Variance - Denied - 2007
. Campbell will be participating in a regional "Community Clean-Up Day" on
Saturday, May 19 from 8:00 am to 12:00 noon, starting at John D. Morgan Park.
Refreshments will be provided in the morning and the event will conclude with a
lunch at noon. To learn more about the event, please call Diana Johnson at 866-
2145.
. The Santa Clara County Board of Supervisors named Ken Waldvogel as the Fire
Chief of the Santa Clara County Fire Department.
PUBLIC HEARINGS AND INTRODUCTION OF ORDINANCES
7. FY 2007/08 Social Service Subgrant Funding Recommendations
This is the time and place for a public hearing to consider the FY 2007/08 Social
Service Subgrant Funding recommendations.
Assistant to the City Manager Bito - Staff Report dated May 1, 2007.
Mayor Furtado declared the public hearing open and asked if anyone in the
audience wished to be heard.
There being no one wishing to speak, Mayor Furtado closed the public hearing.
M/S: Burr/Low - that the City Council approve the following Social Service
Subgrant funding levels as recommended by the Civic Improvement
Commission:
Catholic Charities/LTC Ombudsman Program
Health Trust/Meals on Wheels
Live Oak Adult Day Services
Outreach-Case Management Services
Outreach-Paratransit Services
Saratoga Adult Care Center
Second Harvest Food Bank-Brown Bag Program
Teen Counseling Center
$5,750
5,750
5,000
7,500
7,000
4,000
7,200
7,800
Motion adopted unanimously.
8. Appeal of a Planning Commission Decision denying the Revised
Application of Wayne Firsty for a Variance (PLN2006-109) to a required
garage setback to allow a single-family addition on property owned by
Wayne and Julie Firsty located at 1124 Bent Drive in an R-1-6 (Single
Family Residential) Zoning District (Resolution/Roll Call Vote) (Cont'd.
4/3/07)
Minutes of 5/1/2007 City Council Meeting
4
This is the time and place for a public hearing to consider an Appeal of a
Planning Commission Decision denying the Revised Application of Wayne Firsty
for a Variance (PLN2006-109) to a required garage setback to allow a single-
family addition on property owned by Wayne and Julie Firsty located at 1124
Sent Drive in an R-1-6 (Single Family Residential) Zoning District.
Councilmember Kennedy stated she would not be participating on this item due
to a conflict and left the Council Chamber.
Associate Planner Haley - Staff Report dated May 1,2007.
Mayor Furtado declared the public hearing open and asked if anyone in the
audience wished to be heard.
Mark Sroxon, Campbell resident, appeared before the City Council and spoke
against the Variance.
Robert Williams, Campbell resident, appeared before the City Council and spoke
against the Variance.
Wayne Renshaw, Architect, appeared before the City Council and spoke in
support of the variance.
Wayne Firsty, Appellant, appeared before the City Council and spoke in support
of the Variance.
There being no one else wishing to speak, Mayor Furtado closed the public
hearing.
Following City Council discussion, MIS: Hernandez/Low - that the City
Council adopt a resolution denying an Appeal and upholding the Planning
Commission decision denying a Variance application for 1124 Bent Drive
(PLN2006-109). Motion resulted in a split vote, with Councilmembers
Hernandez and Low voting AYE, Councilmembers Burr and Furtado voting
NO, and Councilmember Kennedy abstaining. Therefore, the Planning
Commission decision stands.
Councilmember Kennedy returned to the Council Chamber.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
9. Authorization to Contract with Prodis Associates Architects to Prepare a
Study that Examines the Feasibility of Relocating the Campbell Historical
Museum to the Area Adjacent to the Ainsley House (Resolution/Roll Call
Vote)
Redevelopment Manager Heinrichs - Staff Report dated May 1, 2007.
Minutes of 5/1/2007 City Council Meeting
5
MEMORANDUM
To:
T" Haley
As ociate Planner, Carom. Development Dept.
From:
Date:
Subject:
Continued Appeal- Wayne Firsty - 1124 Bent Drive
At the regular meeting of May 1, 2007 the City Council held a public hearing to consider
the continued Appeal of PC decision denying the revised application of Mr. Wayne Firsty
for a Variance (PLN 2006-109) to a required garage setback to allow a single-family
addition on property located at 1124 Bent Drive.
After hearing public testimony, and following City Council discussion and deliberation,
the City Council made a motion to deny the Appeal and uphold the Planning Commission
decision which resulted in a split vote. Therefore, the Appeal was not approved and the
Planning Commission decision of February 27,2007 denying the Variance stands.
Please find a copy of the correspondence to Mr. Firsty as follow up to the City Council's
action.
Attachment:
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CITY OF CAMPBELL
City Clerk's Office
May 3, 2007
Mr. Wayne Firsty
1124 Bent Drive
Campbell, CA 95008
Dear Mr. Firsty:
At the regular meeting of May 1, 2007, the City Council held a public hearing to consider
your continued Appeal of a Planning Commission decision denying the revised application for
a Variance (PLN 2006-109) to a required garage setback to allow a single-family addition on
property located at 1124 Bent Drive in an R-I-6 (Single Family Residential) Zoning District.
After due consideration by the City Council, a motion to deny the Appeal and uphold the
Planning Commission decision resulted in a split vote. Therefore, the Appeal was not
approved and the Planning Commission decision of February 27, 2007 denying the Variance
stands.
, Please do not hesitate to contact this office (866-2117) or Tim Haley, Associate Planner,
should you have any questions in regard to the City Council's action.
Sincerely,
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Anne Bybee
City Clerk
cc. Tim Haley, Associate Planner
70 North First Street, CampbeH, California 9500f;-i 43(, TEL 408.866,:21 i 7 . FAX 408,374,6889 . TDI> 408.86(),:27'JO
MARK & MARY BROXON
1153 BENT DRIVE
CAMPBELL, CA 95008
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RECEIVED
APR 2 5 2001
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April 6, 2007
The City Council
City of Campbell
70 North First Street
Campbell, CA 95008-1436
Re: File No. PLN2006-1009: Garage Setback Variance
at 1124 Bent Drive, Campbell
Dear City Council:
We live across the street, two homes down from 1124 Bent Drive. My wife and I have been
following the garage variance discussions for the past few months. In fact, in mid November
we wrote a letter to the Planning Commission expressing our disapproval of the variance
request. We now also want to make the City Council aware of our concerns.
