body,date,page,text,path
CommissiononPersonswithDisabilities,2007-07-23,1,"UNAPPROVED
COMMISSION ON DISABILITY ISSUES
MEETING MINUTES OF
July 23, 2007
TIME
The meeting convened at 6:50 P.M.
PRESENT
Chair Lord-Hausman, Vice-Chair Moore and Commissioners Berger, Fort,
Hakanson, Kirola, Robinson and Kreitz.
ABSENT
None.
MINUTES
The minutes of the June 18, 2007 meeting were approved with the following correction:
Commissioner Kirola stated that the word Board should be changed to Commission throughout the
minutes.
WRITTEN COMMUNICATIONS
There was no written communication.
NEW BUSINESS
1. Introduction of New Commission Members (Chair Lord-Hausman):
Chair Lord-Hausman introduced and welcomed new Commissioner's John Robinson and
Roberta Kreitz.
2.
Revision of Rehabilitation Program Guidelines to Include Accessibility Modifications
Grants for Homeowners and Renters (staff):
Miriam Delagrange, Development Manager from the Development Services Department, gave a
presentation regarding a change in the existing accessibility modification program. The City's
Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) would provide all funding and the tenant would
have to meet the income guidelines. The total program budget is for $50,000 (see Attachment A
for key points of program).
Commissioner Hakanson asked if staff is working with Access California? Miriam responded
no, but took the information down.
Commissioner Berger asked if Gallagher and Lindsey were included in this program? Miriam
responded that Gallagher and Lindsey is not involved, as their preference is to develop their own
programs.",CommissiononPersonswithDisabilities/2007-07-23.pdf
CommissiononPersonswithDisabilities,2007-07-23,2,"Commission on Disability Issues
July 23, 2007
Minutes
Page 2 of 6
Commissioner Berger asked if funding was available to restore units back to pre-modification
standards? Miriam responded that no funding is available for that type of work.
Commissioner Longley-Cook stated that if pre-modification funding were available, it would be
more of an incentive for property owners to participate in the program.
Commissioner Hakanson also suggested that the Rent Review Advisory Board be consulted in
this pilot program.
Vice-Chair Moore asked what is the incentive of the overall program? Miriam responded that it
is free to the homeowner and the rent is low.
Chair Lord-Hausman asked how is this information being communicated to landlords? Miriam
indicated that a press release is in the works, which will be forwarded to local landlords. Vice-
Chair Moore also suggested including the Regional Communication Center.
Commissioner Kreitz suggested forwarding this information to the Board of Realtors.
Vice-Chair Moore asked how many have signed on to the program? Miriam responded only one,
as it just started. Commissioner Hakanson asked if there is a designated list of contractors to
perform the accessibility modifications? Miriam responded, yes.
Miriam concluded the presentation and thanked the Commissioners for their input.
3. Blanding Avenue Accessibility Items (Chair Lord-Hausman):
Chair Lord-Hausman expressed access concern on Blanding Street, specifically between
Blanding and Park Street, along the south side, as there is no sidewalk for pedestrian access and
cars are parked along that path. Chair Lord-Hausman has passed this information to the ADA
Coordinator (Secretary Akil) to address within the update of the ADA Transition Plan.
Commissioner Berger asked if there was a penalty that could be imposed on the cars parking
along the pedestrian path? Chair Lord-Hausman responded that the APD violation is $15 to $20.
Commissioner Longley-Cook stated that APD should be notified about the illegal parking. Chair
Lord-Hausman agreed with the suggestion.",CommissiononPersonswithDisabilities/2007-07-23.pdf
CommissiononPersonswithDisabilities,2007-07-23,3,"Commission on Disability Issues
July 23, 2007
Minutes
Page 3 of 6
OLD BUSINESS
1. Discuss Final Changes Regarding the Start Time of Board Meetings (Chair Lord-
Hausman/Secretary Akil):
Secretary Akil distributed the amended version of the Commission's By-laws to reflect the new
meeting start time of 6:30P.M. It was also mentioned that the meeting ending time was changed
to 8:30 P.M. as the meetings are to last no longer than two hours unless an extension was
motioned and voted on by the Commissioners. The Commission accepted these changes.
