12 Exhibits - Laserfiche WebLink

recommendation to Council; there are many reports and comments that he is not aware of and would like to see before making any recommendation. Pamela Ott cautioned the EVC to be aware of not duplicating the type/depth of review as provided by the Planning Commission. Mark Heidohrn commented that the first reaction from residents would "why we need two Home Depots in Pleasanton?" Pete Knoedler responded that the current Home Depot is scheduled to remain in business as the lease was recently renewed for another 10 years. He also noted that some Pleasanton residents have to drive across town to patronize Home Depot, and many go to Livermore. He added that Home Depot completes extensive studies before they proceed on a project to ensure there is enough market demand. Ralph Sabiel asked about the expected impact to other businesses in the area, and if there are restrictions as to the type of businesses that will be allowed in the center. He also questioned whether the retail spaces would be available for lease or purchase. Mr. Knoedler suggested the shopping center would be a benefit for the area, especially for those businesses in Stanley Business Park. He also answered that the retail space would be leased with no restrictions as to type of use. Dave Walden asked why Longs Drugs was considered, and not a grocery store. Mr. Walden also expressed concern with traffic, specifically noting that commuters make U-turns at the light at Utah Street and Valley Avenue. Pete Knoedler responded that Regency Centers did address the need for a grocery store and that the study indicated grocery operators were not interested in that site, also noting that grocery stores draw a lot of traffic during peak commute hours. He added that the concern about U-turns would hopefully be resolved by the installation of a signal light at Utah Street and Bernal Avenue, where there will be an entrance to the shopping center. Judy Wheeler asked if the estimated tax revenue was is in addition to the revenue from the existing Home Depot. Mr. Knoedler said that there would be some overlap but the store would produce a significant amount of its own tax revenue. Ms. Wheeler shared that she feels that economic impact (positive or negative) to the surrounding area relies on the tenants in the shopping center; she hopes that the lessees will be businesses that aren't current located in Pleasanton so they won't affect the downtown businesses. City Council member Jerry Throne indicated that he anticipates a lively City Council meeting (when this project is considered) and that neighborhoods will be split on the decision. He feels a recommendation from the EVC would be valuable. James Paxson shared that the Planning Commission vote was 4 to 1, in favor of the project. Mr. Paxson commented that as someone who seeks support for projects, he likes the idea of having the opportunity to make a recommendation. Mr. Paxson noted that he believes the project would be an asset to the city. Mr. Paxson feels that the EVC needs to have some basis for evaluating a project, including financial data indicating a project's projected impact. Chris Crabtree commented that the property is a perfect location for a shopping center project, and that Regency Centers is a first class company. He is in full support of the project.