We find two main issues with this request. The first is the precedent this will set on Bent
Drive. We feel that both Bent Drive and Cameo Drive are unique in Campbell for the
following reasons:
1. The rolled curbs and no sidewalks on these streets give the neighborhood a uniquely
rural feel.
2. The homes are all set back from the street, with well kept up, attractive landscaping,
further insuring this unique rural feel. When walking down the street, you experience
the expansive feel of the homes and yards.
3. The street is remarkably free of parked cars. Seldom do we walk down Bent Drive in
the evenings and see a car parked on the street at night.
It is this unique beauty and feel that makes Bent Drive a popular place for walkers and
runners. I have heard from people in surrounding neighborhoods that they will make a point
of walking or running in our neighborhood. In fact, when my wife and I turn the corner while
walking from Moneta onto Bent Drive, we are continually impressed by the expansive feel of
the street. This area may be truly unique in Campbell.
Our concern in granting this variance is that this will set a precedent that will be the first of
many attempts to change the character of our neighborhood by shortening the required
garage setbacks. We do not want to see the character of the neighborhood changed in this
regard.
Our second main issue with this request surrounds the need to move the garage forward in
the first place. Other area residents have accommodated design changes without violating
the garage setbacks and we don't know why the Firstys cannot do so as well.
In fact, we began the process of our own remodel/addition in 2001. Similar to the Firstys, we
also had two younger daughters at the time who are now in their early teens. Our goal was
Letter to the Camobell City Council
Page 2
to add space to the home and to update the kitchen. We consulted with three architectural
firms, and during the initial idea stage, bringing the garage and house forward were
presented as options. However, our contractor was aware of Campbell's building regulations
and mentioned that moving the garage forward was not allowed - it was already 25 feet from
the public right of way.
Upon being reminded of this we rejected any ideas that would bring the garage forward. We
had also been given the setback regulations when we purchased the house, so why even
think of considering this? We also rejected this idea because it was apparent that moving
our garage forward would affect our neighbors' views and the feel of their property. We
knew that the spacious setbacks of the homes, which give our neighborhood its distinctive
character, would be compromised.
We did find a way to achieve our goals of a larger home for our family. Doing this involved
an addition of about 450 sq. feet into the backyard. Of course, no one wants a smaller
backyard; we also ultimately relocated the kitchen from the front to the back side of the
house. Was what we did the most convenient thing for us, or the least expensive? Probably
not. But we did accomplish our goals while still maintaining the character of the
neighborhood. And we did so without violating any garage setback rules.
As.we look across the street, and considering the general rural character which gives Bent
Drive and Cameo Drive their distinctive character, we believe that granting the requested
variance would constitute a special privilege inconsistent with the limitations applicable to
every other residence in our neighborhood. It will also set a precedent that will be the first of
many attempts to change the character of the neighborhood. And given our own recent
experience, there are no doubt other ways of accomplishing the intended goals - while
perhaps not as immediately convenient - that will do this within the guidelines we have
agreed to as homeowners.
Sincerely,
~~
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Mark Broxon
Mary Broxon
MEMORANDUM
To: Tim Haley
Associate Planner, Coromunity Development
From:
Date:
Subject:
Appeal of PC decision denying revised application of Mr. Wayne Firsty
for a Variance (PLN 2006-109) to a required garage setback - 1124
Bent Drive
At the regular meeting of April 3, 2007 the City Council held a Public Hearing to
consider an Appeal by Mr. Wayne Firsty of a Planning Commission decision denying his
revised application for a Variance (PLN 2006-109) to a required garage setback to allow
a single-family addition on property located at 1124 Bent Drive in an R-I-6 Zoning
District.
Per a written request received from Mr. Firsty for a continuance of this agendized subject,
the public hearing was continued to the regularly scheduled City Council meeting of May
1,2007.
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CITY OF CAMPBELL
City Clerk's Office
April 4, 2007
Mr. Wayne Firsty
1124 Bent Drive
Campbell, CA 95008
Dear Mr. Firsty:
At the regular meeting of April 3, 2007, the Campbell City Council, per your written request
dated April 2, 2007, took action to continue the public hearing to consider your. Appeal of a
Planning Commission decision denying your revised application for a Variance (PLN 2006-
109) to a required garage setback on property located at 1124 Bent Drive.
The regular City Council meeting scheduled for May 1, 2007 is the date set for the
continuance of this public hearing.
Please do not hesitate to contact this office (866-2117) or Tim Haley, Associate Planner,
should you have any questions in regard to the City Council's action.
Sincerely,
,
W.
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~e Bybee
City Clerk
cc. Tim Haley, Associate Planner, Community Development Department
70 North First Street. Camphel1, California 95008.1436 . TEL 408.866.'2117 FAX 408.374.6889 . TJ)[) 408.866.'2790
April 3, 2007
RECEIVED
APR 0 6 2007
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Anne Bybee
City Clerk
File No. PLN 2006-109
Address: 1124 Bent Drive
Dear Anne,
I am unable to attend the Public Hearing that has been rescheduled for May 1, 2007 to
address the setback issue in question for this property. I would appreciate it if you would
forward this letter to the City Council to be included in the Public Hearing.
I don't understand why the City Council continues to debate this issue? It
seems very clear to me, either you change the setback requirements for all
residents of Bent Drive or you deny this request. All Bent Drive lots west
of Midway have approximately the same square footage and layout. I see
no logical reason that 1124 Bent should be given a variance to the current
setback requirements.
