PC 05/27/1998 - Laserfiche WebLink

Mr. Higdon explained that since he was recently on vacation, he did not have an opportunity to discuss the staff report with Mr. Iserson. He reported that approximately one year ago, the property owner dedicated a portion of First Street to the City, so the City waived the applicant's obligations for improvements on First Street. Therefore, Conditions 23 and 59 can be deleted. PUBLIC HEARING WAS CLOSED Commissioner Maas asked for reassurance that the two existing homes adjacent to the site would not have any privacy impacts. Mr. Iserson explained the setbacks and siting of the homes in detail and stated that staff expects very minimal, if any, privacy issues, Commissioner Roberts noted for the record that she visited the site and did not see any wildlife at all, but noticed it was quite noisy at 3:00 p.m., although she realizes there is nothing that can be done about noise on First Street. She assumes that all of the homes in the azea aze used to it. In addition, she feels the design of the homes is very good to address that concern. However, she expressed concern with parcel 3 being so close to First Street and the bus stop, and suggested that more than one tree or other additional buffering be considered there. Overall, she stated that she is very pleased with the project, especially the lower density, and feels it would fit in nicely with the neighborhood. Commissioner Sullivan stated that he supports single-family housing Downtown and agreed with Commissioner Roberts relating to the noise level along First Street and to the exposure of pazcel 3 to First Street and the bus stop. He suggested that the setbacks relating to that pazcel be increased. In addition, he expressed concern with the FAR and stated that although the proposed architectural design is nice, he does not feel it fits in with the surrounding neighborhood. He suggested that the homes be re-designed with a lower FAR and abungalow-type architecture to better fit in with the neighborhood. He also commented that he feels the site may be better-suited for mixed development, such as two single-family residences on lots 1 and 2, and a business on lot 3. Chair Cooper reminded him that according to the Core Overlay District guidelines, commercial businesses are not supposed to cross the First Street boundary. Commissioner Kumazan commented that he feels development in the downtown area has come a long way. He applauded the developer for decreasing the density. However, he shared Commissioner Sullivan's concerns relating to the FAR. However, considering the alternatives, i.e. higher density, he will support the proposed FAR. In addition, he agrees with staff that the unit on lot 1 should be moved back in order to accommodate the guest parking space. Overall, he feels it is an attractive project and feels it will be pleasing to the azea. Commissioner Maas also expressed concern with the noise level and with the setback of lot 3. She also agrees that smaller homes would be more appropriate for the neighborhood. She was also disturbed with having to "screen" the homes, and feels if the project needs to be hidden, then perhaps it does not belong there. In summary, she does not feel she can support the project as submitted, especially because of her concerns with lot 3 being so close to First Street and the bus stop. Chair Cooper pointed out that anybody choosing to live in the downtown area, does so with the knowledge that there will be a certain level of noise. He does not see how the project can be Planning Commission Minutes Page 5 May 27, 1998