Planning Commission

City of Sunnyvale Meeting Minutes - Final Planning Commission Monday, April 10, 2017 6:30 PM Council Chambers and West Conference Room, City Hall, 456 W. Olive Ave., Sunnyvale, CA 94086 Special Meeting - Study Session - 6:30 PM | Special Meeting - Public Hearing 7 PM 6:30 P.M. STUDY SESSION Call to Order in the West Conference Room Roll Call Study Session A. 17-0412 Tentative Map applications, for condominium purposes, for Ranchero Mobile Estates and Thunderbird Mobile Estates (mobilehome parks) to convert the ownership structure from rental mobilehome park to resident-owned mobilehome park in accordance with Subdivision Map Act Section 66427.5. File #: 2015-7707 Location: 900 Henderson Avenue (APN:213-38-008) Ranchero Mobilehome Park Proposed Project: Tentative Map for a subdivision of 112 mobilehome spaces for condominium purposes. File #: 2015-7706 Location: 954 Henderson Avenue (APN: 213-38-005) Thunderbird Mobilehome park Proposed Project: Tentative Map for a subdivision of 166 mobilehome spaces for condominium purposes. Zoning: Residential Mobile Home (RMH) Applicant / Owner: Sid Goldstein/Alex MacDonell Environmental Review: The project is exempt from CEQA review under CEQA Guidelines Sections 15061(b)(3) and 15301(k). The project proposes to subdivide existing mobilehome parks into a common interest development, but no other changes are proposed. Accordingly, there will be no physical change, no change in use and no change to the intensity of the use as part of the ownership structure changes resulting from this subdivision map. Therefore, no further environmental review is required. Project Planner: Gerri Caruso, (408) 730-7591, gcaruso@sunnyvale.ca.gov City of Sunnyvale Page 1 Planning Commission Meeting Minutes - Final April 10, 2017 Public Comment on Study Session Agenda Items Adjourn Study Session 7 P.M. PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING CALL TO ORDER Vice Chair Rheaume called the meeting to order at 7:02 PM in the Council Chambers. SALUTE TO THE FLAG Vice Chair Rheaume led the salute to the flag. ROLL CALL Present: 5 - Vice Chair Ken Rheaume Commissioner Daniel Howard Commissioner John Howe Commissioner Ken Olevson Commissioner David Simons Absent: 2 - Chair Sue Harrison Commissioner Carol Weiss Status of absence; Commissioner Weiss’s absence is excused. Status of absence; Chair Harrison’s absence is excused. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS None. CONSENT CALENDAR Commissioner Howe moved and Commissioner Olevson seconded the motion to approve the Consent Calendar. City of Sunnyvale Page 2 Planning Commission Meeting Minutes - Final April 10, 2017 Commissioner Howe commented that the minutes that are prepared in a timely fashion and are extremely well done. The motion carried by the following vote: Yes: 4 - Vice Chair Rheaume Commissioner Howard Commissioner Howe Commissioner Olevson No: 0 Absent: 2 - Chair Harrison Commissioner Weiss Abstained: 1 - Commissioner Simons 1. A 17-0411 Approve Planning Commission Meeting Minutes of March 27, 2017 PUBLIC HEARINGS/GENERAL BUSINESS 2. 17-0233 File #: 2016-7999 Location: 592 Dawn Drive (APN: 201-31-046) Zoning: R-0 Proposed Project: Design Review for a 408 square feet first-floor addition and 817 square feet second-floor addition to an existing one-story single family home resulting in 3,946 square feet floor area (3,462 square feet living area and 484 square feet garage) and 45 percent Floor Area Ratio (FAR). Applicant / Owner: DG Design (applicant) / Scott Stein (owner) Environmental Review: Class 1 Categorical Exemption relieves this project from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) provisions that include minor additions to an existing single-family residence (CEQA Section 15301). Project Planner: Aastha Vashist, (408) 730-7458, avashist@sunnyvale.ca.gov Assistant Planner Aastha Vashist presented the staff report. Commissioner Olevson asked staff to explain what information Attachment 7 provides the Planning Commission to help guide their decision. Planning Officer Andrew Miner advised that Attachment 7 was included to provide historical background information about the property but not to guide the decision of the Planning Commission. Commissioner Simons clarified with Assistant Planner Vashist that the proposed City of Sunnyvale Page 3 Planning Commission Meeting Minutes - Final April 10, 2017 project requires Planning Commission review because it exceeds 3,600 square feet floor area. Vice Chair Rheaume opened the Public Hearing. Applicant Robin Stein was present but chose not to speak during the Public Hearing. Vice Chair Rheaume closed the Public Hearing. MOTION: Commissioner Howe moved and Commissioner Howard seconded the motion for Alternative 1 – approve the Design Review with the Conditions of Approval in Attachment 4. Commissioner Howard noted that the adjacent property at 586 Dawn Drive is eligible for listing in the National Register but noted that no comments or concerns were raised during the public hearing about the proposed project’s proximity to 586 Dawn Drive. Commissioner Simons stated that he will be supporting the motion and found the project to be architecturally interesting, with a mid-century look and feel. Commissioner Simons noted that this is a good example of a trigger which requires review by the Planning Commission. Vice Chair Rheaume stated that he can make the findings and thanked staff and the applicant, noting that there were no requested deviations. Vice Chair Rheaume commented that the project has a nice quality design and that the project will enhance the neighborhood. The motion carried by the following vote: Yes: 5 - Vice Chair Rheaume Commissioner Howard Commissioner Howe Commissioner Olevson Commissioner Simons No: 0 Absent: 2 - Chair Harrison Commissioner Weiss City of Sunnyvale Page 4 Planning Commission Meeting Minutes - Final April 10, 2017 Planning Officer Miner stated this decision is final unless appealed to the City Council within 15 days or called up by the City Council within 15 days. 3. 