Item 26 - Public Hearing Regarding Bristol Project

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Comment L9.4: This comment states that the strain on existing infrastructure is immense and there would be costly upgrades that the taxpayers would ultimately bear, including additional traffic lanes, larger sewer and water services, and electrical services. The comment states that traffic studies likely assume that the new residents would use public transportation or not commute at all, which is incorrect. Response L9.4: The comment does not raise any specific environmental concern with the analysis within the Draft SEIR. In regard to traffic analysis, the commenter is referred to Response L9.3. Regarding infrastructure improvements, as detailed within Draft SEIR Chapter 3, the Project would include multiple circulation improvements to surrounding roadways and utility improvements, such as sewer and water line upgrades. As described in Section 5.15, Utilities and Service Systems, of the Draft SEIR, the Project would not result in significant impacts related to utility improvements or existing service systems. Comment L9.5: This comment states that the construction required for mixed -use and hotel developments poses serious environmental risks and there will be added pressure on City infrastructure, such as water, sewage, and waste management systems, which could lead to significant challenges in maintaining the quality of these services. Response L9.5: The comment does not raise any specific environmental concern with the analysis within the Draft SEIR, which included a thorough analysis of potential environmental impacts associated with the construction of the Project. In regard to impacts on the infrastructure, such as water, sewage, and waste management services, the commenter is referred to Response L9.4 and the discussion within Section 5.15 of the Draft SEIR. Comment L9.6: This comment states that one of the most concerning aspects of the development is the potential for gentrification and displacement or urban blight. The comment discusses that the shift towards catering towards tourists rather than local citizens could shift the fabric of the community. This comment states that if the Project is not successful, the hotel might become a source of inflow for unhoused individuals. Response L9.6: The comment does not raise any specific environmental concern with the analysis within the Draft SEIR. CEQA is an environmental protection statute that is concerned with physical changes to the environment (CEQA Guidelines Section 15358(b)). The environment includes land, air, water, minerals, flora, fauna, ambient noise, and objects of historic or aesthetic significance (CEQA Guidelines Section 15360). The Project's potential economic and social effects are not considered effects on the environment (CEQA Guidelines Sections 15064(e) and 151 31(a)). Thus, consistent with CEQA, the Draft SEIR includes an analysis of the Project's potentially significant physical impacts on the environment and does not include discussion of gentrification, urban blight, or homelessness. This comment will be forwarded to City decision makers as part of the staff report for the Project. Comment L9.7: This comment urges the Planning Commission to consider alternatives that support local business, enhance existing infrastructure, and protect community character. The comment states that investments in green spaces and public transportation would result in long term benefits and the commenter opposes the Project. Response L9.7: The comment does not raise any specific environmental concern with the analysis within the Draft SEIR and is conclusionary in nature. This comment will be forwarded to City decision makers as part of the staff report for the Project. 20