AgdaPkt 2009-01-26 clsd and reg - Laserfiche WebLink

Browse Search

process. He stated they have reached out to the community, but also were doing so in keeping with Council's process. He shared the vision for the project, discussed the demographics and the employee base in the area, and noted how people in the community could be a part of the Stanford University expansion. Steve Elliot, with the Stanford University, Office of Plans, Buildings and Real Estate, introduced the project, its background and existing conditions. He commented on the goals they will be considering, potential users, and project objectives. Dave Lennox, architect for Stanford University, spoke about the design attributes and what is being planned for the Stanford University project in creating a strong sense of place in the downtown area. Public Comment Janet Borgens, Friendly Acres Neighborhood representative, wished to go on record stating the neighborhood had concerns, but were looking forward to working with Stanford and staff as the project develops. Ms. Borgens is happy with the progress thus far. She welcomed the Stanford-Redwood City merging, and appreciated their dedication to public process. Council concurred with initiating the process as outlined in the report, and seconded the comment that this is the beginning of the process, and ultimately if all comes to the Council for approval. Various Council Members commented on specifics related to tax rolls, and creating a community partnership with Stanford. Council asked about the neighbors around the campus and how they would be integrated into the campus plan, and were told that Planners met with Stanford and Genentech Medical Clinics in advance of the public hearings, and they are handling it similar to the way they handled the Sequoia Hospital project, and they will be working with everyone very closely on any changes that are other than design. They intend to keep the zoning the same and design the plan such that it won't affect neighbors. They cited lots of opportunity to discuss issues with owners as part of the continued process. Council appreciated the efforts made to reach out to the neighborhoods. Council mentioned, again, Spinas Park and hoped for options relating to the possible expansion of the park. Council spoke positively towards Stanford's plan in keeping the green space. Council asked staff to bring back some traffic flow impacts like Pacific Shores and any shared recreational spaces and parking garage. Council would also be interested in having staff look at Palo Alto in terms of the Palo Alto Medical Foundation, as well as the San Carlos development agreement, as an informative example, as well as Stanford's agreements with Palo Alto and Santa Clara, with regards to transportation issues. Vice Mayor Howard appreciated the recommendations of going beyond the normal CEQA (California Environmental Quality Act) requirements and doing the analyses regarding potential fiscal and economic impacts, as well as studies on housing and childcare needs and also an analysis of needed open spaces and parks in the neighborhood. She also appreciated the proposed projecUreduced alternative parallel to the General Plan process. JOINT CITY COUNCIL/REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY BOARD MEETING MINUTES AUGUST 11, 2008 PAGE 9