the project is on a slope

3140
02:54:42,432 --> 02:54:44,710
and slightly more difficult to develop on.

3141
02:54:44,710 --> 02:54:49,508
It is also on a smaller lot than what is actually required

3142
02:54:49,508 --> 02:54:51,308
by the zoning district.

3143
02:54:51,308 --> 02:54:53,988
There are lots that don't conform,

3144
02:54:53,988 --> 02:54:56,844
but there are plenty of lots in the surrounding vicinity that

3145
02:54:56,844 --> 02:55:00,548
are greater than 6000ft, ranging all the way up to 12,000ft.

3146
02:55:00,548 --> 02:55:04,148
And also, that the existing structure

3147
02:55:05,700 --> 02:55:10,470
virtually any expansion would be non-compliant with the city's

3148
02:55:11,244 --> 02:55:12,485
current zoning standards.

3149
02:55:12,485 --> 02:55:14,110
That is just a quick high level summary

3150
02:55:14,110 --> 02:55:16,825
of what is provided in the findings.

3151
02:55:16,825 --> 02:55:18,200
>> When we say physical hardship,

3152
02:55:18,200 --> 02:55:23,000
we are talking about the actual physical construction?

3153
02:55:23,764 --> 02:55:26,460
>> Either the physical construction or the environment

3154
02:55:26,460 --> 02:55:30,840
at the site the physical constraints that make it more

3155
02:55:30,840 --> 02:55:33,284
difficult, that provides some necessary deviation from

3156
02:55:33,284 --> 02:55:35,284
our standards.

3157
02:55:36,440 --> 02:55:38,324
>> Site conditions that are resulting in unnecessary

3158
02:55:38,324 --> 02:55:41,984
physical hardship in terms of the construction and in terms

3159
02:55:41,984 --> 02:55:44,916
of construction we are talking about means and methods.

3160
02:55:44,916 --> 02:55:51,516
That the means and methods -- >> I would agree with that.

3161
02:55:52,584 --> 02:55:53,840
>> Okay.

3162
02:55:53,840 --> 02:55:55,840
Thank you.

3163
02:55:55,484 --> 02:55:57,681
>> I can kind of speak to living in a house that is

3164
02:55:57,681 --> 02:55:58,264
nonconforming.

3165
02:55:58,264 --> 02:56:02,369
My house was built in Omaha Nebraska in 1914.

3166
02:56:02,369 --> 02:56:06,470
I was on, I believe it was a 50 by 50 lot.

3167
02:56:06,470 --> 02:56:10,284
It was on a very steep hill.

3168
02:56:10,284 --> 02:56:13,842
On one side of my house I was a story and a half

3169
02:56:13,842 --> 02:56:15,350
and on the other side of the house

3170
02:56:15,350 --> 02:56:18,690
it was two and a half stories.

3171
02:56:18,690 --> 02:56:21,764
The back of my house was three feet from the property line

3172
02:56:21,764 --> 02:56:26,116
and on the east side it was five feet.

3173
02:56:26,116 --> 02:56:30,817
Older houses were not built according to zoning,

3174
02:56:30,817 --> 02:56:32,636
as we know it today.

3175
02:56:32,636 --> 02:56:37,180
At -- that is the construction since World War Two.

3176
02:56:37,180 --> 02:56:39,177
This house clearly needs that same aid.

3177
02:56:39,177 --> 02:56:42,484
It must have probably been built in 19 tens I am guessing.

3178
02:56:42,484 --> 02:56:48,404
This is a similar lot to what I lived on.

3179
02:56:48,404 --> 02:56:50,804
On a sloping hill.

3180
02:56:51,900 --> 02:56:53,460
It is a historic home.

3181
02:56:53,460 --> 02:56:55,444
It is a historic building.

3182
02:56:55,444 --> 02:56:59,612
It doesn't necessarily -- it really can't fit our current

3183
02:56:59,612 --> 02:57:00,586
concept of zoning.

3184
02:57:00,586 --> 02:57:05,564
It kind of has to have a lot of exceptions.

3185
02:57:05,564 --> 02:57:08,720
Especially when you are trying To make it into a house that

3186
02:57:08,720 --> 02:57:12,920
a 21st century family would live in.

3187
02:57:13,540 --> 02:57:19,190
I think everything that I have heard and listened to today,

3188
02:57:19,190 --> 02:57:22,892
I think any kind of exceptions that have been granted

3189
02:57:22,892 --> 02:57:24,809
makes sense to me.

3190
02:57:24,809 --> 02:57:29,260
Because it is a unique, historically old building

3191
02:57:29,260 --> 02:57:31,677
in a historically older part of town,

3192
02:57:31,677 --> 02:57:36,208
that is not a suburban part of town that was built in the 1970s

3193
02:57:36,208 --> 02:57:38,804
or after World War Two.

3194
02:57:38,804 --> 02:57:41,954
>> One of the things that I often bring up,

3195
02:57:41,954 --> 02:57:44,312
as far life and safety.

3196
02:57:44,312 --> 02:57:46,280
That did get brought up today.

3197
02:57:46,280 --> 02:57:49,457
They turn space for a fire truck.

3198
02:57:49,457 --> 02:57:52,137
Has there been any discussion at all.

3199
02:57:52,137 --> 02:57:55,244
Any plans that there has been a need

3200
02:57:55,244 --> 02:57:59,444
to widen the street in that area?

