05-21-19PCMinutes.pdf REGULAR MEETING
OF THE PLANNING COMIVIISSION
CITY OF ROLLING HILLS
6:30 PM
TUESDAY, MAY 21, 2019
ROLLING HILLS CITY HALL
2 PORTUGUESE BEND ROAD, ROLLING HILLS, CA 90274
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 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, May 21, 2019 in the City Council Chamber, at City Hall, 2
Portuguese Bend Road, Rolling Hills, California.
ROLL CALL
Commissioners Present: Cardenas, Cooley, Seaburn and Chairman Chelf.
Commissioners Absent: Kirkpatrick (excused).
Others Present: Yolanta Schwartz, Planning Director.
Jane Abzug, Assistant City Attorney.
Karla Rangel, Administrative Clerk.
Criss Gunderson, Architect, 8 Middleridge Lane South.
Joseph Spierer, Architect, 1 Poppy Trail.
Dr. Weinstein, 17 Middleridge Lane South.
Mike Joly, 10 Middleridge Lane South.
Gary Wynn, Engineer, 11 Saddleback Road.
Bob Gaudenti, Contractor, 11 Saddleback Road.
James B. Representative for Mr. & Mrs. Jones, 26 Saddleback Rd.
APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA
Approved as presented.
PUBLIC COMMENTS ON MINUTES AND ANY ITEM NOT ON THE AGENDA
None.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Planning Director Schwartz stated that two sets of minutes were slightly adjusted per the Assistant City
Attorney. She stated that the Assistant City Attorney suggested some changes on the wording.
February 19, 2019 Regular Meeting of the Planning Commission
Commissioner Cardenas moved that the Planning Commission approve the minutes of the regular
meeting of the Planning Commission held on February 19, 2019. Commissioner Seaburn seconded the
motion, which carried without objection(Kirkpatrick absent).
March 19, 2019 Regular Meeting of the Planning Commission
Commissioner Cooley moved that the Planning Commission approve the minutes of the regular meeting
of the Planning Commission held on March 19, 2019 as presented. Commissioner Cardenas seconded
the motion, which carried without objection(Kirkpatrick absent).
April 16, 2019, Adjourned Regular Meeting of the Planning Commission
Commissioner Cooley moved that the Planning Commission approve the minutes of the adjourned
regular meeting of the Planning Commission held on April 16, 2019. Commissioner Seaburn seconded
the motion, which carried without objection (Kirkpatrick absent, Chelf recused).
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April 16, 2019, Regular Meeting of the Planning Commission
Commissioner Seaburn moved that the Planning Commission approve the minutes of the regular
meeting of the Planning Commission held on April 16, 2019 as presented. Commissioner Cooley
seconded the motion, which carried without objection (Kirkpatrick absent, Chelf recused).
RESOLUTIONS
RESOLUTION NO. 2019-09. A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF
THE CITY OF ROLLING HILLS GR.ANTING A VARIANCE FROM THE
REQUIREMENT THAT UTILITY LINES BE PLACED UNDERGROUND 1N
CONJUNCTION WITH A CONSTRUCTION OF AN ADDITION AND MAJOR
REMODEL IN ZONING CASE NO. 957, AT 5 FLYING MANE LANE, ROLLING HILLS
(LOT 45-SF), (WALKER).
Chair Chelf recused himself, due to the pro�mity of his property to the project site. Commissioner
Cardenas chaired.
Commissioner Cardenas introduced the item and asked for staff's comments. Planning Director
Schwartz reviewed the applicant's request in Zoning Case No. 957 at 5 Flying Mane Lane. She stated
that the Planning Commission approved this project at the previous meeting and requested that staff
bring a resolution of approval. She indicated that the request is far a variance to not underground the
utilities on the property. She stated that the owners made major improvements to the property, thus that
is what prompted the requirement to underground utility lines. She reviewed the site plan. Planning
Director Schwartz indicated that there is over 25-foot distance between the bottom and top of the
slope. She further indicated that the planning department received correspondence from experts that it
would not be possible to trench the slope, because it is rocky and the bedrock is very shallow.
Commissioner Cardenas called for public comment. Hearing none, he closed the public hearing.
The Planning Commissioners stated they had no comments.
Commissioner Cooley moved that the Planning Commission adopt Resolution No. 2019-09 granting
approval of the applicant's request in Zoning Case No. 957 at 5 Flying Mane Lane as presented.
Commissioner Seaburn seconded the motion, which carried without objection(Kirkpatrick absent, Chelf
recused).
