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could be achieved for private open space through the provision of a public park. It gives the developer the option to provide a public park in lieu of a private park. The policy decision for the Commission to recommend for Council decision is whether or not to incentivize that choice more or take it further and outright require it. The Task Force did not take that step, and staff did not recommend any additional change. Commissioner Blank inquired what the incentives might be. Mr. Dolan replied that the incentives would generally be in the financial area such as reduced park dedication fees beyond the credit the developer would get from giving the land. Commissioner Blank indicated that it would be tough to go through that analysis within the given timeframe. Mr. Dolan replied that he believes this would not be effective until a specific project is proposed; however, it would allow developers that option if it is to their advantage. He added that the goal is to set up a framework to allow this conversation to be held. Commissioner Pentin inquired if staff was referring to a private park in the developments rather than a public or City park. Mr. Dolan replied that some expressed the preference to have one of the properties include a public park. He stated that the framework provides for internal trails which will make block sizes smaller and through which people would be traveling up and down. He noted that a developer could theoretically design the project such that a park or private open space would end at one of those public trailways or streets and be accessible from one of those access points. He added that space would be limited and presented Veterans Park on Peters Avenue at .59 acre as an example. Commissioner Olson noted that those who live in the area, such as the residents of the Avila subdivision, are close to and have immediate access to the Iron Horse Trail, which is a huge park, particularly for those riding bikes. He added that this would take a lot of pressure off the need for a park. Mr. Dolan indicated that the Task Force left this as an opportunity but not a requirement. Commissioner Pentin referred back to the models presented by Mr. Williams and inquired if there was a model that could incorporate a small park and still fit within the guidelines. Mr. Dolan replied that the model with a higher density has a super-sized plaza at the corner, accessible from a public street, which could be made into a public park. He indicated that there could be a concern regarding land being taken away, which might affect the ability to provide the density; however, that would not be the case if this is PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES, January 26, 2011 Page 17 of 50