08-19-14 MINUTES OF A
REGULAR MEETING
OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION
OF THE
CITY OF ROLLING HILLS
AUGUST 19, 2014
CALL MEETING TO ORDER
A regular meeting of the Planning Commission of the City of Rolling Hills was called to order by
Chairman Chelf at 6:35 p.m. on Tuesday, August 19, 2014 in the City Council Chamber, at City Hall, 2
Portuguese Bend Road, Rolling Hills, California.
ROLL CALL
Commissioners Present: Gray, Kirkpatrick,Mirsch, Smith and Chairman Chelf.
Commissioners Absent: None.
Others Present: Yolanta Schwartz, Planning Director.
Raymond R. Cruz, City Manager.
Shahiedah Coates, Assistant City Attorney.
Heidi Luce, City Clerk.
Karl and Helen Frykman, 10 Crest Road West.
Tavisha Nicholson, Bolton Engineering.
John Nunn, 1 Crest Road West.
George Sweeney,ArchiYect.
Leonardo, D'Anconia, Tim Barber LTD Architecture.
Martin Perez, Project Executive (8 Crest Road East).
James Aichele, 14 Crest Road West.
Ross Bolton, Bolton Engineering.
Dan Baer, 38 Eastfield Drive.
John Resich, 8 Outrider Road.
Nicholas Tonsich, 40 Eastfield Drive.
APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA
Approved as presented.
PUBLIC COMMENTS ON MINUTES AND ANY ITEM NOT ON THE AGENDA
None.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
July 15, 2014 Adjourned Regular Meeting of the Planning Commission
Commissioner Gray moved that the Planning Commission approve the minutes of the adjourned regular
meeting of the Planning Commission held on July 15, 2014. Vice Chairperson Smith seconded the
motion, which carried without objection.
July 15, 2014 Regulaz Meeting of the Planning Commission
Commissioner Gray noted one typographical error on page 5 in the second sentence of the third
paragraph, the ward it should be in. Commissioner Gray moved that the Planning Commission approve
the minutes of the regular meeting of the Planning Commission held on July 15, 2014 as amended to
correct the typographical error. Vice Chairperson Smith seconded the motion, which canied without
objection.
COMMITTEE ON TREES AND VIEWS
Minutes of a meeting of the Committee on Trees and Views, May 20, 2014 (Arnold/McNabb).
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Committee Member Gray moved that the Committee on Trees and Views approve the minutes of the
Committee on Trees and Views Meeting held on May 2Q 2014. Committee Member Smith seconded the
motion, which carried without objection.
Update on the Arnold/McNabb case (oral)
Planning Director Schwartz reported that the parties in the Arnold/McNabb view case reached a private
agreement to resolve the matter and the matter will not come back before the Committee.
RESOLUTIONS
None.
PUBLIC HEARINGS ON ITEMS CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS MEETING
ZONING CASE NO. 859. APPLICANTS REOUESTED CONTINUANCE. Request for a
Certificate of Compliance for Lot Line Adjustment between 4 parcels; 4 Storm Hill Lane and
three vacant parcels of land, adjacent thereto, located along Storm Hill Lane @ Johns Canyon
Road, Rolling Hills, CA, and having Assessors Parcel Numbers (APN) 7570-024-014, 7570-
024-0I5, 7570-024-016 and 7570-024-017, and request for a Site Plan Review for grading to
construct a private road to serve the parcels in Zoning Case No. 859. (Storm Properties Inc.) It
has been determined that the project is categorically exempt from the requirements of the
California Environmentai Quality Act(CEQA).
At the request of the applicant, wnsideration of this case was continued and a field trip will be
scheduled later on the agenda.
ZONING CASE NO. 860. Request for a Conditional Use Permit, Site Plan Review and
Vaziances to construct a stable with a loft in the front yard area of the lot and a conal in the front
yard setback; a swimming pool and walls in the rear yard setback; to retain an unpermitted trellis
and bazbeque in the rear yard setback and request for grading for the project which would exceed
the maximum permitted disturbance of the lot in Zoning Case No. 860 at 10 Crest Road West,
(Lot 2-CH), Rolling Hills, CA. (Frykman). It has been determined that the project is
categorically exempt from the requirements of the California Environmental Quality Act
(CEQA).
