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Mr. Plucker presented the staff report, noting history of the site and previous approvals, the design elements of the proposed building, and the proposed enhanced landscaping treatment which also provides an art form along the front of the building. He noted that the proposal complies with all requirements of the Hacienda Design Guidelines. He advised that the site is covered by the Hacienda Development Agreement, as well as the Hacienda square footage development cap. He noted that the project includes showers, bike racks, and electrical vehicle charging stations to facilitate alternative commute modes. He noted that a condition is included that requires participation in any alternative mitigation measures that may be a future outgrowth of the W. Las Positas interchange committee. Mr. Plucker advised that the applicant has rated the project against the LEED scoring system, and the project received a score of 22 (four points below the "Certified" rating. Mr. Plucker noted that because tenants for this building have not yet been determined, points available for tenant improvements are not currently eligible for inclusion in the LEED scoring. He noted that the applicant has agreed to discuss Green Building measures as part of the tenant improvements in an effort to raise the rating. He advised that staff feels this is a high quality project and that the project proponents have been very progressive in implementing issues that the Planning Commission has identified during the review of other projects. Mr. Plucker stated that staff's memo dated August 23, 2000, includes two additional conditions of approval, and staff is recommending approval. In response to an inquiry by Commissioner Kameny, it was noted that the TH-Valley Herald building is located to the north and the Credit Union is to the south. Commissioner Kameny noted that he feels the development standards for this building are very impressive. Commissioner Arkin stated that he feels the applicant should get an extra point for things such as the charging stations and showers. He stated when applicants do things that don't quite fit with the form, that they get some help. He also suggested that the City award plaques to be placed at the entrance of buildings that are certified and that the City set some standards for points. Commissioners Kameny and Maas agreed with this suggestion. In response to a question from Commissioner Sullivan, Mr. Plucker advised that this site is part of the Hacienda Business Park's TSM program. Commissioner Arkin asked that staff check to see if credit was given for the bicycle racks and showers. COMI~iENTS FROM TI-IE APPLICANT Jim Tong of Charter Properties, 6601 Owens Drive, Suite 100, commended staff for its work on the project. Julia Maser, Hoover Associates, noted that she feels the project is well documented in the staff report. She noted that there were some areas where they were unable to take some credits in the LEED scoring because the project is in the Hacienda Business Park and some areas are not applicable. She noted that many of their consultants who responded to the suggestions have told her that some of the LEED suggestions are not in compliance with the required codes. She noted that there seems to be some conflict, particularly in the areas of water and I-IVAC. PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES August 23, 2000 Page 8