3201
02:58:00,440 --> 02:58:02,424
>> As far as we know, no.

3202
02:58:02,424 --> 02:58:04,564
There has not been any plan.

3203
02:58:04,564 --> 02:58:09,400
>> Do we know for a fact that there is not enough area there,

3204
02:58:09,400 --> 02:58:12,607
on that corner, for a fire truck to turn around.

3205
02:58:12,607 --> 02:58:16,807
Is that something that has been assessed ?

3206
02:58:19,112 --> 02:58:21,779
>> We also sent this project to fire for review and they did not

3207
02:58:21,779 --> 02:58:27,179
have any comments about access or maneuverability into that

3208
02:58:27,669 --> 02:58:29,450
area with the fire truck.

3209
02:58:29,450 --> 02:58:36,500
We didn't receive any comments from fire in regards to that.

3210
02:58:36,740 --> 02:58:38,448
>> I think what is also important to add,

3211
02:58:38,448 --> 02:58:41,734
as part of the project, the applicant is proposing

3212
02:58:41,734 --> 02:58:44,134
to address an existing non-conforming situation

3213
02:58:44,134 --> 02:58:48,200
by providing room for vehicles to be parked on site,

3214
02:58:48,200 --> 02:58:50,184
rather than off site.

3215
02:58:50,184 --> 02:58:53,188
Which in turn, one could argue, assuming

3216
02:58:53,188 --> 02:58:56,652
the garage is used for that intended purpose,

3217
02:58:56,652 --> 02:58:59,484
it could be reducing potential conflicts

3218
02:58:59,484 --> 02:59:03,840
with emergency vehicles on the street.

3219
02:59:07,727 --> 02:59:10,284
>> It is clear that in its present condition it is a fire

3220
02:59:10,284 --> 02:59:10,784
hazard.

3221
02:59:10,784 --> 02:59:12,764
Everyone does agree with that.

3222
02:59:12,764 --> 02:59:16,544
To be honest with you, that is a big concern of mine.

3223
02:59:16,544 --> 02:59:18,312
I have a background in development

3224
02:59:18,312 --> 02:59:21,290
and seeing that is a concern of mine.

3225
02:59:21,290 --> 02:59:23,994
As we continue on with this committee fire hazard

3226
02:59:23,994 --> 02:59:25,104
isn't mitigated.

3227
02:59:25,104 --> 02:59:26,584
It stays.

3228
02:59:26,584 --> 02:59:30,124
However long this goes on until the home is addressed,

3229
02:59:30,124 --> 02:59:34,404
you do have the continuing condition of a fire hazard.

3230
02:59:34,404 --> 02:59:37,604
Folks mentioned squatters in the area.

3231
02:59:37,604 --> 02:59:38,644
Wildlife, Et-cetera.

3232
02:59:38,644 --> 02:59:43,444
All of that stays into the present condition,

3233
02:59:43,581 --> 02:59:44,164
unfortunately.

3234
02:59:44,164 --> 02:59:47,114
That is an issue for all of you particularly.

3235
02:59:47,114 --> 02:59:52,514
I don't think that the fire chief not commenting,

3236
02:59:54,284 --> 02:59:59,404
I don't think that it means it was necessarily assessed.

3237
02:59:59,404 --> 03:00:03,400
I don't take silence -- yeah.

3238
03:00:05,239 --> 03:00:09,439
That is a concern that I have.

3239
03:00:11,100 --> 03:00:12,100
>> A question for staff.

3240
03:00:12,100 --> 03:00:15,244
How our existing setbacks for historical homes

3241
03:00:15,244 --> 03:00:18,644
traditionally treated in Martinez when they do not

3242
03:00:18,644 --> 03:00:22,844
comply with the >> Consistently with this one,

3243
03:00:25,640 --> 03:00:28,704
that if there is any addition to a non-conforming

3244
03:00:28,704 --> 03:00:31,784
it would have to require either a variance

3245
03:00:31,784 --> 03:00:33,134
or some other exception.

3246
03:00:33,134 --> 03:00:35,424
We wouldn't just allow it to.

3247
03:00:35,424 --> 03:00:39,804
Would have to comply again with the existing regulations.

3248
03:00:39,804 --> 03:00:41,977
>> And to clarify, it is not just additions,

3249
03:00:41,977 --> 03:00:45,803
but it is any modifications to the portion that is

3250
03:00:45,803 --> 03:00:46,428
non-conforming.

3251
03:00:46,428 --> 03:00:50,250
So if there was changes to windows or volume,

3252
03:00:50,250 --> 03:00:52,184
or things of that nature, would also

3253
03:00:52,184 --> 03:00:56,444
need to go through that exception or variance process.

3254
03:00:56,444 --> 03:00:58,320
>> I have a question for staff also.

3255
03:00:58,320 --> 03:01:00,544
Is this second story that is ten feet,

3256
03:01:00,544 --> 03:01:03,724
is that part of the existing building that is non-conforming,

3257
03:01:03,724 --> 03:01:07,924
that is being modified in that sense?

3258
03:01:10,840 --> 03:01:11,592
>> Correct.

3259
03:01:11,592 --> 03:01:12,920
>> Okay.

3260
03:01:12,920 --> 03:01:13,290
This is a tough project.

3261
03:01:13,290 --> 03:01:15,164
It is a corner lot.

3262
03:01:15,164 --> 03:01:17,812
People that have corner lots do get penalized slightly

3263
03:01:17,812 --> 03:01:18,504
from setbacks.

