pages: CityCouncil/2013-04-02.pdf, 18
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CityCouncil | 2013-04-02 | 18 | meet needs; zoning allows for an educational facility, a school garden or open space; the issue is funding; that she does not have a sense of whether or not the School District has heard directly from the community and teachers on building an educational facility; the area is in need of open space and the City wants to work with the community; maybe East Bay Regional Park District could purchase the property; the City needs to move forward with a cohesive, consistent vision. Councilmember Tam moved adoption of the resolution certifying the EIR. Vice Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft seconded the motion, which carried by unanimous voice vote - 5. Mayor Gilmore expressed her appreciation of the speakers; stated the neighborhood has a deficit of green space; the desired property is very complicated for a whole host of reasons involving the School District, the City and housing requirements; that she would be interested in talking to residents about possibly partnering with the City on the railroad property; the comments on height limits have been good; part of the issue is economic development and part is what residents want; people wish there were more and different types of businesses; unfortunately, the economy is really bad and most businesses have not been in a position to expand or to strike out into new areas; all cities are seeking businesses willing to take the risk; getting a business of any kind to come into the City is highly competitive; the City got VF Outdoor to locate here by offering incentives other cities could not match; although a height limit is not an incentive, anything which makes the City more competitive and easier to locate in should be considered; design review is not easy in Alameda; the ordinance can change; that she is not afraid of the 60 foot limit because she does not think a 60 foot box will be built. Vice Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft read an excerpt from Exhibit 1A of the guidelines with the reason for the provisions; moving forward is important; that she would favor including something similar to Santa Cruz to assure the public that criteria are included; ordinances can change; however, staff is busy and years have been spent on the proposed zoning, which should have staying power. Councilmember Chen stated that he cannot support motion with the current language; expressed his appreciation of staff's efforts; stated that wants to see the gateway district move forward; however, the language should be changed to include a 40 foot height restriction with exceptions; some developers might need 5 to 20 feet, which should be addressed on a case-by-case basis. Vice Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft inquired whether Councilmember Chen is referring to the Santa Cruz language. Councilmember Chen responded Vice Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft mentioned 50 feet; that he could live with 50 feet. Regular Meeting Alameda City Council 18 April 2, 2013 | CityCouncil/2013-04-02.pdf |