2.
Commission on Disability Internet Link (Chair Lord-Hausman/Secretary Akil):
Chair Lord-Hausman and Secretary Akil informed the Commission that they had a met with
Leon King, Interim IT Director, regarding the addition of an accessibility link onto the City's
website. Mr. King presented an outline of what an accessibility website would include and
provided an estimate of a minimum cost of $3,000 to get the site up and running. Chair Lord-
Hausman suggested that some of the design work for the website could be completed by outside
help at a less expensive rate, in lieu of the City contracted consultant. Mr. King agreed that was
a viable option, especially since the Commission does not have a budget with the City. Chair
Lord-Hausman inquired if the website could be maintained by staff in order to decrease
maintenance cost, to which Mr. King replied it can be managed in-house. Chair Lord-Hausman
and Secretary Akil agreed to follow up with Mr. King after reviewing what alternatives could be
achieved in order to reduce cost and would schedule a follow up meeting. Commissioner
Hakanson provided the Chair with other possible links. Vice-Chair Moore responded that the
accessibility link is extremely important and needs to happen. Chair Lord-Hausman agreed and
requested that each Commissioner provide their top three choices for inclusion onto the
accessibility link, for consideration.
3. Transportation Element for General Plan Amendment California Environmental Quality
Act Review (staff):
There were no additional comments received from the Commission concerning the draft
Transportation Element. Commissioner Longley-Cook's comments were previously forwarded
to PW staff by Chair Lord-Hausman.
4. Disability Awareness Month (Vice Chair Moore):
Vice-Chair Moore stated that the Commission will have to seek City Council approval in order
to designate a location for the tree planting. Chair Lord-Hausman suggested that this issue be
G:\LucretialCommDisability\Minutes\2007AMinutes_072307.0",CommissiononPersonswithDisabilities/2007-07-23.pdf
CommissiononPersonswithDisabilities,2007-07-23,4,"Commission on Disability Issues
July 23, 2007
Minutes
Page 4 of 6
addressed through the Public Works Department (PW) and directed Vice-Chair Moore to contact
Ed Sommerauer in PW. Commissioner Berger stated that up to three trees can be purchased for
$10 from the Arbor Group. Commissioner Berger also asked if anyone had contacted the
Miracle Baseball League in order to possibly plant a tree? Chair Lord-Hausman responded that
she would follow up with Roberta Rockwell from the League.
5. PAPCO (Chair Lord-Hausman):
This item is continued to the August meeting. Previously, Chair Lord-Hausman stated that
Barry Bergman of the Public Works Department confirmed that they have identified a possible
representative to participate on the PAPCO Commission. She will follow up to confirm that has
been done.
6.
Commissioner Duties (Chair Lord-Hausman):
Chair Lord-Hausman encouraged the Commission to look out for other Board packets regarding
information on disability issues as it affects the community.
STAFF COMMUNICATIONS
1. Commission Budget
At the May meeting, the Commission inquired as to whether or not a budget exists for minor
expenditures for activities. Secretary Akil contacted Ed Sommerauer, former Secretary,
regarding past budget practices and Juelle Ann Boyer, Chief Finance Officer, to determine what,
if any, budgets exist for other Boards and Commissions. Mr. Sommerauer indicated that there
has never been a budget set aside for the Commission on Disability Issues and Ms. Boyer
indicated that none of the City's Volunteer Boards or Commissions are funded, unless
specifically earmarked by the Department that oversees it. Commissioner Kreitz asked ifit would
be appropriate for the Board to seek grants. Chair Lord-Hausman responded that it may pose a
conflict and Secretary Akil stated that the Commission would be responsible for accounting for
those funds, not the City of Alameda or its staff.
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS/NON-AGENDA ITEMS
1. San Francisco Mayor's Superfest:
Commissioner Hakanson distributed information regarding the SF Mayor's Superfest. Chair
Lord-Hausman requested information continue to be shared with the Commission of this
upcoming event.
