PC 07/29/1998 - Laserfiche WebLink

Sudhish Mohindroo of S & Z/F + M, Design Studio of San Francisco, provided the Commission a comprehensive presentation and slide show of the proposed development. Glen Higgins, 159 Ray Street, expressed concern with the proposed Pacific Union Ventures development due to negative impacts on traffic, parking, and air quality. Further, he requested that the Commission deny the application and maintain residential zoning in this area. Linda Adams, 159 Ray Street, expressed concern with the proposed Pacific Union Ventures development due to negative impacts on traffic, parking, property values, and noise. Further, she requested that the Commission deny the application and maintain residential zoning in this area. Jim Clennon, 4161 Walnut Drive, expressed concern with the proposed Pacific Union Ventures development due to negative impacts on traffic and the lack of design continuity with existing structures. Gary Prince, 4166 Walnut Drive, expressed concern with the proposed Pacific Union Ventures development due to negative impacts on traffic and parking. Sue Axton, 225 Ray Street, expressed concern with the proposed Pacific Union Ventures development due to negative impacts on property values, parking, and traffic. Matt Tunney readdressed the Commission and stated that the applicant has tried to work cooperatively with the neighbors and the staff to address specific issues of concern. In response to an inquiry by Chairperson Cooper relating to the feasibility of a one-story building, the representative stated that a _ one-story building would have a serious impact on feasibility of building. PUBLIC HEARING WAS CLOSED Commissioner Dove stated he had spoken with applicant and the executive director of the Downtown Association and their interest is in creating ambiance in downtown Pleasanton. Further, he stated that the Downtown Association is reviewing issues dealing with pazking and traffic. Further, he expressed concern with the time businesses are allowed to operate and the noise generated. Commissioner Dove expressed support with the project, but suggested azeas of concern be resolved with the neighbors. Commissioner Kumazan stated his appreciation for the visually pleasing design of the project, but stated his concerns aze with the Main and Ray Street traffic issues and the impacts on the traffic and congestion due to this project being approved. Further, he stated that Ray Street will remain a congested street due to the removal of the realignment of Ray Street in the Specific Plan and he is not in favor of exacerbating traffic issues on Ray Street. Further, he spoke in favor of the area being utilized as single-family homes and residential. Commissioner Kumaran stated that due to the plans impact on the public's health, safety, and general welfare and the impact on traffic, he is not in support of the project. However, he stated that this is a desirable project, just not in this location. Commissioner Sullivan stated that in his opinion this project does not meet the specific land use goals as contained in the General Plan. Further, he suggested amixed-use development utilizing office and residential, as referenced in the Downtown Specific Plan to lessen impacts on traffic and pazking, and if designed correctly would blend with the residential character of the surrounding downtown neighborhood. In addition, he stated after hearing the opinions of residents, his second option would be PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES Page 3 July 29, 1998