There have been several remodels on my street in the past few years and to
my knowledge all have followed the setback requirements. Those
residents followed the law even though it may have caused them to alter
their original plans or spend extra money redesigning the interior of their
homes to meet these setback requirements.
The requirements were put in place for a reason so you either abide by the
current setback standards or make a permanent change that applies to
everyone.
Sincerely,
Bent Drive Resident
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CITY OF CAMPBELL
City Clerk's Office
March 12,2007
NOTICE OF APPEAL
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City Council of the City of Campbell has set
the hour of 7:30 p.m., or shortly thereafter, on Tuesday, April 3, 2007 in the City Hall
Council Chamber, 70 N. First Street, Campbell, California, as the time and place for a
Public Hearing to consider an Appeal of the Planning Commission decision denying
revised plans for the application of Mr. Wayne Firsty for a Variance (PLN2006-109) to a
required garage setback to allow a single-family addition on property owned by Wayne
and Julie Firsty located at 1124 Bent Drive in an R-1-6 (Single Family Residential)
Zoning District. Staff is recommending that this project be deemed Categorically
Exempt under CEQA.
Interested persons may appear and be heard at this hearing. Please be advised
that if you challenge the nature of any of the above project in court, you may be limited
to raising only those issues you or someone else raised at the Public Hearing described
in this notice, or in written correspondence delivered to the City Clerk at or prior to the
hearing. Questions may be addressed to the Community Development Department at
(408) 866-2140.
In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, listening assistive devices
are available for all meetings held in the Council Chambers. If you require
accommodation, please contact the City Clerk's Office at 866-2117 at least one week in
advance of the meeting.
CITY COUNCIL
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CITY OF CAMPBELL
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ANNE BYBEE
CITY CLERK
PLEASE NOTE: When calling about this Notice, please refer to File No. PLN 2006-109.
Address: 1124 Bent Drive.
B4/B2/2BB7 11:21
55B21B'37B5
PAGE B1/B1
To; Attn: Anne Bybee
City Clerk
City of Campbell
70 North First Street
Campbell, California 95008
RECEiveD
APR '0 2 2007
CllY CLIRK'S QEFIOB
Tel# 408 866-2117
Fax# 408-374-6889
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From: Wayne Firsty and Julie Seltzer Firsty
(cell) 408-839-7773
(cell) 408-838-1468
Date: April 2, 2007
Subject: PLN2006-109; 1124 Bent Drive
This morning we received from the City Clerk's office, additional documentation that a
neighbor had submitted relative to our proposal. We would like the ability to carefully
study this new information just provided to us with our architect/consultant and amend
our response as appropriate in order to mitigate the issues if any.
We are formally requesting a continuance from the April 3 meeting to do so.
Thank you
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CITY OF CAMPBELL
Community Development Department
November 15, 2006
Wayne & Julie Firsty
1124 Bent Drive
Campbell, CA 95008
Re: PLN2006-109 - 1124 Bent Drive - Denial of Variance
Dear Applicant:
Please be advised that at its meeting of November 14 2006, the Planning Commission
adopted Resolution No. 3770 denying your request for a Variance (PLN2006-109) to the
required garage setback to allow a residential addition on the above-referenced
property.
This action is effective in ten calendar days, unless appealed in writing to the City Clerk
by 5 p.m. on Friday, November 24, 2006. However, since this deadline falls on a
holiday when City Hall will be closed for business, appeals of this action will be
accepted through 5 p.m. on Mondav. November 27. 2006. The time within which
judicial review of this action must be sought is governed by Section 1094.6 of the
California Code of Civil Procedure, unless another statute (such as California
Government Code Section 65009 or some other applicable provision) sets forth a more
specific time period.
If you have any questions. please do not hesitate to contact me at (408) 866-2140.
Sincerely,
~d)1-!.1
Tim J. Haley
Associate Planner
70 North First Street . Campbell, California 95008-1436 . TEL 408.866.2140 . FAX 408.871.5140 . TOO 408.866.2790
RESOLUTION NO. 3770
BEING A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF
THE CITY OF CAMPBELL DENYING A VARIANCE (PLN2006-109)
TO A REQUIRED GARAGE SETBACK TO ALLOW A SINGLE-
FAMILY ADDITION ON PROPERTY OWNED BY WAYNE AND
JULIE FIRSTY LOCATED AT 1124 BENT DRIVE IN AN R-1-6
(SINGLE FAMILY RESIDENTIAL) ZONING DISTRICT.
APPLICATION OF MR. WAYNE FIRSTY. FILE NO.: PLN2006-109.
After notification and public hearing, as specified by law and after presentation by the
Community Development Director, proponents and opponents, the hearing was closed.
After due consideration of all evidence presented, the Planning Commission did find as
follows with respect to application PLN2006-109:
1. The proposed project consists of a residential addition of 461 square feet and a
garage addition of 288 square foot garage.
2. The proposed building is 3,225 square feet, and the parcel is 8,885 net square feet
in area. The Floor Area Ratio (FAR) of the proposed building is .39, where a
maximum of .45 is allowable.
3. The proposed residential addition would require approval of a Variance to reduce the
garage setback from 25 feet to 18" - 3".
4. Alternative building floor plans could accommodate a building of the similar square
footage on the subject property, and meet the required setback.
5. Although other buildings in the neighborhood exist with lesser garage setbacks,
these setbacks are nonconforming and were approved in the County's jurisdiction or
under prior Zoning Ordinance provisions. This regulation applies equally to all
surrounding residential properties, thereby requiring conformity with current
regulations.
6. The subject property is comparable in size with other residential properties located in
this neighborhood and therefore, there are no exceptional or extraordinary
circumstances or conditions applicable to the subject property (Le. size, shape,
topography) which do not apply generally to other properties located in this
neighborhood and classified in the same zoning district.
. 7. In general, the granting of the requested Variance would be detrimental to the public
health, safety, or welfare or materially injurious to properties or improvements in the
area by allowing a portion of a driveway apron in the public right-of-way and a
garage closer than 25 feet to a street property line.