G:\LucretialCommDisability\Minutes/2007\Minutes_072307.d",CommissiononPersonswithDisabilities/2007-07-23.pdf
CommissiononPersonswithDisabilities,2007-07-23,5,"Commission on Disability Issues
July 23, 2007
Minutes
Page 5 of 6
2. Lower Washington Park:
Commissioner Longley-Cook distributed information regarding accessibility issues concerning
Washington Park. Chair Lord-Hausman stated that she will invite Dale Lillard, Recreation and
Park Director, to the September meeting.
3. Gallagher and Lindsey:
Commissioner Berger shared information from Gallagher and Lindsey regarding free home
repairs for senior and physically disadvantaged people in Alameda.
4. City Sponsored Events:
Vice-Chair Moore suggested that more attention should be given to families with individuals
who have special needs or accessibility concerns during City sponsored events, such as Crab
Cove Concerts. Greater visibility should also be made throughout the City to encourage families
with disabled children to be included in these events. Chair Lord-Hausman responded that it will
be up to the Commission to bring the awareness to the various groups and organizations.
5. Local Accessibility Issues:
Santa Clara/Oak Street Barricades
Chair Lord-Hausman discussed the Santa Clara and Oak Street barricades that were adjusted to
address any visually impaired or wheelchair bound individuals.
Farmers Market (Webster Street)
The Chair acknowledged that the Webster Street Business Association (WABA) was responsive
to her request to designate temporary parking spaces for disabled individuals for all future
Farmer's Market events on the West end of town.
6. Future Agenda Items:
The Commission agreed to agendize the following items for future discussion:
-
Brown Act Training - August
-
Lower Washington Park Accessibility Issues (invite Dale Lillard, Director) -
September
-
AC Transit Access Issues (invite Susan Decker, Alameda Transit Advocates and Elsa
Ortiz, AC Transit Board of Directors) - October
G:\LucretialCommDisability\Minutes/2007\Minutes_072307.0",CommissiononPersonswithDisabilities/2007-07-23.pdf
CommissiononPersonswithDisabilities,2007-07-23,6,"Commission on Disability Issues
July 23, 2007
Minutes
Page 6 of 6
ADJOURNMENT:
The meeting adjourned at 8:27P.M. The next scheduled meeting is Monday, August 27, 2007, 6:30
P.M. in Room 360 at City Hall.
Respectfully submitted,
Quantia
Lucretia A. Akil
Commission Secretary",CommissiononPersonswithDisabilities/2007-07-23.pdf
CommissiononPersonswithDisabilities,2007-07-23,7,"Attachment A
CDI July 23, 2007 Minutes
Key Points of Accessibility Modification Program
WHAT IS THE ALAMEDA ACCESSIBILITY MODIFICATION PROGRAM?
The City of Alameda Development Services Department (DSD) assists eligible persons
with disabilities in making modifications to their residence, allowing the individual to
attain greater mobility and remain safely in their home. Alameda Accessibility
Modification Program (AAMP) focuses on the person's most immediate needs as they
relate to improving safety and accessibility.
WHO IS ELIGIBLE?
To be eligible for AAMP assistance, the following conditions must be met:
The applicant is an Alameda resident.
The applicant's annual household income must not exceed 80% of the median
income for the Oakland Area, as established by the U.S. Dept of Housing and Urban
Development.
The property to be modified is the applicant's primary residence.
A physician or health care provider verifies the applicant's physical disabilities.
If rental property, the applicant's landlord must provide written agreement
allowing the modifications.
Funding is for one-time use only and may be used primarily for renovations that
make the inside of the rental property more accessible to the renter.
Occupants are allowed a maximum of $5,000 for repairs and modifications. Any
additional funds required may be provided by a low-interest secured loan tailored to the
individual project.
WHAT MODIFICATIONS ARE ALLOWED?
Examples of housing modifications allowed by AAMP include:
Installation of bathroom grab-bars, roll-in showers or raised toilet fixtures
Construction of wheelchair ramps
Widening doorways
Walkway construction
Hearing Assistance devices for doorbells, telephone ringers or smoke detectors
(strobe indicators)
HOW AAMP WORKS
AAMP applicants apply directly to DSD. Staff review applications for program
eligibility and certify that the applicant's household income meets program guidelines.
The applicant's physician or other social service professional must submit a Third-Party
Verification form certifying a medical need exists before work may start. However, the
specific nature or severity of the individual's disability is not to be revealed.
