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17. Public Comment Carrie Cox, representing Cox Family Stores, her family's business, spoke in opposition to the potential zoning changes that would allow big box stores, such as Costco. She mentioned the potential adverse impacts on traffic and on small business owners. Carl Cox, representing Cox Family Stores, spoke in opposition to potential zoning changes that would allow big box stores in certain areas. He mentioned the traffic at the intersection at Johnson Drive is currently at a Level D, and expressed concerns regarding the potential increase in traffic if a big box store is approved. He stated that there have not been any citizen studies on the matter and once approved, it is his understanding there can be no referendum. He further commented that the vast majority of residents are against an additional big box store in the stated location and requested that the matter be brought before the voters. Mayor Thorne stated that there will be a joint workshop with the Council and Planning Commission to discuss this matter. The matter will then be sent to the Planning Commission before additional review by the City Council. They will all be open and public hearings where the public can provide comments on the matter. • Bruce Fiedler, complimented the City of Pleasanton staff, and in particular, noted the pending retirement of the City's Housing Specialist, Scott Erickson. Josh Hanna, a former resident, stated that he grew up in Pleasanton and ultimately wants to return here to live. He likes the small town feeling and adding a Costco will increase traffic and adversely impact small business owners. He stated that he is the third generation of the Cox family who own Cox Family Stores. Bill Wheeler, owner of Black Tie Transportation on Commerce Drive and Johnson, stated that he has owned his business building for fifteen (15) years. He has 150 employees and is a good corporate citizen, contributing too many community endeavors. He believes it is irresponsible for City planners to suggest rezoning an already impacted intersection to potentially develop a big box store such as Walmart or Costco. He stated the Environmental Impact Report (EIR) does not take into consideration the current traffic impacts at this gateway intersection and noted the nearby 500 unit residential development currently under construction. He suggested a true gateway to Hacienda Business Park. He stated the adverse impacts on local businesses that a big box store would have. Mary Jane Jasper and Nancy Taylor, representing the Friends of the Pleasanton Senior Center, spoke regarding additional programming at the Center and shared the 2016 calendar. The calendar features seniors who volunteered to be photographed at local businesses and can be purchased at the Peddler, Milfleur, Town Center, and Senior Center. Kevin Goebel expressed concerns about rumors in the community that a Walmart or Costco is planning to come to Pleasanton. He also mentioned that a new hotel proposed for this location that will also affect traffic. PUBLIC HEARINGS AND OTHER MATTERS 18. Public Hearing: PUD-107, P14-1024, P14-1025, Fireside Investors, LLC — Consider the following for 377 St. Mary Street: (1) approval of resolutions for a General Plan Amendment to change the land use designation from Retail/Highway/Service Commercial; Business and Professional Offices to Retail/Highway/Service Commercial; Business and Professional Offices and High Density Residential; and for a Downtown Specific Plan Amendment to change the land use designation from Office to Downtown Commercial and High Density Residential; and (2) introduction of an City Council Minutes Page 3 of 15 December 15, 2015