Minutes 2006 0619 - Laserfiche WebLink

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MINUTES Page 5 City of San Leandro City Council, San Leandro Economic Development Agency, San Leandro Parking Authority, San Leandro Public Financing Authority, and San Leandro Redevelopment Agency Joint Meeting-June 19, 2006 Mr. Manuel rebutted comments made by Mr. Chen and spoke about the fire safety issues. Mr. Manuel agreed with the previous speaker's opinion of "big box" houses. He commented that Mr. Chen had told the MGIA and Marina Action Committee that he would attempt to downsize the project, but Mr. Chen presented the changes to the City Planning division rather than to the two neighborhood groups, and tonight was the first time the groups learned about the changes to the project. Mr. Manuel stated that many of the residents want to preserve the open space and the uniqueness of their area. Mr. Chen rebutted comments made by Mr. Manuel and other speakers. He addressed the issues of parking and the size ofthe structures. Mr. Chen commented that he visited with the neighborhood groups in a show of good faith and neighborliness. He stated he believes the project would improve the health and environment ofthe area. There being no further comments from the public, and without objection, the Public Hearing was closed. Councilmember Badger asked about the ownership of the property if developed as condominiums. Ms. Hamer responded that the parcel would be a shared lot, commonly owned by the three homeowners and bound by Covenants, Conditions & Restrictions (CC&Rs). Councilmember Nardine expressed concerns regarding view obstruction, fire safety issues, changing the character of the neighborhood, lack of clarification with the RO zoning and single ownership vs. multiple ownership of the property. Councilmember Nardine requested that staff provide additional clarification regarding what is allowed in the RO District. Mr. Jermanis addressed the issues of view preservation, large homes and fire safety. Community Development Director Hanson Horn pointed out that there have been specific fire safety standards developed with the Fire Marshal that apply to all site plan review applications. Councilmember Starosciak commented on the increasing number of infill housing projects which gives a sense that the city is filling up, while at the same time there is pressure by the State to create more housing. She noted that the project conforms to all of the City's existing regulations, and there is no legal reason to deny it. Councilmember Starosciak acknowledged the applicant's attempt to address the issues raised by neighboring residents. She expressed interest in having a future discussion either by the Councilor BZA on the issue of condominiums in the RO District, as they will become more prevalent. Councilmember Stephens noted that times have changed, and California's population has grown from 8 million in the 1940s to over 35 million today. More people need places to live, and the City must utilize its available land to its best use. Councilmember Stephens stated his support for the BZA's decision. A motion was made by Councilmember Stephens, seconded by Councilmember Santos, to deny the appeal and uphold the BZA decision.