_Minutes_2022-12-14 - Laserfiche WebLink

Planning Commission Minutes Page 5 of 8 December 14, 2022 the role of the sites inventory. Chair Pace reiterated the concern by Commissioners regarding reduced process for review for properties on the list. Vice Chair Gaidos agreed that the density should be increased, to add Boulder Court back in, to strongly consider removing Valley Plaza based on the public’s strong preference to keep commercial space; recommended removing PUSD Vineyard Property – 25, 18, District property and Valley Plaza and adding back St. Augustine’s and Pimlico. Commissioner Mohan concurred that the City should have a say in development of public properties. He discussed the need to consider the City’s density and indicated support for the tactical housing element then robust conversation over the type of city. Commissioner Jain agreed with removal of the PUSD owned properties. He expressed concern regarding tracking and consequences of not meeting goals. He indicated support of keeping a backup list but starting less conservative. He stated there was not enough focus on creating ownership opportunities for the low-income community. He discussed interest rates and benefit to property owners. Commissioner Nibert stressed his priority to protect the quality of life, support of controlled growth and preserving small town feel. He asked why Vice Chair Gaidos suggested removing the PUSD owned properties. Vice Chair Gaidos explained why he proposed removing Site 25. Commissioner Nibert referenced the new law allowing the School District a by right option to develop land as it saw fit. He questioned why it was necessary to remove or include the PUSD properties. He stated he wanted to respect the PUSD’s request to remove the Donlon property, therefore he did not support keeping it on. He indicated support for increasing the minimum densities for higher density sites, specifically Oracle and Metro 580. He stated he was undecided as to whether to use midpoints. In response to Commissioner Nibert, Ms. Clark explained the HCD safe harbor approach was to use minimum density for high density housing sites and midpoint for medium and low-density sites. Commissioner Nibert stated he could support the idea of a backup list that had been through CEQA review and use of a lower buffer. Ms. Campbell stated staff was proposing a 4% buffer. Commissioner Nibert stated he was hesitant to remove Valley Plaza. He suggested establishing a requirement that the existing mixed-use level be maintained, and all active retail maintained at similar levels. He stated he could support adding Boulder Court back into the plan. Commissioner Morgan explained why he felt the plan was too conservative. He stated he was encouraged learning what other cities were doing for high density sites. Ms. Murillo explained that different jurisdictions were taking different approaches and that HCD wanted to see evidence for higher densities in terms of similar developments. She stated the recommendation was back on obtaining a certified housing element by the deadline. Chair Pace stated most commissioners had concern with the number of properties on the list and impact to the community. He stated no one was interested in battling the State but, perhaps, some of the assumptions could be tested. 4. Objective Design Standards - Work session to review draft Objective Design Standards for residential development. Senior Planner Shweta Bonn presented the staff report and PowerPoint presentation for the Commission’s review.