CCMIN071895 - Laserfiche WebLink

Ms. Acosta said that there were previous downtown committees which recommended the Ray Street widening, but it was a low priority. But it is still in the downtown plan. Mayor Tarver stated that the widening of Ray Street is an issue that should just go away. He doubts it will ever happen and it should be taken out of the plan. Until it's taken out, it will keep reappearing. Mr. Swift stated that in staff's view the widening of the street is necessary whether or not St. John or Ray Street is realigned. Linda Ariains, 159 Ray Street, requested that Ray Street not be widened. She stated that if the delivery persons who will use Ray Street to deliver to Coffee Roast Express can't make it in the space allotted, they shouldn't be using that street at all. She looked forward to the new business but she is appalled that the Council is putting minor obstacles in the way. Alicia Lutz, 507 St. John Street, felt the fence isn't an issue but the gate is not a good idea. Pleasanton can't afford to lose Coffee Roast Express; the building will be much better than an empty lot with weeds. Christine Bourg, 4512 Second Street, supported the Churkas and felt the community was lucky to have such hard working people in town. She appreciated the Council trying to work with the Churkas when the guidelines are restrictive and don't fit every situation. Gary Schwaegerle, 189 West Angela Street, didn't remember discussions of Ray Street and St. John being realigned in any downtown meetings. The Churkas original design was superior to the proposed design and hoped they would reconsider the first design. Gary Dewees, 1748 Beachwood Way, felt the business is very unusual and supported the project. Businesses like the Churkas should be allowed some exceptions to conduct their business because they fit so well in the community. The landscaping fits well with the residential area. Michael Fahy, 198 Peters Avenue, stated that he and his wife take walks downtown and felt the sidewalk cafe atmosphere is a hinderance to people who walk. Temporary gates and tables can make it difficult to have access for walking. He hoped the process goes fast and that the Churkas will be allowed to build their building. Mayor Tarver closed the public hearing. Ms. Mohr asked if there might be a way from keeping kids from making a nuisance of the lift. She inquired whether the attendant is in view of the lift so the attendant can see if someone needs to use it rather than a kid walking by and ringing the bell. Mr. Huff answered that there wasn't a sure way to keep kids from ringing the bell. 07/18/95 - 11 -