Page 1 of 2
G:\LucretialCommDisability\Minutes/2007\Minutes_072307_Attch A.doc",CommissiononPersonswithDisabilities/2007-07-23.pdf
CommissiononPersonswithDisabilities,2007-07-23,8,"PROGRAM PROVIDES:
Construction management and inspections
Preparation of detailed work specifications
Housing and building codes compliance
Cost estimating & competitive bid procurement processes
Management of job contracts and contractors
OTHER INFORMATION
The Contractor selected by the Grantee must complete the Contractor Terms &
Conditions and be a cost-reasonable bidder. The Contractor's work must be guaranteed
for one year from the date of approved completion. Contact DSD staff at 749-5814 for
information or an application.
Page 2 of 2
G:\Lucretia\CommDisability\Minutes\2007\Minutes_072307_Attch A.doc",CommissiononPersonswithDisabilities/2007-07-23.pdf
PlanningBoard,2007-07-23,1,"Minutes of the Regular Planning Board Meeting
Monday, July 23, 2007
1.
CONVENE:
7:10 p.m.
2.
FLAG SALUTE:
Member Ezzy Ashcraft
3.
ROLL CALL:
President Cook, Vice President Kohlstrand, Ezzy Ashcraft,
Lynch, Mariani and McNamara.
Board member Cunningham was absent.
Also present were Planning Services Manager Andrew Thomas, Assistant City Attorney
Donna Mooney, Supervising Planner Doug Garrison, Planner III Dennis Brighton,
Planner I Simone Wolter, Obeid Khan, Public Works.
4.
MINUTES:
a.
Minutes for the meeting of July 9, 2007.
Member Ezzy Ashcraft noted that page 7, paragraph 4, should read, ""Board member
Cunningham noted that he did not want to see the uses in Alameda intensified so much
that traffic would come to a stop."" She noted that while Board member Cunningham was
not present, but she would like to clarify that statement.
Member Ezzy Ashcraft noted that the second to last paragraph on page 9 should be changed
to read, ""Board member Ezzy Ashcraft noted that she had visited the gaming store and met
the owner, and that it was very attractive inside. She recommended that when discussing
how the Bridgeside Center could be made nicer, the Board should emphasize that it is not
criticizing the hard-working individual business owners.
Vice President Kohlstrand noted that the last paragraph of page 8 addressed the resolution of
adoption for the gas station, and read that the Planning Board had approved a total of 18
pumping stations, and that the applicant proposed 24-hour operations and the sale of beer
and wine. She believed the resolution should read 12 pumping stations; she understood that
the request for the sale of beer and wine had been withdrawn. She requested that staff ensure
that all of the conditions were correct.
Board member Mariani noted that page 7 stated that she agreed with Vice President Cook's
comments. She would like to elaborate specifically that her objection dealt with the non-
peak hours, which include times when children are just getting out of school, walking
around, or riding bikes; parents were driving children to Towne Centre for after-school
activities during those times. She wished to state that the gas station was in close proximity
to the hospital and many convalescent homes with patients walking around the area. She felt
this was a major safety concern.
Page 1 of 9",PlanningBoard/2007-07-23.pdf
PlanningBoard,2007-07-23,2,"President Cook noted that page 7, should be changed to read, ""She was concerned about the
area around Wells Fargo, and did not feel comfortable making findings 4 and 10 which
addressed whether the project would have negative impacts on the adjacent uses.""
Board member McNamara moved approval of the minutes as amended.
Board member Ezzy Ashcraft seconded the motion, with the following voice vote - 6.
Absent - 1 (Cunningham). The motion passed.
5.
AGENDA CHANGES AND DISCUSSION:
None.
6.
STAFF COMMUNICATIONS:
a.
Future Agendas
Mr. Thomas provided an update on future agenda items.
In response to an inquiry by Board member Ezzy Ashcraft whether the September 10,
2007, meeting would address green building codes during the review of the local action
plan for the Climate Protection Task Force, Mr. Thomas replied that draft green building
codes will not be available for review at that time. Staff anticipated laying out a ""game
plan"" for getting to those codes, and has drafted a Request for Qualifications for qualified
consultants.