3264
03:01:18,504 --> 03:01:21,556
It is a hard thing to consider.

3265
03:01:21,556 --> 03:01:23,956
The lot is non-conforming.

3266
03:01:24,244 --> 03:01:26,310
Is adding a two car garage, which

3267
03:01:26,310 --> 03:01:28,476
if you were to make him take out the garage,

3268
03:01:28,476 --> 03:01:31,684
then you pose a possible problem with any kind

3269
03:01:31,684 --> 03:01:33,644
of obstruction on the street.

3270
03:01:33,644 --> 03:01:36,109
I commend them for doing the job of what

3271
03:01:36,109 --> 03:01:39,114
he tried to do on this house to try to make it comply

3272
03:01:39,114 --> 03:01:40,444
with the neighborhood.

3273
03:01:40,444 --> 03:01:42,500
And also to give some historical memory,

3274
03:01:42,500 --> 03:01:45,964
I call it, of the neighborhood as well.

3275
03:01:45,964 --> 03:01:49,440
They've done a great job Trying to bury it

3276
03:01:49,440 --> 03:01:50,564
into the hill on the backside.

3277
03:01:50,564 --> 03:01:56,184
Especially on the street adjacent to it where he only

3278
03:01:56,184 --> 03:01:58,404
has one story viewed on that.

3279
03:01:58,404 --> 03:02:03,204
I see that staff had done as far as the zoning administrator,

3280
03:02:03,204 --> 03:02:05,230
I can support it.

3281
03:02:05,230 --> 03:02:06,569
It is a difficult situation.

3282
03:02:06,569 --> 03:02:10,840
I don't believe that the height will be a major issue overall.

3283
03:02:10,840 --> 03:02:14,884
I think that the setbacks I can see

3284
03:02:14,924 --> 03:02:20,324
because of the considerations of what is going on.

3285
03:02:30,462 --> 03:02:32,337
>> The concern that I have was around safety.

3286
03:02:32,337 --> 03:02:38,430
And what I was curious of when you asked the question,

3287
03:02:38,430 --> 03:02:41,237
what I was curious about whether there had been any precedent,

3288
03:02:41,237 --> 03:02:46,637
or if our staff had any experience with emergency

3289
03:02:46,684 --> 03:02:52,710
vehicles, police, and or fire being able to access at Bayview

3290
03:02:52,710 --> 03:02:54,710
and Escobar .

3291
03:02:57,177 --> 03:02:58,802
>> Not that planning staff is aware of.

3292
03:02:58,802 --> 03:03:04,860
I do think it is important to note that there is not

3293
03:03:04,860 --> 03:03:05,652
a change in use.

3294
03:03:05,652 --> 03:03:08,104
The use is a single family home and it is

3295
03:03:08,104 --> 03:03:09,764
remaining a single family home.

3296
03:03:09,764 --> 03:03:12,844
It is adding an accessory dwelling unit,

3297
03:03:12,844 --> 03:03:18,244
but the accessory dwelling unit is a ministerial action.

3298
03:03:22,959 --> 03:03:24,917
>> And I hear Chair Evans position that silence

3299
03:03:24,917 --> 03:03:25,826
doesn't mean consent.

3300
03:03:25,826 --> 03:03:32,377
I wonder if we can specifically ask that of the fire Department.

3301
03:03:32,377 --> 03:03:34,236
>> I received a written letter in response.

3302
03:03:34,236 --> 03:03:36,900
It wasn't that they didn't comment.

3303
03:03:36,900 --> 03:03:40,164
I can send you guys --

3304
03:03:40,164 --> 03:03:43,704
I can send everyone what they sent to me.

3305
03:03:43,704 --> 03:03:48,204
But they reviewed it and they provided the standard comments

3306
03:03:48,204 --> 03:03:51,268
that once it goes through a building permit,

3307
03:03:51,268 --> 03:03:53,670
they are also going to examine it that way.

3308
03:03:53,670 --> 03:03:58,404
But there wasn't anything from their referral agency project

3309
03:03:58,404 --> 03:03:59,260
review.

3310
03:03:59,260 --> 03:04:04,600
They had a certain timeline to review that.

3311
03:04:05,436 --> 03:04:08,309
They didn't give me any additional comments

3312
03:04:08,309 --> 03:04:11,806
and said everything was okay for them.

3313
03:04:11,806 --> 03:04:15,230
I can send that information to you as well.

3314
03:04:15,230 --> 03:04:17,184
>> And just to opine further.

3315
03:04:17,184 --> 03:04:20,440
That was the fire department's first bite at the apple.

3316
03:04:20,440 --> 03:04:22,330
It won't be their last.

3317
03:04:22,330 --> 03:04:24,268
Before it goes for building permit,

3318
03:04:24,268 --> 03:04:27,356
they will also need to get a permit from the fire department

3319
03:04:27,356 --> 03:04:28,137
as well.

3320
03:04:28,137 --> 03:04:32,337
It will be reviewed more thoroughly again.

3321
03:04:37,780 --> 03:04:38,828
>> I want to follow up on the story poles.

3322
03:04:38,828 --> 03:04:40,964
There was one story pole.

3323
03:04:40,964 --> 03:04:43,452
Why is it not sufficient.

3324
03:04:43,452 --> 03:04:45,340
Do we need two story poles.

3325
03:04:45,340 --> 03:04:47,340
I don't know.

