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those Guidelines. He pointed out that this is their first pass and that they are definitely willing to hear comments. Commissioner O'Connor stated that he is aware it is tight as far as setbacks in front are concerned; however, he was hoping to get an extra foot or two to create a little deeper porch where people could actually sit as was done in the old homes. Mr. Schroeder replied that he would certainly be willing to look at those types of details. He added that he would shoot for at least six feet on the portions that are useable porches for an elevational character. He noted that this project would have a different character because of its density, and the goal is to create a more typical, conventionally- plotted single - family detached home subdivision rather than the cluster -type project reflecting what was done across the street. He indicated that they believe there is a real need and demand for this type of housing in the Downtown area and that it would bring the type of buyers with disposable income who can walk to the Downtown and spend there. He added that this would be a real positive thing for the Downtown and certainly be an improvement over what is on the site now. Mr. Schroeder stated that one of the issues of concern is the Floor Area Ratio (FAR). He indicated that they had pushed the FAR a little bit, although not a bad way in terms of design of the homes, and this was driven by what they think the market is. He referred to his earlier discussion about the density and coverage of the surrounding neighborhood, and he pointed out that with this FAR and this design, they are certainly not exceeding but probably would be on the lower end of the overall coverage compared to the surrounding neighborhood. Mr. Schroeder then summarized other points that may not have been discussed: • General Plan Amendment— If he had the time to go through a General Plan Amendment, he would raise the density on this site because he thinks it is too low for this location Pedestrian walkway — He is open to whatever the Commission thinks is best for the community. Existing Structure — The proposal is to demolish the structure because it really will not work by keeping the structure. They will not buy the property if they have to keep the structure. The sellers will retain ownership, and he [Mr. Schroeder] is not sure he wants to do the project with that structure there. He reiterated that the structure is not historically significant and that it would be uneconomical to make it useable; it is a detriment to the neighborhood. Lot Sizes and the Homes — He has heard some comments about design. He believes the driveway length of 20 feet is adequate; 22 feet can be considered depending on what setbacks are acceptable. He can fiddle these footprints a little bit and tighten them up to get better setbacks in those areas where there is enough room. On- Street Parking — This is adequate; it is a conventional public street with parking on both sides. All the houses have full driveways and two -car garages.' PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES, November 28, 2012 Page 11 of 38