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Staff reported that the proposed event center and winery facility would establish a compatible use for the area and would meet the goals of the Pleasanton General Plan and the South Livermore Valley Area Plan. The overall design of the proposed development includes many architectural features that are seen in wineries of the Napa/Sonoma area. The fountain and the entrance are the focal point, while the gallery and the inner courtyard area create an attractive, pedestrian-oriented space. The views of the facility from Vineyard Avenue and Isabel Avenue would reinforce the winemaking heritage of the Ruby Hill area. As proposed and conditioned, staff and the Planning Commission found the project compatible with existing homes in the Ruby Hill development. Councilmember Cook-Kallio clarified the events building is an events center and not a full service restaurant open to the public at all times. It was noted that the lighting plan would be looked at closely as they get to the permitting stage for the project. Referencing the building where the wine production will be done, it was noted that is not considered to be a nuisance activity because of the lack of noise. In response to Council it was noted that when there is an event going on at the Center, wine tasting for the public would not be conducted. Mayor Hosterman opened the public hearing. Mike Callahan, applicant, addressed the City Council and noted staff was very thorough with their presentation. He advised they have had numerous meetings with the neighbors and staff has been very involved in that process. He explained the process by which he configured the project and feels they have come up with an acceptable plan and noted he has pledged to the neighbors to work through issues that may come forward. Since working with the neighbors regarding the most recent landscape plan and amending it according to their wishes, he requested that they be spared another public hearing that was being required by the Planning Commission and approve the landscape plan this evening or perhaps the Council could authorized the Planning Director to approve the plan. In response to question, Mr. Callahan noted the wine tasting room would be 4,800 square feet. About 2,000 square feet of it will be barrel storage and the other 2/3rds will be for wine tasting. They plan to put in consignment art from local artists, arts and crafts. He felt this would be one of the nicer facilities in the entire Livermore Valley. Councilmember McGovern clarified that it is not common for a wine-tasting facility to be open when there is a wedding. It was noted that the tasting room closes at 5 p.m. and that most weddings start at 6 p.m. and go to 10 p.m. It is rare that there would be competing events, but it would not be closed down if that were to happen due to visitors who travel from out-of-town. With respect to any needed overflow parking, it was noted that they would have to work with staff to provide for that. It is not their preference to put any parking out on the street. It was noted the maximum capacity for an event could be up to 400 people, but in most instances weddings entertain approximately 200 people. City Council Minutes 7 December 19, 2006