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The city of Pleasanton now faces a lawsuit — but not a referendum petition — in the effort to overturn the City Council’s recent approvals that paved the way for a new commercial center near the I-580/I-680 interchange expected to be anchored by Costco, two hotels and other businesses.
Local resident coalition Pleasanton Citizens for Responsible Growth, spearheaded by former City Councilman Matt Sullivan, filed a petition for writ of mandate in Alameda County Superior Court earlier this month challenging the council’s environmental clearances that helped advance the city’s Johnson Drive Economic Development Zone (JDEDZ) proposal.
Sullivan’s group also pursued a referendum petition to reverse council JDEDZ approvals, but the deadline for submitting voter signatures to city officials passed at 5 p.m. Wednesday without the group filing petitions with the city clerk.
“There was significant community opposition to the Costco and we were on a path to acquire the necessary signatures, however, 30 days is a very high bar for a referendum, particularly during the holiday period when so many people are rushed for time or out of town,” Sullivan said Wednesday afternoon in conceding the referendum attempt.
“We would like to thank all those citizens who took the time to sign the petition and we regret that your voices will not be heard,” added Sullivan, who served on the council from 2004 until being termed out in 2012.
The group now turns its attention to the lawsuit, which argues the city-certified environmental impact report (EIR) was an inadequate analysis that failed to mitigate all significant impacts of the project. They also contend city officials did not adequately respond to public comments on the draft EIR and did not recirculate new information in the final EIR.
“The EIR for this project fails to adequately evaluate all of the project’s significant direct, indirect and cumulative impacts, including but not limited to impacts on: air quality, human health, transportation and traffic, utilities and urban decay,” wrote the group’s attorney, Mark R. Wolfe, of the San Francisco law firm M.R. Wolfe & Associates.
The lawsuit, filed Dec. 1 and served on the city Dec. 7, asks the court to set aside the city’s EIR certification and JDEDZ approvals and sign off on an injunction to stop the city from moving forward with the project while the civil case is pending. The citizen group also seeks attorney fees, costs of the suit and “any other relief the court deems necessary and proper.”
Pleasanton city attorney Dan Sodergren said the city stands behind the EIR certification and JDEDZ approvals given by the council after “an extensive public review process” and “a robust environmental analysis.”
“I believe that all of the issues raised in the lawsuit were more than adequately addressed in the environmental review completed for the JDEDZ,” Sodergren told the Weekly. “The city will vigorously defend this lawsuit and will move forward with implementing the JDEDZ.”
The two sides are currently scheduled for the first court appearance in the case in February, a case management conference in Oakland before Judge Frank Roesch at 9 a.m. on Valentine’s Day.
In the meantime, city officials will work to prepare an administrative record of all documents related to the JDEDZ approval (which generally takes about two months), and then have another 30 days to respond to the suit, according to Sodergren.
Until an injunction is ordered by the court, the city could proceed with implementing the JDEDZ and processing applications for any project, once the rezoning ordinance approved last week takes effect early next month, according to city staff.
The city-initiated JDEDZ proposal details rules for how redevelopment could occur at 12 parcels on Johnson Drive and Commerce Circle near the freeways’ interchange, including a nearly 20-acre site left vacant when Clorox closed its research center there. Costco and a hotel developer have stated their intent to build on the former Clorox site now owned by Nearon Enterprises.
Sullivan has been critical of the city’s JDEDZ consideration process, questioning the city’s road infrastructure financing agreement with Costco and city officials’ transparency during the public review in addition to the validity of the JDEDZ’s environmental analysis.
That review process formally came to a close on Dec. 5 when the council voted 4-0 — with Mayor Jerry Thorne recusing himself — to adopt an ordinance approving a rezoning of the 40-acre site that included strict design guidelines that could help expedite city review of future projects in the marquee area.
Last week’s vote followed a 4-0 council decision on Nov. 7 for final approval of the EIR, a General Plan amendment to allow new commercial uses at the site and a resolution declaring their intent to adopt a JDEDZ transportation fee some time down the line.
Sullivan’s group began collecting signatures for their referendum in the wake of the November vote, with clock ticking as of Nov. 13 — when the city clerk certified the documents approved by the council — to collect names from 10% of registered Pleasanton voters.
“It is a common strategy for cities to time approvals of controversial projects over the holidays to quash citizen referendum efforts,” Sullivan said in the wake of his group’s failed referendum attempt.
The petition aimed to be Pleasanton’s second ballot measure related to the JDEDZ and new Costco. An earlier initiative from the Pleasanton Citizens for Planned Growth — unaffiliated with Sullivan’s group — sought to limit retail stores in the JDEDZ to no more than 50,000 square feet, but it was defeated at the polls in November 2016, 63% to 37%.
City leaders and many residents pointed to the strong defeat of Measure MM as a sign the Pleasanton community at large supports bringing Costco to town and the JDEDZ concept overall.
