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Philip Ciesielski, 4160 Stanley, asked if the original screening could be replaced prior to approval of the structure. He believed that the neighbors did not oppose Mr. Chestnut improving his property. The problem is he should have talked to the neighbors first. He felt the Planning Commission made the proper decision and that the Council should uphold their decision. He did hope the differences could be worked out. Ed MeNally, 6770 Paseo Cataline, hoped that he could improve his home without approval of his neighbors so long as the plans meet codes and city regulations. He asked Council to approve the application because the plans comply with city codes and regulations. He had concems, as a homeowner, what the consequences will be if this application is denied. Tom Dear, 4120 Stanley Boulevard, objected to the orientation and the design of the building. He was offended by a letter sent by Mr. Chestnut referring to the homes on Stanley Boulevard as being ugly. There are nine neighbors that have objected to this project. He felt the Chestnuts missed an important step in the process by not approaching the neighbors. In order to preserve the historical neighborhoods, the neighbors should be involved. He wished that it could be done over. He agreed that a change to the structure or addition could enhance the surrounding property,just not the way it is currently proposed. He is willing to work with the Chestnuts. Mr. Chestnut said the house he referred to as ugly is his own and he is only trying to restore the existing house. He showed pictures of the ivy that had grown on the barn and explained why it had to be removed. Ms. Ayala asked how far the ivy extended away from the bam and if there were any trees removed next to the bam. Mr. Chestnut said the ivy extended approximately two feet. No trees were removed around the barn. Two trees were removed, one by the garage and one, at Mr. Knapp's request, by the driveway that overhung onto Mr. Knapp's property. Mayor Tarver asked if there was a structure; hidden under the ivy. Mr. Chestnut said there was no structure: the ivy was holding up pieces of wood. He wanted to address the comments made. He hoped the Council, by looking at the architectural design, would see the character of the proposed house. He showed a picture of a heritage house on Second Street that is similar in size to the house he is proposing. He is willing to work with Mr. Rodondi to mitigate the side of the house that blocks his view. He felt his large house could live with the one-story houses and still have character and charm that the downtown area requires. He could live with small alterations, but he does not want to change the entire plan. He has invested considerable money. To buy this property, and not be able to develop it, is a financial burden. He did not think he would be faced with this, because he worked with the city before he closed escrow. He has complied with the city codes and regulations. He is asking that he be allowed to build the Pleasanton City Council 16 02/16/99 Minutes