PC 090804 - Laserfiche WebLink

Ms. Nerland suggested that a short recess be taken before continuing discussion on the issue. The Planning Commission recessed for a break at 8:55 p.m. Chairperson Roberts reconvened the meeting at 9:01 p.m. Ms. Nerland wished to clazify Commissioner Maas's comment and noted that as is the case of all real property interest, the presumption in the law is that if the property interest is beyond a 500-foot radius, you are presumed not to have a conflict of interest. That presumption is even greater when you have a lesser interest in the property, such as a leasehold interest, as is the case with Commissioner Maas's family business. While it is a public official's decision whether or not to participate, she did not see any reason to rebut that presumption. Commissioner Maas advised that she could be objective with respect to this application and noted that she had noticed the signature of the store manager on the petition. The manager serves only as an employee. Commissioner Sullivan thanked the applicant for working with the Commission and staff. With respect to CEQA, Commissioner Sullivan advised that he had expressed concern about traffic impacts early in the project. He believed that the number of cars generated by the project itself was fairly small but believed that the project fell into the category of having impacts that were individually limited but cumulatively considerable. He noted that some intersections are ,- completely failed and gridlocked and noted that the impacts of the traffic report may be understated. He believed that the intersection fell under the category of a "Yes" in Item 4.3. of the Initial Study. He felt that the project would create a significant environmental impact and would not be consistent with the General Plan. Commissioner Fox agreed with Commissioner Sullivan's assessment and noted the apparent understatement of the traffic impacts of the site. She noted that this was one of the worst intersections in Pleasanton and, given the addition of California Splash, will get worse. She wanted to ensure that diverted trips were included in the model. She would like to see which cars truly went through the intersection as local traffic as opposed to cut-through traffic. She felt that the project would create a significant environmental impact. Commissioner Maas did not object with the Negative Declaration and believed that the impact on the intersection could be managed effectively. She potentially has an issue with beer/wine sales and hours of operation. Chairperson Roberts noted that she could accept the Negative Declaration and noted that because she lives on that side of town, she would be a pass-by driver. She agreed with Mr. Beratlis' point about traveling across town for a car wash. She agreed with Commissioner Maas's observation that with the proper signage on the gas station, people would be able to use the back route through McDonald's. She did not believe there were many new trips and did not agree with including diverted trips in the new trips category. PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES September 8, 2004 Page 9 of 14