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Ms. Rocha further explained that the location of the replacement tank was determined by the contractor. It is on the side of the garage therefore does not block the Segundo's view into her backyard from their house. Since they have a flat lot their front view is Ms. Rocha's back lot. After more research, while there is no absolute location where the tank needs to be, it is most convenient, efficient and effective to have it in one location all together. In response to an email, the supplier of the tank sent a typical system demonstrating that normally the storage tank and wellhead and booster pump are located in the same area. It is especially important to install the booster pump within ten feet of the tank to prevent the pump from need to pull water a long distance. Ms. Rocha reported that the Segundo's paid East Bay Pump to perform an inspection of the fence. They removed trees facing the front of their property to allow for more openness after she cleaned up her property. The neighbors on Diamond Court have a better view of the groomed pasture. If the property is such an eyesore, she questioned why the Segundo's would remove vegetation to view it. They removed a pine tree in April, but the trees that were screening the property were removed at a later time. According to staff report, only the pine tree had a permit not the live oak or apple trees. After the tank was placed, Ms. Rocha said she planted redwood trees along the rear and side facing Diamond Court to insure screening and privacy. The city landscape architect stated that the redwoods would grow 3 feet per year and would provide adequate screening in the next one to two years. Within the last two months, the Segundo's planted new trees and shrubs between the two properties to screen the tank from view. Ms. Rocha expressed regret that the Segundo's find the tank a detractor. However, it is a water storage tank and looks like one. It serves its utility purpose, and there are many similar tanks in the area. Moving the tank farther down would not completely shield the tank from the Segundo's view since their property is 6 feet higher in elevation and they could still see it from their driveway, pool area and vineyard. Ms. Rocha felt that that her privacy has been invaded and that she has been living under a microscope. She expressed hope that she could finally enjoy her property quietly and that the Council members would up hold the decision and uphold the review. Vice Mayor Thorne opened the public hearing. Kevin Close said he was a long time resident of the Happy Valley area, agreed with Ms. Rocha and the Planning Commission that the appeal should be denied. He said he drives on Sycamore and does not see the tank unless he slows down and pays attention. The redwood and landscape planting will provide screening. A 5,000 gallon tank is standard for the amount of landscaping and for fire protection. William Hicks said the issue was larger than two neighbors not getting along; it is a matter of agriculture meeting suburbs and unfortunately, Ms Rocha is on the border of both. Where there used to be small ranchettes, there are now big homes being built and these disagreements will continue as development grows. Pleasanton started as a farm community and it would be a shame to loose that heritage by pushing everyone out or back to where agricultural land is no longer seen. Ms. Rocha needs an adequate system for her landscaping and she has been trying to be cooperative. Vice Mayor Thorne noted there were no rebuttals and closed the public hearing. City Council Minutes 9 August 19, 2008