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Commissioner Maas was concerned that remodels of the older homes may result in much larger homes in the downtown area. Chair Arkin suggested that an applicant who intentionally let a building become degraded be allowed to demolish a dying building, but be required to provide an amenity to the community as a penalty and a benefit to the community. Coirimissioner Roberts suggested that the applicant be required to contribute to historical preservation in the City. Mr. Tserson noted that the Commission could be highly demanding with respect to the appearance of the new building. Commissioner Maas suggested that property owners be encouraged to maintain their buildings. Commissioner Roberts noted that the process was highly subjective. She expressed concern that the same appraiser was used on all the Spring Street buildings, and that he was located on Spring Street as well_ Chair Arkin inquired about the cost per square foot valuation used in Pleasanton_ In response to Chair Arkin's inquiry regarding the necessity of an appraiser in this process, Mr_ Thomas noted that value-added items, such as higher quality floorcovering, hardwood floors, or plaster versus drywall, would change the valuation. A licensed appraiser was certiS ed and qualified by the State. A discussion of the use of appraisers ensued_ Commissioner Kameny noted that he was an appraiser, and described the standardized regionally procedure utilised in this process_ He noted that the nationwide Marshall-Swift book was broken into regional sections, and was used to compare similar buildings in various regions throughout the country_ He noted that he had never seen the cost of a house under construction in Pleasanton for what the book stated it would cost to build. Commissioner Maas commended staff for the work done on Spring Street. She expressed concern about St_ Mary's, such as the home that did not have any landscaping. She believed that house did not blend with the neighboring homes. She was concerned about losing the flavor of the houses downtown. A discussion of varying valuations ensued_ Mr. Iserson noted that when the new design guidelines are released to the public in several months, staff hoped that would they would use the guidelines in determining what kind of architecture would be used for the remodels and additions He noted that PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES April 9, 2003 Page 1 1