AgdaPkt 2014-08-25 Closed and Joint with SA and Planning Amended

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7.1.F. - Page 10 In addition, he noted that the City Staff initially did approve the recommendation for the school, because there were already zoning policies in place relating to schools in neighborhoods. However, based on the policy direction given at the Planning Commission as well as neighborhood testimony, staff is now upholding the Planning Commission's decision. Mr. Aknin then shared alternatives on how the City Council can decide on what action to take on this appeal. A Council Member asked about the reduction size of students, which Mr. Aknin confirmed the number. The appellant and applicant Nicholas Berg presented a report (presentation on file). He stated his belief that this project is about bringing a higher quality education to the community and that parents want immediate actions on their children's education. Mr. Berg explained this is why Cambridge Academy is needed in Redwood City and what they can offer to students. He said that the Academy is not associated with the Baptist Church. Furthermore, he introduced the principal, who is also his wife, Carol Berg. He spoke about why she was qualified for the job and they want to join this community. Mr. Berg continued to say that he and his wife had met with the neighbors to discuss their plans for the academy and how they have made compromises from those meetings. He mentioned the Circulation Plan in that the parking and traffic would be at the site, thus he interpreted that there would not be any traffic disruption on neighborhood streets. Also, he addressed the noise levels by showing the distribution of student play. He mentioned several other items such as a proposed fire hydrant, how he has worked with the City to enable the school to be allowed, why he chose his proposed school to be in Redwood City, and how the Cambridge Academy can benefit Redwood City. Mayor Gee opened the Public Hearing. Public Comment Gregory Smith said he is a homeowner nearby the entrance of the school, and opined that there have been no real changes or benefits with the new information. He commented that the Planning Commission had voted strongly against this project given the very high density in the area and he spoke in favor of denying the appeal, upholding the decision of the Planning Commission, and to not have to go through this process again for incremental changes. Dawn Ward lives adjacent to the driveway area, and spoke against the project and shared detailed information about the increased traffic and noise related to the various schools in the area that they have had over the years. She opined that the revisions to the project would exceed recommended noise levels and approval would tip scales in terms of livability for the school and residents and this is not the right place for this. Caroline Schwartz and Brian Schwartz are residents with small children and they both spoke in favor of the project and the need for quality private schools in their community that are nondenominational and affordable. Mrs. Schwartz opined that there would have been more people speaking in favor of the project had they been more informed as quality schools are important. JOINT CITY COUNCIL/SUCCESSOR AGENCY BOARD July 28, 2014 MEETING MINUTES PAGE 9