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Item 6: Universal Design in New Residential Development — Consider amendments to Title 20 of the Pleasanton Municipal Code regarding universal design in new single- family, duplex and triplex residential development and review accessibility conditions of approval for multi-family residential development Director of Community Development Clark introduced the item and Chief Building Official Rob Queirolo to present the staff report. Mr. Queirolo presented a PowerPoint overview of the proposed changes to the Pleasanton Municipal Code regarding Universal Design in New Residential Development. Commissioner Morgan asked about accessible primary entrances, negotiated universal design, accessible tubs, and discussions with developers on impacts to cost. Mr. Queirolo explained accessible primary entrances/landings with half-inch thresholds — these standards are separate from requirements for an accessible path of travel to the entry. He explained negotiated universal design for 44-inch hallways, discussions with developers, and review by the Director. Ms. Clark stated staff did not consult with developers, however in staff's view the proposed measures are not more complicated nor significantly costlier to construct. Commissioner Nibert asked the driver behind consideration of modifications. Ms. Clark noted a project built a several years ago where a disabled resident faced challenges in the useability of a unit, therefore, the condition was developed in an effort to have the developer include enhanced accessibility (versus adaptability) upfront. She stated the standard condition of approval had been in place since 2017, and the City Council was seeking improvements. In response to Commissioner Nibert's questions, Mr. Queirolo explained the uniform checklist for single family; definition of accessible showers and tubs; negotiating conditions of approval to address features for hearing-impaired persons; and "mandatory to install" versus "mandatory to offer" items. Ms. Clark explained the 15-unit threshold for multi-family projects (aligned to the Inclusionary Zoning Ordinance), and the number of disabled residents in Pleasanton per the 2020 Census. Commissioner Allen asked about the design of bathtubs and mandatory to offer items. Mr. Queirolo explained the intent of the standard to facilitate transferring into bathtubs. He confirmed the requirement for accessible showers and bathtubs. Ms. Clark stated the Planning Commission was to determine the range of accessibility features and could propose an alternative to that suggested by staff. Chair Pace asked the definition of custom home. Mr. Queirolo explained the definition of custom home and exemption from the Universal Design ordinance pursuant to State code. Chair Pace stated he was reluctant to propose something that would create potential litigation. Ms. Clark explained the opportunity to negotiate with developers and encourage additional accessibility options. She stated the risk was reduced because both the City and developer would have mutually agreed on the condition of approval, versus its imposition by the City. Vice Chair Gaidos asked how often units were sold before construction. He suggested erring on the side of less restrictive requirements on developers. Ms. Clark stated subdivisions currently under construction had been securing buyers prior to the determining point for accessibility options. She discussed the model ordinance which was written to allow jurisdictions to determine the level of requirements. Mr. Queirolo discussed the 2022 Code requirements. Excerpt: Draft Planning Commission Minutes, July 27, 2022 Page 1 of 3