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finding any. The only areas identified for something of that substance were in existing parking areas and discussions with the Fire Department reiterated the sense that most if not all of the internal driveways identified are needed for access. A 72" storm drain pipe traversing the eastern side and cutting through the center of the site present additional limitations. The existing tot -lot will remain and the applicant has proposed a new deck and leisure area around the pool. Another concern of the Council related to the adequacy of laundry facilities. While the new development will eliminate some of the current facilities, 4 existing facilities shall remain and all new units will contain their own internal washer and dryer. Existing units are also upgraded to include this feature as they are vacated. Assistant City Manager Steven Bocian reported on the project's affordability, noting that the draft affordable housing agreement was reviewed and approved by the Housing Commission. The previously proposed project did not meet the 15 -unit trigger of the City's IZO. Nonetheless, the developer did propose two units at 80% of median income. In addition, the agreement was limited to a term of 30 years. The increased number of units under the new proposal allows for a greater number of low- income units, secures those benefits in perpetuity, and allows the units to be dispersed throughout the project. The remaining 31 new units will be offered at moderate income, to be determined at 120% AMI. He said this project in and of itself brings a certain amount of affordability to the City and for many years has provided an opportunity for families of low and moderate income to live in a nice location. Councilmember Cook Kallio questioned the current market rate rents, and Mr. Bocian said average market rate rents for a 1 bedroom unit were $1,450 in 2009. This site offers units both slightly below and slightly above that average. Councilmember Sullivan asked if the proposal represents any impact on the number of affordable units, based on the rents in the rest of the development. Mr. Bocian said he believed so; information submitted from the applicant last year indicated rents of approximately $1850 and with that in mind, this rent level is affordable. He explained it is typical to find market rate rents consistent with 80% AMI and lower than 120% AMI. He noted the project will also accept Section 8 vouchers for all units. Councilmember McGovern asked how often rent surveys are conducted. Mr. Bocian said annually; this is the most up -to -date information and is approximately one and a half years old. Councilmember McGovern asked if there is any procedure by which low income families larger than 3 people have a better chance of acquiring an affordable unit than those with only 2 or 3. Mr. Bocian said no, the development will typically advertize affordable units as they become available, verify the applicants' income, conduct a standard background check, and award the apartment if all requirements are met. Councilmember Cook Kallio and Vice -Mayor Thorne disclosed that they recently met with the applicant. Councilmember McGovern noted the affordable housing agreement refers to 3 bedroom units, confirmed this project does not contain any, and recommended it be stricken from the agreement. Mr. Bocian explained that language is typically included to provide for any future conversions. Councilmember McGovern referred to Attachment 12, Universal Design, and asked why the City's own guidelines were not used. Mr. Dolan explained that the City does not have a specific City Council Minutes Page 5 of 10 May 4, 2010