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Session 1674, Minutes August 12, 1996 Page 2 Mr. Sauer and Mr. Londe came forward. Mr. Sauer said he has been involved in the development of more than 200 luxury condominium units in Old Town Clayton over the last 15 years, and most of these multi-family buildings were put into single family areas with great success because it was done with sensitivity. He noted that property (including single family housing) adjacent to such new developments has escalated dramatically in value. He said Mr. Londe has been interested for some time in extending this type of housing into University City, which already has great housing developments with outstanding architectural quality. He felt any change in density would be imperceptible. Of more importance is how the buildings sit on the lot and the fencing/screening. He displayed drawings showing what the finished development will look like, and said this project is very similar to one at the top of the hill. He said the landscaping is critical, pointing out how it enhances a luxury development like this and adds to the street- scape. All parking is underground, there will be a swimming pool, decks that overlook the courtyard, and elevators. He said it was an oversight in not realizing only part of the site was zoned for this project, which is why only one building is being proposed at this time; however, Mr. Londe wants to erect the second building once the zoning is changed. In response to Mr. Munkel, Mr. Sauer said the height from the foundation to the eaves line will be about 40 feet. He added that the roof will be a little higher than the building to the south, as shown on the drawings. Mr. Munkel said neighbors expressed concern about privacy issues with the larger building overlooking single family homes. Mr. Sauer said that situation exists all over north Clayton, and they seem to coexist with few problems. Mr. Munkel noted there was a hill on the property, and asked where the foundation will be. Mr. Sauer described how the buildings will be positioned on the lot. Mrs. Thompson asked how the neighbors have been involved in the planning. Mr. Sauer said this heating was scheduled for two weeks ago, but was postponed to receive input from neighbors. He said the City of Clayton was delighted with the plans, and several residents came to his office to discuss the plans. He said the public heating is normally where residents make their comments. Informal meetings with all the residents are not typically done. Mr. Lieberman said there was concern about the height of the building so close to single family homes to the north. Mr. Sauer said because of the slope, the south building will be one story higher than the north building, but he felt that made the site very interesting and provided kind of a step effect as one goes up the hill. Mr. Lieherman asked if consideration was given to erecting a three story building. Mr. Sauer said Mr. Londe did not ask for a specific number but to design whatever he (Mr. Sauer) felt was appropriate for that site. He felt the larger buildings gave the area a more urban feel. Mr. Wagner said he had confidence in Mr. Londe, knowing his reputation for high quality developments, however, he felt the City was remiss in not giving neighbors better notification and he felt they deserved more time for comments. He asked if Mr. Londe and Mr. Sauer would make themselves available for additional exchanges of information. Mr. Londe said when the original zoning was obtained, there were more than 10 meetings with neighbors for a five story project that was finally approved; he felt no more meetings were necessary. However, when a public hearing is held on rezoning the other part of the property, he would be available for questions or comments.