2014-03-04 Regular - Laserfiche WebLink

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preservation experts; meaning of historic property is about community; positive impact by maintaining land; commented on Madison Park Community Garden ribbon cutting and need to develop similar projects; have proposed preservation alternative that would retain 50%. • Jeannie Gillett, opposed to proposed development; preserve historic site; EIR does not respect actions approved by the City Council in June, 2012 and does not preserve historic resource; proposal will destroy 95% of orchard; urged City Council to approve preservation alternative. • Moises Munoz Plascencia, spoke in support of open space, reduce carbon emissions; urged City Council to request additional alternatives. • Deborah Rosenthal, attorney representing the Old Orchard Conservancy; opined that CEQA is inadequate, proposal will only preserve farmhouse and 16 trees; it has been designated as an Orchard, but demolishing 95% of trees will no longer be an orchard — unique element of area; understands that property rights important to this City Council; request City Council consider alternatives. • Patrick Mitchell, spoke in opposition to proposed project; provide preservation alternative to historic area. • Steve Ray, opined that housing project not necessary; property rights noted in agenda report; historic preservation alternative should be combined as farmhouse and orchard; cultivated crops is being proposed to be significantly reduced; urged City Council to keep historic site. • Molly Goun, opined that Orange Lutheran and Concordia not vested in area; retain site as community garden, farmer's markets and educational center. Mayor Pulido closed the Hearing. Council discussion ensued. Mayor Pro Tern Tinajero, reflected on actions and opportunities given by the City Council in past two years to allow groups to work on alternatives; urged Conservancy to work with developers; proposed actions will preserve farmhouse and part of orchard. Councilmember Martinez, understands position of both sides and applauds their efforts; asked for clarification on traffic and effects. Acting City Engineer Taig commented on streets connectivity (Circulation Element) and encourages walk ability. Councilmember noted that all needs considered. Councilmember Amezcua spoke in support of development; no funding to develop or maintain the area available. Mayor Pulido asked why two exits and entrances needed for relatively small area. City Engineer Taig noted that two recommended for connectivity purposes and safety access; also block wall would not allow for sewer and water connectivity; fire department recommends 600 ft. on cul de sac. CITY COUNCIL MINUTES 16 MARCH 4, 2014