PC 10/27/99 - Laserfiche WebLink

Commissioner Sullivan commented on the insignificant impacts and stated that he does not agree with the statement "that the Arroyo De Laguna is not considered significant habitat." He commented on the section entitled "Unavoidable adverse environmental effects, land use, conversion of agricultural land to non-agricultural uses" and he stated that a mitigation measure could be that the project not be built. Commissioner Arkin noted that money could be donated to the 4-H program or an agricultural grant to the community college to mitigate impacts. Commissioner Sullivan referred to the EIR statement of overriding consideration and commented on the transportation, circulation and air quality. He stated that he would be in favor of relocating the train station to the Village Center which would be a significant mitigation to traffic and air quality. Commissioner Sullivan noted that he does not agree with the statement "that the overriding considerations state that this project will be developed in conformity with Pleasanton's public purposes, due to not knowing what the public purposes for this property are yet. Further, he commented on the statement, that "the overall Bernal property will provide for a well balanced land use program that creates a long-term economic, fiscal benefit to the Community" and he inquired as to other benefits to the Community not being addressed such as an aesthetic benefits, open space benefit, view benefits, agricultural land benefits, benefits from less congestion, less school crowding, and less air pollution. Commissioner Maas moved that the CEQA findings be made and approved as modified by the straw vote. Commissioner Kameny seconded the motion. Commissioner Kumaran commented on the statement of overriding consideration and significant impacts. He referenced Page A-24 and noted that he does not believe that the traffic and transportation and circulation elements are mitigated at the Bernal Intersection by the mitigation measures, as referenced in J1-A, J1-B, and J2. He noted that the traffic in this area, without the project, is difficult at best and with this project, the mitigation measures would not accomplish the mitigation. He commented on Page A-54, the adverse and environ_mental effects, and he stated that Commissioner Arkin's proposals will help mitigate these impacts; however, the regional transportation system, freeway traffic volumes, and air quality are still unmitigated impacts from this project. He noted he would be supportive of Commissioner Sullivan's statement to relocate the train station to lessen traffic impacts. He noted that the aspect of noise is not mitigated on A-57, L-1 and A-l, and having residential development as close to the freeway as this project designates. Commissioner Kumaran noted that there could be alternate uses for the Bernal property that would be far more beneficial to the community than the proposed project. He spoke in favor of the community voting on the project and then the Commission responding. Further, that the Commission's decisions at the present time are premature. Chairperson Roberts referenced page A-54 and stated that "no project alternative is rejected because it does not meet any of the sponsors' objectives nor fulfill any of the city's objectives for this site, including provision of additional housing, open space, as evidenced by half the land in golf course and parks, and public improvements. A motion was made by Commissioner Maas, seconded by Commissioner Kameny, that the CEQA findings be made and approved as modified by the straw vote. PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES 10 October 27, 1999