pages: CityCouncil/2019-02-05.pdf, 18
This data as json
body | date | page | text | path |
---|---|---|---|---|
CityCouncil | 2019-02-05 | 18 | the project proponents efforts to combine the 0.5 acre parcels; the effort in combining parcels is to increase the Floor Area Ratio (FAR); stated he believes the wrong decision was made regarding combining the third parcel of 0.5 acres; the project could still continue, but on a smaller scale allowing for negotiation of wider building coverage at a lower height of three floors. Councilmember Oddie stated the land is made for the purpose of developing; vacant space does not equate open space; there is no evidence of new or more severe impacts; the project complies with City standards; outlined the composition of Planning Board members; stated the unanimous approval by Planning Board speaks volumes to the project; expressed support of denying the appeal and supporting the Planning Board's decision. Councilmember Vella moved approval of directing staff to review the safety of the intersection at Mecartney Road and Aughinbaugh Way, and moved approval of denying the appeals filed by Brian Tremper and Laborer's International Union of North America. Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft requested to give staff direction on the traffic implications. Councilmember Vella withdrew the first motion and agreed to give staff direction instead; stated the comment related to misuse of CEQA is disingenuous; concerns brought forth are not CEQA concerns; outlined the need for hotels to be built; stated the Planning Board intends to look at design concerns as they come forward, creating a community-based process; certain contemplations related to building height date back to many years prior, giving lateral to making design and development choices as the community and needs evolve. Vice Mayor Knox White inquired whether Council can make a finding to uphold the appeal without making a finding that there was inadequate CEQA related to the issue of combining parcels to which the Planning, Building and Transportation Director responded in the affirmative. Vice Mayor Knox White stated the issue is difficult for those directly impacted; outlined positive impacts of the City's legal and planning staff; stated Council does not have discretion to create more environmental work, or to discuss building height; requested consideration of removing up to 25 parking spaces related to parking study findings, and to pull the building back an additional 15 feet from the water; expressed support of denying the appeal. Councilmember Vella inquired whether Vice Mayor Knox White is requesting to give direction. Vice Mayor Knox White stated that he would be requesting as part of the motion denying the appeal, and upholding the Planning Board's decision with direction to remove the parking and bring back the siting of the building as part of design review. Regular Meeting Alameda City Council 10 February 5, 2019 | CityCouncil/2019-02-05.pdf |