Board member Ezzy Ashcraft inquired why this was such a complicated process, and
noted that only Alameda and Piedmont were the only cities in Alameda County that have
not enacted a green building ordinance.
Mr. Thomas replied that staff resources and prioritization of time was a major factor in
what projects staff is able to accomplish. He added that the Board may look at the work
program on August 28, 2007.
Vice President Kohlstrand recalled that Councilmember Matarrese stated that the Planning
Department and Planning Board should make some specific recommendations to come to
the City Council.
Board member Lynch recalled Board member Ezzy Ashcraft's original statement about
the green building ordinance and its complexities, and believed he heard a certain amount
of frustration about the process. He suggested that the frustration should not be directed
at staff, given the workload and staffing levels. He noted that he was involved with two
projects in jurisdictions that did not have green building ordinances, but were part of the
City's development guidelines. He noted that even if discussion of the ordinance were to
begin at this meeting, it would not be completed for 2007. He suggested that a policy
paper be produced stating that individuals submitting applications to the Planning
Department should do their best to incorporate green building principles and guidelines.
He suggested that relevant websites be included, and did not think those individuals or
companies should not move to the head of the line.
Page 2 of 9",PlanningBoard/2007-07-23.pdf
PlanningBoard,2007-07-23,3,"b.
Zoning Administrator Report
Mr. Thomas provided the Zoning Administrator report.
7.
ORAL COMMUNICATION
None.
8.
CONSENT CALENDAR:
None.
9.
REGULAR AGENDA ITEMS:
9-A. DP07-0003 - Alameda Landing Mixed Use Development Project -
Applicant: Catellus Development Group, a ProLogis Company and the City
of Alameda. The applicant requests Development Plan approval for landscaping
and public right-of-way improvements along Mitchell Mosely Avenue, Fifth
Street, and Willie Stargell Avenue. The site is located along the western end of
the former FISC Site (Tract 7884) within the M-X Mixed Use Planned
Development Zoning District. (AT/DV)
Mr. Thomas presented the staff report, and noted that the landscape plans for the three new
major public roads would be addressed during this item. Staff recommended approval of
the landscape plans.
Ms. Linda Gates, Gates and Associates, landscape architect, displayed a PowerPoint
presentation to describe the streetscape plan for this project.
Mr. Rene Behan, SWA Group, landscape architect, continued the presentation of the
master plan.
The public hearing was opened.
Ms. Diana Thomas, General Manager, Mariner Square Athletic Club, 2227 Mariner
Square Loop, noted that while they were very excited about the project as presented to
the City, and about the Alameda Landing as a whole, they did have some concerns
regarding the landscaping proposal, particularly the extra triangle of land as displayed.
She noted that was part of the property that the club occupied at 2227 Mariner Square
Loop, as well as Bayside Pavilion. She noted that the easement rights were still unclear
after meetings with the City, in addition to the traffic easements. In addition, the current
extension of Willie Stargell, and how it was presented, would prohibit access to the
current property that they occupied, as well as the current businesses. She expressed
concern about the tenants in the property that had a loading dock and loading bay, and
that the access would be lost. She was concerned that the secondary driveway would
increase or reconfigure the traffic through their parking lot.
Page 3 of 9",PlanningBoard/2007-07-23.pdf
PlanningBoard,2007-07-23,4,"Ms. Kathy Wagner, owner, Mariner Square Athletic Club and Bayside Pavilion, noted
that she was now the owner of the property located at 2203 and 2227 Mariner Square
Loop; her property was adjacent to two sides of the Catellus/ProLogis project. She noted
that she had been excited about this project and had attended most of the meetings. She
had met with staff earlier in the day, and expressed concerns about the plans. She
requested that the Planning Board deny approval of the landscaping plan and site
improvements in its entirety for Fifth Street, Willie Stargell and Mitchell Avenue
extensions. She noted that the plan of the road on Stargell did not allow access into her
existing business, and she had responsibilities to her existing tenants, who had access
through Tinker Avenue, which would become Willie Stargell. She added that large semi
trucks had access to drop off food for Gourmet Rail Services, which provided the food
for Amtrak Trains. She noted that would cause a problem in their parking area if they
were to lose access from Tinker Avenue. She understood that the City had not yet
acquired the property from the College of Alameda, and believed it would be premature
for the City to approve a plan when it did not yet own that property. She was concerned
that things may change dramatically if the City did not acquire that property. She
believed that if the City approved any portion of the street improvements, it would affect
what happens on the Mariner Square property. Therefore, she did not believe the City
should approve any of the landscaping or site improvements on Fifth Street, Willie
Stargell or Mitchell Avenue until more discussion and planning has taken place.
