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r- applicant was not necessarily in agreement with that suggestion, but staff believed that the limited expense up front could save money in operating costs in the future. Staff had not heard any public comments regarding this project, and believed the project was a necessary addition to the community. The positive features of this project included the location, the integrated design with the park and senior center, and the affordable units. Staff recommended approval of this project. In response to an inquiry by Commissioner Roberts, Mr. Iserson replied that he did not believe there would be a need for visitors to park in the Raley's or senior center parking lots, even during holidays. Staff looked at other assisted living facilities and senior centers, and the parking analysis indicated a much lower parking requirement for the assisted living facilities. Staff believed that the parking should be sufficient. He noted that one of the conditions of approval included correcting parking deficiencies if they occurred. Chairperson Maas suggested the use of a shuttle between the senior center parking lot during holidays. A discussion of parking usage patterns ensued. ~ Mr. Iserson noted that there had been a good deal of discussion between staff and the applicant regarding the metal fence, and that a balance between aesthetics and security was desired. The applicant felt strongly that a barrier would be necessary for the security of the residents. A compromise was reached, and an open, see-through fence with a gate and walkway would be installed. In response to an inquiry by Commissioner Arkin, Mr. Iserson stated that he did not know how long the payback period for the photovoltaics would be. He added that the PVs would not be installed, but that the building would be made PV -ready. He noted that would be a benefit to the owners if energy costs should increase significantly. THE PUBLIC HEARING WAS OPENED. COMMENTS FROM THE APPLICANT Carol Galante, Director, Bridge Housing Corporation, introduced the members of the development team. ~ Dave Mitani, The Steinberg Group Architects, presented the site plan and described the adjacent sites and access to the site. He summarized the lot coverage, landscaping, and parking capacity. He noted that the building was designed so that the natural elements from the park could be brought into the site. He noted that the fence was a necessary security element, and added that the visual treatment was very important. The fence would meander somewhat, in order to add to the aesthetic quality of the facility. He noted that there would be active courtyards on the site, which would facilitate social activity, as well as passive courtyards for viewing. He noted that the dementia unit would have an enclosed, secure, and easily monitored courtyard. A discussion of the layout of the two PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES August 14, 2002 Page 5