AgdaPkt 2003-03-24 - Laserfiche WebLink

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7A- 19 Commissioner Paulson wanted to know why staff doesn't wrap the whole block in a "P" zone if this is what the City wants. Ms. Ekes said that it is something staff can do. She said that staff is looking at this project as a great model to possibly expand to other parts of the downtown, down Walnut and even down Broadway South of Walnut as well. Commissioner Piulle thinks that the project is wonderful. She wants to know how different this project would be if we did not have a Precise Plan. She said that the only difference is in the wonting. She feels that it is a wonderful concept and also a wonderful addition to the street. Susan Moeller, Downtown Manager, said that the concept of a Precise Plan is a proactive tool to help develop the Downtown. It is also a reactive tool because the City is not the only one to have good ideas. Susan said that it gives the City the flexibility to be able to respond to an idea that does not quite fit into the boxes or is not appropriate for the current City tools. She feels that the Precise Plan process is both a pro-active and a re- active tool. The City sets a basic framework through the precise plan and tries to have it flexible so future opportunities can be incorporated in the plan. Mr. Alsman said that the Planning Commission will look at both the project itself and the environmental documentation. There will also be input from the Architectural Review Committee and recommendations from the Zoning Administrator as well as staff. The precise plan process will make sure everyone is involved. Commissioner Paulson asked what happens if the ARC doesn't like it. Mr. Alsman said it is usually a negotiation process to try to work it out. Mr. Passanisi said that the important concept is that the Planning Commission will review the project. Commissioner McCoy wanted to know how the process will involve the Architectural Review Committee (ARC). The Planning Commission will first review the precise plan and details. Then the Planning Commission will turn it over to the ARC. Will the ARC have their hands tied and should the ARC be involved in the first envisioning process? Mr. Alsman said that maybe the Architectural Review Committee should first see it before it gets to the Planning Commission. Mr. Passanisi said that the Architectural Review Committee will make recommendations to the Zoning Administrator. If staff feels that the comments are unreasonable then staff can make a different recommendation. The Planning Commission will then make a recommendation to the City Council. Susan Moeller said that all parties, the Planning Commission, City Council, and Architectural Review Committee will be evaluating the Downtown Area Plan.