But Sullivan and others contend the result of Measure MM could have been much different if residents had known the full scope of the final JDEDZ proposal, including a proposed term sheet with the Costco that includes a 60-40 sales tax sharing deal with the wholesale retail giant to cover a portion of the costs for road improvements needed to accommodate the full JDEDZ.
With their referendum petition effort failing to meet the administrative deadline, Pleasanton Citizens for Responsible Growth are focusing on their legal challenge of the city’s environmental analysis.
“Substantial evidence in the record shows the project will have several significant unmitigated environmental effects that the EIR either failed to identify, failed to evaluate adequately or failed to mitigate where feasible,” Wolfe wrote in the lawsuit.
In his statement Wednesday, Sullivan honed in on the diesel particulate emissions due to increased big-rig traffic to Costco and other JDEDZ sites. “Evidence in the record shows all this will increase the cancer risk to residents living across from the project,” he said.
The council-certified EIR determined the project can establish mitigation measures to reduce the project’s impacts on a range of environmental conditions to a less-than-significant level.
But unlike most EIRs set for certification, this one concluded there would be significant and unavoidable impacts in two areas: transportation and air quality. So, the council approved a “statement of overriding considerations” for those two impacts to endorse the EIR.
In the case of transportation, the only reason it is left unmitigated is because the traffic improvements include work on the I-680 ramp at Stoneridge Drive, which requires Caltrans approval and therefore is technically outside of the city’s control. Staff anticipates no problems obtaining clearance from Caltrans for the roadwork.
As for air quality, city staff contends the negative impacts are due primarily to the size of the project at 40 acres and the number of car trips expected to be generated.
The analysis found the negative pollutant impacts on the local level are less than significant, but at the regional level, on Bay Area air basin, the impacts are significant and unavoidable.
However city staff argues those levels would occur for any project of JDEDZ size anywhere in the Bay Area, and that is true too for almost all large, high-economic development projects in California, even those that give people the ability to work and shop closer to home.
The lawsuit argues the city advanced the EIR despite objects from the citizen group and others about the air quality and human health impacts of the JDEDZ project.
Pleasanton Citizens for Responsible Growth is identified as an “unincorporated association of residents, citizens, property owners, taxpayers and electors” from Pleasanton, including Sullivan, Leonard Cloutier, Carol Brown and Linda Martin.
The JDEDZ consists of 12 parcels at 7106 to 7315 Johnson Drive and 7035 and 7080 Commerce Circle. Some of the land is vacant while other areas are in use now, with existing land-uses protected by grandfathering provisions.
Mayor Thorne recused himself from the JDEDZ debate after revelations he owned Costco stock in a retirement managed portfolio earlier in the JDEDZ consideration process — stock he no longer owns.
Can’t get signatures from 10% of the population even though they lied their behinds off. Now they sue the city. Sons of beaches. At least they have to pay out of pocket for the few signatures they did get,
City officials please counter sue these expletive deleteds.
Great can’t get the signatures so force the city to spend our tax dollars to defend itself. When is enough enough? Thank you food workers union
Mr.Sullivan what happened to your pious “democratic process” and free speech diatribe you trumpeted down everyones through these past weeks? Your first attempt to derail this project with Measure MM failed, your second attempt to foo. the voters seems to have failed as well and alas this foolish attempt will fail too.
No doubt you have sold yourself as some sort of subject matter expert to your supporters (retail clerks union, oil companies and transportation company), however they will soon find out how wrong you are likely to be. This so-called “citizen group” should be ashamed of themselves. Lastly, I am sure you know that your comments in this and other forums will now be considered public record. As such, you have jeopardized your own case (but I will let your own counsel tell you that).
I, for one will be contacting the District Attorney and Secretary of State to demand an investigation into this shadow “citizens group”. I would encourage others to do the same This bullying and passive-aggressive behavior needs to come to an end.
#buildourcostconow
What a joke. The people of Pleasanton have spoken, build the Costco now and counter sue these fools for the delays and costs associated with this ridiculous lawsuit.
Here you go….
“Pleasanton Citizens for Responsible Growth is identified as an “unincorporated association of residents, citizens, property owners, taxpayers and electors” from Pleasanton, including Sullivan, Leonard Cloutier, Carol Brown and Linda Martin.”
Shame, shame, shame. Interesting that the law firm that took the case is a small two-person operation. It’s all about the money-attorneys fees are called out in the writ four separate times. If it wern’t so sad it would be laughable.
This Matt Sullivan cowardly didn’t show for the open counsel meetings regarding Costco and speak publicly against the Costco development. He, and his small band of opponents, are wasting our tax dollars and time over this futile and undemocratic fight against what the majority of Pleasantonians want. Is this guy unstable, or does he have a God complex?
Well, this is really the only way Matt and his secret clients could ‘stop’ the zone development. the referendum is just plain silly, since that route failed once before. Now, at least, Matt and his ‘people’ will not just be hot air but spending some $$.
Dear Matt Sullivan. Please leave town. You are a disgrace to the City of Pleasanton.
