PC 080801 - Laserfiche WebLink

.---. Vice Chairperson Maas inquired as to the cost to construct the tree without equipment. Mr. Martin responded that he understands that it costs about $2,000 per linear foot to construct the tree. He described the method used to install the tree pole. Commissioner Kameny commented that in the photo simulation depicting the proposed tree pole it does not blend in with the surroundings and that the design of the tree does not look right. Discussion ensured regarding tapering the tree at the top. Commissioner Arkin inquired as to the sensitivity of this site as compared to another location. Mr. Martin advised that this site is part of a networking master plan that is being developed in the City of Pleasant on. He described the other antenna sites in this plan. Mr. Martin noted that it would be possible to move from this site to the DSRSD site. Commissioner Kameny advised that he would like to see visual simulations taken traveling west on Stoneridge Drive in front of the facility. Vice Chairperson Maas concurred. Commissioner Kameny asked if the tree could be designed to look like a Christmas tree with a more tapering effect. Mr. Martin responded that he believes they can get more of a taper by increasing the size of the branches. He noted that this would increase the weight of the overall structure which means the pole will have to be larger. Commissioner Arkin questioned why the Nextel antennas are farther out from the center of the tree. Peter Hilliard, 1255 Treat Blvd., #800, Walnut Creek, represented Nextel Communications. He r- explained the need for a wider array of the Nextel antennas, noting that they are willing to make aesthetic changes that will meet the Commission's approval. He stated that they would be willing to look at adding branches and screening, and painting the antennas. In response to an inquiry from Commissioner Arkin, Mr. Hilliard explained the reasons why the antenna requirements for Sprint and Cingular are different than those for Nextel. Commissioner Kameny presented photos from the packet materials depicting tree poles that he feels fit in and those that do not. Commissioner Harvey advised that he will excuse himself from discussion of this item because of a potential conflict of interest. Thierry Joux, 795 Essex Court, Apt. #193, Hayward, represented Nextel. He explained the reasons for the size ofthe Nextel antennas. Luke Stamos, 2116 The Alameda, Santa Clara, represented Cingular Wireless. Mr. Stamos referenced the City's ordinance and the stealth techniques described in the ordinance. He noted that they have no problem with joining the other applicants, but they would prefer to go along with their proposal for a flagpole. He commented that they would need to install six antennas on the tree pole and cannot reduce this number to three. He noted that their plan was to build the ,-- PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES August 8, 2001 Page 5