pages: PlanningBoard/2011-03-28.pdf, 3
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PlanningBoard | 2011-03-28 | 3 | Louise Vigna, neighbor, spoke against the Use Permit stating that there were too many salons on the street already Dick Denton, business owner, spoke against the Use Permit stating concern that the new salons might take business away from existing salons. Mario Mariani, resident, spoke in favor of the Use Permit stating that it is important to bring new businesses to Webster Street. Judi Friedman, WABA, spoke in favor of the Use Permit stating that the WABA Board had carefully considered both applications. Anita Ng, business owner, spoke against the Use Permit stating that there were too many such businesses in the area. Susan Grant, business owner, spoke against the Use Permit stating she would like to see more diversity of businesses. John Piziali, neighbor, spoke in favor of the Use Permit stating that quotas are not appropriate and that the market will make the necessary adjustments. President Ezzy Ashcraft closed the public comment period. Board member Kohlstrand stated that there are compelling arguments for both sides. She feels it is up to the economic market to decide if businesses will survive in a certain district and not the Planning Board. Board member Wallis stated that the Alameda Municipal Code (AMC) says the use is a conditional use and the use is compatible with the area. Board member Zuppan stated that she remembers when residents and business owners were upset that Peets Coffee and Starbucks Coffee were coming on to Park Street and there would be too many coffee houses. She mentioned that all of the coffee houses are still operating. Vice President Autorino stated that he was amazed at the amount of salons on Webster Street and agrees that a more diverse business would be best but unfortunately those businesses were not currently applying for permits and a salon business would be better than an empty storefront. President Ezzy Ashcraft stated that in reference to item 3 in the Draft Resolution, to denying the Use Permit the Board must have evidence that "The proposed use, if it complies with all conditions upon which approval is made contingent, will not adversely affect other property in the vicinity and will not have deleterious effects on existing business districts or the local economy." The motion was made to approve the Use Permit for 1533 Webster Street by Board APPROVED MEETING MINUTES 3 of 9 PLANNING BOARD 3/28/2011 | PlanningBoard/2011-03-28.pdf |