pages: PlanningBoard/2008-08-11.pdf, 12
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PlanningBoard | 2008-08-11 | 12 | understands the need for an anchor store, and stated that we need to support the small businesses in the Centre. Walter Schlueter spoke in favor of the proposal. He stated that Harsh had been a responsible and good neighbor, and produced a quality shopping center, that is unusual for a town of this size. Harsch has invested millions of dollars in the city and has a long term vision for enjoyable shopping for Alamedans. The Centre allows Alamedans to shop in town generating sales tax revenue that would help balance the City budget. He encourages the Board to approve the project. Marilyn Schumacher spoke in support of the proposal. She disliked the old shopping center and is in awe of the new center. She rides her bike to the Centre every day. She loves the lighting and quality of the materials used. Karen Bey spoke in support of the project. She supports the expansion and would like to see the city refine the retail strategy to locate similar retailers in one location. The public hearing was closed for Board discussion. The board agreed to a five minute break. President Kohlstrand suggested a structured discussion. She stated that the Board could collectively agree that there is a belief in Alameda that changes that have occurred at the center have been positive for the city. She stated three overriding issues: 1) Is the infrastructure provided onsite and adjacent to the centre adequate to meet the needs of the expansion so far? If the shopping center expands, has the analysis adequately addressed the level of infrastructure primarily regarding traffic and transportation, 2) What should the maximum size of the center be? Should the Board consider additional expansion. 3) Neighbors have addressed the operational noise issues along Park, Otis and Broadway, which are considered issues of livability. President Kohlstrand stated she would like the Board discussion to begin with the environmental issues, then move to design and size issues. She stated that Board member Cook was unable to attend this meeting, but sent a letter where she expressed her reservations about certifying the EIR due to concerns about lighting, unfulfilled promises regarding infrastructure improvements, dust control during construction, and approving additional square footage. President Kohlstrand asked staff if there were issues that were not related to the EIR that the Board could deal with independently of EIR certification. Staff responded that if the applicant's proposal is denied, there are prior approvals the applicant could act on. The applicant could renovate but not expand the Centre and could not expand into the shoreline area. The sign program would be affected if the proposal was denied. Vice President Ezzy Ashcraft asked if the Board should identify specific concerns with Page 12 of 21 | PlanningBoard/2008-08-11.pdf |