ZONING CASE NO. 953. 13 PORTUGUESE BEND ROAD, (LOT 77-RH) (CARDENAS).
Due to lack of quorum this case will be continued to the June 18, 2019 Planning Commission meeting.
PUBLIC HEARINGS ON ITEMS CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS MEETING
ZONING CASE NO. 956. Request for a Site Plan Review for grading of 6,790 cubic yards of
cut and 5,955 cubic yards of fill with 835 cubic yards of export of dirt and construction of a
new 6,273 square foot residence with 1,120 square foot garage and 2,037 square foot covered
porches, 3,000 square foot basement and 1,172 square foot swimming pool with a spa and other
miscellaneous outdoor amenities; a Conditional Use Permit to construct an 800 square foot
guesthouse; and Variances for a driveway that covers more than 20% of the front yard setback
area and to exceed the maximum 40% permitted disturbance of the lot in Zoning Case No. 956
at 8 Middleridge Lane South (Lot 254-UR), Rolling Hills, CA(Zhang).
Chairman Chelf introduced the item and asked for staff's comments. Planning Director Schwartz
indicated that the planning department received letters, from four residents, requesting continuance of
this case. She indicated that the residents stated that they felt they were not notified in a timely fashion
that this case was coming before the Planning Commission tonight. She stated that others were
traveling, thus were not able to attend the meeting. Planning Director Schwartz indicated that because
this item is listed on the agenda, she can make a presentation and the Planning Commission can decide
how to move forward.
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Chairman Chelf stated that he would like to see the presentation. The other commissioners present
concurred with Chairman Chelf.
Planning Director Schwartz gave an overview of the proposed project, which is to construct a
residence with a garage and basement, pool, guest house and future stable on a vacant lot. She stated
that since the previous meeting the applicant revised some elements of the application.
Chairman Chelf opened the public hearing.
Mr. Gunderson stated that he would like the public hearing to go forward, although some of the
neighbors were not able to attend the meeting. He stated that the neighbors not in attendance have
expressed their concerns to the committee, previously, in regards to the proposed project. Mr.
Gunderson indicated that approximately 700 square feet were removed from the home. He stated that
the highest part of the home has been removed. He indicated that they have pushed down the pad 1-
foot since the last proposal and have changed the roof pitch. He stated that these changes have reduced
the mass of the home.
In response to Commissioner Cardenas' question, Mr. Gurderson clarified that the ridgeline has come
down 2 '/z feet from the previous submission.
Chairman Chelf thanked Mr. Gunderson for reaching out to the neighbors to take their input. He also
thanked him for listing to the Planning Commission and shrinking the overall scope of the build,
bringing down the ridgeline, and increasing the size of the basement. He stated that the committee
does appreciate the hard work that has gone into bringing the project into compliance and the ability to
reduce the size from about 7,000 square feet to about 6,000 square feet. Chairman Chelf stated that the
Commission will still need to hear from the concerned neighbors.
Mr. Gunderson stated that the homeowner has made significant changes to the project in order to be in
compliance with the City's regualtions and in order to be considerate of the neighbors.
Mr. Jolly, expressed his appreciation for the ridgeheight being reduced 2 1/2 feet. He stated that
although 600sf have been removed, 1,000 square feet have been added to the basement. He idicated
that although we can't see it, the house is 400 square feet larger now. He indicated that because the
basement was increased by 1,OOOsf, then his thought would be, that 1,000 square feet should have been
removed from the top structure. He stated that his other concern is about the covered pario areas,
because altough some square footage has been removed not enough of the covered roof space is being
removed, so the visual of the mass will still be great.
Dr. Weistein reiterated that four families who are very concerend with this project are currently out of
town. He stated that they submitted letters to the Planning Commission. He urged the Committee to
table any substantial motions until the next meeting scheduled for June 18th, when the four families
will be in attendance.
Mr. Gunderson stated that he and his clients don't want the decission making process to be postponed
any longer, because it has already been nine months of trying to get this project approved.
Chairman Chelf explained that the Planning Cornmission has a process it must follow and although it
is understandable that the property owners would like to speed up the process, the Commission has to
do what is right for the community.
In response to Commissioner Seaburn's question, Mr. Gunderson concurred that this is the best design
posible that meets the needs of the client.
There being no further comments, Chairman Chelf closed the public hearing.
Chairman Chelf commented that although it would be inconvinient to have the applicant restake the
property, in this case it really needs to be restaked. He stated that they have done a great job at
lowering the structure, but the neighbors can't get a clear vision of it, because the old silhoutte is still
up, thus it would be beneficial to have the property reflaged.
