PC 092601 - Laserfiche WebLink

Bryan Croeni, ofMBT Architects, described the circle ring road around the facility, the ,-- landscape corridor, and the solar orientation of the buildings. He commented on the project schedule objectives and noted that they do not feel 2,600 parking spaces will be needed and they would like to phase in the number of spaces that they will need, thereby allowing the opportunity to install additional landscaping. David Gates provided a conceptual landscape plan. He discussed the buffer along Sunol Boulevard, describing the proposed stone wall and plantings, the water system elements and paths between the buildings, and the loop road. He noted that there is a 110- foot natural habitat riparian zone setback along Sycamore Creek. A sample ofthe architectural materials was presented for the Commission's review. Mr. Croeni, reviewed the architectural design elements and presented character sketches that depict the architecture, as well as typical building elevations. Discussion ensued regarding the height of the screening on the roof and the exhaust stacks. In response to an inquiry from Commissioner Arkin, Mr. Sage advised that the noise level of the exhaust stacks would be analyzed to ensure that it is not a concern to the neighbors or to themselves. He also advised that they are generally a life science firm and they do have labs in which chemistry is performed at a bench top level. He further advised that they are not involved in high-volume chemical operations. He stated that everything they do is consistent and in compliance with regulatory requirements. He offered to provide additional technical information about the actual composition of materials. ,-- In response to an inquiry from Commissioner Sullivan, Mr. Sage advised that they are preparing an analysis related to the installation of a photovoltaic system. Mr. Sage also advised that they will formally be going through the LEED process. He noted that they would be submitting any required information regarding the transportation system management program. Mike O'Malley, 3140 Joanne Circle, stated that he feels the Applied Biosystems project will be good for the community. He advised that he is concerned about the discussion to limit the height of the building, noting that the building pad is being lowered about three feet, and the building will actually be lower. He noted that there was only one opponent to the building height increase. He advised that he supports the project and feels that the fact that they are willing to proceed with this project at this time says a lot for the company. Ellen Olson, 301 Diamond Court, stated that it has been a pleasure working with Applied Biosystems and that they have been extremely cooperative with the neighbors. She noted that the design for the pavilion is beautiful, but it is in the wrong location. She advised that the neighbors have fought very hard to keep the lake area pristine, and that when they purchased the property, Applied Biosystems knew ofthe condition that no structures would be allowed in this area. She commented that she likes the way the rest of the buildings are layed-out, but she is concerned that development looks like a campus environment, when they have always enjoyed the way the other buildings blended into the environment. She stated that she is concerned that the building that will replace the signature building on this site will be built closer to Sunol Boulevard. She also noted that she is concerned that the building colors are too light. She requested that the issue of the color be addressed. She advised that in a meeting with Applied ,.- PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES September 26, 2001 Page 13