Based upon the foregoing findings of fact, the Planning Commission further finds and
concludes that:
Planning Commission Resolution No. 3770
PLN2006-109 - 1124 Bent Drive - Denial of a Variance for Garage Setback
Page 2
1. The strict or literal interpretations and enforcement of the specified regulation(s)
would not result in a practical difficulty or unnecessary physical hardship inconsistent
with the objectives of the Zoning Code.
2. The strict or literal interpretations and enforcement of the specified regulation(s)
would not deprive the applicant of privileges enjoyed by the owners of other
properties classified in the same zoning district.
3. There are no exceptional or extraordinary circumstances or conditions applicable to
the subject property (i.e. size, shape, topography) which do not apply generally to
other properties classified in the same zoning district.
4. The granting of the Variance will constitute a grant of special privileges inconsistent
with the limitations on other properties classified in the same zoning district.
5. The granting of the Variance will be detrimental to the public health, safety, or
welfare, or materially injurious to properties or improvements in the area.
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Planning Commission denies a Variance
(PLN2006-109) to a required garage setback to allow a single-family addition on
property owned by Wayne and Julie Firsty located at 1124 Bent Drive Court in an R-1-
6 (Single Family Residential) Zoning District.
PASSED AND ADOPTED this 14th day of November, 2006, by the following roll call
vote:
AYES:
Commissioners:
Alderete, Ebner, Francois, Gibbons, Rocha and
Roseberry
None
Doorley
None
APPROVED:~~c.... ~-
Bob Alderete, Chair
---"'\
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
Commissioners:
Commissioners:
Commissioners:
ATTEST:
Campbell Planning Commission Minutes for November 14, 2,,\16
Page 2
COMMUNICATIONS
There were the following Communications Items:
1. Nine letters regarding Agenda Item No.1.
2. Two letters regarding Agenda Item NO.2.
Ms. Jackie C. Young Lind, Senior Planner, introduced Kimberly Brosseau,
Planner 11, and Noah Downing, Planning Intern. She then invited Daniel Vanwie,
Planning Intern to join her at the podium for a presentation.
Chair Alderete read from the Resolution for Daniel Vanwie, listing his projects
and accomplishments during his tenure between August and November 2006.
Mr. Daniel Vanwie thanked the Commission and staff and said that it has been
an honor to work with the Planning Division. The experience was more than he
had imagined it would be. It was both fun and a great work experience and he
was treated with great respect.
AGENDA MODIFICATIONS OR POSTPONEMENTS
There were no agenda Modifications or Postponements.
ORAL REQUESTS
There were no Oral Requests.
...
PUBLIC HEARINGS
Chair Alderete read Agenda Item No. 1 into the record as follows:
1. PLN2006.109
Firsty, W.
Continued Public Hearing (from the Planning Commission
meeting of October 24, 2006) to consider the application
of Mr. Wayne Firsty for a Variance (PLN2006-109) to a
required garage setback to allow a single-family addition
on property owned by Wayne and Julie Firsty located at
1124 Bent Drive in an R-1-6 (Single Family Residential)
Zoning District. Staff is recommending that this project be
deemed Categorically Exempt under CECA. Planning
Commission action final unless appealed in writing to the
City Clerk within 10 calendar days. Project Planner: Tim
J. Haley, Associate Planner
Mr. Tim J. Haley, Associate Planner, presented the staff report as follows:
. Advised that this item was continued from the Planning Commission meeting
held on October 24, 2006, so that staff could verify the specific dimensions of
the existing garage.
. Said that considerable discussion was held at the October 24, hearing.
Campbell Planning Commission Minutes for November 14, 2vJ6
Page 3
. Described the existing garage as 18'6- by 20'6- with an encroachment into
the garage by a 2 x 7 closet from an attached denlbedroom.
. Described the original garage proposed at 25' wide by 18'3" deep. The
revised proposed was reduced to 23'6 deep by 25' wide.
. Stated that staff is recommending a smaller garage with the minimum
required 20 foot depth and 25 foot width.
. Said that staff first recommendation is denial of the applicant's request.
However, if the Commission elects to approve the Variance, staff is
recommending the reduction to 23-foot depth versus 25 feet.
. Reported that a number of correspondence items were received from the
surrounding neighbors.
Commissioner Gibbons asked for the original garage proposal.
Planner Tim J. Haley replied 25 x 25.
Commissioner Gibbons asked for clarification of the Variance requested being 6
feet, 9 inches.
Planner Tim J. Haley replied that the proposed resulting setback was at 18 feet,
three inches instead of the required 25 feet.
Commissioner Gibbons asked if the revised proposal results in a 20 foot setback
instead of the required 25 foot.
Chair Alderete asked the difference between the 6 foot, 9 inch Variance request
from last time compared to now.
Planner Tim J. Haley replied that it depends on which option is selected. The
applicant is requesting a 6 foot, 9 inch addition to his garage. This setback could
be reduced to five feet by reducing the deficit setback by 1 foot, nine inches. He
said that staff is recommending a 20 foot depth.
Chair Alderete opened the Public Hearing for Agenda Item No. 1
Mr. Wayne Firsty, Applicant and Property Owner,
· Thanked the Commission for allowing him to present his request.
· Said that he listened closely to the issues raised at the last meeting.
· Stated that he is not proposing a Variance for five feet.
· Provided an exhibit that listed the car widths of many vehicles and reported
that sedans on average are 16 feet long. Mini vans are just under 17 feet
long.
. Added that with a reasonable family size vehicle there is just three feet left in
the 20-foot deep garage. With the wall and garage door clearance that is
reduced to just two feet.
Campbell Planning Commission Minutes for November 14, ~uu6
Page 4
. Pointed out the problems with that little space in emptying out a truck or
removing a child from the car.
· Said that his request actual results in a 25-foot setback from the public right-
of-way.
· Suggested that his request is not actually setting precedent as he located 14
houses within a few blocks that have reduced garage setbacks.