17-0297 Proposed Project: Related applications on a 4.01-acre site on Maude Avenue: PEERY PARK PLAN REVIEW PERMIT to construct a 174,545-square foot, four-story corporate/research and development (R&D) office building and a 6-level parking structure on a 4.01-acre site resulting in a total of 100% FAR. The project includes outdoor recreation areas and a pedestrian/bicycle path for public use. TENTATIVE MAP to merge three parcels into one parcel. File #: 2015-8126 Location: 684 W. Maude Avenue (APNs: 165-28-028) Applicant / Owner: Simeon Commercial Partners / Ks 684 Maude Llc Environmental Review: The project is exempt from additional CEQA review per CEQA Guidelines section 15168(c)(2) and (4) and Public Resources Code Section 21094 (c). The project is within the scope of the Peery Park Specific Plan Program EIR as no new environmental impacts are anticipated and no new mitigation measures are required. Project Planner: Ryan Kuchenig (408) 730-7431, rkuchenig@sunnyvale.ca.gov Senior Planner Ryan Kuchenig presented the staff report. Commissioner Olevson clarified with Senior Planner Kuchenig that the Tentative Map before the Planning Commission applies only to the Phase 1 area and that a separate Tentative Map would be submitted for the Phase 2 area. Commissioner Simons asked staff to describe the material types that would be used for the parking and sidewalk hardscape. Senior Planner Kuchenig gave details about the combination of hardscape and landscape and advised that the applicant can speak to the material types. Commissioner Howard stated that the bike lane on the south side of West Maude Avenue is missing from the plans and asked staff how this would be addressed. Senior Planner Kuchenig explained that the bike lane is required per the Conditions of Approval (COA). Commissioner Howe asked staff if any of the landscaping would be for public benefit. Senior Planner Kuchenig advised that the only publicly dedicated area is the pedestrian and bicycle pathway and that the amenity area is solely for the user of the site. Vice Chair Rheaume asked for staff comments about the building height as City of Sunnyvale Page 5 Planning Commission Meeting Minutes - Final April 10, 2017 compared to the height of the parking garage. Senior Planner Kuchenig stated that the architectural element at the corner of the parking structure adds height but meets the requirements for an architectural projection. Senior Planner Kuchenig commented that the office building could be higher but would have to be setback further. Vice Chair Rheaume commented that there’s a cul-de-sac at the end of Pastoria Avenue which abuts Central Expressway and asked staff if there was discussion about opening Pastoria Avenue for entry and exit onto Central Expressway. Senior Planner Kuchenig advised that this was not considered for the proposed project. Planning Officer Miner advised that this was considered as part of the Peery Park Specific Plan (PPSP) but that it requires approval by Santa Clara County and that generally the County’s goal is to limit the number of entrances and exits onto an expressway. Commissioner Howard stated that based on the plans it appears that the curb extends into the area for the future bike lane and asked staff to clarify. Senior Planner Kuchenig advised that when the site is ultimately developed there will be a continuous bike lane. Commissioner Howard confirmed with Planning Officer Miner that the City Council will have final approval of the condition of approval and that regardless, the bike lane must be added to the final set of plans. Vice Chair Rheaume opened the Public Hearing. Russell Pitto, CEO of Simeon, provided background information about Simeon. Commissioner Howe requested that the applicant provide information about the bike lane and what development for the bike lane would occur in Phase 2. Curt Setzer, Principal with Simeon, presented information about the proposed project. Ted Korth, representing KSH Architects, presented images and information about the proposed project. Rich Sharp, Landscape Architect with Studio 5 Design Inc., returned to Commissioner Simons’ earlier question and provided details about the hardscape and landscape. Mr. Sharp presented images and information about the proposed project. Commissioner Simons asked the applicant to clarify the location of the future City of Sunnyvale Page 6 Planning Commission Meeting Minutes - Final April 10, 2017 artwork. Mr. Korth advised that the corner of the parking structure would be developed as an artistic glass feature. Commissioner Simons noted that some of the tree selections were