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Ann Pfaff-Doss spoke in opposition to the MOU. She expressed concerns with problems related to <br /> parking on Old Foothill and urged Council to eliminate conflicts. She added that the south side of the <br /> Austin property is a much better solution. <br /> Robert Takens noted that the Alviso Adobe is a valuable City asset and would hate to see it diminished. <br /> He spoke in opposition to the MOU. <br /> Larry Messa hoped that Council will accept the recommendations of the Parks and Recreation <br /> Commission. He spoke in opposition to the MOU and suggested that Council consider locating the <br /> staging area on the south side of the Austin property. He spoke regarding the proposed restrooms <br /> noting that it does not fit in a residential neighborhood. <br /> Andre Weiglein identified property he owns in the area and spoke in opposition to the MOU. He <br /> commented on difficulties accessing Old Foothill Road and felt that with increased traffic, it will become <br /> more dangerous. <br /> Bob Nisbet, Assistant General Manager, East Bay Regional Park District, reiterated the need to <br /> address the supply problem and commented on another project that will provide additional parking. He <br /> reaffirmed the EBRPD commitment to Garms and addressed challenges with building a parking lot on <br /> the Austin property. He felt that the proposed MOU has been the result of compromises. <br /> Mayor Thorne closed the public comment. <br /> Mayor Thorne noted the need to build as many access points to the ridge, as possible, and opined that <br /> parking along Old Foothill Road feels "messy". He could support the latter, if it were being considered <br /> as an interim solution and suggested further study in terms of building parking on the south side of the <br /> Austin property. <br /> Councilmember Brown acknowledged it will be an inconvenience to residents to have additional traffic <br /> go through the area. She commented positively on the Castleridge Trail and on the value of the Alviso <br /> Adobe Community Park. She indicated she could support staffs recommendations but suggested <br /> looking at it again, with the possibility of building parking on the south side of the Austin property. She <br /> agreed with providing signage showing that the Alviso Adobe is closed for special events. <br /> Councilmember Narum offered a friendly amendment regarding Section 6 (parking) of the MOU, that <br /> language be added to indicate that City staff and EBRPD staff will cooperate to develop and <br /> communicate a plan regarding parking restrictions. She reported that when she was Chair of the Parks <br /> and Recreation Commission, the Alviso Adobe Community Park was completed and stated that as part <br /> of the Liaison Committee, she supports staff recommendation to approve the MOU. She commented <br /> on approval of the Austin project and agreed with the idea of the MOU as an interim solution, She <br /> stated she would like a discussion about adding a pedestrian crossing on Foothill during Council's work <br /> plan session in January. <br /> A clarification was made that when the City builds the Austin property, it will become the permanent <br /> solution to the staging that provides the permanent easement leading up to the Castleridge Trail. <br /> Councilmember Pentin agreed with noting the MOU as an interim solution. In response to his inquiry, it <br /> was noted that if the City decides to relocate the staging area, the City will be financially responsible for <br /> the costs. <br /> City Council Minutes Page 7 of 9 June 21, 2016 <br />