PROPOSAL TO ADOPT A POLICY FOR ON-SITE NOTICING (Planning Commission Minutes)

Commission comments in favor:

* Remain in favor of the policy. Honesty and transparency is advantageous. There is nothing wrong with people expressing opinions. More conversation regarding projects could result in better projects.
* For the past year he has had had the good fortune of living across the street from his residence that was under construction; every day at least a dozen people stopped to ask what was happening on the property. The public would be better informed if they had a picture of what is to be built. The Commission should be encouraging a more informed public.
* Favors the policy, it set up as a pilot program (for one year). It may promote interaction between neighbors. He doesn't favor more bureaucracy, but doesn't feel that the policy would contribute to an increase in bureaucracy. It would be a help to the Commission.

Commission comments opposed:

* Against the policy, would rather see a process where the property owner talks to neighbors in a friendlier setting.
* Have mixed feelings regarding the policy. It could be palatable as a one year trial program. People need to be responsible neighbors and reach out to present projects to them. People need to read the notices that are mailed to them. Don't think there is a situation that needs to be repaired, generally not in support of the policy.
* Opposed to the policy, not in agreement with the design by committee? approach. Doesn't want the City's procedure to become onerous like those in other communities. Current noticing procedures are adequate. Objects to the residential component, but doesn't have as much of a problem with the commercial component.

Commissioner Vistica moved that the Planning Commission adopt the policy, but only for commercial Design Review projects. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Auran. Chair Deal called for a roll-call vote on the motion to adopt the on-site noticing policy for commercial Design Review projects. The motion passed 6-0-1 (Commissioner Terrones absent).

Commissioner Brownrigg moved that the Planning Commission adopt the policy for residential Design Review projects. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Vistica. Chair Deal called for a roll-call vote on the motion to adopt the on-site noticing policy for residential Design Review projects. The motion failed. 3-3-1 (Commissioners Auran, Osterling and Deal dissenting, Commissioner Terrones absent).

Staff was directed to place the matter, as it relates to residential Design Review projects, on a future agenda for discussion when all members of the Commission can be present. Community Development Director Meeker indicated that he would inform the City Council of the Commission's action, prior to implementing the new policy.

– Written by Fiona