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indifferent. He spoke about the bulk and mass of the project, the reduction of less than one percent, how crowded he believes it would be, and he questioned its compatibility with the character of the area. He said the conditions of approval changed without explanation and that Council should not grant an exception in this particular case. He also questioned the information on the trees and said that the plan would only be saving one tree. Levy Brinkerhoff opined this is a misuse of the planned development permit process, with a lot of houses being crammed into a very small space. He opined that the proposal of roundabouts and pillars don't make sense, and he likened it to having a 100-foot statue instead. Dean Collins, made comments about the different proposed lot sizes on Finger Avenue versus the existing lot sizes, and noted how the southern lots would be much larger than the northern lots which would be smaller and border the creek. He expressed concern about storms, particularly during EI Nino years, as well as the existence of a large encampment of homeless living along creek. He explained that people will eventually want and need fences to maintain their privacy and safety. John Shroyer, a neighbor and a professional real estate agent, said that there are people in full support of this housing development and that Council must have received lots of letters from them. He finds this housing development well thought out, will look like it belongs there, is in character for the area, and it will be well-received by the community. He also feels that residents will be very proud once the homes are built and that the project makes sense in Redwood City. M/S Ira/Howard to close the public hearing on the new revised plan. Motion carried unanimously by voice vote. Council discussion Vice Mayor Howard asked for confirmation that the traffic calming concepts presented from the developer are no more than concepts and public input would be the next step if the project was approved. Mr. Passanisi confirmed that to be the case. The issue of the changes on the pre-approval conditions was addressed and Mr. Passanisi confirmed the changes. He said that condition G was added and this has made it more stringent. One Council Member asked about the ARC and staff said that this body will review the project and its drawings. The issue of the sidewalk was discussed. Mr. Vorametsanti, City Engineer commented on the pavers and the sidewalk and he said the revised plan is a friendlier approach for the environment. Questions were asked on the size of the street and Mr. Passanisi answered. One Council Member wanted the walkway to be different from the roadway for ease of the walker. One Council Member asked if pervious concrete was considered and Mr. McGowan said if told to pursue it - he would. The roll curb was discussed as well as traffic calming measures like the one on Portland Avenue. One Council Member asked for the width of Finger Avenue and inquired if there is a homeless population. It was explained that this seems to be a seasonal issue. The creek JOINT CITY COUNCIL/REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY BOARD OCTOBER 26, 2009 MEETING MINUTES PAGE 8 MINUTE BOOK NO. 62 Page No. 508