Planning Commission Minutes 2009 01 12 Special Joint Meeting

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City Council/LRC Planning Commission Special Meeting Minutes January 12, 2009 Page 4 of 7 Councilor Marsella noted if the land is not dedicated, RTD will utilize the property for surface parking. Commissioner Menaker noted the existing residential area has not been taken into account. Commissioner Hernandez stated there is a potential for the City to supplement and assist underground parking. He noted the Memo dated January 12, regarding sales tax, and the neighborhood core made good conclusions. Commissioner Menaker addressed the economic downturn and noted if the revenues were delayed, the TIF proceeds would be delayed. He suggested a more conservative approach. Commissioners discussed the single entry to the redevelopment. Mr. Gaughan noted a single gateway will support the commercial and office uses. Commissioners and Councilors discussed high density parking; office and commercial space and opportunities for vertical and horizontal density. Councilor Dalton questioned reducing or increasing the size of the site. Mayor Sisk agreed the sales tax would have to be added to make it a viable option and noted the project cannot be driven by the parking. Commissioner Menaker addressed the height restrictions and modifying the zoning to allow five-story development. He suggested giving the developer what they need to proceed. Planning Director Wood reported on a DRCOG meeting he attended, where it was reported the emphasis for five-story buildings is being reconsidered. He noted it requires more work than pulling down the density. Councilor Muckle voiced his concern that the transit development is no longer a part of the discussion. He emphasized the importance of a pedestrian connection from the Highway 42 Revitalization area to the downtown area. Commissioner Lathrop asked if the City would be better off without a transit development. He noted without the transit area, the parking opens up. Mr. Gaughan explained the transit component provides a focus toward catalyzing the development. The market doesn’t change without transit, but it does stimulate development.