Chairman Chelf introduced the item and asked for staff's comments. Planning Director Schwartz
reviewed the applicanYs request to construct a stable and swimming pool and stated that the Planning
Commission visited the site earlier in the day. She stated that the proposed stable meets the requirements
of the Stable Ordinance and reviewed the configuration of the stable. She stated that the swimming pool
consists of a swimming pool (play pool) and a lap pool and will be stepped down from the residence.
She commented that since the residence is in the rear of the lot, anything constructed in front of the
house would require a Variance.
In response to Commissioner Gray's inquiry, Planning Director Schwartz reviewed the pools that were
previously approved in a setback including one that was approved entirely in the setback in 2005, two
others paRially in a setback in 2008 and 2010 and a couple in the front yard area as well.
In response to Chairman Cheif regarding the height of stables previously approved, Planning Director
Schwartz stated that recently the Planning Commission approved stables at 23'6", 20' and 19' in height.
Also in response to Chairman Chelf, she stated that the minimum height for a two-story stable is
approximately 18-19 ft.
Chairman Chelf called for public comment.
Karl Frykman, 10 Crest Road West addressed the Planning Commission and showed a magazine
photograph showing what the pool will look like.
Tavisha Nicholson, Bolton Engineering addressed the Planning Commission offering to answer any
questions the Planning Commission may have. In response to Commissioner Kirkpatrick regarding the
length of the lap pool, she stated that the lap pool is 25 yds. in length which is a typical lap pool length.
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John Nunn, 1 Crest Road West addressed the Planning Commission expressing concern regarding the
height of the stable. He suggested that the stable be moved 8 ft. to the East to eliminate the need for a
second story.
George Sweeney, Architect addressed the Planning Commission to explain the reasoning for the
proposed design of the stable. He stated that to address the concern regarding the size/height, they can
do more grading to lower the stable and raise the corral to minimize the appearance of the height of the
stable.
Commissioner Kirkpatrick suggested that applicant may consider placing the stairs on the other side of
the stable. Chairman Chelf suggested that the applicant may also consider increasing the grading to
lower the stable.
Commissioner Gray suggested moving the stable away from the easement line so that landscaping can
be put in to screen the stable from view from the neighboring property. He expressed concern regarding
the visibility of the stable from the neighboring property. In response, Ms. Nicholson stated that the
applicant was hoping to keep the existing orchard and if the stable were moved the orchard would have
to be eliminated. She also stated that if the stable were to be lowered, they wouldn't be able to balance
the grading on site. Discussion ensued concerning landscape screening and it was noted that the
neighbor has not expressed concern regarding the location of the stable. Discussion ensued concerning
the location of stable and the Fire DepartmenYs requirements regarding landscaping next to structures.
Commissioner Gray expressed concern that since the stable is placed on the easement there is no room
for landscaping to screen it from view from the neighboring property.
Commissioner Kirkpatrick suggested that the applicant consider the concerns raised and see if there are
adjustments that can be made to address the concems but stated that he is not opposed to the location or
size. Chairman Chelf commented that he does not object to the location and does not feel that screening
is necessary. Vice Chairperson Smith commented that she would like to see the stable lowered if
possible but she is not opposed to its location.
Commissioner Mirsch commented that she does not have an issue with the stable, but expressed concern
regarding the pad coverage. She suggested that the applicant consider the concerns raised and see if
there are adjushnents that can be made to address the concerns.
Hearing no further comments regarding the stable, the Planning Commission then discussed the pools.
Vice Chairperson Smith expressed concern regarding the mass and crowding in the backyard area. She
stated that she cannot make the finding that the project is harmonious in scale and mass with the site, the
natural terrain and surrounding residences.
Commissioner Mirsch commented that she is not opposed to the as-built structures but she feels that
there are too many elements and no room for open space. Commissioner Kirkpatrick noted that there is
open space in front of the house. Chairman Chelf suggested that there may be a way to do the decking
that softens it and makes it more natural so there is a more open feel.
Commissioner Gray expressed concern that the two pools are too much in the setback and suggested that
the pools might be better placed elsewhere.
Chairman Chelf commented that the location of the house makes it difficult to place other structures. He
commented that he feels the location of the pool is the right location and it doesn't affect other
neighbors.
Following public testimony and discussion it was suggested that the applicant return with a revised plan
to address the Planning Commission's concerns regarding the proposal. The applicant agreed and the
public hearing was continued.