3326
03:04:47,364 --> 03:04:50,460
>> I don't necessarily want to speak for the appellants

3327
03:04:50,460 --> 03:04:51,964
or other commenters.

3328
03:04:51,964 --> 03:04:56,604
My understanding is that there was a story pole installed,

3329
03:04:56,604 --> 03:05:00,940
but it could not be put over the exact ridge

3330
03:05:00,940 --> 03:05:03,900
line of where the highest point of the structure will be,

3331
03:05:03,900 --> 03:05:07,221
because of the existing dilapidated roof, that it

3332
03:05:07,221 --> 03:05:10,672
would be unsafe to try to manage to get a story pull up there.

3333
03:05:10,672 --> 03:05:14,284
A singular story pole was installed somewhere else

3334
03:05:14,284 --> 03:05:17,828
respective of the site, to kind of demonstrate

3335
03:05:17,828 --> 03:05:20,444
where the ridge line would be.

3336
03:05:20,444 --> 03:05:22,244
>> There is no way around it.

3337
03:05:22,244 --> 03:05:24,244
It seems like.

3338
03:05:27,847 --> 03:05:29,764
>> That might be a question for the applicant.

3339
03:05:29,764 --> 03:05:31,639
>> I think that is why the applicant provided

3340
03:05:31,639 --> 03:05:34,404
an alternative means to demonstrate height by having

3341
03:05:34,404 --> 03:05:39,804
the lasers and photos showing when viewed from neighbors.

3342
03:05:42,764 --> 03:05:48,364
>> Can that be done with the laser so you get a better

3343
03:05:48,364 --> 03:05:50,170
perspective.

3344
03:05:50,170 --> 03:05:51,940
>> I believe they have already done that.

3345
03:05:51,940 --> 03:05:55,540
They provided that in their presentation.

3346
03:05:56,364 --> 03:06:00,972
And the visual simulation of showing the ridge line.

3347
03:06:00,972 --> 03:06:02,861
Where the red line was.

3348
03:06:02,861 --> 03:06:06,584
That is the approximate location of where the new ridge

3349
03:06:06,584 --> 03:06:08,204
line would be.

3350
03:06:08,204 --> 03:06:11,756
But that was, again, only from one vantage point.

3351
03:06:11,756 --> 03:06:14,230
That was from a neighbor that was uphill and likely to be

3352
03:06:14,230 --> 03:06:16,230
most affected.

3353
03:06:16,830 --> 03:06:19,230
>> I truly appreciate retrofitting.

3354
03:06:19,364 --> 03:06:24,200
Retrofitting is always harder than just building new.

3355
03:06:24,200 --> 03:06:27,812
I understand the difficulties that you have.

3356
03:06:27,812 --> 03:06:32,120
I am also concerned about the safety.

3357
03:06:32,364 --> 03:06:35,364
It is hard to believe.

3358
03:06:35,944 --> 03:06:37,777
>> Would staff like to make a recommendation

3359
03:06:37,777 --> 03:06:40,177
for the Commissioner's consideration.

3360
03:06:40,764 --> 03:06:42,692
Given the issue with the second story side

3361
03:06:42,692 --> 03:06:44,564
yard setback requirement of ten feet,

3362
03:06:44,564 --> 03:06:47,537
because that portion of the existing nonconforming

3363
03:06:47,537 --> 03:06:49,724
is being modified as part of the project.

3364
03:06:49,724 --> 03:06:53,924
We would need to re notice that portion before you would

3365
03:06:53,924 --> 03:06:55,384
take action on the project.

3366
03:06:55,384 --> 03:06:59,764
Staff would recommend that the notice of the application

3367
03:06:59,764 --> 03:07:03,763
and bring it back to the Commission October 13th meeting.

3368
03:07:03,763 --> 03:07:07,780
Prior to that meeting, staff can specifically

3369
03:07:07,780 --> 03:07:12,396
reach out to the Fire department to follow up beyond the comments

3370
03:07:12,396 --> 03:07:15,859
that we already received, as part of the typical referral

3371
03:07:15,859 --> 03:07:20,400
process, to confirm that there are no larger safety

3372
03:07:20,400 --> 03:07:23,604
concerns associated with the proposed project.

3373
03:07:24,417 --> 03:07:27,540
>> I would like to say one thing to staff.

3374
03:07:27,540 --> 03:07:29,924
There are two power poles right there.

3375
03:07:29,924 --> 03:07:32,484
One is on the corner and one is sort of

3376
03:07:32,484 --> 03:07:35,840
in the middle of the property, in the back.

3377
03:07:35,840 --> 03:07:38,240
Widening the statement, if they were going to widen the street

3378
03:07:38,240 --> 03:07:40,864
they would have to redo the power poles, wouldn't you?

3379
03:07:40,864 --> 03:07:44,224
They are right on the corner, as I recall.

3380
03:07:44,224 --> 03:07:47,684
>> They would need relocated or underground.

3381
03:07:47,684 --> 03:07:50,564
>> On the proposed site, it would not be the only one

3382
03:07:50,564 --> 03:07:57,252
affected by a street >> I think it is also important to note

3383
03:07:57,252 --> 03:08:00,340
from a fire safety standpoint, this was alluded to earlier

3384
03:08:00,340 --> 03:08:00,534
today.

