"I think this is an excellent plan," Mayor Greg Brown said. "But certain changes have to be made."
Unlike the July 12 Planning Commission hearing, where nearly all the residents who spoke had serious concerns about the 11.73-acre development, the council audience, more than 50 people, typically complimented the plan. When Brown asked for a show of hands in support of the plan, nearly everyone in the audience raised their hand. No one raised their hand when the mayor asked for a show of people who opposed the development.
"This will be the most important thing that has ever happen to this city," Brown said.
The proposed 111,000-square-foot center would sit between Angeles Crest Highway, Foothill Boulevard, the Foothill (210) Freeway and Lillian Court. Sport Chalet's corporate headquarters, Taylor's Steakhouse and a day care center would remain under the proposed plan. Other structures on the proposed site, including old homes, would be demolished.
Residents' concerns focused on the absence of a wall in Mattix's plan to separate the town center from an adjacent neighborhood and the placement and size of a proposed park.
"Even if there was just a wrought-iron fence with some landscaping, it wouldn't be that expensive," said resident Monica Hunt, who expressed concerns over increased traffic and parking along Lillian Court.
Councilman Anthony Portantino downplayed concerns suggesting that if street parking were made illegal along Lillian Court, residents would be alleviated of traffic and parking issues.
"We're not against the project," resident Lauren Leidig said. "We just want privacy."
Other residents said they are eager to see a development that will bring more business to the area.
