AgdaPkt 2020-11-16 Special - Laserfiche WebLink

Browse Search

The City completed Nexus studies* in 2015 to evaluate the impact of authorizing future new office space and market -rate housing on affordable housing needs. Nothing in the staff report, planning commission review or public record adequately addresses that gap between what our impact fee generates compared to the actual demand for affordable housing units. This combined with the inherent jobs/housing imbalance makes this project a prime candidate for a higher level of financial analysis. This project is being rushed through the approval process without adequate review for no compelling reason. At least one member of the Planning Commission was concerned that there was insufficient time to review the EIR and the hundreds of pages of supporting materials before being asked to approve this project. This project was not adequately reviewed by the Planning Commission and should not have been sent to Council for consideration as the Planning Commission did not have sufficient time, nor did they adequately vet the EIR. Fortunately, Council adjourned its last meeting just past midnight before debating the merits of this project. MUCH more time is needed to address the many issues raised and complete the required and sufficient analyses before any further consideration be given. The Developer also deserves time to correct shortcomings in their process and disclosures and project proposals before this project moves further. 2- Deficient Developer Representations & Performance The developer has been less than candid with the public and perhaps you and staff. There are significant plans for the project which have not been disclosed publicly. For example, the developer admits they are not experts on office construction and management. Publicly available data shows their businesses are overwhelmingly focused on housing units and NOT offices. To my surprise, the developer disclosed to me just this Friday that they have retained a partner to deal with construction buildout and management for the proposed office project. I have not seen this disclosed previously in any public records related to this project. This is a material fact that should have been disclosed far sooner in this process. Why? Are we dealing with one or two developers and a single or multi -project request? Has the City had an opportunity to meet with this important member of the proposed development team to vet their capabilities and suitability for this project and certify all the representations the developer has made on their behalf?