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assurances that the azea would remain open space and that it was absurd that the (~ neighbors needed to come and speak when prior approvals have already determined the site to remain as open space. He expressed his resentment to staffl s representation of the uses allowed by the Public & Institutional zoning, making it appeaz that the neighbors should be pleased to have housing instead on the site. He indicated that the half-acre site was designed as a setback mitigation for the approval of the convalescent care facility. He stated that the proposed homes should not be allowed and requested the Commission to deny the project. Bonnie Kirchbaum, 303 Neal Street, indicated her opposition to the development of the two vacant lots and would like them to remain as open space for the neighborhood. She expressed her concern that the Planning Commission had not been provided the 1971 approval documents she had on hand and felt that staff was trying to hold back the documents from the decision makers. She added that in 1971, the Design Review Board and the Planning Commission changed the zoning on the site and that Resolution No. 1070, dated February 23, 1971, approved a 129-bed facility with the condition that the parcel not be any smaller than 3.44 acres, which required the then developer to purchase land to maintain the minimum site size for the project. She added that the conditions dated December 14, 1971 required a front setback of 145 feet and a landscaping plan. She stated that she was not in favor of having lazge homes on small lots and preferred not to have the lot split. She stated that the City's promises to retain this open space should be kept and noted that no changes should be allowed. ~-- Steve Samuelian, 300 Neal Street, owner and applicant, provided an overview of the development and rehabilitation of the facility, indicating that a new roof had been installed, a design review process undertaken for a porte cochere, and the patio and outdoor areas were under rehabilitation. He described the liability issues the facility faced with the neighborhood believing that the open space azea was considered to be a "bona fide pazk" for its use and enjoyment. Mr. Samuelian clarified that the proposed project was less than the 40-percent FAR required. He emphasized that he was not an outside investor and wished to continue to be a good neighbor. He noted that the house was a bonus for his facility manager's hazd work and dedication to Generations Healthcare. He stated that they had worked hazd with staff to bring a project forwazd that would fit in the neighborhood and added that while he liked the wraparound porch and the high-pitched roof, he would be happy to work with staff's preference. Christine Bourg, 4512 Second Street, believed the open space should remain in perpetuity and disagreed with the City's deference to developers. She expressed her resentment at having the neighbors continue to come to meetings and noted that if staff did their job, the project would not be supported and would never have been allowed to get this far. THE PUBLIC HEARING WAS CLOSED. ~-' PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES June 14, 2006 Page 15 of 18