high water use or relatively short lived. Mr. Sharp gave details about the tree selection and advised they wanted to be cognizant of hydrozones, especially for those areas in bioswale conditions. Commissioner Simons advised that the Catalina Fernleaf Ironwood is a potential option. Commissioner Simons commented on the absence of estate sized trees that would match the building’s height and potentially outlast the building. Commissioner Simons stated that there are native trees which can handle both wet and dry conditions that may be more appropriate. Commissioner Howard stated that there is no mention of a bike lane in the COA. Planning Officer Miner clarified that Phase 2 already has a bike lane. Senior Planner Kuchenig advised that the bike lane is referenced in EP-6 and that the Planning Commission can modify the language of EP-24 to provide clarification. Commissioner Howard noted that there are two trees which may interfere with the bike lane. Planning Officer Miner stated that the bike lane design will take those trees into account. Mr. Setzer thanked the Community Development Department Planning staff for their time and support. Commissioner Simons confirmed with Mr. Sharp that they are amenable to an additional landscape selection goal as determined by the Planning Commission. Vice Chair Rheaume closed the Public Hearing. Commissioner Howe asked for a staff recommendation on how to clarify the bike lane in the COA. Senior Planner Kuchenig stated that EP-24 can be modified to incorporate a bike lane dedication as part of that improvement on Maude Avenue, subject to consultation with staff and the Department of Public Works (DPW). Commissioner Howard commented that the modified language of EP-24 should indicate a need for future consistency with the existing bike on Maude Avenue. MOTION: Commissioner Simons moved and Commissioner Howe seconded the motion for Alternative 2 – Alternative 1 with modified conditions of approval - 1. Modify EP-24 to incorporate a bike lane dedication on Maude Avenue, subject to consultation with staff and the DPW, and consistent with the existing bike lane on City of Sunnyvale Page 7 Planning Commission Meeting Minutes - Final April 10, 2017 Maude Avenue; 2. Add a recommendation to BP-7 to follow the applicant’s intent to have art placed at the corner of the parking garage; 3. Add COA PS-6 to ensure that the screening on the top floor of the four-story building mimics the shape of the building; and, 4. Modify the landscaping tree selection plan to emphasize selection of estate sized, genetic native trees of an appropriate scale, and recommend consideration of the Catalina Fernleaf Ironwood for the flowering tree. Vice Chair Rheaume clarified with Commissioner Simons and Planning Officer Miner about the second modified condition of approval. Vice Chair Rheaume summarized the motion and clarified with Senior Planner Kuchenig about the third modified condition of approval. Commissioner Simons commented that there is an active effort to preserve trees and it will be an important addition to include trees that will outlast the building. Commissioner Simons stated he can make the findings and that this project fits the goals of the PPSP. Commissioner Simons stated that this project will add modern office architectural diversity to the City and commended the applicant for their project. Planning Officer Miner clarified that the Planning Commission is recommending to the City Council to make the findings. Commissioner Howe stated that he can make the required findings to approve the CEQA determination and that the project is within the scope of the PPSP Environmental Impact Report (EIR). Commissioner Howe recommended that the City Council approve the proposed project as conditioned. Commissioner Olevson stated that he can make the findings for the PPSP permit conditions and cannot find any elements in the Tentative Map or discussion to deny the project. Commissioner Olevson commented that he can support the Sense of Place Fee and Water Infrastructure Fee as having a proper nexus relative to the total and that he can fully recommend to the City Council that they approve this proposed project. Vice Chair Rheaume stated that he will be supporting the motion, that he can make the findings and that the proposed project fits well into the PPSP goals. Vice Chair Rheaume commented that the project has a nice quality design and noted his appreciation that the two redwood trees in front will be preserved. City of Sunnyvale Page 8 Planning Commission Meeting Minutes - Final April 10, 2017 The motion carried by the following vote: Yes: 5 - Vice Chair Rheaume Commissioner Howard Commissioner Howe Commissioner Olevson Commissioner Simons No: 0 Absent: 2 - Chair Harrison Commissioner Weiss Planning Officer Miner stated the item goes to the City Council on April 25. 4. 