CCMIN101706 - Laserfiche WebLink

In response to Council questions, staff noted the open space would be rezoned open space/agricultural, which is a General Plan Amendment. It was noted the intent is for the City to maintain ownership of the open space, but there is a condition of approval to pursue a secondary option to guarantee that the property is maintained as open space and one of the vehicles to do that is through the Tri-Valley Conservancy and the East Bay Parks Foundation. Staff went over the proposed design guidelines and the approval process for the homes. In response to question from Council regarding building the entire Alviso Adobe and repaying the developer for the cost of doing that, staff noted that would not be possible. This option was explored as a way to save the City some money by having them privately constructed, but the Government Code does not allow transfer of public property to a private entity for the construction of a public improvement. Discussion ensued regarding the trail, noting the vision is that it will be a walking trail and something natural that blends in with the site. Staff explained the 35 foot strip of land transfer, which is primarily between the applicant and the residents. It was noted that the applicant has discussed this with the neighbors indicating they would be prepared and willing to dedicate an additional 35 feet to the residence on Jorgenson Lane at the rear yard. Councilmember McGovern advised that she has met with the developer. She noted concern with having continued flexibility with some of the conditions, such as the design of the Alviso Adobe. She did not want to see the City give up some of the rights such as picnic table areas, or the idea of having additional parking. Staff responded they recognized the need for additional detailed planning for the park and felt that options need to be left open and flexible. Councilmember McGovern also commented on the possibility of the 4H Club to help manage the cows and keep up the barn location on the property. She expressed concern whether they would have flexibility to construct accessory buildings should they be needed. Staff responded that there is the possibility for that to occur and it could be a part of the future planning for the site. Mr. Iserson noted the property and the Alviso Adobe will come to the Council in the future as a PUD. The Council will see this project come forward at the point in time when the entire project is being considered for approval and it can be conditioned to include picnic tables and storage. In response to Council question regarding 8,000 square feet homes, staff noted the lots are quite large and from a marketing standpoint, the homes also will be large. The use of second units was discussed and it was noted they are a permitted use in the zoning ordinance and could be a possibility. It was noted that second units is not a part of the development proposal but something could be added to encourage their use. Staff explained how housing height is measured and what kind of square footage is included in the FAR. City Council Minutes 5 October 17, 2006