· Said that he doubts this garage extension would damage neighbors' views, as
the impact is almost non-existent.
· Added that he is willing to install a nine-foot landscape area to screen for his
neighbors.
· Reiterated that they don't want to change the character of their neighborhood
but rather want to keep it alive.
· Said that the Planning Commission should approve his request per his
neighbor, Larry Goldberg's letter. Larry is an original owner in this
neighborhood who is supportive.
· Reminded that this garage would not stick out any more than the house.
· Said that they had heard the concerns raised and made changes to address
this.
· Said that they would be further beautifying the neighborhood by removing
some of the concrete in the front yard.
· Assured that their remodel would increase values of surrounding houses.
· Stated that this meets their needs while retaining the character of the
community.
Commissioner Ebner said that this request is just about two feet less than the
original request. He asked if the Firstys had considered the removal of the
projection into the garage, which is a closet in the adjacent den.
Mr. Wayne Firsty said that this was not a practical option.
Commissioner Ebner said that if they lose that closet they would have a straight
wall in the garage. The wall leading into the family room could be reconfigured
into a replacement closet for that den.
Mr. Wayne Firsty said that there is piping and water there.
Chair Alderete said that he recalls from the previous meeting that the
Commission might be more inclined to be supportive if the Variance was for two
to three feet but it appears to be approximately five feet. He said that the issue
has been exhausted. If there is not a way to get to that point, there remains a
problem.
Mr. Wayne Firsty said that he remembers a four to five foot limit.
Chair Alderete said that they could agree to disagree on that point.
Campbell Planning Commission Minutes for November 14, ~uu6
Page 5
Mr. Robert J. Williams, Resident on Bent Drive:
. Said that he lives next door to the east and has lived there since 1963.
. Said that he likes the neighborhood as it is.
. Reported that he had delivered a letter to the Commission that was received
by the Commission tonight and summarized its contents as follows. The
Commission is the finder of facts. It is required to make five findings and his
letter outlines two required findings (3 and 4) that cannot be supported.
Finding 3 requires the existence of exceptional or extraordinary conditions
that do not exist in this case.
. Stated that he and his wife have resided in their home for 43 years. They
raised their four children in this house.
. Said that this request is a frontal attack on the spaciousness of the street and
the relation between residences with the neighborhood.
. Said that the Planning Commission is the jurisdiction to apply Zoning
Ordinances.
. Reported that there are CC&Rs in this neighborhood that was built under
County jurisdiction that states that any setback is limited to 25 feet. That is
the contractual setback.
. Reiterated that this is not just a two to three foot Variance but rather a whole
frontal assault on the appearance of this neighborhood.
. Reminded that the staff recommendation is to limit the Variance to two feet
and he could probably live with that.
. Expressed confusion that there are findings that have been provided by staff
that are the same for both approval and denial of this Variance request and
questioned the appropriateness of that.
Ms. Carole Williams, Resident on Bent Drive:
. Thanked the Commission for the opportunity to speak.
. Said that she has lived on Bent Drive since 1963.
. Said that at the last meeting the Commission commented on the charm of this
neighborhood.
. Stated that the neighborhood has gracious setbacks, individuality and charm.
. Reported that one neighbor who had signed a letter of support in August
didn't see the plan of what was proposed and is no longer supportive.
. Said that the proposal for a 27 -foot wide garage creates considerable mass.
. Said that if a Variance is granted, a precedent is set and others may ask for
the same thing and the charm of the neighborhood would be deteriorated with
a loss in property values.
. Asked that the Commission not allow this Variance, as there are other options
with less of an impact on the neighborhood.
. Added that if the decision is to allow this Variance, the applicant should be
required to install stakes and tape that gives an accurate depiction of the
proposed width and height of this garage.
Campbell Planning Commission Minutes for November 14, ~u06
Page 6
Commissioner Gibbons cautioned that one of the other options would be to go to
a two-story addition, which might have an even greater impact.
Ms. Carole Williams said not necessarily as there is space in the rear yard. She
said she hoped that there would not be a two-story as there are no two-story
homes on this block.
Chair Alderete closed the Public Hearing for Agenda Item No.1.
Commissioner Rocha provided the Site and Architectural Review Committee
report as follows:
. SARC reviewed this request on October 10, 2006, and was not supportive.
Commissioner Francois pointed out that a Variance was approved for a house on
Cameo with a similar issue although he does not recall how many feet that
Variance was for. He said before he says anything further he would like to hear
with the other Commissioners have to say.
Commissioner Roseberry:
. Said that there are the same issues tonight as there were at the last hearing
on this request.
. Pointed out that he has a 20-foot deep garage and is able to park a Ford
F250 truck in that garage.
. Said that the Williams have brought good points to the table and that he
appreciates their input.
. Said that one issue is that a two-story could be an alternative and could be
worse.
. Said that he cannot bring himself to make the required findings to support this
Variance, as this is a similar lot to the others in the neighborhood.
. Said that there are some solutions available and that he was looking for a
good faith effort on the behalf of the applicant but does not get the sense that
this has been done.
. Added that reducing the size by one foot, nine inches is not a big deal.
. Said that a two-foot Variance that would allow a 23-foot setback instead of the
required 25-foot setback is something he could probably support.
. Said that he can agree with the issue of massing.
. Concluded by saying he would not be supportive.
Commissioner Gibbons:
. Said that solid points were made and she agrees with Commissioner
Roseberry.
. Said that the five findings are required to support a Variance.
. Reminded that on appeal the Council overturned the decision for denial by
the Planning Commission for the Variance on Cameo.
Campbell Planning Commission Minutes for November 14, ~vV6
Page 7
. Said that she has a similar issue in her neighborhood that has 30-foot
setbacks. Owners have gone to two-story for additions.
. Said that on the face of it, she cannot support this request.
Commissioner Rocha:
. Stated that SARC wrestled with this request.
. Added that the fIVe required findings have not been met and he cannot
support this Variance.
