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district. He noted that the Knuppe project on Peters Street is very nice, but it is in a residential section, not in a commercial section of the Downtown. Mr. Byrd noted that the applicant stated that this project will be a real success, but a successful project by itself does not make Downtown a success. He agreed that there would be no problem leasing these units. He asked, however, if the Downtown really wants another automobile- oriented office with no parking. He added that there are offices Downtown that are currently vacant and asked if there is a need for more offices Downtown with no parking. He noted that Downtowns are designed for commercial and retail vitality, not for houses. He asked if the Downtown really needs residents on the ground floor in a commercial area. Mike Carey, a Pleasanton resident since 1974, talked about the history of some of the buildings and site in the Downtown in general, and those that have been proposed for the proposed project site. He stated that a lot of dreams on this site have not made it to the finish line and he would just like to see something approved here that is supported by the City. He encouraged everyone to work together to approve and accept the project as the Downtown and the City need it. Michael Knuppe addressed the question on whether cities want more residents living Downtown. He explained that their proposed project is residential over retail and another free - standing building behind it that has garages and apartments over. He indicated that there is a need for that, and people are looking for the beauty of living Downtown and being able to walk to the grocery store, to the restaurants, and to places to shop. He added that this is the trend and it is appropriate for this site. Commissioner Piper asked Mr. Knuppe if there is a reason why they did not put this whole structure on the west side of the lot because it does sound like a good idea. Mr. Knuppe replied that the site actually slopes down from east to west, and it does not work from a grading standpoint and drainage to move the building to the other side. He indicated that the other reason is that there is a beautiful view looking west from the site to the hotel and Main Street and back. He added that it is their front door, the decks, all of the articulation of the architecture facing west. THE PUBLIC HEARING WAS CLOSED. Before proceeding, Chair Allen asked Ms. Harryman what the Commissioner's Handbook says about time limits for meetings. Ms. Harryman asked Chair Allen to continue the discussion while she checks the Handbook. Commissioner O'Connor inquired how the Fire Department weighed in on accessibility this deep in to come in without a hammerhead or a turnaround. Mr. Luchini replied that the Fire Department is fine with the concept. He stated that in one of the last iterations of the plan submitted, the buildings were actually taller and would have required a wider access drive of 25 feet, and in order for Fire Department to PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES, August 26, 2015 Page 33 of 43