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Principal Planner Donna Decker reviewed the applicant's request to rezone an approximately 7500 square foot parcel at the above mentioned location from RM-1500 to PUD-HDR. The designation would allow approximately 17.6 dwelling units per acre which meets the General Plan's high density residential requirements of greater than 8 units per acre. The current site contains an existing duplex comprised of one 1200 square foot unit and one 860 square foot unit. The applicant is proposing to demolish the existing garage and remodel the remaining structure to be a two-story single family residential unit. This would allow the construction of two new additional units to the rear of the property with a net site gain of one unit. The development standards of this PUD are compatible with adjacent zoning RM-4, have been evaluated for conformity with the Downtown Specific Plan and Downtown Design Guidelines, and are believed by the PHA to reflect those documents adopted by the City. Ms. Decker outlined the issues mitigated by the conditions of approval including $4,000 payable to the Urban Forestry Fund for the removal of two unhealthy trees along the rear of the property as well as retention and bonding of the three remaining trees. The applicant has also agreed to pay an additional $2500 to the Bernal Park Fund for the net one unit since the site is in close proximity to the downtown area. The Planning Commission also heard concerns surrounding the adequacy of open space, which meets the minimum 300 square feet per unit, and the design of the wall along the rear of the property. This was more of a design discussion and that neighbor did not express any concern over the matter. Councilmember McGovern confirmed that the application is for three homes with three bedrooms and 300 square feet of open space each. Councilmember McGovern confirmed that the grassy area in front of unit 1 is counted as open space. She asked if it will be fenced and indicated a safety concern of children given the proximity to the street. Ms. Decker explained that there are plans for fencing at the rear property line and that the applicant may do so in front if they choose. Councilmember McGovern noted that the PDA is constantly complaining about limited parking in the downtown area, proposed that the minimal parking here will have an impact on that, and asked if the PDA had been consulted for an opinion. She also asked if consideration has been given to adequate parking in light of increasing FARs. Mr. Fialho said that the applicant has followed the Specific Plan that is in place and thought that this project may be too far removed from the core downtown district to concern the PDA. Councilmember McGovern reiterated her concerns over adequate parking, said that placing three units with a total of nine bedrooms and one guest parking space makes no sense, and stressed the need to consider the impacts of increased FARs. Mayor Hosterman opened the public hearing. Cody White and Nate Morales, applicants, thanked staff for navigating them through the planning process and offered to answer any questions that the Council may have. Mayor Hosterman asked if they had explored any green building practices with staff especially with regards to increasing energy efficiencies. Mr. White explained that one of the conditions of approval required them to update to the new green building guidelines, under which they scored a total of 70 points. City Council Minutes Page 17 of 19 February 17, 2009