17-0278 Proposed Project: Related applications on 28 sites consisting of 51.07 gross acres: PEERY PARK PLAN REVIEW PERMIT: to allow the demolition of 28 existing office and industrial buildings totaling 768,665 sq. ft. and the construction of nine three-story and three four-story office buildings totaling 1,471,400 sq. ft.; a two-story and two one-story amenity buildings totaling 40,000 sq. ft.; one four-level and three six-level above-grade parking structures; a private connector street with public vehicular and pedestrian access; and site and offsite improvements. TENTATIVE MAP: to allow 28 existing parcels to be merged into seven parcels, including the abandonment of Maude Court. File #: 2015-7879 Location: 981-987 Almanor Avenue (APN: 165-40-004) 765/767 N. Mary Avenue (APN: 165-40-007) 755/757 N. Mary Avenue (APN: 165-40-008) 749/751 N. Mary Avenue (APN: 165-40-009) 950 Benecia Avenue (APN: 165-40-012) 615/617 N. Mary Avenue (APN: 165-40-015) 570/959 Maude Court (APN: 165-40-017) 573/575 Maude Court (APN: 165-40-020) 580/585 Maude Court (APN: 165-40-021) 610-614 N. Mary Avenue (APN: 165-41-003) 650 N. Mary Avenue (165-41-004) 740/750 N. Mary Avenue (APN 165-41-005) 760 N. Mary Avenue (APN 165-41-006) 990 Almanor Avenue (APN 165-41-007) 781-785 Palomar Avenue (APN 165-41-008) 775-779 Palomar Avenue (APN 165-41-009) 733/735 Palomar Avenue (APN 165-41-010) City of Sunnyvale Page 9 Planning Commission Meeting Minutes - Final April 10, 2017 675/677 Palomar Avenue (APN 165-41-011) 615/617 Palomar Avenue (APN 165-41-012) 844 Del Rey Avenue (APN 165-41-013) 845 Del Rey Avenue/610 Palomar Avenue (APN 165-41- 014) 720-726 Palomar Avenue (APN 165-41-015) 750/752 Palomar Avenue (APN 165-41-016) 760-766 Palomar Avenue (APN 165-41-017) 776 Palomar Avenue (APN 165-41-018) 678 Almanor Avenue/788-790 Palomar Avenue (APN 165- 41-019) 670 Almanor Avenue (APN 165-41-020) 595 N. Pastoria Avenue (APN 165-41-031) Applicant / Owner: Irvine Company Environmental Review: The project is exempt from additional California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) review per CEQA Guidelines section 15168(c)(2) and (4) and Public Resources Code Section 21094. The project is within the scope of the Peery Park Specific Plan Program Environmental Impact Report (EIR) as no new environmental impacts are anticipated and no new mitigation measures are required. Project Planner: George Schroeder, (408) 730-7443, gschroeder@sunnyvale.ca.gov Associate Planner George Schroeder presented the staff report. Commissioner Howe stated that he met with Irvine representative Carlene Matchniff and can still make a quality decision on this item. Vice Chair Rheaume stated that he met with the applicant. Commissioner Simons commented that COA PS-1i will introduce speed bumps along a bicycle route and requested that staff consider implementing a less severe type of speed bump or an alternate way to reduce the speed of traffic. Associate Planner Schroeder advised that PS-1i applies only to the private shared driveway, which is not intended for bicycle traffic and will not affect Benecia Avenue. Commissioner Simons suggested that the speed bump be painted to increase visibility. Commissioner Simons asked staff to clarify the parking and cycle track. Director of Public Works Manuel Pineda stated that as part of the PPSP a cycle track was approved and that parking will act as the buffer. Director of Public Works Pineda clarified that it is a one-way cycle track on either side. Commissioner Simons asked staff if there was a discussion about increasing the City of Sunnyvale Page 10 Planning Commission Meeting Minutes - Final April 10, 2017 pervious nature of the hardscape. Associate Planner Schroeder advised that the hardscape would have decorative materials at the driveways and walkways and that different paving materials have been proposed. Commissioner Olevson stated that he met with Irvine representatives about the proposed project. Commissioner Olevson advised that one attachment on the dais addressed safety concerns about staff’s recommendation to relocate the elevator entrances. Commissioner Olevson commented that jaywalking seems to be a lesser issue than potential crime within the parking structure and asked staff to explain their recommendation. Director of Public Works Pineda advised that today was the first time this safety concern was brought up to staff and that the way you design the parking structure can mitigate safety issues. Director of Public Works Pineda stated that he cannot validate these safety concerns given the limited time frame. Director of Public Works Pineda stated that jaywalking is a main concern and that pedestrians should be guided to crosswalks, signals and intersections. Director of Public Works Pineda commented that one of the most difficult design locations is midblock crossings which lack a signal or crosswalk and that the City’s concern is to avoid guiding people to jaywalk. Commissioner Olevson commented that based on PS-1 two driveway exits would be removed and noted that this would leave only one entrance and exit for a sizeable building. Commissioner Olevson asked staff if these driveways would be relocated. Director of Public Works Pineda advised that these two driveways would be closed for safety reasons, to limit locations where uncontrolled access points break into the cycle track. Director of Public Works Pineda stated that staff didn’t see a need to relocate the driveways since the larger parking lot can function with one driveway and because this closure would minimize potential conflicts with the future Mary Avenue overcrossing. Director of Public Works Pineda stated that the majority of accidents at protected bicycle lanes occur at uncontrolled access points, such as at driveways. Commissioner Howard stated an opinion that there are a