Staples Ranch Discussion Resumes

After multiple delays, public hearings and a lawsuit, the Staples Ranch project could move forward tonight as the City Council is set to approve new environmental study documents for the development.

On Sept. 7, the council will discuss the planned unit development for Hendrick Automotive Group, Continuing Life Communities and a neighborhood park.

Tonight's consideration of revised environmental reports was rescheduled from June because the city missed the 10-day notification requirement to inform the community about the meeting.

The project, which has been in discussion for years, entails an auto mall, 45-acre senior center, commercial and retail development and parks. 

The council approved the project in 2009, along with the controversial extension of Stoneridge Drive to El Charro Road.

A lawsuit was filed claiming that the environmental impact reports for the project were inadequate. As part of a settlement, the city agreed to update its biological surveys. But opponents of the project said these new reports were also deficient because the reports did not disclose the impacts of the project on wetland species and habitat.

Last week, the Alameda Creek Alliance and the Center for Biological Diversity reached an agreement with the Alameda County Surplus Property Authority that essentially dissolves further opposition to the project. The agreement allows for up to $925,000 to be paid  for protection and restoration of rare soil habitat.

Throughout the delays, a group of seniors has advocated in favor of the retirement community planned as part of the project.

The 124-acre development project includes:

• 37-acre auto mall for the relocation of the Pleasanton Auto Mall and the Mercedes-Benz of Pleasanton dealership;
• 45-acre senior continuing care community and health center;
• 11-acre commercial/retail development; and
• 22-acre of parks.

For more information about the project, visit the city's website. Check back later for details on tonight's meeting.