PC 062409 - Laserfiche WebLink

Commissioner Olson referred to page 6 of the draft Development Agreement and inquired if the City is comfortable with 180 days to complete everything. He further inquired if LAFCo could delay this. Mr. Roush replied that LAFCo could deny it or could cause the application not to be approved within 180 days. He stated that the idea is that if all project approvals are in place, it is likely that the County will support the annexation, and LAFCo presumable would not have an issue with approving the annexation as proposed. He noted that the agreement also provides that if, for some reason there was a delay, this does not automatically expire because the Surplus Property Authority can agree to an extension of time beyond 180 days. He added that staff was concerned about the amount of time as well, and suggested something longer; however, the Surplus Property Authority believed that six months was ample time to have it resolved. Commissioner Blank noted that from experience and knowledge, automatic fire sprinklers systems comprise of about one percent of the construction cost for commercial buildings. He stated that it would be valuable to come up with a number for the City Council with respect to a guideline or percentage as to what it takes to prep a commercial building for a Photovoltaic system. He added that he believed this might provide future approving bodies some valuable information in order to make a determination. Ms. Giffin responded that staff has no guidelines at this time. THE PUBLIC HEARING WAS OPENED. Howard Matthews stated that he loves the community and believed that such a development will enable him to continue to live in Pleasanton if he qualifies to become a member of the retirement center. He spoke of the variety of care and indicated that he believes the facility would enhance the quality and real estate value of property in Pleasanton and would benefit residents who want to live in town without being a burden on their children. He requested the Commission to recommend approval of the project. Barbara Hempill stated her understanding was that the SEIR was to be completed by mid-summer and that those interested in living on Staples Ranch property anticipated they would be making a firm commitment last October; however, it now appears that the earliest would be this coming October. She noted that any further delays can mean a difference between aging in place at a nearby continuing care community versus having to be moved from facility to facility; the difference between having the elderly decide where they want to spend the rest of their lives versus having families decide for them; and the difference between remaining in the community versus having to relocate. Ms. Hempill stated that as a member of the Pleasanton Assisted Living Subcommittee, she had visited many facilities for the aging and found that such communities are the most desirable way to age in place. She urged the Commission to be mindful of resident needs and asked for approval as soon as possible. PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES, June 24, 2009 Page 12 of 22