Is this the same MS who said the Stoneridge extension to Livermore would create the biggest gridlock in the western hemisphere ever experienced. How did he ever get elected to the city council in the first place. The Stonetidge extension is a very lonely road most of the time. Contrary to what chickelittle said, the sky did not fall. Chicken Littles judgements is highly suspect.
Diesel particulate emissions? Lol. It’s a stones throw from 680! Costco we love you and we can’t wait to welcome you to Pleasanton!
MS, your behavior is tantamount to a petulant child screaming and stomping his feet when he doesn’t get his way.
the people have spoken. stop wasting our money.
The only thing MS accomplishes would be to drag out the “free” employee parking for that limo company and to extend the price gouging at the pumps of that oil company, wake up citizens we don’t need or have to use that transportation company or use those gas stations plenty of other options out there. What a sore loser, let’s get that Costco built and pass on the added costs to that citizens group hiding in the shadows of their wallets.
The City of Pleasanton should install parking meters installed on Johnson Drive. Get that limo service to start paying for the free parking they are using. People that want to use other merchants in the area can’t even find a parking spot with all the space they take up.
Thanks, Matt, for wasting our precious tax dollars–the tax dollars you supposedly are SO concerned about protecting from all of those you’ve repeatedly accused of being corrupt and colluding to pursue nefarious ends.
In the meantime, I truly hope people see the sheer hypocrisy in your latest pursuit.
so weird – whats behind everyone here so emotional about getting a costco?
Isn’t there one just up the road?
I don’t have much to add that hasn’t already been said here. This secret group of people headed by Matt Sullivan should be ashamed. They’ve not only insulted the voters of Pleasanton by claiming we didn’t understand MM but then they hire people who harass us in front of our grocery stores and now they’re costing our city even more money with this frivolous lawsuit. Stop hurting this community!
If you are “wondering” – it’s not emotion about a Costco. It’s disappointment over a small special interest group fighting hard for their own economic interests…trying everything they can to derail a project most residents seem to want…now costing our city resources to defend spurious legal accusations…
Everyone needs to remember this if Matt Sullivan ever decides to run for Mayor. It has gone beyond the ridiculous now. And also everyone needs to remember that Karla Brown was also behind the first referendum to stop Costco and a supporter in the past of Matt Sullivan and his antics. Just remember this for future elections in our city. Although Karla voted yes recently with the rest of the council I don’t trust that her tune has really changed. Coincidence Carol Brown is part of the citizens group? Just saying…..
@Buc Lau – please share how you will be contacting he various agencies and what to say as I would like to do the same.
So, when i go backwards to previous comments on this topic, before this suit, i will find a professional, civil, and mature discussion, befitting of Pleasanton citizens?
Vicki
Just for the record, Karla Brown voted both for the financing deal for Costco and for the project. She was initially concerned, as I was, that the financing deal was not transparent and was not sure if residents wanted a costco. She pushed city hard to have a public and transparent process about financing. She listened and valued citizen input desiring a Costco. Kudos to our elected officials who listen to public input and push for transparency( and are willing to change mind if new facts come out).
I too am disappointed Matt Sullivan seems to be wasting our public funds.
Wow, What’s happened to Pleasanton?! We used to be able to have respectful discourse regarding different opinions. The hostility that is spewed here makes me shocked and embarrassed for Pleasanton.
The Costco thing is sort of a David and Goliath situation. Don’t get mad at an informed citizen using his constitutional rights.
I am sorry that it has come to a law suit too but it all could have be avoided by the city using proper procedures.
I support him for standing his ground and making the law makers go through the process correctly or not at all.
As for the people who are spitting out hate speech – you should all go take a cold shower and then look your selves in the mirror and ask your self are you making this city/world a better place by the way you behaving. I think not.
Let’s have a open RESPECTFUL discussion. I thought Pleasantonians were better than this!
@Another Fact Checker – Thanks – I will withhold “judgement” until we know who is behind the “citizens” group. After the Lund Ranch fiasco I just don’t trust her. Hopefully I am wrong about her.
Thank you HT…I agree with you all the way. This wouldn’t be an issue if proper procedures were part of this deal. I am not in favor of Costco and I am a Costco member. Pleasanton community, let’s do this right–do something better and respect your neighbor, regardless of their opinion about this deal.
Do folks really think that the city did not follow its lawful established procedures? Those are set in stone and go through several layers of review and approval up to the City Attorney. Our City Attorney is new to Pleasanton and I can tell you from personal experience, he is very conservative and errs on the side of caution.
Here we go again with the “hate speech” crowd. Anytime someone has an opposing opinion, its labeled “hate speech”, however when they have an opposing opinion its labeled an “informed citizen”. You should go and read some of the vile posts by Matt Sullivan then get back to me. As stated, folks have been rubbed raw with this issue and now, once again those in the loosing column are hijacking the will of the majority of residents.
If you want to accuse anyone of short circuiting the process I again would refer you to Matt Sullivan, Black Tie Transportation and the Cox Family Stores gas station monopoly. They were the ones who crafted Measure MM and forced a vote prior to the project going through established channels. Again, they lost and got caught in their own trap. The same players are at it again, except under a different name.
