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Street, and she was not sure this is a good example of a Heritage selection. She stated that the Cunninghams are trying to be good neighbor; their design has been given much thought with regard to the area, the lot, and, more importantly, the livability of the dwelling. She added that there is nothing dear or historic about the Hall family compound anymore, and the same is true with their historical building on Main Street at Neal Street that has been replaced but still reflects its original design and relevance to the Downtown. She noted that the cottage does nothing for the area; it can hardly be seen from the street and usually has a motorcycle and two cars on the lawn in the front area. She stated that the Cunninghams wish to build their own home of hard structure that will not be modified; they are not building a rental. She added that if people did not want neighbors looking into their yards or have shade situations, they would have to live on huge lots, which does not make for a unique area like most downtown area. She stated that at her home, her neighbor behind her has a two-story home with three large picture windows along the back, and their other neighbor has a heritage tree that is so tall that it eliminates the sun from warming their pool water. She indicated that she hopes the Commission can make the findings to approve the proposal, as the Cunninghams want to be part of the Downtown neighborhood and want to be good neighbors. She added that they are trying to make an infill project that would add much to the area, another unique home which would blend nicely with the eclectic mix of the area. Bob Shapiro stated that he has been a Pleasanton resident since 1999, has been active in the City, has participated in many commissions, and has worked on community volunteer roles. He indicated that his passion is to sustain the value of the City, its amenities, and its beauty. He added that he has known the Cunninghams for over a decade and knows the value this family brings to the community. He agreed with staff that the Cunningham proposal is well designed and compatible with adjacent homes; the architectural style is very beautiful and was done with integrity by Mr. Huff and the owners to make it look consistent within the community, and will enhance the beauty of the City. He reminded the Commission that the cost of compliance has not been low; due to changes in the plans and the work done, the owners have spent close to $14,000 for a historical study, a horticulturist, story poles, and changes in design as requested by the City and the neighbors. He asked if it is fair to require applicants to put up that amount before they can even start on a project, and he questioned how many more requests will be asked of the applicants before they can build a home to live in that is consistent with the neighborhood. He stated that the Cunninghams have acted in good faith to be in compliance with the neighbors, the City, and the citizens of Pleasanton and requested the Commission to approve their request. Patty Donahue-Carey stated that she has lived on Second Street for 29 years, and driving by the proposed project since the story poles went up, her impression is that it would result in a structure that would look like it came from another neighborhood and landed on this street. She noted that the design is lovely and thinks that there is no one in the room who has a problem with the structure and the integrity of the design and materials that were chosen; however, she knows that when driving by historic neighborhoods it is easy to spot a home that might otherwise look like it belongs. She PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES, November 9, 2011 Page 21 of 29