Mr. Gail Wetzork, 3452 Capella Lane, spoke in support of this project, and believed it was
very well done. With respect to the area property owners, he believed this project will
beautify the Northern Waterfront and will economically benefit the City. He believed this
was the best version of the project that had come before the City.
Ms. Melodie Marr, Alameda Chamber of Commerce, 1416 Park Avenue, spoke in support
of this project. She suggested removing Willie Stargell, and approving the other two streets
in order to allow staff to work with Ms. Wagner on Stargell. She had long been concerned
about the lack of facilities in Alameda where events could be held, and would like the
project to move forward.
The public hearing was closed for Board discussion.
Mr. Thomas noted that staff brought the three streets forward with one staff report
because they felt it was important to ensure that the landscaping materials were
consistently and logically organized with respect to the planting and landscape plans for
the three separate projects. There was otherwise no real reason why all three streets should
be held up over the concerns of a portion of the landscape plan for one street. He noted that
the Mitchell Extension was a required portion of this project to serve the Clif Bar project. He
noted that Fifth Street was also essential, and that the City must move forward on that street.
Staff was aware of the potential uncertainties with the acquisition of the land for the Tinker
project. Staff did not see the need to hold up all three streets over the issue of the easement.
He noted that the City owned a street easement across Ms. Wagner's property, which was
specifically for the extension and expansion of Tinker/Willie Stargell. He described the
easement, which was used for parking and access; he noted that it was a paved but fairly
Page 4 of 9",PlanningBoard/2007-07-23.pdf
PlanningBoard,2007-07-23,5,"unimproved area. Under the proposed plan, both properties owned by Ms. Wagner would
have direct access onto Mariner Square Loop; they would not have access from Willie
Stargell. He suggested that while direct access could not be provided, that a joint driveway
or access could be provided from the Stargell driveway for the Alameda Landing project
and to provide a secondary access for Ms. Wagner's properties.
President Cook suggested that the Planning Board discuss Fifth Street and Mitchell Moseley
while staff prepared a displayed for Willie Stargell.
Vice President Kohlstrand noted that she was fairly comfortable with the landscaping
treatment on both Mitchell Mosely and Fifth Street. Her concerns with Stargell had less to
do with the landscaping plan than the street configuration. She noted that the resolution
stated that the Board should consider both the ""landscape and site improvements for the
public right of way."" She wanted to ensure that whatever was in the public right of way was
adequate to meet everyone's needs.
Board member McNamara stated that she liked the landscaping plan for both Fifth Street
and Mitchell Moseley, and believed they were laid out very well.
President Cook inquired about how the placement of the trees related to any view corridors
between the buildings, which she would like to be as open as possible to the waterfront.
Mr. Behan replied that at every view corridor, there would be cottonwood trees to act as a
formal indicator of pedestrian walkways. The trees would be limbed up high enough so that
would be visually apparent to pedestrians.
President Cook believed the understory of ornamental trees on Fifth Street were spaced far
apart, and inquired about the distance between the trees.
Board member Ezzy Ashcraft noted that she generally liked the plan, and inquired who was
responsible for the maintenance of the landscaping. Mr. Thomas replied that on the public
rights of way, the project pays the City to maintain the landscaping of the private areas.
In response to an inquiry by Member Ezzy Ashcraft whether anyone used Neptune Park,
and whether staff proposed a redesign for the park to make it more usable, Ms. Gates noted
that it was underutilized and that a senior housing project adjacent to it used it occasionally.
At this time, there are no walkways through the park, and that they planned to clean it up
visually to enhance the existing monumentation/flag area, add new lighting, create an area to
allow maintenance trucks to be parked off-site, and to add the walkway to improve the
connectivity of the circulation.