The residents of Pleasanton are not stupid, ignorant nor disrespectful. What they are is informed and tired of re-hashing this project time and time again and being bullied by a few special interest groups.
By the way I have stated publicly that I admired SOME of the actions that Matt Sullivan took in the past. Up to a point he was a reasonable balance. Lately, whatever positive legacy he may have had has been overshadowed and erased by his blind ambition to “be right” despite the facts.
The worst that can happen is that the EIR will be re-done. Likely the study will now take into consideration the lessened number of trips to and from the Livermore and Danville Costco locations as well as fewer daily trips to the gas stations on Hopyard Rd., etc. This will likely yield an even better EIR. Doesn’t matter thought I don’t think this lawsuit is going to get far.
We all know enough to prevent Sullivan from getting elected again. Do we all remember that when we need limo service we should NOT even think of using Black Tie? His desire for free employee parking has been a big part of this whole fight. Wheeler and Sullivan need to crawl back under their rocks and get a life.
Y don’t he start suing the GOO trying to force passage of tax bill which is clearly w/o due process n will end up with higher taxes after the subset clause?
Why is it that the only threads that get this many likes on comments are those about Costco? People only care about this subject, eh? There aren’t enough users to generate that many likes in this amount of time. Town Square is absolutely stacked with people behind the pro-Costco campaign trying to make it appear that everyone wants it. PW- I know you’ll block this comment, as you’ve blocked my IP. You’re a shame to journalism and to integrity itself.
HT,
What’s happened to Pleasanton – at least for the majority of bloggers on this site – is that it has turned into a modern-day version of Joseph Stalin’s Soviet Union. Dissidents there were shipped to Siberia. Dissidents here – in my case exercising my political and legal rights – only have to move out of town.
If you are attacked for exercising your rights, let’s call it what it is: fascism. And let’s call those attackers what they are: fascists.
Wow @ “Matt Sullivan”‘s post above accusing everyone else a fascist. Did his account get hijacked or is that just how he normally behaves when he doesn’t get his way?
Fascism? Really Matt? People are dissenting because this has already been approved by a majority – think democracy. I think maybe a study in Democracy is in order. Two times tried to take this down through a democratic process and failed – should be a good indicator and now a lawsuit – which is just ridiculous. Do what you want but I for one am tired of you wasting our city’s money. Only the lawyer will make a profit on this deal – at all of our expense including you Matt.
KPIX channel 5 news has a reporter in the parking lot at Smart and Final asking people to comment on the Costco deal. I saw him ask several people and not a single one agreed to be interviewed.
If you want to be on the news with your opinions get yourself down to Smart and Final.
Thank you Matt Sullivan for your comments and f/u on this ill conceived Costco deal. I believe citizens were miss informed and are not realizing the long term effects on our health due to increase pollution, health hazards, traffic jams and the overall quality of life of our city. I commend you for your efforts. Keep up the good work.
Buc Lau, you make so much sense! Smart and articulate. Wish I could meet you some time. I enjoy your posts. Happy Holidays!
The comments on increased pollution, health hazards, traffic jams are red herrings. As has been stated numerous times the location of this plot of land is between two major freeways and a nearby sewage treatment plant . If you have concerns about increased pollution/traffic jams/health hazards your time would be better well spent addressing the large housing tract buildouts in Dublin, Tracy and Lathrop. Most of the negative comments I see here are from people residing within Stoneridge- I get it- you don’t want a Costco- but this frivolous lawsuit is not going to overturn the decision.
@Matt
Wait one darn minute Matt, you conjure up the name of Stalin and call us fascists? In case you have been asleep Matt, you are the one turning the tables on OUR Democratic process. The vote came back that the majority desires a Costco. You have turned yourself into a dictator and proclaimed yourself all-knowing, and set yourself afoot to destroy our rights. You sure do have the misguided gull.
Matt: so majority of posters here (we are not bloggers, hello) are fascists when we don’t agree with you and your clients? Care to expand on that?
At least you followed my advice and launched a suit. A judge and jury I hope. Only then will you find out you have no case. You do realize, when you lose you will owe lawyer fees just as you have structured your suit? I wonder if you clients budgeted that?
Hope you are not too sad your signature drive failed. Not sure timing had anything to do with it, but if it makes you feel better….
Gewd Ruck.
Let’s see… This deal will cost about $21 million to $25 million. Costco, a $100 billion company, wants Pleasanton to pay the majority. In fact over 2/3’s. Nearon is paying zero.
We just learned about the final terms a few weeks ago. Costco gets 40% of our sales tax dollars for 20 plus years.
Some argue that Costco will bring jobs. How many will be Pleasanton residents? Some argue it will bring sales tax, but after the 40% giveaway, it will be less than other retail which would get no concession; no giveaway.
I see the total going to $25 million. After all, it was $16 million one year ago. Who will pay? Has a City ever made a worse deal?
