PC 09/25/85 - Laserfiche WebLink

Minutes Planning Commissio September 25, 1985 This item was continued to 10/9/85. RZ-85-15, City of Pleasanton Application of the City of Pleasanton to amend the Ordinance Code to create an overlay district to establish design review procedures and design standards for the Central Business District in that area generally bounded by Bernal Avenue, First Street, Stanley Boulevard, the railroad tracks of the Union Pacific Railroad, St. John Street, and Peters Avenue (both sides of said streets). Mr. Swift presented the staff report recommending approval of a draft ordinance and guidelines. The public hearing was opened. Roger Manning, Chairman Downtown Design Review Committee, indicated that the Guidelines are a product of a lot of work of Chris Beratlis, Frank Brandes, Ben Fernandez, Joyce Getty, Bob Harris, Bill Hirst, Judy Mayhew, Bob Philcox, Debra Strong, and Laurie Scott Vintner. He indicated that Judy Mayhew has reviewed the ordinance and finds it to be consistent with the objectives of the guidelines. He urged codification so that outside developers moving into Pleasanton would have a sense of our community. It is desired that it be preserved. Many cities are going through the same process. Mr. Manning stated that the one area of concern is that of changing structures designated as primary. The residential review committee has recommended downtown area have a specific plan. He encouraged the Commission to adopt guidelines which include residential development in the downtown area. Mr. Manning addressed Bill Hirst's new buildings and the fact that Mr. Hirst came to the subcommittee with his plans to finish out the shopping center. The subcommittee felt the original plans should be carried out. The same situation holds true with the area surrounding vets' hall and the Bank of America, i.e., if the gas station were developed, it should be done so in conformance with these two existing structures. Mr. Manning then asked if the homes on the east side of First Street and west side of Peters could be incorporated in the guidelines. They agree with staff recommendation but when these sections develop, it is desired to have the architecture blend in with the existing structures. Commissioner Innes stated that the Planning Commission, City of Saratoga, have requested a copy of the guidelines and liked it. Commissioner Innes asked Mr. Manning if he felt the general consensus of the committee was to preserve buildings as they are now in the downtown area. Mr. Manning stated the intent is to preserve the existing architectural character. He reviewed the four primary types of architecture in the downtown area. The colors of the original period are preferred as opposed to new color schemes. Mr. Manning then discussed the height limitations imposed and the reasons for them. If a structure is two story, - 5 - .. ... ..r.__.. ___._..- _ ... _ ., T.