minimal number of crosswalks along Palomar Avenue, that jaywalking would be a concern all along Palomar Avenue and that more crosswalks are needed. Director of Public Works Pineda stated that there is concern over the placement of midblock crossings and if necessary staff can complete those studies, but that midblock crossings are not designed for in advance. Director of Public Works Pineda clarified that it’s prudent to have crossings at signals or intersections to minimize accidents. Commissioner Howard stated that it appears there is a path going across the street between City of Sunnyvale Page 11 Planning Commission Meeting Minutes - Final April 10, 2017 Palomar Avenue and Mary Avenue. Director of Public Works Pineda advised that there is a walking path but that you wouldn’t expect the same volume of pedestrians as from a parking garage. Director of Public Works Pineda commented that every circumstance is different but the goal is to guide pedestrians to controlled intersections. Commissioner Howard asked staff to explain the location of the intended parking for Building 2. Associate Planner Schroeder stated that there are three surface lots in addition to parking structure A. Commissioner Howard commented that there will be a fair amount of pedestrian activity from the garages and asked staff if there is an appropriate place for a midblock crosswalk. Planning Officer Miner stated that moving the garage stairs reduces the potential for jaywalking across Palomar Avenue because it’s not as convenient as stairs located in the front of the garage. Planning Officer Miner stated that it is not staff’s goal to have a midblock crossing when design elements can be included to mitigate the potential for jaywalking. Commissioner Howard asked if the garage is required to have two sets of elevators and Planning Officer Miner confirmed, noting that sometimes that requirement is to satisfy an emergency basis. Commissioner Howard asked staff how much time would be needed to study a potential future jaywalking issue. Director of Public Works Pineda commented that the study can be completed in approximately a month, which allows staff to validate the need and if validated, determine a funding source, usually grant or developer funded. Commissioner Howard clarified with Director of Public Works Pineda that the PPSP does not have a source of funding specifically dedicated for this potential issue. Commissioner Howard asked staff if a condition of approval could require funds be set aside for future crosswalk improvements to be determined and managed by the City. Director of Public Works Pineda advised that there have been conditions of approval where a project dedicates funding and the funds are returned if not used. Planning Officer Miner commented that midblock crossings were specifically not studied in the PPSP to try and balance transportation and have predictability in car and cyclist flows. Planning Officer Miner stated that the driveways on Mary Avenue and midblock crossings pose a safety concern given the unpredictability of pedestrians. Commissioner Howard stated an observation that jaywalking along Palomar Avenue is highly likely and that if the project doesn’t start with midblock crossings then funds should be set aside for future use. Senior Assistant City Attorney Rebecca Moon advised that the Sense of Place Fee paid to the City is intended for improvements such as crosswalks and intersections and that requesting additional money is not appropriate. City of Sunnyvale Page 12 Planning Commission Meeting Minutes - Final April 10, 2017 Vice Chair Rheaume opened the Public Hearing. Carlene Matchniff, representing the Irvine Company, presented images and information about the proposed project. Bernardo Fort-Brescia, representing Arquitectonica, presented images and information about the proposed project. John Salah, San Jose resident and former Sunnyvale resident, discussed his concerns with the lack of discussion over the loss of orchards in the area and noted that the terms campus and multi-tenant have been used to describe the project, which appear to be contradictory. Ms. Matchniff clarified that the proposed project is a multi-tenant campus. Commissioner Howe commented that Ms. Matchniff presented the potential option of utilizing hedges to stop pedestrians from jaywalking and asked for details about future implementation. Dillon Diers, representing OJB Landscape Architecture, advised that a full evergreen hedge could be installed on day one at approximately three to three-and-a-half feet high to act as an impediment to a midblock crossing. Commissioner Howe confirmed with Mr. Diers that a physical barrier, such as a metal post with a cable rail, could be installed within the hedge. Commissioner Howe asked staff if they would be amenable to implementing a hedge with a physical barrier and not relocating the elevator locations. Planning Officer Miner stated that staff would agree if the barrier prevents people from crossing but noted that the hedge is interrupted by a driveway, at which point there is no barrier to preventing jaywalking. Commissioner Howe asked the applicant to advise how a barrier could be designed to avoid a midblock crossing. Mr. Diers stated that you could use directional signage but that there’s no way to stop a pedestrian from walking through