PC 01/11/78 - Laserfiche WebLink

Secretary Harris directed the Commission's attention to Page 3 of the staff report and the eight points denoting rationale for using Pico Avenue as one of the accesses. Secretary Harris stated that staff recommendation is for approval of the PUD, but denial of the development plan. Staff feels this type of facility is needed and that the location can be appropriate. Some discussion ensued regarding the needs assessment conducted by the Human Services Commission on housing needs for the elderly. A Mr. Terence Snyder, resident on Foxswallow Circle, then spoke in favor of the proposal. He stated that he has many friends in Pleasanton and hoped that he could continue to live in town after he retires. Next, Mr. Bob Reid, 4525 Mirador Drive, spoke. He cited similar develop- ments in Oakland which offer the same services for far less monthly rental. He urged the Planning Commission to carefully review this application. Mr. Jim Duncan, 335 Abbie Street, described the constant noise experienced by residents in the area during summer. He worried that this development would increase that problem. The Public Hearing was closed on the EIR review. Commissioner Wood commented that the project would cause significant adverse impacts on the environment. He asked for advice as to what legal phraseology to use to make findings of significant impact. Mr. Levine responded. Commissioner Shepherd said that he felt the traffic impacts were very inadequately dealt with in the report. Secretary Harris told the Commissioners that if they find that traffic impacts would be significant, although it is not listed as an unavoidable adverse impact, they could make that finding. This was one of staff's concerns and a reason why staff cannot endorse the development plan. Chairman Butler took the position that the EIR could be accepted. He felt it was entirely possible to discuss whether those impacts listed, and added by the Planning Commission are mitigatable. Commissioner Doherty also identified traffic problems as a significant impact, but that staff's recommendation for redesign of the project to allow access only from Pico Avenue is a method of mitigation. He then reviewed the other impacts, concluding that the EIR is adequate and meets CEQA guidelines. Chairman Butler commented that he had heard many comments pertaining to desirability of keeping this location in open space, but it is important to remember that unless someone is willing to purchase the property to keep it in open space, it is not likely to remain so forever. The impacts of this project must be weighted against another development which might occur on the property. -4 - ....,.._.._...__ _._..._.. . _. _. ._..~ . r.._