REPORT TO COUNCIL
SUBJECT
Title
File #: 2016-7234
Location: 657-661 Vanderbilt Drive (APNs 202-07-001 through 202-07-002), 1188-1197 East Vanderbilt Court (202-07-003 through 202-07-008),1190-1199 West Vanderbilt Court (202-07-009 through 202-07-014 ), 1176-1198 Hollenbeck (202-07-015 through 202-07-021), 1156-1168 Regia (202-07-22 through 202-07-028), 1154 -1170 Ribier (202-07-029 through 202-07-036), 662 Torrington (202-07-037) 1153-1193 Sesame (202-07-038 through 202-07-045)
Zoning: R-1
Proposed Project: Introduction of Ordinance to Rezone 45 contiguous single family home lots from R-1 (Low Density Residential) to R-1/S (Low Density Residential/Single-Story)
Applicant / Owner: John Sullivan (plus multiple owners)
Environmental Review: The Ordinance being considered is categorically exempt from review pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15305 (minor alteration in land use) and Section 15061(b)(3) (a general rule that CEQA only applies to projects that have the potential for causing a significant effect on the environment. Where it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that the action may have a significant effect on the environment, the activity is not subject to CEQA).
Report
Project Planner: Gerri Caruso (408) 730-7591, gcaruso@sunnyvale.ca.gov
SUMMARY OF PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION
On July 11, 2016, the Planning Commission considered this request from several property owners to rezone 45 single-family properties to the R-1/S zoning designation to limit homes in that area to single stories. The rezoning would only affect the 45 homes included in the application area, and would prohibit future additions resulting in two stories.
Four individuals spoke in favor of the rezone, including three property owners in the affected area. One nearby neighborhood (not a part of the subject application but who is a property owner of an area with a pending Single-Story rezoning application) spoke against the rezoning because it limits the potential use of the properties, reduces property values, and is unattractive for future buyers.
The Planning Commission voted unanimously to recommend to Council to rezone the properties to R-1/S. Planning Commission Minutes are in Attachment 8.
ALTERNATIVES
1. Find the project exempt from CEQA pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15305 and 15061b)(3).
2. Introduce an Ordinance to Rezone 45 contiguous single family home lots from R-1 (Low Density Residential) to R-1/S (Low Density Residential/Single-Story).
3. Deny the rezone.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION
Recommendation
Alternatives 1 and 2: 1) Find the project exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15305 and 15061b)(3); and, 2) Introduce an Ordinance to Rezone 45 contiguous single family home lots from R-1 (Low Density Residential) to R-1/S (Low Density Residential/Single-Story).
The draft ordinance with a map of the area is in Attachment 5.
Prepared by: Gerri Caruso, Principal Planner
Reviewed by: Andrew Miner, Planning Officer
Reviewed by: Trudi Ryan, Director of Community Development
Reviewed by: Walter C. Rossmann, Assistant City Manager
Approved by: Deanna J. Santana, City Manager
ATTACHMENTS
1. Report to Planning Commission, July 11, 2016 (without Attachments)
2. Vicinity and Noticing Map
3. List of addresses and APNs within the proposed district
4. Applicant’s letter
5. Draft Ordinance (updated, Exhibit attached)
6. Recommended Finding
7. Letter from City to property owners in proposed district
Additional Attachments for Report to Council
8. Planning Commission Minutes, July 11, 2016