PC 09/09/1998 - Laserfiche WebLink

Elaine Koopman, owner of Adobe Plaza, addressed the concerns raised by Mr. Higgins and recounted previous conversations held with Mr. Higgins. She stated that Mr. Higgins has never previously addressed areas of concem with the owners of Adobe Plaza. She informed the Commission that in order to eliminate noise emanating out of the studio, Mr. Oliveira could be required to keep the door shut. Ms. Koopman concluded by commending Mr. Oliveira's actions as a tenant and expressed concern with losing him as a tenant. Discussion ensued relating to the property owners' responsibility in ensuring that tenants fulfill and comply with legal requirements. Gary Prince, 4166 Walnut Drive, expressed concern with the pedestrian traffic and congestion on Ray Street. He concluded by requesting that the Commission decide whether this type of business is compatible on Ray Street. Jim Clennon, 4161 Walnut Drive, expressed concern with traffic issues and pedestrian traffic issues in the Ray Street azea. He noted there is additional traffic due to the martial arts studio's occupancy and parents dropping off and picking up their children. He expressed concern with the neon light signage and with the applicant's failure to abide by City rules and regulations. He requested that the Planning Commission be cautious in granting approval of the application. Ricazdo Oliveira, applicant, readdressed the Commission and reiterated the steps he is taking to address neighbors' concerns including keeping doors closed and no classes after 8:30 p.m. PUBLIC HEARING WAS CLOSED Commissioner Maas stated if this application had originally come before the Planning Commission, she would not have voted in favor of a martial arts studio being allowed in the Adobe Park shopping center due to the quiet nature and hours of the businesses in the shopping center. She noted she is not in favor of a marital arts studio being in this shopping center and desires to see this in an area away from residences. Further, she stated that, as noted in the traffic report, Ray Street is one of the most congested azeas in Pleasanton. She concluded by expressing her concurrence with staff s recommendation to deny the application for a conditional use permit. Commissioner Cooper stated if this application were a new application before the Commission, he would have supported it; however he expressed concern with the applicant's failure to apply for the conditional use permit and comply with the neighbors" and City's various requests regazding noise and the sign. He expressed his reluctance to rule against an existing business owner, but due to the applicant's violations of the conditional use permit and his reluctance in cooperating with the neighbors, he will vote in support of staff s recommendation to deny the application for a conditional use permit. Commissioner Roberts expressed her concurrence with Commissioner Maas and Cooper's comments. Further, she noted that due to the nature of the business, there is increased traffic in the azea due to the parents picking up and dropping off children. She stated that if the business were located in a more suitable location, parents would decrease their amount of trips and use the facilities of the shopping PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES Page 4 September 9, 1998