PC 06/24/1998 - Laserfiche WebLink

monthly basis. He stated that he would rather think of other forms of subsidy such as Meals-on-Wheels, the purchase of additional shuttle transportation for City programs, and Dial-a-Ride. He stated that he would be happy to continue working with staff on this matter. Chair Cooper inquired if Mr. Bland would be willing to consider limiting Saturday work to internal building work in consideration for the neighbors. Mr. Bland replied that he would like to be a good neighbor from the outset and would, therefore, prefer to have the flexibility to work with them. Chair Cooper asked if he would respond to construction complaints the City may receive from the neighbors. Mr. Bland said yes. PUBLIC HEARING WAS CLOSED Commissioner Roberts stated that she likes the project and believes it will be a positive addition to the City because there is a need for this type of project in Pleasanton. However, she has a problem with the deceleration lane because it can be confusing to have so many deceleration and acceleration lanes too close together. If there is a need for an extra lane, the City should install it. She indicated that she was pleased with the tree analysis and the applicant's desire to save as many trees as possible. She stated that she did not have a problem with affordability because most Pleasanton residents may not qualify for affordable housing when they become seniors. She indicated that she would support the project with the elimination of the deceleration lane. Commissioner Sullivan stated that it is a beautiful facility and is definitely needed in Pleasanton. He ' added that he supported the provision for affordable housing because there is a need. for affordable facilities for the elderly. He commended the applicant for saving and relocating trees; however, he has a major concern with the project's location and the noise issue. He believed that the intent of the General Plan is not to have residential areas with noise levels this high because it impacts qualnty of life. He indicated that while this project is zoned Office because it is a business, it is also a residence. He found it unacceptable to have border-line noise levels in a residential facility. Commissioner Maas indicated that she liked the project, and that there is a need for this facility for the elderly. She appreciated the applicant's desire to save and transplant as many the trees as possible. She found the color scheme calming and appropriate for the project. She stated that she cannot support the deceleration lane and suggested await-and-see approach to the issue. Mr. Iserson commented that this was brought up for discussion, but the traffic engineer is not comfortable with that solution because installing the lane after an accident occurs would set the City up for liability. Commissioner Kumaran stated that the need for the facility is present and that it is in conformance with the General Plan. He expressed concern with a 50 percent FAR because it makes the structure look massive and lessens the space available for residents to walk around the facility. He indicated that the General Plan recommends a 35 percent FAR and suggested that 40 percent would be acceptable for this project. He supported the need for a deceleration lane to enter the facility, but questioned the need for an acceleration lane from the Rose Pavilion and requiring the applicant to pay for it. He agreed with the applicant's proposal that the City pay for that portion of the lane. With respect to affordability, he suggested that strong wording be included to ensure that Pleasanton citizens have first priority to avail of Planning Commission Minutes Page 12 June 24, 1998