2014-06-30 Development & Transportation

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site, noted discussion has been made with Larry Kosmont of Kosmont Associates to enter into a short term agreement to assist in the financial feasibility of these scenarios. Chairman Sarmiento noted David Exline is committed to developing the Zoo and its continued success, noted for the Zoo to be more successful something needs to be done with the entrance, noted it would be great to keep the Elks at the location as they are an institution, noted he sees it as a catalyst project to help improve and continue with improvements going west on First Street to Grand Avenue, Steve McGuigan noted the height of the project needs to be considered with the animals and the effects of the sun cycle, commented to take into consideration the CalTrans property by the freeway off -ramp which could affect the front of the Zoo, . and to pay attention to the transportation element on First Street and how the corner is managed, and noted a restaurant, possibly Rain Forest Cafe, to move into commercial area and build on a theme that includes the corridor. Peter Katz suggested a grand entrance similar to the old zoo's with architectural wrought iron gate that can be designed by a local artist. Mark McLoughlin noted prior discussions with the Elks and Rancho Santiago Community College for a campus, may be an option for future development of some of the space. Vice Chair Martinez noted support of a new development with mixed -use residential component only if residential is special i.e., veterans or artists, adding area is already dense and the city is looking at rebranding itself and the Zoo is something special and a gateway to downtown, noted the opportunity to bring a family fun zone with a hotel to the area and a commercial component that is vibrant with connection to the Zoo, encouraged staff apply for a grant to assist with the First Street Corridor from SCAG (Southern California Association of Governments), possibly doing a Receivership Task Force with various agencies and start going down First Street, and possibly doing a Study Session to address issues and opportunities. Committee member Benavides noted the tremendous opportunity to highlight the Zoo and the importance of signage at the entrance, noted a safari theme along First Street, noted pleased with working with Larry Kosmont and his team, noted the need to figure the 1 -5 freeway on & off ramp and transition to 55 Freeway options being proposed and engage conversations with OCTA and CalTrans, and noted the need for good quality housing in the city. Mr. Cavazos noted the Zoo needs a front door presence and parking, and agrees with dedicating the street and doing a public /private partnership with a parking garage. Chairman Sarmiento asked that staff investigate the possibility of partnering with the O.C. Water District for naming rights on an exhibit adding they are looking for sites throughout the County to highlight water conservation and education. Development & Transp. Council Committee Minutes 5 June 30, 2014