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Commissioner Acosta stated that he noticed significant changes from the previous design, but he was not impressed with the new design. He considers the project location to be the gateway between the cities of Orange and Santa Ana. Vice Chairman Gartner commented on the client/architect relationship and the challenge of the architect to meet the needs of the City and client; considers this redesign to be an improvement. He stated the project still had a "casino' • appearance, but also suggested that the Commissioners provide direction with their comments. Commissioner Mill commented on the tremendous upgrade in the appearance of the building. Further, he stated that the City should not determine the architecture of the building. Commissioner Turner expressed that he didn't identify major change from the prior plan and voiced concerns with the landscaping as it relates to the sidewalk and street; does not see an overall change in feel and impact. Commissioner Yrarrazaval indicated that the design does not fit the neighborhood and that the Commission commented at last year's study session that it wanted a modern design for the building. He also voiced concerns that the Commission should not change the architecture. Chairman Alderete stated that the redesign does not have architectural consistency with the adjoining City Place project. He also expressed concerns with the density and massing of the development. Chairman Alderete indicated the colonial building with a traditional design was not appropriate in the area. Commissioner Nalle inquired on the size of the project, dimensions of the • proposed units and the approximate number of residents to be in the tower. He suggested that the design be upgraded and does not like the "casino" appearance. 11 City consultant, John Kaliski, highlighted the evolution of the design of the project and identified the changes that were made: removed metal roof, more subtle cornices, provided a more distinct top layer of the building, simplified architectural language, reduced/simplified window types, added railing details, provided more richness at the base, and created a contemporary version of traditional architecture. He identified two improvements that can make the building read better: (1) the use of more subtle colors that are appropriate for the style of the building and a reduction in the number of colors, and (2) the use of landscaping, to provide a transition between the base and upper floors of the building. Commissioner Turner commented on the design context of the area indicated that there is no compatibility between the proposed buildings and the existing campus or City Place. Planning Manager Haluza addressed the existing zoning and general plan designations and the new designations that would be required for this project. PUBLIC HEARING 1. ZONING ORDINANCE AMENDMENT NO. 2011-01 (Continued by Planning Commission. March 28, 2011 to May 23, 2011; August 22, 2011 to September 12, 2011) Filed by the City of Santa Ana, to amend the Zoning Code to create a Housing Opportunity Ordinance to ensure future residential development projects contribute to the attainment of the affordable housing goals set forth in the Housing Element of the City's General Plan. Planning Commission Minutes Page 4 of 5 September 12, 2011