. Said that the character of this neighborhood would be impaired.
Chair Alderete said that he is not supportive as it stands.
Upon motion of Commissioner Roseberry, seconded by
Commissioner Rocha, the Planning Commission adopted
Resolution No. 3770 denying a Variance (PLN2006-109) to a
required garage setback to allow a single-family addition on
property owned by Wayne and Julie Flrsty located at 1124 Bent
Drive, by the following roll call vote:
AYES: Alderete, Ebner, Francois, Gibbons, Rocha and
Roseberry
None
Doorley
None
Motion:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
***
Commissioner Rocha advised that he would have to recuse himself from
consideration of the next item as he resides with 500 feet of the project site. He
left the dais and chambers for the duration of the item.
Chair Alderete read Agenda Item No.2 into the record as follows:
2. PLN2006-64 (GP)
PLN2006-85 (ZC)
PLN2006-86 (TS)
PLN2006-67 (PD)
Gera, N.
Public Hearing to consider the application of Mr. Nick
Gera, on behalf of OBI Construction, for a General
Plan Amendment (PLN2006-64) from Central
Commercial and Low Density Residential to Low-
Medium Density Residential; a Zone Change
(PLN2006-65) from R-1-6 (Single Family Residential)
to P-D (Planned Development); a Planned
Development Permit (PLN2006-67) to allow the
construction of 15 new small-lot single family
residences and a Tentative Subdivision Map to allow
the creation of 15 residential lots and one common lot
on property owned by Mr. Nick Gera located at 154 &
160 S. First Street in a P-D (Planned Development)
and R-1-6 (Single Family Residential) Zoning District.
RESOLUTION NO. 3770
BEING A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF
THE CITY OF CAMPBELL DENYING A VARIANCE (PLN2006-109)
TO A REQUIRED GARAGE SETBACK TO ALLOW A SINGLE-
FAMILY ADDITION ON PROPERTY OWNED BY WAYNE AND
JULIE FIRSTY LOCATED AT 1124 BENT DRIVE IN AN R-1-6
(SINGLE FAMILY RESIDENTIAL) ZONING DISTRICT.
APPLICATION OF MR. WAYNE FIRSTY. FILE NO.: PLN2006-109.
After notification and public hearing, as specified by law and after presentation by the
Community Development Director, proponents and opponents, the hearing was closed.
After due consideration of all evidence presented, the Planning Commission did find as
follows with respect to application PLN2006-109:
1. The proposed project consists of a residential addition of 461 square feet and a
garage addition of 288 square foot garage.
2. The proposed building is 3,225 square feet, and the parcel is 8,885 net square feet
in area. The Floor Area Ratio (FAR) of the proposed building is .39, where a
maximum of .45 is allowable.
3. The proposed residential addition would require approval of a Variance to reduce the
garage setback from 25 feet to 18" - 3".
4. Alternative building floor plans could accommodate a building of the similar square
footage on the subject property, and meet the required setback.
5. Although other buildings in the neighborhood exist with lesser garage setbacks,
these setbacks are nonconforming and were approved in the County's jurisdiction or
under prior Zoning Ordinance provisions. This regulation applies equally to all
surrounding residential properties, thereby requiring conformity with current
regulations.
6. The subject property is comparable in size with other residential properties located in
this neighborhood and therefore, there are no exceptional or extraordinary
circumstances or conditions applicable to the subject property (Le. size, shape,
topography) which do not apply generally to other properties located in this
neighborhood and classified in the same zoning district.
.7. In general, the granting of the requested Variance would be detrimental to the public
health, safety, or welfare or materially injurious to properties or improvements in the
area by allowing a portion of a driveway apron in the public right-of-way and a
garage closer than 25 feet to a street property line.
Based upon the foregoing findings of fact, the Planning Commission further finds and
concludes that:
Planning Commission Reb~lution No. 3770
PLN2006-109 - 1124 Bent Drive - Denial of a Variance for Garage Setback
Page 2
1. The strid or literal interpretations and enforcement of the specified regulation(s)
would not result in a practical difficulty or unnecessary physical hardship inconsistent
with the objectives of the Zoning Code.
2. The strict or literal interpretations and enforcement of the specified regulation(s)
would not deprive the applicant of privileges enjoyed by the owners of other
properties classified in the same zoning district.
3. There are no exceptional or extraordinary circumstances or conditions applicable to
the subject property (i.e. size, shape, topography) which do not apply generally to
other properties classified in the same zoning district.
4. The granting of the Variance will constitute a grant of special privileges inconsistent
with the limitations on other properties classified in the same zoning district.
5. The granting of the Variance will be detrimental to the public health, safety, or
welfare, or materially injurious to properties or improvements in the area.
THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Planning Commission denies a Variance
(PLN2006-109) to a required garage setback to allow a single-family addition on
property owned by Wayne and Julie Firsty located at 1124 Bent Drive Court in an R-1-
6 (Single Family Residential) Zoning District.
PASSED AND ADOPTED this 14th day of November, 2006, by the following roll call
vote:
AYES:
Commissioners:
Alderete, Ebner, Francois, Gibbons, Rocha and
Roseberry
None
Doorley
None
APPROVED:~~~ 4 """
Bob Alderete, Chair
......"
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
Commissioners:
Commissioners:
Commissioners:
ATTEST:
-
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ITEM NO.1
CITY OF CAMPBELL' PLANNING COMMISSION
Staff Report. November 14, 2006
PLN2006-109
Firsty, W.
Continued Public Hearing to consider the application of Mr. Wayne
Firsty for a Variance (PLN2006-109) to a required garage setback to
allow a single-family addition on property owned by Wayne and Julie
Firsty located at 1124 Bent Drive in an R-1-6 (Single Family
Residential) Zoning District. Staff is recommending that this project
be deemed Categorically Exempt under CEQA.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION
That the Planning Commission takes one of the following actions:
1. Adopt a Resolution, incorporating the attached findings, denying a Variance to
construct a residential addition with a garage setback of 18' - 3" versus 25 feet, or
2. Adopt a Resolution, incorporating the attached findings, approving a Variance to
construct a residential addition with a garage setback of 23 feet versus 25 feet, thus
providing a minimum garage depth of 20 feet.