ZONING CASE NO. 858-REVISED. Request for a Site Plan Review for grading of total of
3,700 cubic yards of cut and 3,700 cubic yards of fill to construct a new 14,240 square foot
single family residence, 935 square foot garage 3,174 square foot basement for mechanical
equipment only and other miscellaneous outdoor amenities consisting of a swimming pool/spa,
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water features, barbeque areas, fire places and fire pits, at 8 Crest Road East, (Lot 192-A-2-
MS), Rolling Hills, CA, (Tu). The existing residence will be demolished. The project has been
determined to be categorically exempt pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act
(CEQA).
Commissioner Mirsch recused herself from consideration of this case due to the proximity of her
property to the subject property and left the dais. Chairman Chelf introduced the item and asked for
staff's comments. Planning Director Schwartz stated that the Planning Commission visited the site
earlier in the day. She reviewed the applicanYs revised request to demolish an existing residence and
build new residence and various other miscellaneous outdoor amenities. She also reviewed the proposed
grading which will be balanced on site. She further reviewed the location of the future stabie and conal
as well as the development standazds which are all within the requirements. She stated that this revised
proposal is in response to the concern raised by the Planning Commission at the previous public
hearings.
Chairman Chelf called for public wmment.
Leonardo, D'Anconia, Tim Barber LTD Architecture addressed the Planning Commission on behalf of
the applicant to review the revised proposal as compared to the previous proposal as weli as the
previously approved project that was not built. He commented that the garage was made smaller, the
porches were reduced and although the house is bigger, the overall residence, as a footprint is 300 sq. ft.
smaller and the total structural coverage was reduced by two percent.
Commissioner Gray stated the he feels this proposal is improved compared to what was originally
submitted and he is not opposed to the project.
Chairman Chelf expressed concern regarding the size of the house. He commented that he feels it is a
better design than the previous design and the layout is better for the neighbors but the house is too
large.
Vice Chairperson Smith commented that she feels this proposal is not comparible with the surrounding
properties and expressed concern regarding the size of the house.
Commissioner Kirkpatrick stated that he feels that the size of the lot dictates the size of the house and he
is not opposed to this proposal. He stated that he supports the project and is not concerned about the size
ofthe house.
Commissioner Gray noted that this proposal would be the same aerial footprint as the project that was
approved previously but it has been moved and lowered and it is a better proposal. Discussion ensued
concerning the size of the house, the General Plan findings and the need for clarification as to the City
Council's direction with regard to the size of houses
Following public testimony and discussion it was suggested that the applicant return with a revised plan
to address the Planning Commission's concerns regarding the size of the house. The applicant agreed
and the public hearing was continued. Commissioner Mirsch returned to the dais.
NEW PUBLIC HEARINGS
ZONING CASE NO. 861. Request for a Site Plan Review and a Variance for grading to
construct a pool, spa and associated planters, stairs, walls and decking and to exceed the
maximum permitted disturbance of the lot as a result of the grading in Zoning Case No. 861 at 2
Middleridge Lane S., (Lot 168-RH), (Johnson). It has been determined that the project is
categorically exempt from the requirements of the California Environmental Quality Act
(CEQA).
Chairman Chelf introduced the item and asked for staft's comments. Planning Director Schwartz
reviewed the applicanYs request to construct a pool and spa at 2 Middleridge Lane South. She noted
that a letter in support of this project was received and has been placed on the dais. She stated that
grading is proposed at 235 cu. yds. of cut and 235 cu. yds. of fill and the approximately 93 cu. yds. of
dirt will be exported from the swimming pool. She further reviewed the deck configuration stating that
the deck will step down to the pool. She reviewed the coverages stating that that they are within the
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requirements. She noted that the disturbance is proposed at 41.6% and a Variance has been requested to
exceed the maximum disturbance of 40%.
Chairman Chelf called for public comment.
Tavisha Nicholson, Bolton Engineering addressed the Planning Commission to answer any questions
about the project. In response to Commissioner Gray regarding the disturbance, Ms. Nicholson stated
that in order to keep the disturbance below 40% the deck would have to be reduced in size. Also in
response to Commissioner Gray, Planning Director Schwartz stated that 1,154 sq. fr. of graded area
would have to be eliminated.
Following staff's presentation and public testimony, the members of the Planning Commission
determined that a site visit should be scheduled to provide the members of the Planning Commission
with further understanding of the applicanYs request. The applicant was asked to stake the project well.
The public hearing was continued.
