PC 05/13/1998 - Laserfiche WebLink

Mr. Iserson also reported that since the small development is not expected to have a significant impact on traffic in the area, no traffic study was required. He commented that staff certainly does not expect traffic generated by the development to exceed the General Plan limits. In addition, Mr. Iserson stated that a tree report had been prepared, and staff, subsequently, recommended the removal and replacement of five large trees. The surrounding neighbors are in agreement with this, and a condition of approval has been included to address this issue as well. Mr. Iserson pointed out that the applicant has made every attempt to locate the buildings on the site so they would have as little impact on the surrounding area as possible. Staff feels the project is well designed and is pleased with the architecture and detailing. It is also consistent with the Downtown Specific Plan, Downtown Design Guidelines, and the Core Overlay District Guidelines. Staff also feels the project would fit in nicely with the downtown area, and recommends approval, subject to the conditions identified in Exhibit "B". Commissioner Maas stated that since the apartment building has stairs, it would prevent a handicapped person from accessing those units. She asked whether this would be in violation of the Americans With Disabilities Act. Mr. Iserson stated that the project is not required to provide handicapped access or a minimum number of units to disabled individuals since thee are no ground floor units which would be accessible to them. In response to a question by Commissioner Maas, Mr. Higdon stated that the telephone poles to the front of the site would remain in place. However, the City hopes to underground the utilities for the entire downtown area in the future when the funds become available. Therefore, the developer would be required to pay a fee toward that future project. Commissioner Maas also expressed concern for visitor parking for the site. Ms. Iserson stated [hat street parking is available on Spring Street, and it is anticipated that guests will park there. In response to a question by Commissioner Roberts, Mr. Iserson stated that the apartrnent units are not designated as affordable units, and he is unsure whether the applicant intends to offer any as such. He felt that since the units are studios, they may practically be affordable. Commissioner Roberts asked whether staff had responded to Kent Shaw's letter and suggestion relating to a one-hour parking limit on Spring Street. Mr. Iserson advised her that staff referred the letter to the Traffic Committee which will be reviewing [he situation soon. He also described the City's general policy relating to parking time limits in the downtown area. A brief discussion took place relating to the parking problems surrounding the subject property as well as at the entire downtown area. RECESS TAKEN AT 8:00 P.M. RECONVENED AT 8:07 P.M. Planning Commission Minutes Page 6 May 13, 1998