Commissioner Cooley concurred with Chairman Chelf. She commented that she appreciates all of the
time the architect has put into working on the project, with speaking to the neighbors to and trying to
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address their concerns. She stated that she is still concered with the family room area being so close to
the neighbors, so she would like to see the new flagging to illustrate the changes that have been made.
Commissioner Cardenas commented that although he appreciates that some of the square footage is
going into the basement, there are still a lot of axeas that are being increased like the garage and
covered porch areas. He indicated that the roof that is going to be visible from above is not going to be
reduced much, thus he is still concerned with the mass of the structure being a sight issue for the
neighbors. He commented that the restaking the property will help everyone to see the changes. He
stated that the ridgeline coming down 2 '/2 feet is the most positive change. He commented that in
regards to the neighbor's concern about the proximity of the wing of the proposed house to their home,
it is the neighbors home that is too close to the property line. He indicated that the proximity of the
proposed house to the neighbor's home meets the requirements.
Commissioner Seaburn commented that it is reasonable to have the property restaked. He stated that he
feels the project is in line with the general plan of the community and is compatible with the
neighborhood in general. He further stated that he feels the variances are acceptable.
In response to Chairman Chelf's question Mr. Gunderson stated that he will have the the property
reflagged. He reminded the Planning Commission that this project has been going on for nine months,
thus his client is paying a lot of holding costs, so he would like to have the process expedited.
Chairman Chelf clarified that until the new silhoutte is up, the Commission cannot come to a decission.
Assistant City Attorney Abzug stated that if the Planning Commission needs to see the property in the
field again, so it can evaluate the findings, then a motion to schedule a field trip needs to be made.
Following Discussion, Commissioners recommended that the applicant revise the project. After further
explanation by the Architect, he agreed to revise the project. Commissioner Cardenas moved that the
Planning Commission schedule a field trip to view a revised project on June 18th, 2019. Commissioner
Cooley seconded the motion, which carried without objection (Kirkpatrick absent).
ZONING CASE NO. 955. Request for a Site Plan Review for a new 6,374 square
foot residence with 1,360 square foot porch, 756 square foot attached garage, 934 square foot
basement, 1,643 squaxe foot swimming pool & spa and grading of 5,600 cubic yards, total cut
and fill; a Conditional Use Permit for a 452 square foot stable and 575 square foot corral, and
Variances to exceed the maximum permitted lot disturbance and for a retaining wa111ocated in
the side yard setback at 1 Poppy Trail, (Lot 90-B2-RH) Rolling Hills, CA, (Yeh).
Chairman Chelf introduced the item and asked for staff's comments. Planning Director Schwartz
stated that the Planning Commission visited the site in the morning. She indicated that the request is
for a single-family residence on a vacant lot. She gave a brief overview of the project.
In response to Chairman Chelf's inquiry Planning Director Schwartz stated that the lot is currently
disturbed at 69.6% and other than expanding the road per the fire department's guidelines, there will
be no new grading done on the site. She stated that they are going to be filling a little, but they will be
using the dirt from the lot.
Chair Chelf clarified that the disturbance number is so high, because a landslide took place in this
area.
Chairman Chelf opened the public hearing.
Mr. Spierer, Architect stated that the pad is fairly small compared to the size of the lot and is also
skinny, which is one of the reasons he is asking for variance to enlarge the pad slightly, which puts the
wall in the setback to make room for a house and outdoor space. He stated that the project will not
obstruct any views.
There being no further comments, Chairman Chelf closed the public hearing
Commissioner Seaburn commented that that it is an exceptional property. He commented that because
it is very unique it requires these variances. He stated that the variances are needed in order to enjoy
the property. He commented that the project will be good for the community, meets fire safety, and
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will be good for the surrounding neighbors. He stated that it is a good project given the little space
that is available for use.
Commissioner Cooley concurred with Commissioner Seaburn's comments. She stated that she tninks
it is a good project. She commented that she was curious as to why part of the retaining wall had to be
in the setback and wondered how much smaller the house would have to be if they didn't go into the
setback. She commented that she has no problem with the project.
Commissioner Cardenas concurred with both of the commissioners. He stated that his only concern
was the odd layout of the barn. He commented that the project fits within the lot and the environment
around it,thus he has no issues with the project.
