PC 071311 - Laserfiche WebLink

b. PCUP-185/P11-0043, Generations HealthCare Applications for: (1) a modification to a previously approved Conditional Use Permit (UP-71-3, Pleasanton Convalescent Hospital) to increase the number of beds from the approved 129 to the currently operating 139 at the existing convalescent facility; and (2) Design Review approval for on-site modifications, including removing existing landscaping to add 10 parking spaces and removing the existing freestanding tower element located near the southwest corner of the building. The facility is located at 300 Neal Street and is zoned P (Public & Institutional) District. Jenny Soo presented the staff report and described the scope, layout, and key elements of the proposal. She apologized that the Minutes of the 2007 Planning Commission meeting on this application was not attached to the staff report. She informed the Commission that a resident came to the Planning counter indicating her full support for the facility. She indicated that her mother is currently a resident at the facility and had to wait a long time to get in. Ms. Soo also stated that staff is recommending that Condition No. 7 be modified to extend the time frame for completing the site improvements from 90 days to 180 days. Commissioner Pearce inquired how long the facility has been operating with 139 beds. Ms. Soo replied that the earliest license was in 1996, but the corporate office indicates the facility has been in operation for 30 years. THE PUBLIC HEARING WAS OPENED. Tom Olds, President and CEO of Generations HealthCare, stated that his organization owns and operates 18 facilities throughout the State of California. He indicated that this situation is an unusual experience because cities are not usually involved in their business. He stated that they do not dig into their history; rather, they go and find out what the licensing requirements are from the State. He noted that they want to be good members of the community and add value to the community, something they do a very good job of. Mr. Olds stated that when they acquired this facility built in 1971 eight years ago, it was in gross disrepair, and they invested $2-$3 million to upgrade it. He explained that they originally got into this path because they wanted to develop the land in front of the facility to get more money to invest in the facility, and they really did not think there would be an issue with that but were surprised when it did. He indicated that they have spent year after year to improve the business, and he believes they have built relationships within the community and with the neighbors. PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES, July 13, 2011 Page 13 of 21