Minutes 2008 0728 - Laserfiche WebLink

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MINUTES Page 3 Ciry of San Leandro City Council and San Leandro Redevelopment Agency Joint Meeting~Tuly 28, 2008 Gregory commented that he is thrilled that the project is moving forward, and he expressed interest in having more tours of TOD projects. Councilmember Gregory noted that a balance must be struck between maintaining the "Mayberry" aspects of San Leandro and meeting the City's industry, retail and residential needs. Councilmember Starosciak commented favorably on the strength and depth of the development team. In the examples of local architecture shown in the presentation, she pointed to the high-pitched roofs and Spanish style architecture, and expressed a preference for a more traditional architectural reference for both the affordable and market rate housing. She suggested that the architects visit the points of interest along the History Walk to get a feel for San Leandro's history. Councilmember Starosciak expressed concern about the fatalities occurring at the railroad tracks bordering the project area. She noted that many pedestrians cross the tracks at Thornton, including parents with very young children and children going to and from school, and she encouraged the development team to look at ways to divert this foot traffic to the actual crossing. Mr. Jermanis added that Councilmember Starosciak had brought this issue to the attention of City staff. He noted that, although there is a barrier and it is illegal to cross the railroad tracks there, people continue to use it as a shortcut. Mr. Jermanis suggested that the developers could discuss the issue with the City's traffic engineers to ensure pedestrian-friendly and safe crossings. Vice Mayor Stephens expressed agreement with Councilmember Starosciak's comments regarding architectural reference. He commented that the Creekside Plaza. building is one of the finer structures in the community, and in close proximity to the project. Vice Mayor Stephens asked that particular attention be paid to the exterior fmishes, suggesting that they be low maintenance, graffiti-resistant, and lend an upscale sophistication to the project. He also expressed preferences for having the affordable and market rate units virtually indistinguishable; single story rather than multiple story units, for better accessibility to an aging population, and for better marketability; liberal use of exterior lighting, for dramatic effect as well as safety; and special attention paid to soundproofmg. Councilmember Souza concurred with the preference for a traditional reference for architecture. She suggested that the labor organizations be involved in the community outreach, and she expressed appreciation for the outreach efforts. Councilmember Prola expressed agreement with the comments on architectural design expressed by Councilmember Starosciak and Vice Mayor Stephens. He agreed with Councilmember Souza regarding including labor organizations in the conversation, and encouraged the development team to meet with the Building Trades Council early in the process. Councilmember Prola commented that he would be willing to support higher density in exchange for more affordable housing units. Mayor Santos commented that this is a very exciting project, and he expressed appreciation to the development team for their cooperative spirit in working with the City and other agencies to bring this project forward.