PC 08/13/97 - Laserfiche WebLink

Mr. Sweeney noted that the applicant has no control over when the park is developed. He advised that he believes the condition regarding the construction of the park is attached to Signature Properties' project. He noted that he would be comfortable with a condition that stated the applicant would work diligently and to its best effort to get the park constructed. . Mr. Higdon recommended wording that the developer will facilitate completion of the park and work with staff to its best efforts. PUBLIC HEARING WAS CLOSED Commissioner Cooper advised that, overall, the project is suitable for the property. He stated that he feels it will make a substantial contribution to those who work in the Hacienda Business Park. He feels that high density residential housing in this location is not unreasonable and that consideration should be given to distributing high density residential throughout the City. He stated that he believes the project shows a commitment to providing housing for people with a wide range of income levels. He noted that he applauds the distribution of low-income housing throughout the project and making them indistinguishable from other units. He supports the fee waiver recommendation by the Affordable Housing Commission. Commissioner Cooper recommended modifying condition #79 to include that a dust management plan which is satisfactory to the City be implemented. He expressed concern that the City does not have a way of quantifying what the health risks are. He noted that he would be happy with the "best effort statement" for the construction of the park. . Commissioner Kumaran asked if the Commission would vote on the proposed fee waiver for the project. Mr. Iserson advised that the Commission is not being asked to vote on this aspect. Commissioner Kumaran expressed his support for the project and commended the developer on the project and for working with the surrounding residents. He noted that he is in favor of the park. Commissioner Kumaran stated that he believes the benefit of affordable housing would be in the hundreds of thousands of dollars, not the $2.1 million that is being sought. He believes that the project justifies the waiver of $367,000, and he clearly recognizes the efforts of the developer and that the 35-year term for the affordable housing should be considered. Chair Barker referenced a meeting held four years ago with Mr. Sweeney regarding residential development in the Hacienda Business Park. She noted that at that time there was an offer for a community park in exchange for residential development. She stated that this did not come to fruition. She commented that the present need for a community park is very clear. She advised that when additional residential units were approved in the Hacienda Business Park there was a promise that there would be a community park. She believes in protecting neighborhoods, but because of this history, she cannot support the project. She advised that she supports Commissioner Kumaran's comments about the fee waiver. She sees this as trading park fees to get more affordable housing. A motion was made by Commissioner Lutz, seconded by Commissioner Wright, finding the POO development plan consistent with the General Plan and the purposes of the POO ordinance. . Planning Commission Minutes Page 6 August 13, 1997