pages: PlanningBoard/2009-02-09.pdf, 7
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PlanningBoard | 2009-02-09 | 7 | Vice President Ezzy Ashcraft asked if it is possible to structure the fees based on the size of a business or the number of employees or some similar criteria. She stated that businesses could provide employees with permits to park in a city owned parking lot. She asked for elaboration on the proposed changes to CEQA regulations. A Board discussion ensued on proposed changes to CEQA. Staff stated that the citywide developmental impact fee is designed to be proportionate to the development. Under state law, impact fees for "new" facilities cannot be assessed solely to the new development. Board member Cook stated that the City could not mandate an assessment district. A majority of residents and or business owners must vote for it. President Kohlstrand stated that in the area North of Lincoln on Park Street staff can determine the amount of square footage now and if the area is developed to the maximum potential, the amount of square feet that would exist and the demand for parking. She believes this would allow the City to develop a site as a surface parking lot until such time as it is feasible to develop a parking structure. A discussion ensued on whether a parking structure should be built first or when it is actually needed. President Kohlstrand stated that she believes the issue is dealing with market demand for parking. Employees are not parking in lots because they can park for free if they are willing to walk two or three blocks. She stated the City is transitioning and has more intense uses in the downtown area. She believes a residential parking permit program is warranted but she is unsure about how to structure it. She stated employees need to get their cars off the streets and onto a parking lot or structure. She wondered if long term parking fees would be appropriate. Staff stated that for new businesses the parking requirement would not be waived. If three employees work at the business but the business is unable to create parking on site the owner could purchase annual garage passes for the employees in lieu of the parking requirement. Vice President Ezzy Ashcraft stated that the staff report proposes making more parking spaces in the garage available for employee parking. Staff stated that the demand and usage for a parking structure is still being determined but increased use of the garage is anticipated. Vice President Ezzy Ashcraft stated the need for flexibility in the approach to parking. She stated that there is spillover into residential neighborhoods and asked why doesn't the City make more employee spaces available in the parking lot then revisit this position in the future. She stated that City vehicles should be parked off the street especially during evenings and weekends. Page 7 of 10 | PlanningBoard/2009-02-09.pdf |