pages: CityCouncil/2013-04-02.pdf, 17
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CityCouncil | 2013-04-02 | 17 | seemed more concerned about ugly buildings, than 40 foot buildings; questioned whether people like the appearance of the area; stated the City can do better; the matter has been studied for years; the proposed ordinance moves forward with exciting potential. * (13-143) Vice Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft moved approval of continuing past 11:00 p.m. Councilmember Chen seconded the motion, which carried by the following voice vote: Ayes: Councilmembers Chen, Daysog, Ezzy Ashcraft and Mayor Gilmore - 4. Abstention: Councilmember Tam - 1. Councilmember Chen left the dais at 10:53 p.m. and returned at 10:55 p.m. * Councilmember Daysog thanked the speakers; stated the City wants to improve the Park Street gateway; that he raised the issue of the Webster Street gateway back in December, 2006; East End residents want a gateway to be proud of; the zoning creates rules and guidelines under which property owners, developers or whomever have assurances as to how the gateway should be developed; the discussion is not just among residents and business owners, but requires understanding the market and what is feasible; Councilmembers listen to residents, as well as understand economics; mixed use projects are not easy; expressed appreciation for the materials, coloring and attention to detail in Berkeley projects; the design guidelines allow well designed mixed use in the City of Alameda; everyone is concerned about preserving Alameda's historic character; that he is okay with 4 to 5 story structures going up to 60 feet; the City Planner explained nothing is allowed by right; that he supports language which is clear and provides guidance; that he understands the thought behind Santa Cruz's language; however, the language adds an element of uncertainty which the City wants to avoid; zoning gives clear direction as to what the community expects; there are ways to address the 40 foot issue; 60 feet should be the goal; the design guidelines exist not just to create buildings, but to create beautiful buildings with ground floors conducive to commercial and livable pedestrian oriented activity; inquired whether or not Park Street has a minimum ground floor height. The City Planner responded the design guidelines have a lot of guidance for the first floor; stated one story buildings have a minimum height. Councilmember Daysog stated the guidelines emphasize that the ground floor should be taken seriously. Councilmember Tam expressed her appreciation of the speakers; stated everyone has been heard loud and clear regarding not wanting to see a canyon effect with 60 foot buildings; the ordinance and design guidelines have specific safeguards to address the matter; that she would be open to hearing additional safeguards; safeguards are included in the design guidelines; the ordinance has the ability to change over time to Regular Meeting Alameda City Council 17 April 2, 2013 | CityCouncil/2013-04-02.pdf |