3A Public Hearing 2013 0204 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Excerpts from the Planning Commission Regular Meeting Minutes September 20, 2012 Page 6 of 6 “slippery slope” of allowing deviations from required zoning standards, and the lack of safe play space for children. Todd Barbour, 2575 West 133rd Avenue, is an owner-builder involved in the subject property. Responding to comments and concerns raised, he noted that root barriers are installed before trees are planted to prevent roots from breaking through the surface. He said the drip irrigation system would consist of underground bubblers such as those he installed at Ben A Begier Buick and F.H. Dailey Chevrolet. He confirmed that the parcel is 350 feet deep, and said he could envision changing the plans to install a play area rather than a bocce ball court. Having lived in the same place all his life, he said there’s plenty of room for cars to pass one another on Aurora Drive with vehicles parked on both side of the street. Mr. Barbour also pointed out that the neighboring development to the north of the subject property consists of boxy buildings 20 feet tall with minimal setbacks from the golf course. He said the residential project envisioned for the corner of Fairway and Aurora Drives would put 56 dwelling units on a property almost the same size as the subject site. Furthermore, the Aurora Cottages project would involve labor, soil engineers, and various vendors all from San Leandro rather than out-of-towners. In addition, he said Aurora Cottages property owners are vigilant about keeping their properties in good repair and would not allow junk to pile up on residents’ patios. Shelia Young, 14751 Pansy Street, Mayor-emeritus of San Leandro, said she knows the people who own the property and came to speak in favor of the project. She said she spoke with Ms. Albers and Mr. Modifer, and called Mr. Manuel but was unable to reach him, because she wanted to give them a personal walk-through to see what the project is all about. She said it would be an immense improvement for the neighborhood. Referring to the adjacent development to the north, she said it’s an example of a property that was overbuilt. It has huge buildings with no windows in back. It has no play structure, either, she said, noting that although she goes all the way to Dublin sometimes to play bocce ball, she agrees with Mr. Barbour that a play area might be more appropriate than a bocce ball court. Ms. Young also noted that she specifically asked the owners of the subject property about any eventual intentions of subdividing, and reported that they have no intention of doing that. She described the proposal as “as a great vision” for its target rental market, primarily professionals working at the new Kaiser facility. Pointing out the adjoining property on the southern side of the proposed site, she said it’s a disgrace to Mulford Gardens. As for the sparse attendance at MGIA meetings, she said few people attend her homeowners’ association meetings either, but she attributes it to people no longer being “joiners.” Steve Fagalde, one of the property owners, said when he first bought into the property, many people suggested subdividing it into condominiums, but “we have no interest in ever selling any of these units.” With the bocce ball court, he said the idea was to add an amenity to the project, but it could be a play structure or a basketball court instead. Judging from comments during the meeting, Mr. Fagalde said a lot of people seem to agree that San Leandro needs a project s uch as what they’re proposing. He said he’s involved as a proud owner of approximately 200,000 square feet of property in the City, and has owned well maintained property here for around 20 years. He said in this proposal, he’s proud to present a project that would help meet the living requirements of people who will be working at the businesses coming to San Leandro. Chair Collier asked whether the applicants have enough direction from the Planning Commission to proceed. Mr. Larson replied yes. END OF EXCERPTS