3385
03:08:00,534 --> 03:08:04,840
The applicant did remove a significant amount of brush

3386
03:08:04,840 --> 03:08:07,424
and vegetation adjacent to the power pole,

3387
03:08:07,424 --> 03:08:11,240
decreasing a potential fire safety issue.

3388
03:08:16,797 --> 03:08:19,360
>> I wanted to add that it is nice to see some revisions that

3389
03:08:19,360 --> 03:08:23,444
have been included in the presentation such as the roof

3390
03:08:23,444 --> 03:08:25,464
pitch, and things like that to accommodate some

3391
03:08:25,464 --> 03:08:26,492
of the requests.

3392
03:08:26,492 --> 03:08:30,172
It is worth noting that the team here

3393
03:08:30,172 --> 03:08:34,184
has attempted to make some changes to appease

3394
03:08:34,184 --> 03:08:36,184
these requests.

3395
03:08:41,303 --> 03:08:44,204
>> I appreciate the comments and the direction from staff

3396
03:08:44,204 --> 03:08:45,729
because we do.

3397
03:08:45,729 --> 03:08:50,734
We are going to have to readdress the rear setback.

3398
03:08:50,734 --> 03:08:54,934
Based upon the suggestions made by staff,

3399
03:08:55,396 --> 03:09:02,596
can I get a motion to shelve this until October 30th meeting,

3400
03:09:03,284 --> 03:09:06,224
and for staff to have the opportunity to conduct

3401
03:09:06,224 --> 03:09:08,224
the items.

3402
03:09:08,404 --> 03:09:10,150
>> October 13th.

3403
03:09:10,150 --> 03:09:12,550
>> What did you say?

3404
03:09:12,564 --> 03:09:16,764
>> I said -- you said the 30th.

3405
03:09:21,164 --> 03:09:23,564
>> October 13th for everyone.

3406
03:09:29,573 --> 03:09:31,198
>> It is because it is 10:00, everyone.

3407
03:09:31,198 --> 03:09:32,577
I get it.

3408
03:09:32,577 --> 03:09:35,464
>> I make a motion that this item be tabled until October

3409
03:09:35,464 --> 03:09:40,804
13th in accordance with the language that staff has used.

3410
03:09:40,804 --> 03:09:42,804
>> Second.

3411
03:09:43,844 --> 03:09:45,844
>> Call the vote.

3412
03:09:51,508 --> 03:09:52,360
>>

3413
03:09:52,360 --> 03:09:53,270
[Members Voting]

3414
03:09:53,270 --> 03:09:55,270
[Members Voting]

3415
03:10:02,279 --> 03:10:04,279
>> The motion passes.

3416
03:10:05,870 --> 03:10:07,578
>> Thank you all very much for attending.

3417
03:10:07,578 --> 03:10:08,944
We really appreciate it.

3418
03:10:08,944 --> 03:10:12,680
We understand how everyone feels about this item.

3419
03:10:12,680 --> 03:10:16,764
I know everyone wants it to come to a conclusion.

3420
03:10:16,764 --> 03:10:20,284
Again, as I mentioned before, we are all neighbors.

3421
03:10:20,284 --> 03:10:22,184
It is very important for all of us

3422
03:10:22,184 --> 03:10:24,348
that love this city that we can figure out

3423
03:10:24,348 --> 03:10:27,249
to come to some sort of solution that works for everyone.

3424
03:10:27,249 --> 03:10:28,381
But I get it.

3425
03:10:28,381 --> 03:10:31,558
I hope you all understand we are all trying

3426
03:10:31,558 --> 03:10:33,421
to do what we can for the city.

3427
03:10:33,421 --> 03:10:36,154
No one is going to be completely happy.

3428
03:10:36,154 --> 03:10:39,414
But I do think it is very important that everyone

3429
03:10:39,414 --> 03:10:41,627
remembers that you are neighbors.

3430
03:10:41,627 --> 03:10:44,653
We've got to be able to get along.

3431
03:10:44,653 --> 03:10:46,897
This isn't a company, a commercial entity

3432
03:10:46,897 --> 03:10:48,181
that is trying to move in.

3433
03:10:48,181 --> 03:10:50,897
I assume you are going to live in the dwelling.

3434
03:10:50,897 --> 03:10:52,708
It is another family.

3435
03:10:52,708 --> 03:10:55,804
We all should do what we can.

3436
03:10:55,804 --> 03:10:57,804
Thank you.

3437
03:11:02,424 --> 03:11:06,156
>> We will now move on to the presentation that we had tabled

3438
03:11:06,156 --> 03:11:07,444
from earlier in the meeting.

3439
03:11:07,444 --> 03:11:11,644
Staff will have their presentation for us.

3440
03:11:20,477 --> 03:11:22,644
>> Thank you chair Evans and members of the Planning

3441
03:11:22,644 --> 03:11:23,144
Commission.

3442
03:11:23,144 --> 03:11:25,894
I am senior planner Brandon Northcott.

3443
03:11:25,894 --> 03:11:27,964
My presentation was going to be an hour

3444
03:11:27,964 --> 03:11:33,964
but I will shorten it to 45 minutes for you guys.

3445
03:11:35,220 --> 03:11:35,564
>> Funny guy.

3446
03:11:35,564 --> 03:11:36,592
>> Bear with me.

3447
03:11:36,592 --> 03:11:39,384
I here really just to present a new update to the city's

3448
03:11:39,384 --> 03:11:40,628
interactive zoning map.

3449
03:11:40,628 --> 03:11:42,396
Just a little context.

