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ordinance to that effect. A reference was made to this specific one, staff agreed to look at it and found it to be consistent with those of other communities. Councilmember McGovern thought universal design was covered in discussions on what would be applied to future senior housing developments and suggested that staff come forward with an ordinance. Councilmember Sullivan noted that he had expressed concerns about the lack of open space at the last hearing and said that what little is available seems to be going away and, while he understands the opinions of staff and the Planning Commission, perhaps other mitigations could be considered. He noted the Council has approved other downtown residential projects that have not had an opportunity for open space, but in -lieu fees have been applied to make up for that. He asked staff to speak on how that could apply to this project. Mr. Dolan said the code does contain a park requirement, the Council has required additional payments to Bernal Park for projects in the downtown area, but charges have not yet been applied to anything outside of the Downtown Specific Plan area. Councilmember Sullivan stated this project is directly across the street from Bernal Park, a rationale used by staff in excusing the lack of open space and asked the amount of the park fee. Mr. Dolan said the standard park impact fee is approximately $8,000 per unit for multi family developments and the additional charge for Bernal Park was $2,500 per unit. Councilmember Sullivan questioned and confirmed with Mr. Dolan that the park impact fee applies to this project. Mayor Hosterman opened the public hearing. Andy Byde, Braddock Logan, said his company is a long -term owner and operator of apartment complexes and retail community assets throughout the western United States and it takes pride in providing great amenities and homes for residents. He reviewed the changes made to project as requested by the Council, and said they attempted to focus improvements on the center of the site for all residents to enjoy. He expanded on the rent comparisons provided by staff, stating that current rents at the complex range from $1,099 to $1,189 for one bedroom units and $1,325 to $1,400 for two bedroom units. These rates are just above 60% AMI, well below the maximum 80 and significantly lower than comparable apartment communities in the surrounding area. This is a rare opportunity to provide units in a truly walkable community and to use a textbook definition of infill development and smart growth. At the same time, the project increases the availability of affordable units for the City's residents and provides additional amenities for existing residents. In 2008, a resident survey was conducted and 197 of the roughly 200 responses indicated a strong support for the project. Earlier this year, additional outreach was conducted and, while not well attended, that support was reaffirmed. He complimented staff for their assistance in bringing forward this improved project. Councilmember Cook- Kallio inquired about the typical vacancy rate at the complex. Mr. Byde said the goal is no more than 5% vacancy, and the complex currently has 2 or 3 units open. Shawn Ebersole, Community Resources for Independent Living (CRIL), said he supports the project but that cheaper is always better. He said many seniors attempting to obtain housing at this time do not have the financial resources or the government aid they used to and unless something changes radically and soon, they will have nowhere to go. Jessica Lehman said she is pleased to see that through working with City staff, the developer has come forward with a project she can support. She thanked the Council for their direction on accessibility and universal design. She said Pleasanton certainly needs more affordable and City Council Minutes Page 6 of 10 May 4, 2010