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ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT A draft Mitigated Negative Declaration has been prepared for the proposed project. Based on an initial study, staff believes that the project-related impacts are mitigated, with the mitigation measures incorporated in the project's design or required by conditions of approval, and that there would be no significant or unmitigated environmental impacts. Staff, therefore, believes that the Negative Declaration can be issued in conformance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). If the City Council concurs with this environmental assessment, it must make the finding that the Negative Declaration is appropriate prior to approving the project. CONCLUSION Staff analysis indicates the land use and site design are appropriate and that the applicant has included an adequate amount of usable open space and landscaped areas within the project given the site constraints and transit-oriented type of development. Staff feels that the building design is very attractive and that the architectural style, finish colors, and materials will complement the surrounding area. The project's location near a future BART station and bus stop, Stoneridge Mall, and several large office complexes meets General Plan Policies and Programs that call for locating high-density housing near public transit, major thoroughfares, shopping, and employment centers and which promote mixed-use and transit-compatible development near BART stations. The proposed project also would provide 70 rental units available to very low-income households which would help the City to meet its lower income housing goals. Therefore, staff recommends that the Council approve the proposed project. Submitted by: ~1~../~v Brian Dolan Director of Planning and Community Development Fiscal Review: avid P. Iru ve( r Director of Finance Approved y: /~ Nelson Fialho City Manager Page 8 of 9