3450
03:11:42,396 --> 03:11:47,196
We have an existing interactive zoning map --

3451
03:11:47,954 --> 03:11:49,829
I'm trying to get this to move out of my way.

3452
03:11:49,829 --> 03:11:54,400
We do have an existing zoning map

3453
03:11:54,400 --> 03:11:56,476
that people from the community can access.

3454
03:11:56,476 --> 03:11:58,604
It is called the Community Viewer.

3455
03:11:58,604 --> 03:12:00,855
Unfortunately, it is a little quirky.

3456
03:12:00,855 --> 03:12:03,300
It is the word I will use.

3457
03:12:03,300 --> 03:12:04,864
I'm sure people are familiar with it.

3458
03:12:04,864 --> 03:12:07,910
As you can see, sometimes it takes a couple of times for it

3459
03:12:07,910 --> 03:12:08,494
to load.

3460
03:12:08,494 --> 03:12:10,469
Sometimes it doesn't load at all.

3461
03:12:10,469 --> 03:12:12,517
I won't go too much into the details.

3462
03:12:12,517 --> 03:12:14,404
I have a lot to say about that.

3463
03:12:14,404 --> 03:12:17,444
Long story short, this platform is no longer being supported

3464
03:12:17,444 --> 03:12:19,837
and it is actually through a third party vendor.

3465
03:12:19,837 --> 03:12:22,144
We don't really have a lot of control over it.

3466
03:12:22,144 --> 03:12:23,861
It is kind of a pain in the Butt to try

3467
03:12:23,861 --> 03:12:25,280
to update it and everything.

3468
03:12:25,280 --> 03:12:27,172
Staff has taken it upon ourselves

3469
03:12:27,172 --> 03:12:31,890
to update this map on our own and create a new one.

3470
03:12:31,890 --> 03:12:35,570
I would just like to point everyone in that direction.

3471
03:12:35,570 --> 03:12:37,984
To find the map, it is pretty easy.

3472
03:12:37,984 --> 03:12:41,260
You can search City of Martinez zoning map.

3473
03:12:41,260 --> 03:12:42,609
You will find it here on the map room.

3474
03:12:42,609 --> 03:12:44,924
You can also find it by navigating to the city website

3475
03:12:44,924 --> 03:12:48,520
and going to the map Room via the Planning Division website.

3476
03:12:48,520 --> 03:12:51,226
What I really like about this is coming out

3477
03:12:51,226 --> 03:12:53,444
it is actually embedded in the city's website.

3478
03:12:53,444 --> 03:12:58,540
As you can see here, there is no need to follow any other links.

3479
03:12:58,540 --> 03:13:01,708
You can also access the link through other ways.

3480
03:13:01,708 --> 03:13:03,755
Some of the great things about this map.

3481
03:13:03,755 --> 03:13:06,504
One is that it has this nice splash

3482
03:13:06,504 --> 03:13:09,955
screen that says this is how you use the map and a disclaimer.

3483
03:13:09,955 --> 03:13:11,897
Consult with a professional before you

3484
03:13:11,897 --> 03:13:15,164
use this to make any really important financial decisions.

3485
03:13:15,164 --> 03:13:18,510
Moving forward, here is the map.

3486
03:13:18,510 --> 03:13:22,630
It shows a bunch of different things off of the top.

3487
03:13:22,630 --> 03:13:24,177
A couple of overlays.

3488
03:13:24,177 --> 03:13:26,984
Our housing element sites as you Zoom in you

3489
03:13:26,984 --> 03:13:29,680
can start seeing the specific parcels.

3490
03:13:29,680 --> 03:13:31,324
It has the search function where you

3491
03:13:31,324 --> 03:13:35,520
can search for specific address and it will auto populate then

3492
03:13:35,520 --> 03:13:37,276
you can Zoom straight to that parcel.

3493
03:13:37,276 --> 03:13:39,170
You click it and then you are going

3494
03:13:39,170 --> 03:13:42,164
to get this really nifty pop up that basically says,

3495
03:13:42,164 --> 03:13:44,617
you clicked on 525 Henrietta Street

3496
03:13:44,617 --> 03:13:45,874
where we are at right now.

3497
03:13:45,874 --> 03:13:47,384
It tells you the a p n.

3498
03:13:47,384 --> 03:13:50,177
It tells you the appropriate size of the parcel, the zoning,

3499
03:13:50,177 --> 03:13:52,100
the general plan and the thing that I really

3500
03:13:52,100 --> 03:13:54,164
like about this one is it actually

3501
03:13:54,164 --> 03:13:56,824
Shows you any applicable overlays that are at the site.

3502
03:13:56,824 --> 03:14:00,850
One of the biggest sources of pain and confusion for residents

3503
03:14:00,850 --> 03:14:04,444
is they think I have an r-6 zone property.

3504
03:14:04,444 --> 03:14:05,350
That is great.

3505
03:14:05,350 --> 03:14:08,524
But you are really in the specific plan and this and that.

3506
03:14:08,524 --> 03:14:10,324
It is actually not that simple.

3507
03:14:10,324 --> 03:14:12,590
This provides that additional context.

3508
03:14:12,590 --> 03:14:14,832
Also, if you are a housing element site,

3509
03:14:14,832 --> 03:14:16,290
it will tell you which one that you

3510
03:14:16,290 --> 03:14:18,497
are so you might be able to reference that and see

3511
03:14:18,497 --> 03:14:22,512
what you are envision what your housing density is.

