PC 10/13/99 - Laserfiche WebLink

that the City of Pleasanton is known for. He noted that this architecture of homes is something the City can be proud of, the neighbors will be proud of, and will enhance property values. He stated that the color scheme of the homes has been designed to blend in with the background and minimize visual impacts. In conclusion, he noted that the developer has provided the Commission with responses to Exhibit "B." Discussion ensued relating to the soil that will be removed from the by-pass road, grading issues, issues relating to the detention ponds, and how project could mitigate impacts to air quality. Mr. Higdon noted that staff could support relocating the detention ponds down the roadway. Simon Makdessi, 2721 Cherry Lane, Walnut Creek, geotechnical engineer, provided an overview of the grading for this project, ground water in the area, diversion of water into the creek, and other projects in the area with grading issues. He commented on the high ground water table in the area, the potential for other slides in the area, and the monitoring of subdrains. In response to an inquiry by Commissioner Arkin, staff noted that the homeowners will be responsible for monitoring of the subdrains. Mr. Higdon noted that staff will return at the tentative map stage, with a suggestion on how to monitor the subdrains. Bud Barlow, 6723, Alisal Street, expressed concern with water being diverted into the creek and the effects on the underground water supply for those who utilize well water. Mr. Higdon noted that the ground water in this area would flow in the direction of Sycamore Creek. A1 Spotomo, Spotorno Ranch, commented on the flow of ground water and noted there has been no question of the integrity of the ground water and there is no threat to the quality of the water. He noted that the family has expended a considerable amount of time and money on the project. He commented on the City's insistence for the by-pass road and noted that the plans for the by-pass road have already been accepted by the City. He noted that there are seven trails included in the development of this land, and noted this is an excessive amount of trails for the project. He stated that the Council previously felt that 102 units was a fair designation for this project, and he commented on the density of the units in the North Sycamore development, the Bonde Ranch development, and Ventana Hill development, as being higher than this project. He noted that the project is on the verge of collapse. He noted staff does not have the expertise to determine whether this will be a working ranch and he commented on his qualifications, and stated that he is better qualified than staff to determine whether this project has agricultural potential. He noted the family's intention has always been to protect the integrity of the land, and in compliance with the Happy Valley Specific plan, the family intends to continue the agriculture atmosphere of the area for the benefit of the community. He noted this property does not have environmental problems, no endangered species have been identified, and if mitigation is necessary, he does not agree with staff that mitigation has to be on-site. In conclusion, he noted that he takes exception to some of staff's comments. Janet Linfoot, 6300 Alisal Street, commented on the beauty of the area. She expressed concern with adding six-feet of fill to the flat and then topping fill with homes over 30 feet high. Further, she expressed concern with the creation of excessive traffic on Alisal Street. She noted that these concerns, combined with unresolved issues, contribute to the argument for withholding approval of the project at this time. In response to an inquiry by Chairperson Roberts relating to rearranging the lower Spotorno flat area so that three of the houses faced on Alisal, Ms. Linfoot noted that would be logical. Planning Commission Minutes October 13, 1999 Page 14