AgdaPkt 2012-02-13 - Laserfiche WebLink

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8. B. - Page 161 Laura Peterhans, a 42-year resident of San Mateo County, leader with Peninsula Interfaith Action, which is a coalition of 30 churches in San Mateo County and northern Santa Clara County. She stated one issue they have worked on is the lack of affordable housing in the county. She stated that the lack of requirement for it in new developments was disconcerting. She stated there will be a great deal of redevelopment in this area in the future and this kind of large development without affordable housing sets a bad precedent. She stated that San Mateo City, Daly City, and Pacifica have a below market-rate policy. She stated that if the project were to include affordable housing then the parking requirements could be lowered or they could get a density bonus. She stated there is a housing imbalance and this development would increase that. Ben Paul, Redwood City Chamber Chairman of the Board, commended the staff for doing a fantastic job taking this project through the process. He encouraged approval of the EIR as this project meets all the requirements for a sustainable and high quality environment. Todd Adair, SAMCEDA, stated that his Board of Directors thoroughly reviewed this project and unanimously support it. He stated it would provide high quality multi- family housing that the area needs to offset job and housing imbalances. He stated it would provide residents the opportunity to use transit options. It would respect adjacent neighborhoods because of setbacks and it is a perfect example of the type of architecture and use envisioned by the Grand Boulevard Initiative. He stated it would be a catalyst for economic development. Victor Torreano, business representative for sheet metal workers in San Mateo County, finished Bill Nack's comments, stating that this development would result in millions of dollars in construction wages, which makes sense to use as stimulus for the economy, were it to go to local workers. Local workers must get paid wages and health benefits that are standard for the region, but as it sits now that will not occur. Staff must improve the EIR so that it improves conditions rather than make them worse. Mr. Torreano added that it's sad and laughable that the developer is busy looking for a home for the sign when there are construction workers in the community that are losing their homes. Yolanda Padelli, resident of Redwood City, stated that she has had to endure the Hetch-Hetchy repair for the last two years and if she didn't call the Park Association every 3 months then nothing would get done. She stated the park on McAvoy Street took fighting for to get back for the neighborhood. She stated they don't want Taco EI Camino to be repainted. She stated they had to go through this with the Good Will, they fought and won there. She stated that many of the neighbors don't know what's going on because they haven't been notified. She stated that the traffic is backed up frequently on Center Street and ambulances already don't fit on Linden. She stated that if something is going to be built at least let the union people do it. Gloria Maldonado, born in Redwood City, stated that her father was able to buy the house that was their family home because he worked union jobs and people got the prevailing wage so that they could buy houses in Redwood City. She stated that as a school teacher she sees children living in garages because they can't afford rent. She stated this project isn't friendly to families and is not affordable. She stated the EIR was faulty and not thorough. She stated that the Planning Commission must indicate to Page 11 of 17