ENVIRONMENTAL DETERMINATION
Staff recommends that the Planning Commission find that this project is Categorically
Exempt under Section 15303(c), of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA),
pertaining to New Construction of Small Structures.
Backaround: This application was continued from the previous Planning Commission
meeting of October 24, 2006, so that staff could verify the dimensions of the existing
garage. The existing garage has an inside dimension of 18' - 6" x 20' - 6" with an
encroachment of a 2' x 7' closet from an adjacent bedroom. These dimensions are
depicted in (Attachment No.4).
The applicant has submitted a letter indicating that a reduction in the garage depth from
their original request from 6' - 9" to 5' - 0" would be acceptable thus resulting in an inside
dimension of 23' - 6" (depth) and 25' (width) for the proposed garage, and requiring a
variance from 25 feet to 20 feet.
If a variance is supported by the Planning Commission, staff would recommend a smaller
garage be proposed with a minimum garage dimension of 20 feet (depth) and a 25 feet
(width) thus minimizing the requested variance from 25 feet to 23 feet.
Staff Report - Planning C,...11mission Meeting of November 14, ....J06
PLN2006-109 - 1124 Bent Drive
Page 2 of 4
PROJECT DATA
Net Lot Area:
Site Utilization
Building Coverage:
Paving Coverage:
Landscaping Coverage:
8 ,085 s.f.
3,225 sJ.
1 ,400 sJ.
3,460 sJ.
39.9%
17.3%
42.8%
Floor area ratio (FAR):
Allowable:
Proposed:
.45 maximum
.39
Building:
Existing:
Proposed:
2,476 sJ.
749 sJ.
3,225 sJ.
Parking provided:
Parking required:
4
2
2 at garage and 2 at driveway
1 covered parking space and 1 uncovered
The property is surrounded by the following uses:
North: Single-family Residential
South: Single-family Residential
West: Single-family Residential
East: Single-family Residential
PROPOSAL
The applicant was originally seeking approval of a single story residential addition that
requires a variance to the garage setback from 25 feet to 18' - 3". The proposed design
would change the orientation of the existing garage from a perpendicular arrangement to a
parallel layout that utilizes 10 feet of the public right-of-way for a driveway. The proposed
garage entrance would be 28' - 3" from the curb and 18' - 3" from the property line. This
neighborhood was developed in the County's jurisdiction with only a rolled curb, and has
no sidewalks. The applicant's letter of request is attached.
The applicant has identified other garage setbacks within the neighborhood that have less
than a 25 foot setback as an attachment to his letter of justification. Additionally, the
applicant has provided letters from 4 adjacent neighbors indicating that they do not object
to the variance request.
The applicant supports his request for the following reasons:
1) It provides a 28' - 3" pavement section for the driveway;
2) It maintains a single story residence where a majority of the homes are single story;
3) It maintains a reasonable rear yard area for his children;
Staff Report - Planning Ct..l1mission Meeting of November 14, ~u06
PLN2006-109 - 1124 Bent Drive
Page 3 of 4
4) Other residences in the neighborhood have substandard driveway depths; and,
5) A direct driveway approach lessens the amount of paving in the front yard area.
Landscaping: The project site plan indicates that approximately 42 percent of the site is
landscaped. The proposed revisions would reduce the amount of front yard paving due to
a change in the orientation of the garage.
Parking: The submitted site plan depicts the provision of 4 parking spaces, where 2
spaces are required.
PROJECT SITE
The site is developed with a single story residence of 2,476 square feet that covers
approximately 30.6 percent of the lot. The proposed addition includes an additional 461
square feet of living area and a 288 garage addition for a total of 749 square feet, resulting
in a building area of 3,225 square feet with a 39.9 percent lot coverage.
The subject property is located on the south side of Bent Drive between Midway and
Moneta.
The project site is located in an R-1-6 (Single-family residential) Zoning District, and is
shown as a Low Density Residential land use designation on the General Plan. The
proposed residence complies with the development standards and use provisions of this
zoning district with the exception of the garage setback.
ANALYSIS
General Plan Desi~nation:
The General Plan land use designation for the project site is Low Density Residential (less
than six units per gross acre). No change to the project density is proposed.
Zonina Desianation:
The zoning designation for the project site is R-1-6 (Single-Family Residential). The
proposed addition complies with the R-1-6 (Single-Family Residential) development
standards with the exception of the garage setback.
Section 21.48.040 of the Campbell Municipal Code requires that the Planning Commission
make the following findings in reference to a variance request.
1. The strict or literal interpretations and enforcement of the specified regulation(s) would
result in a practical difficulty or unnecessary physical hardship inconsistent with the
objectives of this Zoning Code;
2. The strict or literal interpretations and enforcement of the specified regulation(s) would
deprive the applicant of privileges enjoyed by the owners of other properties classified
in the same zoning district;
,,-
Staff Report - Planning Co. nmission Meeting of November 14, ~\J06
PLN2006-109 - 1124 Bent Drive
Page 4 of 4
3. There are exceptional or extraordinary circumstances or conditions applicable to the
subject property (i.e. size, shape, topography) which do not apply generally to other
properties classified in the same zoning district;
4. The granting of the Variance will not constitute a grant of special privilege inconsistent
with the limitations on other properties classified in the same zoning district; and
5. The granting of the Variance will not be detrimental to the public health, safety, or
welfare, or materially injurious to properties or improvements in the vicinity.
There are no exceptional or extraordinary circumstances or conditions applicable to the
subject property (Le. size, shape, topography) which do not apply generally to other
properties classified in the same zoning district and the neighborhood. Additionally, the
applicant could modify the existing bedroom, laundry room and powder room at the rear of
the existing garage to provide the minimum 20 foot depth within the existing garage and
still provide the require 25 foot garage setback. Consequently, staff recommends denial of
the Variance, and revision of the project to comply with the required side yard setback.