Because I’m opposed to Costco that means I’m aligned with ISIS? My earlier comments about fascism stand
My only question is why the pleasanton Weekly allows these kind of character attacks to be posted?
Matt – your right why does the pleasanton weekly allow these character assasinations they should be banned and since you match the very same criteria… – bye felicia….
In one respect we are lucky. If they had found enough signatures to waste another $250k of our money, there still would have been a law if they lost. This just shortens the process. Sullivan’s process is unfortunately way too common in California. It has little to do with democracy and more about money ruling. If you have enough money you can drag anything out. Disgusted
Matt: you called most of the posters here fascists. Is that not an attack? You are too sensitive. Perhaps you should post your drivel opinions (see not an attack on you, but your opinions) in a more patient forum…..ie someplace else.
Another poster has said it will cost the city $20m for Costco. Um, er, ah, does that need to be explained yet again? Ah, no. Let the ignorant go…away…
Matt Sullivan:
ARE YOU SMOKING THE DOPE???
Matt!!!! This is what we voted on.
CITY OF PLEASANTON MEASURE MM
“Shall the ordinance
proposing to amend
the City of Pleasanton’s
General Plan to prohibit retail uses of
50,000 square feet or greater, larger scale retail and club
retail, in the Johnson Drive Economic Development
Zone be adopted?”
Know were in the measure does it talk about any money and how the money may or may not be spent. How are you going to tell a judge that the city is misleading us?
Matt Sullivan, please Answer These questions. Don’t skim to what you want to answer like you have been. By not answering these question will put yourself further in the light of mistrust.
1. Who paid for the people to get the signatures for the petition that failed?
Matt Who Paid for it. Answers please. everyone that spent money on it.
2 Do you work for or have any affiliation of any kind with any of these company? and if so list them. Shell oil, Black Tie limousine, CHEVRON, Safeway.
Matt Step up an answer, We are waiting.
For the record even if Pleasanton were to only got 60% sale tax back or lets say it’s it 50% back for 100 years. It’s still 60% that is coming to this town and not another. The money that we would save in gas prices alone, form Costco would help cushion the 40% that we MAY not get, as well as the money saved by not having to drive miles away to another Costco. With My Safeway discount I save sometime up to 50 cents a gallon on gas, from Shell and Chevron. I fill my van up with 20 gallons of gas every week. That’s a savings of $10.00 a week and over a year $5,200 a year.
Costco brings that same saving to THIS town Matt.
Now Matt are you going to be honest and Answer the just 2 questions? Or hide ?
One of the many reasons I am leaving Pleasanton after 20 years. This city can’t move anything forward – first it was the extension of Stoneridge and now it’s the fight about Costco. The voters spoke yet somehow we get thrown into lengthy battles that cost this city valuable tax dollars to fight. When will it end? I wish there was as much of a fight on putting up residential property on every little space of land – the town homes along Las Positas and the ugly apartments along Gibraltar and Owens. I’ve lived in 3 other states/cities over my lifetime and never have I been so disappointed in a city government.
Hi Matt or person pretending to be Matt,
I sure hope you don’t work in accounting or finance. The Costco will be built and you will be labeled as the small minded guy who tried to stop it. You are inspiring me to get involved in city politics. Last time I checked nobody lives on Johnson Drive. Also, last time I checked if Costco doesn’t go in other businesses will which will generate more trips than today. Additionally, over the coming years I bet cut through traffic from uncontrolled growth such as the Tracy Hills project will generate a material number of trips through OUR city as well. Let support growth that improve city jobs and protects the hills. I’d rather see Costco rather than 250 attached residential units on that property. It has happened in other cities.
-Rob
Matt,
I believe all of us who live here (and vote, too, btw), will remember your labeling us all as “fascists.”
You complain to the Pleasanton Weekly about having to be subject to personal attacks, but then you, in turn, resort to calling those of us who disagree with you fascists?!
See the definition of hypocrisy.
See the definition of dictator, too, while you’re at it, relating to/quoting Jake Waters’ earlier comments above, “you have turned yourself into a dictator and proclaimed yourself all-knowing,”
Yes, you are exercising your rights, but you are WAY out of line to call those of us who disagree with you “fascists.”
Unbelievable. If you think this lawsuit is a preamble to your desire to run for mayor, perhaps, good luck with that.
You’re destroying any positive legacy you ever thought you had. Gone.
Additionally, as Ron just pointed out above, you conveniently ignore the history of the Bernal/Stanley parcel, which years ago was slated to have a Home Depot built there. Instead, because that project was defeated, look what we go instead–350 residential units, PLUS a strip mall of MANY chain retail stores, and MUCH more traffic (see daily commuters) than would have been generated by a home improvement store, which typically sees high traffic on weekends, not weekdays.
Your latest effort is about YOU, and YOUR wants and desires, not the majority of us who live here (have voted on this, and will be voting in the future).