a vehicular driveway. Ms. Matchniff commented that the goal is to minimize the opportunities for jaywalking with directional signage and physical impediments but that the driveway can’t be eliminated. Ms. Matchniff stated they would be willing to have a midblock crossing installed if needed for safety. Commissioner Howe asked the applicant to explain their current electric car charging station volume and the potential to increase that volume. Ms. Matchniff stated that 6.2% of the total parking is allocated for electric car charging stations and that they can increase that number based on future market demand. City of Sunnyvale Page 13 Planning Commission Meeting Minutes - Final April 10, 2017 Commissioner Simons noted an observation that the project, which is supposed to be a bike, vehicle and pedestrian friendly area, has parking separated from the main campus, which creates conflict given the project’s proximity to Palomar Avenue. Commissioner Simons asked if there was any consideration given to moving Palomar Avenue to the East to resolve the conflict. Mr. Fort-Brescia explained that the goal was to create an enclave and that the location of the garages liberates the core of the project, making it more pedestrian friendly and peaceful. Commissioner Simons stated that the current configuration will encourage pedestrians to cross midblock and asked the applicant if moving Palomar Avenue was discussed. Mr. Fort-Brescia reiterated that the separation of the garages from the campus is an important feature of the plans. Ms. Matchniff stated that the underlying basis for the proposed project came from the PPSP. Commissioner Simons commented on the placement of Palomar Avenue and the potential to reduce pedestrian issues through reconfiguration. Commissioner Simons confirmed with the applicant that they are amenable to implementing active measures for the Mary Avenue driveways to alert drivers about bicyclists on the cycle track. Commissioner Simons asked staff if those active measures would reduce the safety concerns. Director of Public Works Pineda advised that to alert drivers you likely need advanced detection equipment that can pick up the cyclist’s location. Commissioner Simons stated that the Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) recently implemented active bicycle measures on Central Expressway. Director of Public Works Pineda advised that it is not possible to say how the City’s current detection system at signalized intersections would be of benefit in this situation and noted that cycle tracks are different than bicycle lanes. Katy Cole, representing Fehr and Peers Transportation Consultants, stated that you can implement bollards underneath signage which detect cyclists and alert drivers to cyclists in the track. Commissioner Olevson asked the applicant if the surface parking lot between the amenity building and building 2 was eliminated if the adjacent parking lot to the east would satisfy parking needs for buildings 1, 2 and the amenity building. Ms. Matchniff stated that it would not and advised that small parking lots are in demand for accessible parking and drop offs, and that these small parking lots make the space more leasable to future tenants. Commissioner Olevson commented that the City and the applicant have proposed different phasing plans and asked the applicant to explain the conflict between the plans. Jose Bustamante, Senior Director at the Irvine Company, explained that the existing tenants have long term leases and that Irvine’s phasing plan allows for redevelopment of the areas where the leases will expire earlier. Commissioner City of Sunnyvale Page 14 Planning Commission Meeting Minutes - Final April 10, 2017 Olevson commented that staff recommended that all the street improvements should be done at once instead of sectioned in phases and asked the applicant why they are not amenable to that plan. Mr. Bustamante advised that there are other owners along North Mary Avenue and that implementing the street improvements all at once would obstruct those existing properties. Commissioner Olevson confirmed with Mr. Bustamante that the Irvine Company will own their properties in perpetuity. Commissioner Olevson confirmed with Mr. Bustamante that Irvine Company would be the responsible owner for any future improvements. Commissioner Howard asked staff if there is a special street designation for downtown Murphy Avenue. Director of Public Works Pineda advised that Murphy Avenue has low vehicular volumes and speeds and that drivers expect frequent pedestrian crossings. Commissioner Howard asked staff if Palomar Avenue presents a similar paradigm to Murphy Avenue. Director of Public Works Pineda stated that Palomar Avenue is more akin to a two-lane industrial street based on the land uses, street design and activity and is not analogous to Murphy Avenue. Director of Public Works Pineda clarified that a retail and restaurant district presents a different scenario. Commissioner Howard asked staff if there is a recommendation that the Planning Commission can make to evaluate the streetscape of Palomar Avenue to facilitate easier pedestrian crossings. Director of Public Works Pineda advised that the main access points to the parking structures are on Palomar Avenue and that there will be a high corresponding volume of vehicular