pages: PlanningBoard/2011-12-12.pdf, 8
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PlanningBoard | 2011-12-12 | 8 | that are large enough to accommodate at least 16 units are zoned at a certain density so the land can facilitate a range of housing types. President Ezzy Ashcraft raised an issue regarding residential development and its proximity to transportation, parking, and density. Mr. Thomas stated the initial list of sites is to get everyone thinking about the functionality. As staff goes through the process internally and reviews the sites with the public, then staff will be able to look at the whole list of sites in order to ask for recommendations. He reaffirmed the notion that access to public transit is part of the criteria for selecting sites, especially for higher density multi-family and senior housing types. Board member Kohlstrand stated that the Metropolitan Transportation Commission is implementing the One Bay Area Grant Program where funding is contingent on certain strategies related to smart growth, adopting a housing element, including affordable housing, constructing complete streets and a few more. The grant program is being reviewed at the regional level under designated priority development areas. Therefore, cities and counties are not sure if transit money is going where development is going. Vice President Autorino asked staff what level of difficulty does Measure A introduce to this process. Mr. Thomas responded by saying that Measure A raises some level of difficulty, but it is an insurmountable hurdle. Measure A is the citywide requirement, which says that multi- family housing should not be built and that runs into the face of state law. However, the City of Alameda does build multi-family housing, through density bonuses and other ways. As a community, we are building good projects and will continue this effort. He explained that the current zoning ordinance says maximum density of 21 units per acre and density bonuses of 29 units per acre are allowed and the City will waive the multi- family prohibition. Although, technically the City doesn't permit multi-family housing, the City will waiver the rule on specific sites and density bonuses create considerable density. Vice President Autorino reaffirmed the statement that the City recognized the obstacles created by Measure A, but understood the process of going around the measure to create residential density. He also commented about the project timeline and whether it could be expedited without jeopardizing other priority projects. Mr. Thomas stated the faster we move along the better. The way staff laid the timeline out staff can't get all the responses drafted before the first meeting in March. He explained that he wants a good comprehensive set of opinions and once staff receives the first draft, the Planning Board and residents control the pace entirely. Vice President Autorino stated it is very important to do things right and not over commit staff's time. Draft Meeting Minutes Page 8 of 13 December 12, 2011 | PlanningBoard/2011-12-12.pdf |