PC 09/10/97 - Laserfiche WebLink

. . . Commissioner Dove noted that while some of the projects built over the last three years may have colors he doesn't particularly like, nothing has been constructed which the Planning Commission really needs to be ashamed of. Chair Cooper stated that a design review board has the potential to have two types of people on it, people like the Commissioners, and professionals in that area of expertise. He noted that it might be appropriate to have more than one reviewing architect. He also commented that a design review board has the potential of creating a greater uniformity, and that while some may feel this is good, he likes diversity. He stated that he believes an applicant has a right within certain constraints to construct what they want, and that people should have more leeway in some situations to do what they want with their property, within reasonable boundaries. He noted that it is confusing to the public to have two different groups looking at the same thing. He noted that he feels the current system is working pretty well. He commented that the City previously had a design review board and through the due process it was disbanded, and he does not see any reason to reinstate it. Commissioner Barker noted that she likes Commissioner Lutz' recommendation that if a project is contentious it can be reviewed at two meetings. She noted that she supports people picking their own colors and when one person is doing the review there may not be as much creativity as with a design review board. Commissioner Wright advised that in the past when the Planning Commission has attempted to separate issues it has become unmanageable and the Commission ends up listening to overlapping issues twice. Mr. Iserson stated that in the past the Commission has dealt with issues separately and that there may be some opportunity to do this. He noted that staff will strive to do this where it is workable. Commissioner Kumaran reported that he plans to attend the California Chapter American Planning Association in Monterey and asked the other Commissioners for recommendations as to which workshops he should participate. Commissioner Barker noted that she is not certain if she will attend. Commissioner Wright stated that people are driving the wrong direction at Mika's on Valley Avenue. He noted that the area should have been striped for direction of traffic flow and that the required planters have been moved. Chair Cooper questioned the status of the Pleasanton Mobilehome Park. Commissioner Dove advised that a three-month extension has been requested by the owner's attorney. Chair Barker asked if a joint meeting of the School Board and City Council had been held. She noted that during the discussions on the Del Prado site it was noted that 650 students was the optimum enrollment for an elementary school. She reported that the enrollments of all schools with the exception of two is over this number. She advised that an elementary school is needed now and that she would like to see this issue addressed. Planning Commission Minutes Page 15 September 10, 1997