In response to an inquiry by President Cook regarding the understory trees along Fifth
Street, Mr. Behan replied that there would be two palm trees and an evergreen. He added
that they wished to provide room for the lighting as well. President Cook noted that she
wanted there to be a consistent understory along Fifth Street to provide comfort for
pedestrians and people who wished to sit.
Page 5 of 9",PlanningBoard/2007-07-23.pdf
PlanningBoard,2007-07-23,6,"Vice President Kohlstrand requested that the understory be increased without jeopardizing
the lighting scheme. Mr. Behan believed that request could be accommodated.
Mr. Thomas displayed the site plan, which illustrated the location of the properties, the City
easement and the circulation on the site.
President Cook noted that the issues surrounding access from Willie Stargell would
probably not be resolved at this meeting.
In response to an inquiry by Board member Ezzy Ashcraft regarding the purpose of the
plazas at each corner, Mr. Thomas replied that they were basically widened sidewalks, and
that one of the intents for the new intersection at Willie Stargell and Mariner Square Loop
was to create a new entrance to the College of Alameda and to facilitate pedestrian access
between the College and sites north of the College. The plaza on Ms. Wagner's property
was planned to be somewhat larger in order to design a more visually attractive and
noticeable intersection.
In response to an inquiry by Board member McNamara whether the replacement of the
medians by landscaping on Webster Street would reduce the street width, Mr. Thomas
replied that it would not.
In response to an inquiry by Board member McNamara whether there would be a signal
light at the corner of Webster Street and Willie Stargell, Mr. Thomas confirmed that there
would be a signal at the new intersection. Another signal would be placed at Stargell and
Mariner Square Loop.
In response to an inquiry by President Cook whether there would be a signal across from
Neptune Park, Ms. Gates replied that there would be a signal at the location.
Vice President Kohlstrand noted that as a long-time transportation planner, she was often
cautious about some of the CalTrans standards that are imposed in urban areas, which she
saw occurring here. She was very concerned about that, and noted that much more area was
being devoted to roadway. She believed it was a good idea to have a pedestrian signal at
Stargell. She was very concerned about the access to the adjacent properties, as well as the
realignment of the street. With that realignment, concerns were being raised about the north-
south driveway on the Catellus site and its safety. She was concerned that a problem was
being created.
Vice President Kohlstrand inquired whether there would be a sidewalk on both sides of
Stargell. Mr. Thomas replied that there was a sidewalk on the north side of Stargell from the
College of Alameda to the west. He further discussed the rationale behind the number of
lanes and the street alignment.
Vice President Kohlstrand noted that she had met with members of City staff and the
Catellus team earlier in the week, and noted that this street was not designed with parking;
Page 6 of 9",PlanningBoard/2007-07-23.pdf
PlanningBoard,2007-07-23,7,"there had been some question about the driveway for Catellus and future installation of a
right-hand turn. She suggested that if the street had been designed with parking, that would
have been an option for creating a turn pocket. She would rather see something more
similar to Santa Clara Avenue than Tilden Way.
Mr. Obeid Khan, Public Works, noted that while the intersection of Webster and Willie
Stargell was under CalTrans jurisdiction, in order to design the street so that Stargell comes
off Webster, it would not be desirable for a car to exit from the dark Tube into Alameda,
with a queue extending into the Tube.
Vice President Kohlstrand noted that the inclination was to build it to the highest standards,
but she would like to hear more debate about the issue.
Board member Mariani acknowledged the frustration of not having a visual illustration, and
believed there should have been more information to address the neighbors' issues.
Vice President Kohlstrand moved to adopt the draft Planning Board Resolution to approve
the Development Plan for landscaping and public right-of-way improvements along
Mitchell Mosely Avenue and Fifth Street, with the added condition of re-examining the
understory on Fifth Street to incorporate more pear trees.
Board member Ezzy Ashcraft wished to add a condition to incorporate the Bay Friendly
Landscape Guidelines throughout the project, as set forth in the publication Bay Friendly
Landscape Guidelines, available at www.stopwaste.org.
The amendment was acceptable to the maker of the motion.
