PC 092502 - Laserfiche WebLink

r In response to an inquiry by Commissioner Arkin, Ms. Maier replied that approximately thirty people, mostly architects and developers, attended the most recent workshop. Ms. Maier advised that no additional staffing was proposed with the Ordinance, and that staff recommended that the Ordinance be carefully evaluated one year after adoption to determine whether modifications were warranted. Staffing needs would be examined at that time. She advised that an issue raised by the developers addressed the desire to be informed of specific project requirements at the beginning of the process, rather than at the Planning Commission hearing. This was not always feasible, because a number of conditions of approval have been attached to projects at the time of the Plarming Commission hearing. Ms. Maier suggested that to accommodate new technology, a list of approved Innovative Technology credits could be provided. A list of City-recommended measures may be given to the applicant, or the LEED rating system could be modified to interpret specific technologies (such as photovoltaic systems) as "innovative." A discussion of the innovation credit ensued. Mr. Syphers believed it would be useful to develop a pre-approved innovation list that the City determined to be of high value to the community. An applicant may develop its own list, but would need to convince the City of the its value. r Ms. Maier suggested that as the Commission evaluate projects, it should realize that the LEED rating system addresses many common issues, and strongly consider that before applying additional conditions. Commissioner Arkin believed that the developer should know all of the Plarming Commission's requirements prior to the hearing. Mr. Syphers recommended deciding on a process, rather than a list at this point. He believed that would give the Commission more flexibility in the future. Mr. Iserson suggested agendizing a workshop to identify the pre-approved list of innovation credits, and to work with the Green Building Council regarding those items. Ms. Maier noted that she had concluded her presentation. Staff believed that adoption of the Ordinance would demonstrate the City's commitment to environmental, economic, and social stewardship; would yield cost savings to the taxpayers through reduced operating costs for City facilities; would provide healthier work environments for workers and residents in the City; and would contribute to the conservation of natural resources. Staff believes that the proposed Ordinance carries out the direction of the Plarming Commission. Staff recommends that the Commission recommend approval of Case PRZ-09, the Civic and Commercial Green Building Ordinance, with the staff ,,-- recommended modifications included in the memorandum. PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES September 25,2002' Page 8