traffic. Director of Public Works Pineda explained that a street designation for Palomar Avenue won’t address the issue and stated that one option is to follow staff’s recommendation and let the Irvine Company present a driveway and landscape plan to address the pedestrian safety concerns. Ms. Cole stated that Palomar Avenue is a short block with low predicted traffic volume that will mainly be used by the Irvine Company. Ms. Cole stated an opinion that pedestrians will take the shortest path of travel and that relocating the elevator entrances would not be enough of a deterrent. Commissioner Howard asked staff if the Irvine Company, as the project user, can determine a need and provide the funding to implement a future midblock crossing. Planning Officer Miner clarified that the Irvine Company is the developer but not the user of the street since it’s a multi-tenant office project. Director of Public Works Pineda stated that Palomar Avenue is a public street operated by the City and that the City must determine if a midblock crossing is appropriate and meets the requirements. Director of Public Works Pineda advised that the City can’t eliminate midblock crossings but the goal is to minimize as much as possible, which is why a design doesn’t start with midblock crossings. City of Sunnyvale Page 15 Planning Commission Meeting Minutes - Final April 10, 2017 Vice Chair Rheaume commented that approximately 140 redwood trees will be preserved, noting that this number seems insufficient and asked the applicant to clarify their tree plan. Mr. Diers stated that 264 existing trees will be preserved. Vice Chair Rheaume stated that page 13 of the staff report states that the trees proposed for removal are either within the proposed improvement area or have low to moderate suitability for preservation and asked for staff comments. Associate Planner Schroeder provided details about the proposed improvements and stated that not all pathways could be modified to preserve additional trees. Vice Chair Rheaume asked staff if there was still an opportunity to save additional trees without impacting the building’s footprint. Associate Planner Schroeder advised that staff will research in further detail when the construction drawings are developed but that staff is comfortable with the applicant’s findings and that the City arborist has generally agreed with the tree plan. Planning Officer Miner stated that due to the project size it is difficult to get granular but that more details will develop as the project proceeds and that the Planning Commission can recommend to staff to preserve as many trees as possible. Commissioner Simons asked the applicant to explain their tree selection choices. Mr. Diers provided details about the evergreen tree palette, the use of olive trees and the applicant’s desire to provide a richness through the streetscape experience. Commissioner Simons commented that some of the tree choices are not necessarily local though they do match the project elements. Vice Chair Rheaume closed the Public Hearing. Vice Chair Rheaume asked staff to clarify what the Planning Commission is approving, considering the phasing for the proposed project. Planning Officer Miner advised that approval of the entire project is before the Planning Commission. Planning Officer Miner stated that staff’s phasing plan would ensure contiguous improvements and allow the City to reclaim the square footage if the project is not completed in a timely fashion. Vice Chair Rheaume clarified with Planning Officer Miner that Phase 2 would not come before the Planning Commission unless the applicant wanted to modify the approved project. Commissioner Howe asked staff to explain any plan changes that would be needed if two of the driveways were closed. Planning Officer Miner explained that the amenity building could be moved down and that the existing parking lot could be moved to be accessible from the east-west connector. MOTION: Commissioner Howard moved and Commissioner Howe seconded the motion for Alternative 2 – Alternative 1 with modified conditions of approval – City of Sunnyvale Page 16 Planning Commission Meeting Minutes - Final April 10, 2017 1. Remove PS-1a and PS-1c 2. Add PS-1i and modify EP-28, EP-29 and TM-7a as proposed by staff Vice Chair Rheaume clarified the motion with Commissioner Howard. Planning Officer Miner commented that the Planning Commission should also consider the staff modified COA provided on the dais. Commissioner Howard moved to add PS-1i to the motion and accept the modified COA as provided by staff. Planning Officer Miner repeated the motion for the Planning Commission. Commissioner Howard commented that he likes the project, architecture and pedestrian orientation. Commissioner Howard stated a shared concern with the applicant regarding safety in the parking garage, especially for late night employees. Commissioner Howard stated his confidence that any future jaywalking will be addressed. Commissioner Howard noted his agreement with the reduction in the number of driveways on Mary Avenue and commented that the retained parking lot should be reasonably accommodated due to the low volume of cars. Commissioner Howard thanked everyone involved on the project, especially staff. FRIENDLY AMENDMENT: Commissioner Howe offered a friendly amendment to ensure visibility on