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Mr. Allen reviewed the five-acre site proposal for 24 single homes with two floor <br />plans, three architectural styles (Spanish, Traditional and Craftsman) with sizes <br />ranging from 2,300-2,800 square feet. He indicated that the application requests <br />variances for two lots for a small reduction in lot frontage due to the configuration <br />of one cul-de-sac. He also discussed water and drainage issues, widening of <br />Santa Clara Avenue; and a new block wall adjacent to Portola Park. <br />The Commission discussed various aspects of the proposed project including the <br />need for greater variety and uniqueness in the architectural design, the proposed <br />• street connection of the existing public street to the new development, and the <br />neighborhood's concern about the potential for cut-through traffic. <br />Public speakers: <br />Nick Spain and Jeannie Gillett, representatives of "Save the Sexlinger Orange <br />Orchard," provided the Commission with a proposed conceptual site plan for the <br />Sexlinger Center for Urban Agriculture, with a recommendation that the City <br />consider changing the zoning and General Plan land use designation on the site <br />from Low Density Residential to a land use that would support the preservation of <br />the Sexlinger property. <br />Christina Hall spoke in support of the urban agriculture proposal emphasizing the <br />importance of open space and education about healthy and nutritious foods. <br />Virginia Mayne, spokesperson for the neighborhood, expressed concern over the <br />proposed design of the houses and their potential for inconsistency with the <br />existing single-story houses in the neighborhood; stated that she has received <br />the signatures of 36 neighbors who are opposed to the connection of the project <br />via the existing public street; indicated support for the project with the exception <br />that the street should not connect, except for emergency purposes, due to the <br />potential for cut-through traffic given the proximity of the existing Muir <br />Fundamental School. <br />• Elaine Cali, Santa Ana resident, spoke in support of the urban agriculture <br />proposal. <br />G. Recessed to Council Chamber (8:18 pm) <br /> <br />Planning Commission Minutes Page 3 of 5 June 13, 2011 <br />