Minutes_March 13, 2019 - Laserfiche WebLink

theater, and the outreach he had done with local merchants on his ideas, with many being supportive. Chair Allen thanked Mr. Ojermark for his involvement with the Downtown Specific Plan Update Task Force, the Pleasanton Downtown Association and for helping people think outside-the-box by bringing an outside perspective. Commissioner Brown inquired about Mr. Ojermark's comment during his presentation that he had interviewed all the restaurants and businesses on Main Street, where he was proposing to close the streets. Mr. Ojermark responded that he had interviewed all the restaurants and some of the businesses. Commissioner Ritter asked Mr. Ojermark for his opinion whether he was in favor of having Airbnb's available within the City of Pleasanton. He remarked that if Airbnb's were allowed, the City would need to be a destination city, receptive to bringing people into Pleasanton, but sometimes that isn't the case, which could be a challenge. Mr. Ojermark said he didn't have concern in having Airbnb's available in Pleasanton, but that he didn't have a strong opinion because he hasn't done enough research. Commissioner Balch commented that approximately eight years ago, he was on record in support of the idea to close Main Street and he feels eventually the City will be amenable. He said he must recuse himself from discussions regarding the Downtown Specific Plan Update, therefore, he cannot speak too much on the downtown plan, but he'd hoped the process would've evaluated such an option; however, it may not be the right time for the City. Mr. Ojermark gave his suggestions that restaurants can migrate into the street to add more tables during weekend service and that this initial approach can be achieved with minimal expense. Commissioner Balch remarked that the challenge to this approach is that the restaurants don't own the property, which presents a right-of-way issue. He mentioned the topic was addressed several years ago, with regard to establishing a licensing agreement with the restaurants to pay per chair, in order to allow seating in the public right-of-way and through a contract, the restaurants could be obligated to operate during specific times. Although there would still be a lot involved, prior to moving forward, he encouraged the concept. Chair Allen thanked Mr. Ojermark for his presentation. Planning Commission Special Meeting Minutes Page 2 of 3 March 13, 2019