ZONING CASE NO. 862, Request for modifications to a previously approved project
consisting of a Site Plan Review for additional grading, Variances to exceed the maximum
permitted disturbance of the lot and to reconstruct slopes that woultl be steeper than the
maximum permitted and request for other various modifications to the residence, garage and
driveway in Zoning Case No. 862 at 40 Eastfield Drive, (Lot 91-EF), Rolling Hills, CA,
(Tonsich). ). It has been determined that the project is categorically exempt from the
requirements of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA).
Chairman Chelf introduced the item and asked for stafPs comments. Planning Director Schwartz stated
that a letter concerning the project and table outlining the changes to the applicanYs request have been
placed on the dais. She reviewed the configuration of the lot and stated that the property gains access
across another property from a driveway that also serves 42 Eastfield Drive but which is located on the
property at 38 Eastfield Drive. She further reviewed the previous history of approvals with regard to
this project and stated that the applicant is requesting modifications to the previously approved project to
include additional grading, to lower the garage, construction of additional porches, modifications within
and outside the house, to further exceed the disturbed area, to create slopes that are 1.5:1 which is
steeper than the mazcimum allowed, to wnstruct higher than ma�cimum permitted walls, and to constnxct
a structure outside the footprint of the basement. She reviewed the details of each request and provided
background on the proposed changes as outlined on the table provided. She stated that the applicant is
also proposing to open one of the light wells to the basement to create a staircase to the lower area, to
make a portion of the basement 3fr. deeper to create a wine cellar and to relocate the area for a future
stable and conal.
Ross Bolton, Bolton Engineering addressed the Planning Commission on behalf of the applicant to
further explain the changes noting that the proposed 1.5:1 slope is not a new slope but will replace the
slope to the original condition.
Dan Baer, 38 Eastfield Drive addressed the Planning Commission to request that their properry be
impacted by this project as minimally as possible. He expressed concern regarding the location of the
service yard and the new location of the proposed stable and conal.
John Resich, 8 Outrider Road addressed the Planning Commission regarding the inwnvenience the
project has created for the residents on Outrider Road. He expressed concern that the stnxcture will look
like a two-story structure from Ouh-ider Road. He suggested that the Planning Commission observe
where the structural walls are compared to where the beams are and further expressed concern regarding
the disturbance and the steepness of the slopes. He urged the Planning Commission to be consistent and
to be sure the project is built as to what the plans say will be built.
Nicholas Tonsich, 40 Eastfield Drive addressed the Planning Commission to further explain the reason
for the changes to the request and stated that it isn't as complicated as it seems and they are just asking
for proper approval.
Following staff's presentation and public testimony, the members of the Planning Commission
determined that a site visit should be scheduled to provide the members of the Planning Commission
with further understanding of the applicanYs request. The public hearing was continued.
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SCHEDULE OF FIELD TRIPS
The Planning Commission scheduled field trips to the following properties to be conducted on Tuesday,
September 16, 2014 beginning at 7:30 a.m.
40 Eastfield Drive 2 Middleridge Lane South
38 Portuguese Bend Road Storm Hill Lane
ITEMS FROM THE PLANNING COMMISSION
None.
ITEMS FROM STAFF
Scheduling of a workshop and topics of discussion
Following discussion regarding dates and topics, a workshop was scheduled for Tuesday, September 30,
2014 at 4:00 p.m. in the City Council Chamber, Rolling Hills City Hall, 2 Portuguese Bend Road,
Rolling Hills, California. The purpose of the workshop will be to conduct Brown Act training.
Following further discussion, it was suggested that a joint meeting/study session between the City
Council and Planning Commission be scheduled to discuss some of the other topics raised like the size
of homes.
Other matters
City Manager Cruz reported that the City Council is discussing ways to provide the Committee on Trees
and Views with clarification regarding the interpretation of Measure B.
ADJOURNMENT
Hearing no further business before the Commission, Chairman Chelf adjourned the meeting at 9:45 p.m.
to an adjoumed regular meeting of the Planning Commission scheduled for Tuesday, September 16,
2014 beginning at 7:30 a.m. for the purpose of conducting field trips to 40 Eastfield Drive, 38
Porhzguese Bend Road, 2 Middleridge Lane South and Storm Hill Lane. The next regular meeting of the
Planning Commission is scheduled to be held on Tuesday, September 16, 2014 at 630 p.m. in the City
Council Chamber, Roliing Hills City Hall, 2 Portuguese Bend Road, Rolling Hills, California.
Respectfully submitted,
`IY'Y Y�A P k�
Heidi Luce
City Clerk
Approved,
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� tiL,L
Jill Smith
Vice Chairperson
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