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Worksho/Js Civic Arts Commission (May 9, 2005) Staff formally introduced the concept/schematic design for the Firehouse to the Civic Arts Commission. While developing the design, alternatives were studied to evaluate if there were opportunities to reduce overall anticipated costs. The alternatives included reductions in gallery area size, theatrical support area, exterior deck scope, theater tech levels, and a reduction of the building height. A number of Task Force members and arts community representatives encouraged the Commission to recommend constructing the project as originally envisioned, since elimination of major components of the building would negate, in their opinion, its functionality. Additionally, Greg Reznick, President of the Pleasanton Cultural Arts Foundation, made a similar appeal and reaffirmed his organization's intention to raise the balance of the funds necessary to complete the project as originally envisioned, should there be a funding shortfall. The Commission agreed and voted unanimously to approve and recommend the concept/schematic design as originally developed and presented by the Task Force and not reduce the scope. Pleasanton Downtown Association Design Committee (November 15,2005) Staff presented the scope and proposed design to the Pleasanton Downtown Association. There was considerable discussion related to the contrasting architecture proposed for connection and addition to the historical Firehouse. Some members voiced concern that the proposed architectural style was too contemporary for the historical setting and that the addition did not blend with the existing historic Firehouse, and, therefore, had reservations about supporting the proposed design. Staff also provided information as to the process and described how a Task Force had been established to define the program elements of the Firehouse Arts Center. The process provided opportunities for stakeholders to participate and provide comments and feedback for the consultant and the City to consider. Related to the use of exterior materials and treatments, staff indicated that the Task Force had been somewhat indecisive for a time on whether to support having more of a "brick" treatment on the new addition facing Railroad Avenue; however, the consensus was that the simple stucco treatment as proposed by the architects would complement rather than compete with the anticipated renovated existing brickwork of the Firehouse. Case No. PDR-507 Planning Commission Page - 8 -