Given the judicial process showed 1) illegal financing agreement to build Neal school that failed to follow the law 2) illegal EIR to slam through Stoneridge Drive extension where the city failed to follow the law 3) illegal General Plan EIR that the state said failed to follow the law and the courts agreed so the Housing Element had to be completely redone 4) illegal city approvals given to approve multiple fake colleges that were in fact visa scams 5) illegal participation from mayor who claimed he had no idea he owned stock in Costco in Costco land permit discussions and hearings and I could go on….I have no doubt that the courts will find Pleasanton failed once again to follow the law. Seems like this is such a pattern with Pleasanton that it is no accident. They can’t seem to stay out of the courtroom but the fault lies completely with the city staff and elected officials that perpetuate the problems time and time again.
These types of tax sharing arrangements are extremely common with larger businesses and municipalities. And they make great sense. Costco gets a break in sales tax for a period of time. Pleasanton gets long term infrastructure that will keep that location generating tax dollars long after Costco is gone, if they are gone. And Pleasanton gets more money from the development than it would have received if that location was office space, or more Black Tie limos. It’s an ugly piece of land in an interchange.
Everybody wins, except a couple of gas stations. Which is really what MS is fighting for. A couple of angry gas station owners. I hope the City of Pleasanton humiliates them in court.
Pleasanton litigation in perpetuity..
I have a question for you. Please answer.
1. Name a city that has been around as long as Pleasanton, that has NEVER been sued?
My opinion to your post is that it is Lame and don’t prove anything, and clouded with inconsistency’s.
Matt. Still waiting for your Answers. The longer you take the more you shift under the cloud of mistrust.
I like Costco, I would like Pleasanton to get a Costco store. But not on Stoneridge in addition to the mall especially at Christmas time.
-the Bart station, all the office buildings and more going in
-Stoneridge drive is already getting very heavy traffic and is now connected to Livermore also
THE ADDITION OF COSTON AT THE WEST END WILL GUARANTEE GRIDLOCK MUCH OF THE TIME ON STONERIDGE
Hey Matt. We are waiting on your answers to the poster “We Voted”. Waiting for it………………… Crickets.
A big box is a bad investment because big box retail is a declining business due to online retailers Why fund a network of road improvements for what will likely be an empty shell of a building 10 years from now? A much better use of space would have been a lower floor small format Target with a mixed use design. Why can’t Pleasanton leaders have any imagination? Small format retail like https://www.minnpost.com/twin-cities-business/2017/10/do-twin-cities-really-need-another-target-store would work better. There are too many big boxes in the area already and general format big boxes are going the way of the dinosaur. We don’t need yet another huge square foot big box in the area because there are too many already plus there is the mall less than a mile away. If Costco wants to open up they should be in the mall as one of the anchor stores in the future.
Stop wasting our money and let the city move forward on the entire project. Costco is a small part of it and the land is unused as it is. Let’s develop this prime real estate before somebody decides to build a Dublinesque instant slum there, which would make even more problems without any big stores and hotels to share the costs.
This whole thing is silly and needs to go away.
@Pleasanton litigation in perpetuity-
You ask “Why can’t Pleasanton leaders have any imagination?”, so… you are aware that the City does not propose these projects to itself, rather developers propose the projects to the city? Its not the city that lacks imagination.
A smaller mixed use project would likely not be built, as there is no developer in their right mind that would propose housing that is wedged between a major North-South freeway and the sewer treatment plant settling ponds. Not an ideal location if you know what I mean. Lastly, not sure of your comment re: too many “big-box” retailers in Pleasanton. There are only two that I can think of off hand – Home Depot and Wal-Mart.
As far as putting Costco at the Stoneridge Mall, sure lets grasp at straws and turn the mall into another Hilltop Mall in Richmond. I don’t think anyone wants that. Either way, no matter how you slice and dice it, the road improvements still need to be done, regardless.
Silly Screen Name: can you name one Costco that has closed since the costo/price club merger?
We await.
Ruth, thank you for the chuckle!
“Dublinesque instant slum” is exactly what’s going in there if no Costco.
Democracy at work but not what our founders had intended. Sue until you get your way. Voters have spoken twice! Voted NO on MM and NO on the latest petition drive. What else do we need to convince the opposite side? Now the frivolous law suit over cancer claims. what a sham!
We, the MAJORITY of people in Pleasanton, voted to pass this and we are held hostage by this sore loser who can’t accept losing at the ballot box so he sues? WTF? We need to ensure these losers who file these frivolous lawsuits are bankrupted if they lose the lawsuit. This is absolutely ridiculous! We should all bring lawsuits against that sore loser Sullivan!!!! There needs to be consequences for their childish actions.
Costco has never been voted on. Our City leaders have negotiated a bad deal. Negotiations started in 2014. We just now learned the details.
I can’t understand the need. It will create more traffic, more pollution, and we will pay most all the costs.
If this $100 billion company wants to come to Pleasanton, they should pay. Oh..and the developer should pay more than zero.
I am perfectly happy to drive to Danville or Livermore for Costco.
The city and its residents should countersue Matt Sullivan on his frivolous lawsuit for all legal fees and punitive damages.