the speed bumps. FRIENDLY AMENDMENT: Commissioner Howe offered a friendly amendment to implement active bicycle notifications to vehicles for safety. Commissioner Howard accepted both friendly amendments. Commissioner Howe stated that he can make the required findings and that it is a great project. FRIENDLY AMENDMENT: Commissioner Olevson commented that Attachment 14 shows staff’s recommended phasing plan but that the applicant’s plan would honor lease commitments with the existing tenants. Commissioner Olevson offered a friendly amendment to eliminate staff’s proposed phasing plan and adopt Irvine’s proposed phasing plan. Commissioner Howard respectfully declined the friendly amendment, asking for a City of Sunnyvale Page 17 Planning Commission Meeting Minutes - Final April 10, 2017 vote by the Planning Commission. Commissioner Olevson proposed a formal amendment to the proposed motion to eliminate staff’s proposed phasing plan and adopt Irvine’s proposed phasing plan. Commissioner Howe seconded the amendment. Commissioner Simons stated an opinion that the Planning Commission should allow staff to work with the applicant to adjust the phasing and could recommend to staff to coordinate a practical phasing plan as appropriate for the leasing. The motion carried by the following vote: Yes: 3 - Vice Chair Rheaume Commissioner Howe Commissioner Olevson No: 2 - Commissioner Howard Commissioner Simons Absent: 2 - Chair Harrison Commissioner Weiss Commissioner Olevson stated that he can make the findings, that the area will be nicely done and noted an appreciation for the central walkways and accessibility. Commissioner Simons recommended that staff work with the applicant to maximize the amount of pervious hardscape in the project. The recommendation was accepted by Commissioner Howard and Commissioner Howe. Commissioner Simons recommended that staff work with the applicant to increase the number of estate sized native trees as appropriate for the landscape plan. The recommendation was accepted by Commissioner Howard and Commissioner Howe. Commissioner Simons recommended that the applicant implement wayfinding landscape on Palomar Avenue to mitigate pedestrian jaywalking. The recommendation was accepted by Commissioner Howard and Commissioner Howe. Commissioner Simons stated that he can make the findings and will be supporting the motion. Commissioner Simons noted his disappointment that staff will not have input for the phasing plan. Commissioner Simons commented that the mid-century modern architecture is fine. City of Sunnyvale Page 18 Planning Commission Meeting Minutes - Final April 10, 2017 FRIENDLY AMENDMENT: Vice Chair Rheaume offered a friendly amendment that staff work with the applicant to save as many trees as possible. Commissioner Howard and Commissioner Howe accepted the friendly amendment. Vice Chair Rheaume stated that he can make the findings and noted an appreciation that the applicant listened to the Planning Commission’s comments about the project’s design. Vice Chair Rheaume noted his agreement that the parking garages should be located away from the campus and that the outcome will be less buildings and more open space. Vice Chair Rheaume noted an appreciation for the jaywalking concerns but stated that pedestrians will find a way regardless. Vice Chair Rheaume stated an opinion that the Irvine Company will address any future tenant jaywalking concerns. The motion carried by the following vote: Yes: 5 - Vice Chair Rheaume Commissioner Howard Commissioner Howe Commissioner Olevson Commissioner Simons No: 0 Absent: 2 - Chair Harrison Commissioner Weiss Planning Officer Miner stated this decision is final unless appealed to the City Council within 15 days or called up by the City Council within 15 days. STANDING ITEM: CONSIDERATION OF POTENTIAL STUDY ISSUES Commissioner Simons commented that a potential study issue could address fence design and setbacks, considering the high percentage of non-compliant construction and extremely high fences. Planning Officer Miner advised that to consider this as a study issue it requires two votes from the Planning Commission. Planning Officer Miner commented that it is difficult to ensure compliance in a study issue and that this issue is managed by the Neighborhood Preservation group. Commissioner Simons clarified that the City could provide an informational flyer about zoning basics to provide education for residents. Planning Officer Miner asked if there was support from another Planning Commissioner. Commissioner Howe commented that this issue has been brought up before the City Council and is more appropriate as an item of educational community value for the City Council. Commissioner Simons withdrew the study issue and noted that there are City of Sunnyvale Page 19 Planning Commission Meeting Minutes - Final April 10, 2017 compliance issues. NON-AGENDA ITEMS AND COMMENTS -Commissioner Comments None. -Staff Comments Planning Officer Miner advised that on April 11, 2017, the City Council will consider the Land Use and Transportation Element (LUTE) as well as two items previously heard by the Planning Commission, the Related General Plan Amendment and Rezone on Ahwanee Avenue and the PPSP permit at 675 Almanor Avenue. ADJOURNMENT Vice Chair Rheaume adjourned the meeting at 10:14 PM. City of Sunnyvale Page 20