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to the original design that affected the usage of the site_ With respect to the use, he stated --. that as an investor, he would try to make the highest and best use of this property from a return point of view. He believed that with the change in conF guration, it n-iade sense io change the use from automotive_ He did not believe the automotive use would Fit the neighborhood_ He noted that reaching consensus was important to him so the most effident use of the Commission's time could be made in the public hearing. He pointed out the traffic flow and landscaping on the overhead display. Commissioner Blank noted that he supported soRening the visual itripact by using a reasonable amount of landscaping. Mr_ Mahoney noted that not all of the landscaping was included in the rendering because the Commissioners would not be able to see the building design. He displayed the placement of one-foot planters with wisteria against the wall; Commissioner Blar~lc noted. that he would support that idca_ Commissioner Blank agreed with staffs recommendation of additional landscaping and would like to see as much green around the building as feasible. He noted this was a gateway property and that a good first impression would be important Commissioner Roberts had a major concern about the placement of retail on this site and did not believe it was a good fit_ She noted that the building was in the middle of the block and added that there was do way to gat into it or out of it without making U-turns or going all the way through the business park. Chairperson Maas noted that it was a good idea that staff directed. the applicant to conduct a traffic analysis. Commissioner Roberts agreed with Chairperson Maas' asscssinent and -added that she liked the design. She was concerned that the design was driving the use. Commissioner Arkin complimented the applicant in implementing the Commissioners' comments and in reading the minutes thoroughly. Mr. Mahoney requested staff to display the alternatives consisting of the original plan and the current plan on the overhead screen, and a discussion of the traffic flow ensued. Commissioner Arkin inquired whether the applicant intended to have enough sidewalk space in front of the buildings facing Bernal Avenue to accommodate outdoor seating. Mr. Mahoney replied that was their intent and that the type of tenants that they hoped to attract relied on drive-by traffic and signage to attract that traffc_ He noted that they wanted to maintain a sufS dent setback, but when the front area is increased, the buildi ng size is decreased. Commissioner Blank believed the aesthetics of the building were outstanding but that this was a very busy street for outdoor seating. Commissioner Roberts suggested that the outdoor patio be tucked in to the site. PLANN1NCi COMMISSION MiN UTFS August 24, 2005 Page 5 of 11