PC 01/08/86 - Laserfiche WebLink

PUD-85-19, Vandenberghe Properties Application of Vandenberghe Properties for rezoning from ~~0~~ (Office) to the PUD (Planned Unit Development) District and development plan approval to construct a four story, 64,000 sq. ft. office building on an approximately 4.9 acre site located on the north side of Happy Valley Road, between the Southern Pacific Transportation Company right of way and Interstate 680. Mr. Swift presented the staff report recommending denial of this application. He reviewed the public improvements the City would like to see done with approval of this project. Mr. Swift passed out material samples of the reflective glass and brick proposed to be used indicating that the brick may not be the ultimate brick used. Chairman Wilson asked why the City would ask the developer to take the bridge down. He would think the railroad company would take it down because it is so narrow that it would create a liability for them. Mr. Swift stated that staff is only requiring that it be removed, but to move it they will need approval from the County or Southern Pacific. Light rail, if located there, will not be there for a long time. Alameda County is taking steps to acquire the property for transit purposes. Commissioner Michelotti asked about the equipment screening. Mr. Swift stated that the developer indicated to him today that the equipment screening will extend 5 feet above the parapet. Commissioner Innes asked about site coverage and floor area ratio. Mr. Swift deferred to the applicant. The public hearing was opened. Jack Bras, architect, represented Vandenberghe Properties. He indicated they are not prepared to discuss this matter in depth because they did not have time to review the staff report until 1:30-2:OOpm today and they do take exception with some of the engineering conditions. He then asked for a continuance to the next meeting. Chairman Wilson stated the Commission would have no objection to continuing the hearing but there are several people in the audience to address this matter and would like to, therefore, open the public hearing and then continue it. Milt Jones, 976 Happy Valley Road, represented the Alisal Improvement Cub. They feel such a narrow tunnel is a terrible hazard. If a vehicle such as a school bus goes through it, a car can't make it through at the same time and to put a 64,000 sq. ft. office building on the east would be a terrible mistake because the travelers to the site would have to go through it. He questioned the need of a four-story office building in the area, especially one made out of steel and glass in this rural setting. The existing Vandenberghe building fits in well aesthetically with its surroundings. Commissioner Lindsey asked Mr. Jones if he would be willing to work with the applicant. Mr. Jones indicated he would be willing. - 2 -