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that the trees be saved, that they be bonded, to be replaced with 24 inch boxed trees if a tree is destroyed during construction, and that they contribute to the City's Urban Forestry Fund. Councilmember McGovern referenced the City's FAR and variances in the downtown and noted the City has no common practice on this issue. Staff responded there is some guidance already through the Specific Plan and the Design Guidelines for the Downtown. There is some desire to move forward on some additional changes and possibly modifying some standards. Staff indicated the appropriate mechanism would be during the Council's priority setting. If the Council feels this is an issue that is a priority for staff to work on, then staff would get involved in some manner to a resource for a grass roots effort in the community or to organize it ourselves. Mayor Hosterman opened the public hearing. Peter MacDonald, representing Dustin and Robin Boyce, noted with regard to the back wall that the pony wall is 5 feet back from the property line. He also noted there is 1 ,665 square feet of open space in the back with decorated pavers. He explained the Boyce's proposal and provided details of the plan. He commented on the opposition from members of the neighborhood, as well as those who support them. He noted the proposed home design addresses all the constraints of this unusual lot and there is no compelling reason why the Boyce's should be prohibited by the City Council from improving their Pleasanton home. Jason Albright addressed Council regarding the architectural issues of the proposed home. He detailed the proposal and commented on some of the site constraints. He noted the design challenges and the desire to preserve the historic nature of the lot. Dustin Boyce provided a presentation on his proposed addition. He discussed the history of their ownership of the property and how they have been working with the City for over a year on their application. He addressed the major objections of the neighborhood and detailed, in length, the proposed variances. He requested that Council approve their plans and make the required finding for the height variance. He commented on his efforts to work with the neighbors on issues of concern, as well as litigation matters that were necessary in order that they be able to utilize their land with the same rights as others. Robin Boyce addressed Council with a brief overview of their application. She noted what she really wants for her family is a decent, livable home, that conforms to the standards in their neighborhood. She noted their home, as it is, is not the quality that she wants for her family and it has not been updated like many of the homes in their neighborhood. She stressed they are not trying to create a monster-sized home. She noted how they have worked with the neighbors and urged Council's approval. Steve Wickersham, Attorney, addressed the City Council representing Dustin and Robin Boyce in their case again Grace Lutman. He went over the history of the Lutman property and the fence at issue. He urged Council's support of this application and to be the voice of reason. City Council Minutes 11 October 17, 2006