3512
03:14:22,512 --> 03:14:26,142
Also -- tell you what city council district you fall in.

3513
03:14:26,142 --> 03:14:28,184
There is a nice note that says do not necessarily

3514
03:14:28,184 --> 03:14:30,570
rely on this information contact the planner

3515
03:14:30,570 --> 03:14:32,130
if you want to follow up.

3516
03:14:32,130 --> 03:14:35,604
This is, I would say, phase one.

3517
03:14:35,604 --> 03:14:38,171
There are some few edits I would like to make in the future.

3518
03:14:38,171 --> 03:14:40,564
But just some other fun things you can do.

3519
03:14:40,564 --> 03:14:42,410
You can turn off and on layers.

3520
03:14:42,410 --> 03:14:46,876
If you just want to say, I want to see where the zoning is

3521
03:14:46,876 --> 03:14:48,150
in the general vicinity.

3522
03:14:48,150 --> 03:14:49,704
I can turn that on.

3523
03:14:49,704 --> 03:14:53,220
I can also turn on general plan designations as well

3524
03:14:53,220 --> 03:14:56,244
and then, finally, some fun stuff.

3525
03:14:56,244 --> 03:14:57,884
You can change the base map.

3526
03:14:57,884 --> 03:15:01,204
If you want to see an aerial, you can change that to.

3527
03:15:01,204 --> 03:15:05,364
And another fun one is, if I am looking at this parcel, what

3528
03:15:05,364 --> 03:15:07,604
is my front setback right now.

3529
03:15:07,604 --> 03:15:11,164
You can use this measurement Tool and it will help guide you.

3530
03:15:11,164 --> 03:15:14,404
That is really it again, phase one,

3531
03:15:14,404 --> 03:15:16,750
there are additional edits that I need to make.

3532
03:15:16,750 --> 03:15:18,996
But I really just wanted to share with the commission

3533
03:15:18,996 --> 03:15:22,404
and members of the public who might be interested, that we

3534
03:15:22,404 --> 03:15:23,744
have this excellent tool.

3535
03:15:23,744 --> 03:15:26,908
This will probably resolve 50% of our inquiries

3536
03:15:26,908 --> 03:15:28,284
if people use it.

3537
03:15:28,284 --> 03:15:29,355
Please use it.

3538
03:15:29,355 --> 03:15:32,956
With that, I am Happy to answer any questions, if you

3539
03:15:32,956 --> 03:15:34,144
have any, or suggestions.

3540
03:15:34,144 --> 03:15:36,144
That is all.

3541
03:15:37,404 --> 03:15:37,984
>> Thank you.

3542
03:15:37,984 --> 03:15:40,684
That is actually a really fantastic.

3543
03:15:40,684 --> 03:15:43,124
>> Can you go around the whole county and have them change

3544
03:15:43,124 --> 03:15:45,240
theirs.

3545
03:15:45,240 --> 03:15:50,424
>> If they want to pay me off of --

3546
03:15:51,588 --> 03:15:54,324
outside of the city boundaries, that is okay.

3547
03:15:54,324 --> 03:15:55,724
>> That is what I like to see.

3548
03:15:55,724 --> 03:15:57,139
Martinez is setting the standard.

3549
03:15:57,139 --> 03:16:00,804
Let everybody else try to keep up.

3550
03:16:00,804 --> 03:16:04,844
>> How are you informing the public of the tool?

3551
03:16:04,844 --> 03:16:06,270
>> We are doing this presentation.

3552
03:16:06,270 --> 03:16:09,400
There will probably be other updates

3553
03:16:09,400 --> 03:16:14,440
through our city newsletter that we will utilize primarily, as

3554
03:16:14,440 --> 03:16:17,460
well as informing people at the counter

3555
03:16:17,460 --> 03:16:22,260
that this is a resource available to them.

3556
03:16:22,297 --> 03:16:25,561
>> It looks very accessible to the public and very easy

3557
03:16:25,561 --> 03:16:26,610
to find.

3558
03:16:26,610 --> 03:16:28,440
I think that is a huge improvement.

3559
03:16:28,440 --> 03:16:30,440
Just to comment.

3560
03:16:31,444 --> 03:16:35,440
>> I wonder, in addition to that,

3561
03:16:35,956 --> 03:16:40,537
to consider pushing it out in the social media for people who

3562
03:16:40,537 --> 03:16:43,380
do follow city of Martinez on social media.

3563
03:16:43,380 --> 03:16:47,644
That there is this great thing that you did, right?

3564
03:16:47,644 --> 03:16:49,886
We want to celebrate that.

3565
03:16:49,886 --> 03:16:53,400
It could be that the person that sees it on social media

3566
03:16:53,400 --> 03:16:55,297
isn't the person that wants it, but they

3567
03:16:55,297 --> 03:16:57,324
can tell the person who is looking for it.

3568
03:16:57,324 --> 03:16:58,517
It is really hard.

3569
03:16:58,517 --> 03:16:59,170
No.

3570
03:16:59,170 --> 03:17:00,556
There is a new thing.

3571
03:17:00,556 --> 03:17:03,804
That might be something else to consider.

3572
03:17:03,804 --> 03:17:07,404
>> We can definitely work with the city social media manager

3573
03:17:07,404 --> 03:17:09,604
to get that pushed out.

