On Tuesday, May 17th, the Poway City Council conducted a public hearing to consider an appeal against the approval of a six-bedroom, 6,670-square foot hospice facility which Sharp Hospice Care plans to construct on Espola Road at Valle Verde Road. After discussion and public comments, the Council voted unanimously to reject the appeal, and to allow Sharp to continue with development of the site.
Public expressed concern
The public hearing began with a few short presentations by city staff, City Attorney Alan Fenstermacher and Sharp representatives, after which about 15 residents commented for up to 3 minutes each. A few residents expressed strong opposition to the facility, primarily regarding expected increased traffic hazard and danger to children, equestrians and others at what is already a busy and dangerous intersection. The traffic study commissioned by Sharp concluded that the hospice would generate only 8 additional vehicle trips on Espola Road per day, but opposing residents believe that estimate is too low.
Other residents expressed mild/modest concerns about impacts to the neighborhood and/or questioned the legality and appropriateness of such a facility in a residential neighborhood. Many residents spoke in support of the development, citing Sharp's reputation for operating similar facilities in a respectful and neighborly manner, the need for hospice care in north county, and expectation that the new facility will be a benefit to the neighborhood.
Questions and clarification from City Council
Councilman Barry Leonard gave a detailed explanation of the city's limited options with regard to the project, with input from the city attorney. It was noted that, under State law, a hospice of this size must be treated as a residential property, with no requirements beyond those that would apply to anyone constructing a single-family residence. The facility itself will be licensed by the State of California. The city’s authority is essentially limited to enforcement of building codes, development standards and considerations such as sight lines into the property from the street.
Leonard noted that the city had previously mandated access to the property from Valle Verde Road rather than Espola Road for reasons of safety as well as aesthetics. He also noted that the city has required fencing, berms and landscaping to hide much of the site from view, and Sharp has been very cooperative in working with the City's requirements. In response to objection to the large 23-space parking lot, Leonard noted it is actually a positive feature: the alternative would be a dozen or more cars parked on the street each day. To address community concerns, Councilman Leonard also proposed certain improvements for consideration, including enhancing or expanding the foot trail along the east side of Valle Verde Road and adding a sound wall adjacent to the parking area.
Other council members weighed in with their own perspectives, acknowledging residents’ legitimate concerns, and requesting further action on improvements along Valle Verde Road and other details, but ultimately agreeing that the hospice project meets all legal requirements and must be approved to proceed.
After previously reviewing the plans, the restrictions by state law and community concerns and hearing the information and input shared at the meeting, the GVCA board is hopeful that residents have a better understanding of the circumstances for the approval of the project and how this facility will fit into the neighborhood.
As always we welcome any of your comments or questions.