Joe, first question are you part of the commercial food worker’s union that is the group Matt Sullivan has been fronting for?
Please explain to me how 22,000 Pleasanton Costco members who would be driving to a location in town thereby saving several driving miles each trip is contributing to more pollution then already exists? You acknowledge you would rather drive to Livermore or Danville creating more pollution and taking your sales tax dollars to another community–please explain the logic of that.
Costco is paying–approx. $6.5 million as their share of the traffic impacts on Johnson drive based on full build out of the economic zone. In addition, they are advancing the money under terms that Matt Sullivan’s economic consultant testified at a council hearing was a “good deal and the City should take it” that others will pay as they develop such as the two hotels that will be submitting applications in Jan.
Surely by now you’ve read that the property owner/developer is under contract with Costco to sell the property to them. None of us know the terms of the deal but it likely is that Costco received a favorable price in exchange for them paying all the various required fees to develop. If you’re so hung up on the developer paying, think of Costco now as the developer.
Please deal with the facts instead of ignoring what’s out there!!
Justtgefacts,
No, I’m one of 12,500 people who voted no big-box.
Are you a Costco employee, a Nearon employee, a Chamber of Commerce Member or one of the hired guns, (whom I will not name)??
Please explain how 4,000 gasoline and diesel vehicles idling while waiting to fuel each day will not create unacceptable and unavoidable pollution can be mitigated. (which cannot be mitigated, according to Bay Area Air Quality District.)
Please explain how 8,000 gasoline and disel vehicles traveling to Costco in Pleasanton will not create more pollution. (10,000 on Saturdays).
Please explain how 25 big-rig Costco delivery trucks daily will not create more pollution and accidents.
Please tell me how many Costco “home delivery trucks” will be on the road each day.
Please explain how 4 tanker trucks daily full of 8,000 gallons of gasoline and diesel is not potentially dangerous on our streets.
Please tell me that $6.5 million paid by Costco is fair based on a $25 million price tag for this project.
@Joe – you might have a little credibility if you didn’t make a statement that says “hired guns – who you won’t name”. I challenge you to name them! Seems that you and Matt can’t / won’t / are afraid to name supporters and challengers? Last time I checked the 12,500 give or take who voted against Costco are still the minority. Accept the loss. Time to move forward with Costco.
So…I was thinking. Since Matt Sullivan and his shadow group FAILED to get a mere 10% of registered voters to qualify his FAILED initiative, doesn’t that equate to more than 90+ percent of registered voters SUPPORTING COSTCO by default??
I would say that’s a very plausible conclusion. Contrary to those foot stomping, temper tantrum throwing, false fact waiving, deceitful, sky is falling, naysayers, the numbers don’t work in their favor. They need to stop referencing their anemic argument of how many voters voted for Measure MM. it doesn’t matter anymore, because we just proved by your FAILURE to sway a measly 10% of the electorate, any anti-Costco measure would have been defeated by even a greater margin than the first! Think about it. Arithmetic is a wonderful thing.
Vicki,
I see that rather than focusing on the facts that I presented, you stated that I lost credibility for my being respectful and not mentioning her name.
A diversion from you…Speak to the facts quoted.
@Joe how about this fact – 63% approved the land use for a Costco. FACT that’s a majority.
FACT – latest effort to collect 10% of registered voters to try to overturn councils approval FAILED! Those are two very strong FACTS!
How is it that I knew about how the financing would work – yet it keeps being claimed the voters didn’t know. FACT – the voters knew and wanted Costco to move forward.
FACT – cars and trucks will still fill up at gas stations. I didn’t realize that the air in Pleasanton only stayed in Pleasanton. Seems that all those cars and trucks are filling up somewhere today – but oh my gosh I had no idea that the pollution they create stayed in the City bubble where they filled up. That argument put forward is simply laughable. I do hear that Chicken Little is looking for a friend to stay with him while the sky falls.
Shall I keep going with the FACTS?
The courts will recognize this for what it is – a frivolously lawsuit and I hope it costs those that filed it a pretty penny. Enough already.
Vicki,
Glad we are back to issues.
No one voted on Costco. They voted to not restrict the square footage of retail to 50,000 square ft. When the vote was made, the terms were not known. With these terms, who would vote for Costco?
You are correct: the efforts for the referendum were discontinued. This could be considered a failure.
The City claimed there was no deal during the election. Many people believed this, and expected a fair deal.
Cars and trucks that are not filling up now in Pleasanton, will be doing so. Worse yet, the will be in line idling for up to 20 minutes each. I wonder if this was in the SEIR?
Regarding pollution…Bay Area Air Quality Management District did a study which said that the pollution created will be unacceptable and unavoidable, and there is no mitigation. I believe their study versus your “not in a bubble” theory.
Yes, please go on with facts and cover traffic, delivery trucks, the $25 million cost.
Joe,
I am not affiliated with any of the entities you named. I’m a mom with school age children Time is an important to me. I’m going to shop at Costco. Having one in Pleasanton will provide many benefits for myself and other moms like me. I will be able to get my shopping done with the children are at sports or music practice–something I can’t do now with the drive to Livermore. I like the idea of my sales tax dollars staying in Pleasanton to help fund road repair, police and fire, etc.
