pages: PlanningBoard/2008-02-11.pdf, 7
This data as json
body | date | page | text | path |
---|---|---|---|---|
PlanningBoard | 2008-02-11 | 7 | last page of the resolution contained the amendment for the Master Plan, and added that it could be amended to read "no drive-throughs," which would be amenable to the applicant. Board Member Lynch would support that addition, and did not see this as a retail site. He noted that this might be a good location for a dental or urgent care medical office, which was a growing demand. He would support the amendment, and would not want to tamper with the plan because the market has determined what has happened on this site over the years. Board member Ezzy Ashcraft requested that staff address Board member McNamara's concerns about the green space. Mr. Thomas noted that the Board had the option to allow the expansion of the center up to a certain amount of square feet, leaving the decision about the actual location of kiosks up to the development plan approval, similar to Alameda Landing. He noted that this was a Master Plan amendment, and that the details of the landscaping, parking and other specific issues may be examined at that time. He noted that the Board may specify that the existing amount of landscaped area should be maintained in all future configurations. President Cook noted that she understood the flexibility argument, but did not see why it should be expanded. Mr. Thomas noted that the priority for the applicant at this time would be to resolve the percentage of office use first; the second priority was the expansion. The public hearing was opened. Mr. David O'Donegal, O'Donegal Architects, project architect, noted that the applicant purchased this property in 2004, understanding that the site was a thriving shopping center at that time. He noted that there had been some turnover and vacancies since that time. He echoed Board Member Lynch's comment in that they were seeking service-type users, such as real estate and medical/dental outpatient uses that had to be turned down because of the current situation. He noted that in October 2007, he and staff had reviewed the history of this property, and identified some options and opportunities. His goal was to have at least 25% office use for the center, which they needed to be able to function and reduce the vacancy of approximately 3,400 square feet. They had leases they wished to pursue to occupy those spaces. He noted that retail did not work in the back portion of the center, and requested that the office use be permitted. Board member Cunningham noted that the current parking was 5 per 1,000, and suggested reducing it to increase green space. Mr. O "Donegal agreed with that suggestion, and added that they had not experienced any parking problems. Board member Ezzy Ashcraft agreed that the parking ratio be reduced. The public hearing was closed for Board discussion. Board member Ezzy Ashcraft suggested that the additional language include "medical, dental or professional offices, and other service-oriented businesses." Page 7 of 12 | PlanningBoard/2008-02-11.pdf |