3574
03:17:09,604 --> 03:17:11,604
>> Thank you.

3575
03:17:11,774 --> 03:17:12,316
>> Excellent.

3576
03:17:12,316 --> 03:17:14,716
Thank you very much.

3577
03:17:15,764 --> 03:17:17,764
>> We will move on.

3578
03:17:17,764 --> 03:17:20,764
Are there any commissioning items ?

3579
03:17:22,852 --> 03:17:23,380
None.

3580
03:17:23,380 --> 03:17:24,436
Okay, great.

3581
03:17:24,436 --> 03:17:26,436
Acting Director updates.

3582
03:17:27,164 --> 03:17:28,164
>> I have a few.

3583
03:17:28,164 --> 03:17:30,750
I will be quick compared to what I normally do.

3584
03:17:30,750 --> 03:17:33,864
I have all around some good news.

3585
03:17:33,864 --> 03:17:35,707
But before getting into the good news,

3586
03:17:35,707 --> 03:17:38,384
I want to just share with the commission members

3587
03:17:38,384 --> 03:17:41,780
and the public, tomorrow meaning --

3588
03:17:41,780 --> 03:17:44,644
the executive team is hosting a candidate forum for City council

3589
03:17:44,644 --> 03:17:47,385
candidates to get information about the city.

3590
03:17:47,385 --> 03:17:48,302
The meeting is public.

3591
03:17:48,302 --> 03:17:51,360
It is a good way to hear about high level, how

3592
03:17:51,360 --> 03:17:54,382
the city operates, functions and main initiatives that

3593
03:17:54,382 --> 03:17:54,924
are underway.

3594
03:17:54,924 --> 03:17:57,924
It is at 6:00 tomorrow evening.

3595
03:17:58,140 --> 03:18:02,860
At the last meeting, I made or provided

3596
03:18:02,860 --> 03:18:05,840
a number of updates in regards to some grant

3597
03:18:05,840 --> 03:18:06,164
funding applications.

3598
03:18:06,164 --> 03:18:13,364
We did get word on Friday that our application with UC Berkeley

3599
03:18:13,876 --> 03:18:16,897
to the Air District is one of the recommended grant

3600
03:18:16,897 --> 03:18:20,220
applications for deployment of air monitors.

3601
03:18:20,220 --> 03:18:22,292
It still has to go through a process,

3602
03:18:22,292 --> 03:18:26,596
but it is looking very positive, like we will be

3603
03:18:26,596 --> 03:18:28,124
one of the selected recipients.

3604
03:18:28,124 --> 03:18:34,704
Secondly, we got word that as part of the budgetary process.

3605
03:18:34,704 --> 03:18:39,257
At the state, the city is being allocated $950,000

3606
03:18:39,257 --> 03:18:43,644
for implementation of the Lower Alhambra Creek Watershed

3607
03:18:43,644 --> 03:18:44,217
project.

3608
03:18:44,217 --> 03:18:49,484
That will be a great enhancement to our downtown area.

3609
03:18:49,484 --> 03:18:53,684
Next, as part of our sustainability division,

3610
03:18:53,884 --> 03:18:57,484
we did cement an award application

3611
03:18:57,604 --> 03:19:00,508
to the Institute of Local Government.

3612
03:19:00,508 --> 03:19:02,668
They have a beacon program.

3613
03:19:02,668 --> 03:19:05,944
There are five categories and sustainable actions

3614
03:19:05,944 --> 03:19:07,278
that can be taken.

3615
03:19:07,278 --> 03:19:09,634
We did get word that this year we

3616
03:19:09,634 --> 03:19:14,120
are a recipient of a Platinum Spotlight Award for natural gas

3617
03:19:14,120 --> 03:19:14,548
Reduction.

3618
03:19:14,548 --> 03:19:19,564
We have reduced our natural gas reliance as a public agency.

3619
03:19:19,564 --> 03:19:20,569
Not as a community.

3620
03:19:20,569 --> 03:19:24,440
But as a public agency by 22%.

3621
03:19:24,440 --> 03:19:25,870
Pretty significant.

3622
03:19:25,870 --> 03:19:30,700
And then, finally, since the last meeting,

3623
03:19:31,316 --> 03:19:36,424
our city council did approve our entertainment zone designation

3624
03:19:36,424 --> 03:19:38,307
for the downtown.

3625
03:19:38,307 --> 03:19:39,932
Staff is working with downtown Martinez

3626
03:19:39,932 --> 03:19:43,724
and the chamber on potential deployment later this year.

3627
03:19:43,724 --> 03:19:49,124
More news to be shared in the near future.

3628
03:19:50,935 --> 03:19:52,935
>> Good.

3629
03:19:53,880 --> 03:19:54,630
>> And that is it.

3630
03:19:54,630 --> 03:19:56,630
>> Any communications ?

3631
03:19:58,429 --> 03:19:58,929
No.

3632
03:19:58,929 --> 03:20:02,740
If there are no further communications, or discussions,

3633
03:20:02,740 --> 03:20:06,377
then we will adjourn to our next regularly scheduled planning

3634
03:20:06,377 --> 03:20:08,777
commission on September 22nd.

3635
03:20:11,684 --> 03:20:15,400
>> Yes, but note that the meeting will be canceled.

3636
03:20:15,400 --> 03:20:18,760
>> The current time is ten:18 September 20th --

3637
03:20:18,760 --> 03:20:20,760
September 8th, 2026.