PC 091102 - Laserfiche WebLink

_ In response to an inquiry by Commissioner Arkin, Mr. Fulford replied that if money was not an issue, a 60 or 72-inch box tree could be purchased. He cautioned against focusing on bigger replacement trees because smaller box sizes would grow and acclimate to their surroundings more quickly. He noted that trees not accustomed to moving around. He believed that the sizes recommended by the applicant were wholly appropriate given the location. He noted that the trees would be resistant to vandalism, and would be large enough so a good specimen could be found. THE PUBLIC HEARING WAS OPENED. Fran Sherwood, Reynolds & Brown, noted that the applicant also designed Pleasanton Park, and sold many ofthe buildings once construction was complete. She noted that Reynolds & Brown continued to own property there, were actively involved with the Association, and actively managed the greenbelt area. She noted that there is an association comprised of the owners of the different parcels that met armually to issues, budgets, maintenance and repairs. She advised that Reynolds & Brown was very concemed and interested in the ongoing appearance and integrity of the park as a whole. She noted that she had been with Reynolds & Brown for twelve years, and had served on the homeowners' association board for eight years. She noted that they had made great attempts to keep the park's appearance as professional, business-like, and in good condition as possible. - Mark Blumert, the architect representing Reynolds & Brown, discussed the philosophy of maintaining the upscale and refined image of the park in terms of its landscaping. He noted that as an prominent entrypoint to the City, the applicants were well aware of the importance of its image and quality. He noted that these trees were chosen because they had less aggressive roots, and that the attractive color and composition of the replacement trees would not dwarf the buildings as much as the current trees. He believed that staff s recommendation to substitute different turf areas would suggest a more casual, less intense, and less vibrant atmosphere in the business park than the Association would desire. Mr. Blumert noted that a two-phase plan would offer a more managed and controlled transition, rather than waiting for each tree to meet its demise and be replaced. They would prefer that it occur in a more managed and organized program, which would soften the stark change between the two schemes. In response to an inquiry by Commissioner Kameny, Mr. Doug Malby, Reynolds & Brown, replied that the Association would fund the replacement of the trees. He noted that he had been involved with the project for twenty years, and added that the Association owned 49% of the existing land in the business park. All the Association members were in agreement regarding this plan, and a budget had been developed over time for the replacement of the trees. ,.,-. PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES September II, 2002 Page 5