pages: PlanningBoard/2008-09-22.pdf, 8
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PlanningBoard | 2008-09-22 | 8 | Board member Cook explained that the Board has design review approval but not use approval. President Kohlstrand stated the three major issues the Board is considering: how much square footage is appropriate for the site, what are the proposed site improvements (including the garage and the timing of sidewalk installation) and the design and orientation of the buildings. She suggested the Board conduct a focused discussion concentrating on these areas. Board member Cunningham expressed concern about approving 706,000 sf at this time. He suggested the applicant return to the Planning Board when a specific proposal for the additional 25,000 sf is ready. He is concerned about how the level of service is defined in the traffic analysis and whether a garage is necessary at this time. Board member Cook agrees with many of Board member Cunningham's comments. She is also concerned about the environmental and livability impacts of the increase in square footage. She is uncomfortable approving additional square footage when the uses have not yet been determined. Board member McNamara agrees with Board member Cook. She is concerned that the amount of square footage seems to change. She does not feel confident that the numbers are accurate. She does not support expansion beyond 681,000 sf. Vice President Ezzy Ashcraft is in agreement with Board member McNamara. The request for additional square feet seems speculative. Since the center is not yet fully occupied she does not see the need for additional square footage. She is concerned about additional low-end retailers moving into the center and would like to see the center fully occupied before expanding. Board member Autorino stated that it was his impression that 650,000 sf had already already been approved and the proposal before the board was an increase to 706,000 sf. Staff explained that approximately 600,000 has been approved and the total square footage goes up to 681,000 in Phase III of the project. The second story in the old Mervyn's building plus two new restaurants in the shoreline area account for the 81,000 sf. President Kohlstrand asked staff to clarify the amount of additional square footage of the second floor on the Mervyn's building. Staff responded that 73,412 sf would be for Kohl's and the balance would be for restaurants. Page 8 of 10 | PlanningBoard/2008-09-22.pdf |