PC 071311 - Laserfiche WebLink

facility when she needed a wheelchair to move around. She indicated that this was a difficult decision for her because she comes from a family that typically takes care of family members at home. She noted that she was very fortunate and blessed to get referenced by a nurse to this facility and that this is the best thing that could have happened for her mother. She added that she was able to visit every day because of its proximity, and she believes the activities and interaction provided by the facility gave her mother a longer life that if she stayed at home. Ms. Cargill stated that in terms of parking, the only time she experienced difficulty was during Friday Night Concerts or First Wednesdays, when people would use the excess parking at the facility. She indicated that she supported any future application for additional beds and requested the Commission to seriously consider it, noting that the City seriously needs this type of facility as the community is growing. She asked the Commission to approve the application for retaining the current beds and parking improvement as this is needed by the community. Charles Huff stated that he lives near the facility and that when he came to the meeting this evening as a resident, he was not sure if he is in favor of or opposed to the request. He added that if more people from the area spoke about traffic and parking, he would have taken their side. He noted that as an architect, he is sometimes held to a different standard for residential projects on Neal Street, as opposed to larger facilities like this one, especially when he talks about tandem parking. Mr. Huff stated that he knows the site well as his father lived at the facility and passed away about eight years ago. He also questioned the traffic report, and on the basis of people living closer to the site, he indicated that he would probably not have a traffic concern with the project itself. He noted that he is neutral with respect to his position on the request. Mr. Olds stated that he feels really good. He indicated that they work hard to make a difference, and everybody is here to make a difference, whether it be the community or the residents in the facility. He reiterated that they are fully committed to what they agreed on with respect to the sign, the fence, and the front area. He added that they will work as fast as they can to make the parking reconfiguration a reality. He noted that the sign is ready to move on, and a contractor needs to be chosen for the fence. He further noted that the parking lot will be done in phases so the parking lot can remain open; hence, their request for an extension of time so they do not miss their deadline. Commissioner Olson asked Mr. Olds if the facility is at full capacity with 139 beds or if they can add more beds to the facility, and if so, how many. Mr. Olds replied that the facility can accommodate up to 163 beds. He stated, however, that at this time, there are no plans to do that and that their first priority is to maintain what they currently have and to serve the community as they are. He indicated that they have had a problem with turning people away because they are up to full capacity, and this has been happening on a more frequent basis. He noted that they usually PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES, July 13, 2011 Page 18 of 21