Following public comment and discussion, Commissioner Cardenas moved that the Planning
Commission direct staff to prepare a resolution of approval for the project as proposed. Commissioner
Seaburn seconded the motion, which carried without objection(Kirkpatrick absent).
ZONING CASE NO. 959 Request for a a Conditional Use Permit to convert an existing 689
square foot stable, to a mixed-use structure which includes a 450 square foot recreation room
and a 239 square foot storage area, located at 49 Eastfield Drive (Lot 33-EF) Rolling Hills,
CA, (Waldman).
Planning Director Schwartz made a brief presentation stating that the request is for a Conditional Use
Permit to convert a stable to a recreation room and storage, and that the applicants have already
converted it, but will need to obtain building permits for the conversion. They had set aside an area
for a future stable and corral. She stated that, at the field trip, the Planning Commission directed staff
to prepare a Resolution of approval, which will be considered by the Planning Commission at the ne�
meeting.
Chairman Chelf opened the public hearing. There being no comments, Chairman Chelf closed the public
hearing.
Chair Chelf stated that a motion was made in the field to direct staff to bring a resolution of approval
by Commissioner Seaburn and seconded by Commissioner Cardenas.
NEW PUBLIC HEARINGS
ZONING CASE NO. 896-Mod#2. Request for a Major Modification to Zoning Case No.
896 for a Variance to exceed the maximum permitted disturbance of the lot,which exceeds the
previously approved variance for disturbance at a property located at 11 Saddleback Road.
(Lot 48-1-RH and 48-2-RH) Rolling Hills, CA, (Warren).
Chairman Chelf introduced the item and asked for staffls comments. Planniiig Director Schwartz stated
that this is a modification from the previous approval on the property for exceedance of the disturbed
area of the lot to up to 58%. She stated that the state law requires runoff to be filtered and certain amount
of rainwater to be either retained on the property or discharged very slowly. The applicant is required to
install stormwater pollution prevention devices to meet the state standards, and one of the methods is to
construct biofiltration units. The applicant is proposing to place the units on the slope, which causes
disturbance. Ms. Schwartz also stated that there is a mathematical error in the prior approval for the
amount of disturbance of the lot and that with this application the applicant wishes to correct it. She
stated that there were several modifications since the original approval of this project and that staff will
consolidate all of the previous proposals and the findings and conditions into a new Resolution to
capture the entire project.
Chairman Chelf opened the public hearing.
Gary Wynn, Engineer for this project, reiterated the storm water management mandate imposed by the
state. Mr. Wynn stated that they are in phase two of the development. He stated that they decided to use
gravity instead of cisterns for storm water management on this property. He commented that he hopes
the Planning Commission will approve these low maintenance features.
There being no further comments Chairman Chelf closed public hearing.
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In response to Ms. Schwartz' comment about the dirt stock piles on the property, Bob Gaudenti, the
contractor for the project, clarified that the back areas were already disturbed from stock piles of the
riding arena and the barn. He stated that once the stock piles are gone the area will go back to a flat
condition. Mr. Gaudenti stated that they will then excavate for the biofiltration units.
In response to a representative of Mr. and Mrs. Jones, Gary Wynn explained the science behind the
biofiltration devices and that they will act as laxge plant boxes.
Following public comment and discussion, the Planning Commission, by consensus, continued Zoning
Case No. 896 at 11 Saddleback Road to a field trip meeting.
NEW BUSINESS
None.
OLD BUSINESS
None.
SCHEDULE OF FIELD TRIPS 4June 18. 20191
The Planning Commission scheduled a field trip to the following properties to be held on June 18, 2019
beginning at 7:30 a.m.:
11 Saddleback Road
3 Roundup
8 Middleridge Lane South
ITEMS FROM STAFF
None.
ITEMS FROM THE PLANNING COMMISSION
Chair Chelf stated that the Planning Commission should considerer revisiting the disturbance
requirements, because of the fire department's requirements for 20-feet wide driveways.
ADJOURNMENT
Hearing no further business before the Planning Commission, Chairman Chelf adjourned the meeting at
7:59 p.m. to an adjourned regular meeting of the Planning Commission scheduled to be held an
Tuesday, June 18, 2019 beginning at 7:30 a.m. for the purpose of conducting a site visit to 11
Saddleback Road, 3 Roundup, 8 Middleridge Lane South. The next regular meeting of the Planning
Commission is scheduled to be held on Tuesday, June 18, 2019 beginning at 6:30 p.m. in the City
Council Chamber, Rolling Hills City Hall, 2 Portuguese Bend Road, Rolling Hills, California.
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