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lr . 2i: <br />3 Conclusion <br />The objective of this survey was to better understand community opinions on various city-wide <br />issues related to housing; gather constructive feedback on preferences and priorities on new housing <br />development; identify challenges and opportunities; and understand the perspective of the <br />community in addressing housing needs. Overall, the survey provided comprehensive and <br />identifiable themes and feedback that will provide insight into future policy discussions. <br />The survey provided a wide range of varying opinions and perspectives on housing within the city. <br />While opinions and perspective varied from question to question, the respondents engaged in the <br />questions and options presented in the survey, and provided useful input on housing issues, <br />opportunities, locations for future housing, and the types of housing that can best meet the <br />community's housing needs. Although respondents recognized the challenge and intent of the <br />Housing Element to address the mandates of State law, a small but notable proportion took the <br />opportunity to express concerns about new housing and residential growth, and to the mandates being <br />imposed upon the City to plan for new housing. Water supply, school capacity, traffic, and <br />diminution of community character were some of the key growth- and development -related concerns <br />cited by parlicipants. <br />With respect to housing challenges, the most significant housing challenge identified was the lack of <br />affordability and cost burden associated with renting and owning a home in Pleasanton. Seniors and <br />young adults were the groups most strongly identified as being in need of housing support and <br />services; a number of respondents called out lower- and middle-income service workers as a group <br />who could be better served by housing. <br />Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) are often considered to provide more affordable housing options, <br />which may help in a cost burdened community. However, respondents indicated mixed feelings on <br />ADUs in Pleasanton. Although more respondents agreed that ADU's would provide additional <br />housing options, 60% indicated that they should not be encouraged above and beyond what the City <br />is currently doing in response to state mandates. Beyond ADUs, a number of respondents supported <br />the concept of providing smaller, more affordable units, including encouraging a mix of unit types <br />and sizes in new developments. <br />Pleasanton's appealing community character was brought up throughout the survey and was clearly <br />highly valued among respondents. Concern that new housing would diminish neighborhood or <br />community character was also a theme throughout the survey, and well-designed, quality design and <br />project amenities, as well as neighborhood compatibility, was emphasized by many. This was <br />expressed through preferences such as siting new housing away from existing neighborhoods, into <br />locations where existing development tends to be larger scale and higher intensity, such as along <br />major corridors, within the business park, and in place of existing commercial development. <br />THE Cllr OF <br />PLE ASANTON. 28 <br />