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Councilmember McGovern questioned if there are considerations for incorporating more green space given the project's substantial population of children. Mr. Byde explained that a trust comprised of four families, rather than Braddock Logan, is the actual property owner and that this limits the scope of what he is allowed to do. He questioned the recreational value in tearing out existing areas to replace with green space and the suitability of replacing existing parking spaces with a play area that is well away from the central recreation zone. Mayor Hosterman noted that in an effort to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, recent projects have been conditioned on the installation of photovoltaic systems and other energy efficiencies. She acknowledged that staff has determined that may not be feasible here and asked Councilmember Sullivan if multi -unit residential complexes present a different set of complications than single family residential units. Councilmember Sullivan confirmed that the metering mechanism of each unit could present significant complications. Mr. Byde said each unit has its own meter, rather than one meter for the whole complex. Councilmember Sullivan said that it is technically possible to utilize a PV system in this case, but not necessarily economically acceptable. Mr. Byde said the existing solar water heater for the pool will be relocated onto the roof of one of the new apartment buildings. Mayor Hosterman acknowledged that but said that as policy makers, the Council is faced with asking homeowners and developers to cut a project's GHGs by 50% in renovation and redevelopment projects. She admitted that the cost savings opportunity here may not be the same as that for a single family residential building but asked that the applicant seriously explore it. Mr. Byde said Braddock and Logan is the Bay Area's largest certified green builder and is fairly up to speed on GHG reduction implementation measures. He spent considerable time working staff on the matter and that it was ultimately concluded that the unit types, metering, and solar access did not make PV installation truly viable. The project's proximity to transportation and other conveniences results in a significantly lower carbon footprint per resident than most other projects. Mr. Byde explained that working within the confines of the existing footprint limits them far more than if the project was constructed from scratch. He also noted that the current climate of the credit market means that Braddock and Logan will have to self- finance the entire project; and combined with Pleasanton's fee structure and increases in capitalization rates, it pose obstacles to creating something that they can afford to build while still providing low- income housing opportunities. Mayor Hosterman acknowledged the developer's bottom line but stressed the importance of working together to aggressively address efficiency issues, and asked the applicant to give it further consideration. Carmen Rivera reiterated the need for low- income units within Pleasanton, stating that she lives on only $820 per month and may face additional cuts to that income in the future. She asked the Council to think of her and the many others who have been unable to secure low- income units in the city and suggested that the number of low- income units be increased from 2 to 5. She also stressed the importance of universal design in all new projects. Councilmember Sullivan questioned and confirmed that the affordable housing agreement addresses only low and moderate income housing requirements and suggested that there be further discussion on lowering that. Mr. Fialho suggested that if the Council wished to further explore this, the item may be continued to allow time for discussion with the developer and for staff to develop an informed recommendation. City Council Minutes Page 7 of 13 May 19, 2009