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Mayor Hosterman supported this suggestion, adding that it would give the applicant an opportunity to explore the possibilities she requested as well as funding mechanisms to support it. Councilmember Sullivan asked for further information on universal design. Jessica Layman, Community Resources for Independent Living (CRIL), explained that universal design in housing refers to the construction of units that are suitable for everyone including seniors, families, and those with disabilities. Basic features of universal design include zero -step entry, levered door handles, and widened doorways and hallways. Figures indicate that that if one incorporates substantial universal design features into a project, costs may increase roughly 2% which is a small price compared to that of modifying units at a later date. She stated that CRIL worked with the City of Dublin to pass a Universal Design Ordinance and that she could explore similar ideas with Pleasanton. She suggested the IZO should be revisited and modified for the future and that rather than using Affordable Housing Funds to subsidize this project, the Council ask more of the developer. Mr. Byde acknowledged the suggestions for universal design, explaining that all ground floor units in the proposed project will be ADA accessible as well as convertible, with minor modification, to a design that would suit someone with height limitations. He said Braddock and Logan is currently constructing projects in Dublin, is familiar with universal design implementation, and does not foresee any issue with implementing those features here. Mayor Hosterman closed the public hearing. Mayor Hosterman cited the project's positive attributes but asked that the developer consider alternatives to allow for increased affordability and energy efficiencies as well as funding assistance that may be available. Vice -Mayor Cook- Kallio asked that staff continue negotiations to extend the 30 -year life of the affordable housing units as much as possible. Councilmember Sullivan concurred and urged staff and the Council not to settle for projects as they are presented. He said it is the Council's duty to convey the community's needs to developers and this is a perfect opportunity to do so. He asked that staff explore relocating at least one of the buildings from the area near the pool to an alternate location even if that means possibly reconfiguring the units and EVA access. He said he is an enormous proponent of high- density housing but stressed the need to do it properly; children playing in a parking lot does make for a livable neighborhood. He acknowledged the applicant's measures for ADA compliant units but said that it seems to stop short of the universal design that is being requested. He agreed with the applicant's assessment that these apartments offer far superior energy use and carbon footprints than many of the homes approved lately but said the applicant could explore PV installation further. He asked the Council to remember that this is a PUD that has been reopened at the developer's request, giving the Council the opportunity to ask for measures that will enhance the community as a whole. Councilmember McGovern asked staff to consider that as another option for creating the additional units. She thanked the applicant for bringing this project forward, attempting to maximize the advantages for its residents, and for offering affordability options but asked them to consider some of the Council's requests. City Council Minutes Page 8 of 13 May 19, 2009