Mr. Behan noted that he would like to examine the document before agreeing to the
condition. They had discussed using sustainable materials in their project specifications,
as well as using indigenous materials for planting and hardscape.
Board member Lynch suggested modifying the condition to include the words ""where
appropriate"" in incorporating the guidelines in the landscape plan.
Mr. Behan noted that he agreed in spirit, but was concerned that the document may make
recommendations that they could not incorporate, such as using reclaimed water.
Board member Ezzy Ashcraft noted that she had raised this issue previously, and added that
while the City's green building ordinances were not yet in place, she noted that the website
was related to the Alameda Waste Management Authority. She noted that many Bay-
friendly landscaping guidelines used by other Bay Area communities were delineated, and
would appreciate the applicant reading it with that in mind. She was willing to use the word
""suggested,"" but would like those practices to be adhered to as much as possible.
Page 7 of 9",PlanningBoard/2007-07-23.pdf
PlanningBoard,2007-07-23,8,"Mr. Thomas noted that Finding 1 contained a typo on page 2, paragraph 1, and that it
should be amended to read, "" and the proposed landscape plans Master Plan will not
result in any new environmental impact.
""
Board member Ezzy Ashcraft inquired about approval of plans for property not yet
acquired by the City. She also agreed with Board member Mariani's comments about the
lack of visuals available for examination with regard to issues raised by Mariner Square
Athletic Club.
Board member Lynch inquired about the significance of having the Stargell project
moving forward for the City.
Mr. Thomas replied that there were still major steps to accomplish before construction
could begin.
Board member Lynch noted that because further resolution was needed, that would take
time; there were also City budget implications. He believed a project of this significance
would also work its way through the Transportation Commission, and suggested that
once those items were resolved, that staff inform the Planning Board at that time. Mr.
Thomas noted that staff could not commit to when the retail center would be brought
before the Board, and added that the land had not yet been acquired.
Board member Mariani seconded the motion, with the following voice vote - 6. Absent: 1
(Cunningham). The motion passed.
Board member Mariani left the meeting following the vote.
9-B.
General Plan Amendment, GPA07-0003/Rezoning R07-0001- Applicant: City
of Alameda - 201 Mosley Avenue. A General Plan Amendment and Rezoning of
an existing park/open space area of approximately 10.77 acres. The site is
currently listed as Medium Density Residential on the General Plan Diagram and
is zoned R-4-G, Neighborhood Residential (Special Government) Zoning District.
The General Plan Amendment and Rezoning would not change the use of the
existing open space area. The site is located north of Singleton and Mosley
Avenues. (DB)
Mr. Brighton presented the staff report, and recommended approval of this item.
Board member Ezzy Ashcraft moved to adopt the draft Planning Board Resolution to
recommended that the City Council approve General Plan Amendment and Rezoning of
an existing park/open space area of approximately 10.77 acres. The site is currently listed
as Medium Density Residential on the General Plan Diagram and is zoned R-4-G,
Neighborhood Residential (Special Government) Zoning District. The General Plan
Amendment and Rezoning would not change the use of the existing open space area.
Page 8 of 9",PlanningBoard/2007-07-23.pdf
PlanningBoard,2007-07-23,9,"Vice President Kohlstrand seconded the motion, with the following voice vote - 5.
Absent: 2 (Mariani and Cunningham). The motion passed.
10.
WRITTEN COMMUNICATIONS: None.
11.
BOARD COMMUNICATIONS:
a.
Oral Status Report regarding the Oakland/Chinatown Advisory Committee (Board
Member Mariani).
Board member Mariani was not in attendance to present this report. Mr. Thomas noted
that the next meeting would be held September 20, 2007.
b.
Oral Status Report regarding the Transportation subcommittee (Vice President
Kohlstrand).
Vice President Kohlstrand advised that there had been no meetings since her last report.
c..
Oral Status Report regarding the Alameda Climate Protection Task Force (Board
Member Cunningham).
Board member Cunningham was not in attendance to present this report.
12.
ADJOURNMENT:
9:15 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Andrew Thomas, Secretary
City Planning Board
These minutes were approved at the August 27, 2007, Planning Board meeting. This
meeting was audio and video taped.
Page 9 of 9",PlanningBoard/2007-07-23.pdf