SITE AND ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW COMMMITTEE
The Site and Architectural Review Committee reviewed this application at its meeting of
October 10, 2006. The Committee was not supportive of the requested variance.
Attachments:
1. Findings for Denial of the Variance (PLN2006-109)
2. Findings for Approval of Variance (PLN 2006-109)
3. Letter from Applicant dated November 2, 2006 regarding adjusted variance request.
4. Original Letter of Request from Applicant dated August 9, 2006.
5. Exhibit of existing garage dimensions
6. Project Plans (Site Plan, Floor Plan, Elevations, and Photos)
7. Location Map
~
,
Prepared by:
Tim J. Ha , ociate Planner
Approved by:
J c
Attachment #1
FINDINGS FOR DENIAL OF FILE NO. PLN2006-109
SITE ADDRESS:
APPLICANT:
DATE:
1124 Bent Drive
Wayne Firsty
November 14, 2006
Findings for denial of a Variance to reduce the garage setback from 25' to 18' - 3"
for a proposed attached garage at 1124 Bent Drive.
The Planning Commission finds as follows with regard to File No. PLN2006-109:
1. The proposed project consists of a residential addition of 461 square feet and a
garage addition of 288 square foot garage.
2. The proposed building is 3,225 square feet, and the parcel is 8,885 net square feet
in area. The Floor Area Ratio (FAR) of the proposed building is .39, where a
maximum of .45 is allowable.
3. The proposed residential addition would require approval of a Variance to reduce
the garage setback from 25 feet to 18" - 3".
4. Alternative building floor plans could accommodate a building of the similar square
footage on the subject property, and meet the required setback.
5. Although other buildings in the neighborhood exist with lesser garage setbacks,
these setbacks are nonconforming and were approved in the County's jurisdiction or
under prior Zoning Ordinance provisions. This regulation applies equally to all
surrounding residential properties, thereby requiring conformity with current
regulations.
6. The subject property is comparable in size with other residential properties located
in this neighborhood and therefore, there are no exceptional or extraordinary
circumstances or conditions applicable to the subject property (i.e. size, shape,
topography) which do not apply generally to other properties located in this
neighborhood and classified in the same zoning district.
7. In general, the granting of the requested Variance would be detrimental to the
public health, safety, or welfare or materially injurious to, properties or improvements
in the area by allowing a portion of a driveway apron in the public right-of-way and a
garage closer than 25 feet to a street property, line. .
Based upon the foregoing findings of fact, "the Planning Commission further finds and
concludes that:
1. The strict or literal interpretations and enforcement of the specified regulation(s)
would not result in a practical difficulty or unnecessary physical hardship
inconsistent with the objectives of the Zoning Code.
Findings for Denial of Val iance (PLN2006-109)
1124 Bent Drive
Attachment #1
Page 2 of 2
2. The strict or literal interpretations and enforcement of the specified regulation(s)
would not deprive the applicant of privileges enjoyed by the owners of other
properties classified in the same zoning district.
3. There are no exceptional or extraordinary circumstances or conditions applicable to
the subject property (i.e. size, shape, topography) which do not apply generally to
other properties classified in the same zoning district.
4. The granting of the Variance will constitute a grant of special privileges inconsistent
with the limitations on other properties classified in the same zoning district.
5. The granting of the Variance will be detrimental to the public health, safety, or
welfare, or materially injurious to properties or improvements in the area.
Attachment #2
FINDINGS FOR APPROVAL OF FILE NO. PLN2006-109
SITE ADDRESS:
APPLICANT:
DATE:
1124 Bent Drive
Wayne Firsty
November 14, 2006
Findings for Approval of a Variance to reduce the garage setback from 25' to 23' for a
proposed attached garage at 1124 Bent Drive.
The Planning Commission finds as follows with regard to File No. PLN2006-109:
1. The proposed project consists of a residential addition of 461 square feet and a
garage addition of 134 square feet.
2. The proposed building is 3,071 square feet, and the parcel is 8,885 net square feet
in area. The Floor Area Ratio (FAR) of the proposed building is .346, where a
maximum of .45 is allowable.
3. The proposed residential addition would require approval of a Variance to reduce
the garage setback from 25 feet to 23 feet.
4. Alternative building floor plans could accommodate a minimum garage depth of 20
feet on the subject property, and minimize the requested variance setback from 25
feet to 23 feet.
5. Other buildings in the neighborhood exist with lesser garage setbacks. The applicant
can effectively provide a driveway depth of 33 feet to the existing curb line.
6. The subject property is comparable in size with other residential properties located
in this neighborhood and therefore, there are no exceptional or extraordinary
circumstances or conditions applicable to the subject property (Le. size, shape,
topography) which do not apply generally to other properties located in this
neighborhood and classified in the same zoning district.
7. In general, the granting of the requested Variance would not be detrimental to the
public health, safety, or welfare or materially injurious to properties or improvements
in the area by allowing a portion of a driveway apron in the public right-of-way and
resulting in a 33 foot pavement section for the driveway.
Based upon the foregoing findings of fact, the Planning Commission further finds and
concludes that:
1. The strict or literal interpretations and enforcement of the specified regulation(s)
would result in a practical difficulty inconsistent with the objectives of the Zoning
Code.
Findings for Approval of t &...N2006-109
1124 Bent Drive - Variance
Attachment #2
PaQe 2 of 2
2. The strict or literal interpretations and enforcement of the specified regulation(s)
would deprive the applicant of privileges enjoyed by the owners of other properties
classified in the same zoning district. in the surrounding neighborhood.
3. The granting of the Variance will not constitute a grant of special privileges
inconsistent with the limitations on other properties classified in the same zoning
district.
4. The granting of the Variance will not be detrimental to the public health, safety, or
welfare, or materially injurious to properties or improvements in the area.