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feet and would like to see staff continue to work to make sure that the building does not have to r- be any taller than possible and still accommodate the mechanical equipment. Ms. Bengtson advised that she is very pleased with the landscape plans provided by Mr. Gates. She noted that she feels the proposed landscaping is far superior than what exists. She stated that she also feels that the mitigation for the removal of trees is very good. She commented that she would like to see the public art work located in an area available for the residents of Pleasanton to see. Ms. Bengtson stated that she supports the staff recommendation, and she feels the project is well- designed and beautifully landscaped, and that it will provide an impressive gateway to Pleasanton. Mike O'Malley, 3140 Joanne Circle, noted that the prior building on the site was 59 feet tall and that Applied Biosystems has lowered the building heights. He stated that if this is to be a "beacon" building for the City, the height should not be an issue. He voiced support for the project. He noted that the two-story buildings are still only 34 feet tall. He suggested that the Planning Commission approve the project as submitted, in that he feels the applicant has addressed all of the concerns, and he feels it will be a good project for Pleasanton. In response to an inquiry from Commissioner Arkin, Mr. O'Malley advised that he lives near the Sports Park. - M. Heravi, 305 Diamond Court, stated that he feels Applied Biosystems is a very good company and it will be a good addition to the City. He advised that he is concerned about the height and that he and his neighbors thought the height of the building would be 48-1/2 feet with an additional 2-1/2 feet, not 62 feet. He further advised that the need for an additional 14 feet to screen the mechanical equipment does not seem right. Mr. Heravi asked when the rubberized asphalt will be installed on Sunol Blvd. Mr. Swift advised that the rubberized asphalt or some other sound antenuating surface will be used when the Sunol Blvd. improvements are made, which is currently planned for next spring. Mr. Heravi asked that consideration be given to reducing the speed limit to 30 or 35 miles per hour on Sunol Blvd. William Olson, 301 Diamond Court, stated that he would like to see the bus stop located north of Sycamore Road which would take it out of the residential neighborhood. He noted that he feels the building colors should be in darker hues, in that he feels the lighter colors will make the buildings stand out and appear more massive. With regard to the building height, he advised that the neighbors thought that the 48 feet was the top of the building, not the top of the parapet. He provided suggestions for reducing the height of the building 2-1/2 feet. He advised that he would like more information about the security gates and kiosks and where they will be located. He stated that he supports the use of rubberized asphalt or other special materials. He asked that the trees that are to be planted in the street median and between the curb and sidewalk in the area between Diamond Court and Arlington be eliminated as they will block the view to the lake. He requested that Condition #24 be modified to add that the views for Diamond Court and Kavala Court residents need to be retained. Mr. Olson stated that he stills wants to see the left-turn capability in and out of Diamond Court. Mr. Swift noted that the City Council had established that there would be no left turn in or out of Diamond Court. He suggested that the residents wait until the Arlington Drive signal is installed to see what happens to the gaps in the traffic. He stated that ifthey then wish to raise the issue October 24,2001 Page 8 PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES