After some roadblocks, approval of Staples Ranch development will be able to move forward.
Settlement of the environmental impact report lawsuit has been negotiated. As part of the negotiations, agreement was reached on allowing the Stoneridge Drive extension when conditions are right.
     The City Council, in a 5-0 vote, recently approved several documents paving the way for the development approval stage to begin; that will happen Tuesday, Sept. 7.
     Community activism has driven the process. Seniors stepped up to push the council to move forward. Neighbors were cooperative in negotiating the settlement of the lawsuit.
     A large audience was on hand for the council’s vote on the Staples Ranch documents.    Councilmember Cheryl Cook-Kallio seemed to speak for the entire council when she remarked to the audience filled with seniors. “I can’t tell you how delighted I am with the involvement of the community. ... You have provided a model of what can be done when people come together and apply pressure where necessary.”
     Staples Ranch will consist of several projects on 124 acres, including senior housing. It’s the largest development undertaken by the City of Pleasanton since the Hacienda Business Park.
     As is typical for any project in Pleasanton, as the Staples Ranch proceeds through the planning process, the citizenry is certain to remain deeply involved all the way.