I think the point you are choosing to overlook is that the 22,000 people living in Pleasanton are going to shop at Costco. You haven’t addressed how they would be driving fewer miles each trip to shop which will cut down on air pollution alone. They are going to buy gas–it has to come by truck so all I see is shifting the truck deliveries to different locations. Again the net is that 22,000 residents are going to be driving FEWER miles.
Yes, I think Costco is paying their fair share based on the projected traffic from the different uses at build out. As I mentioned above, which you conveniently ignored Matt Sullivan’s economic consultant said the advancement from Costco was a good deal–his words not mine!! You also consistently ignore the fact that Costco is paying $6.5 million NOT connected to the advance. How can this be costing the city $20 million with Costco paying?
The united commercial food workers union is behind Matt Sullivan’s efforts. Doesn’t it bother you that they want us to continue paying higher prices for food, gas, etc or be forced to drive 10 miles to the nearest Costco? Why should I give my sales tax dollars to other cities? BTW, this is next to a freeway with pollution–are you suggesting that we should put more high density apartments there between the freeway and sewage ponds? It certainly bothers me!
Justthefacts,
I understand your desire for convenience, but at what cost to our community?
There will be added pollution. It will be near neighborhoods. Bay Area Air Quality Management District took into consideration the reduced miles travelled by Costco customers to Livermore and Danville. Their conclusion was still “unacceptable pollution” created. This is a net number. They understand how to perform these studies.
As to keeping sales tax dollars in our community, first, we will get only 60%, because Costco has convinced the City that they need our help. Second, the break even is many years away before the sales tax will offset the expense. Years to beak even.
You want the convenience. Is this a good deal? Is it worth the traffic and pollution? You decide.
Looks like you’re quickly becoming P-town’s public enemy #1! That’s what happens when you try to screw the good people of Ptown to satisfy your own selfish desire. Your buddy “Limo Boy” is not going to get his free parking for much longer so go cry a river! Do us all a favor and get the hell out of our town!
Matt – please leave Pleasanton – you’re wasting taxpayer money and going against the democratic will of our citizens. If you don’t like what Pleasanton voters want then move somewhere else – it’s a free country!
@Joe your “facts” are wrong again. Costco retains a portion of the sales tax to repay the loan they are giving the City for very badly needed infrastructure improvements. Once that loan is repaid guess what the city keeps 100%. FACTS are the facts and yours are wrong.
Vicki,
And, when might that loan be paid off? Just how many years will we only get 60% sales tax to pay for this” badly needed infrastructure” for The Costco development?
After we pay for the infrastructure from borrowing from Costco, traffic will be far worse than it is before the development. All streets and roads will not be fully mitigated. Level Of Service will decline on streets like Hopyard/ Johnson Drive.
Been living in Ptown since the 1970s and seen the city that was emphasizing quality of life turning into quantity of life. Be glad to be moving to another city in a few months that keeps growth under control and quality a priority for its citizens. When I come back to visit friends, maybe will see two more costcos one in pleasanton and dublin and a few high rise buildings. Keep raking in the tax money Ptown
@ Joe if you examine the details of the loan on the CITY’s web site you can see exactly how long the loan amount is for. Get a clue. All the info is public info. And if you don’t know you should educate yourself and that is what anyone should do. The arguments you have put forward just don’t stand the test of truth.
Oh Joe “son of Sullivan”
I have Asked you master Matt Sullivan to answer 2 questions over 24 hours ago and he has failed(again) to answer them. Because you don’t study the facts, like Vicki LaBarge so eloquently pointed out, I will re-post them so maybe you can relay the question to you master and see if he will tell you.
1. Who paid for the people to get the signatures for the petition that failed?
Matt Who Paid for it. Answers please. everyone that spent money on it.
2 Do you work for or have any affiliation of any kind with any of these company? and if so list them. Shell oil, Black Tie limousine, CHEVRON, Safeway.
Joe “son of Sullivan” let me ask you as well those same questions. Please answer.
Doesn’t it both you that you Master Matt won’t answer them?
He had posted twice already before my first post with the questions, and now nothing. Also Joe “son of Sullivan”, The last post your master wrote, only had 2 “likes”. 2!!!!! You and Master Matt I would think. What dose that say when there are 30 then 31 on the posts right after that. Plus one post getting 71 “likes” asking your master to leave town.
It tells me that the majority like the deal. So why should we, Joe “son of Sullivan” yield to you and your master, or to Shell oil, Black Tie limousine, CHEVRON, Safeway? Why is it that the majority has to yield to the minority?
Your lame made up numbers about about “4000” cars a day at Costco doesn’t make any sense. Lets say that there were really 4000 cars getting gas there.(please show me where you got those number) Even if there was 4000 cars, Do you think by not having Costco there that we ( the 4000 car) would not need gas any more? NO!!! We would still be getting gas at 30 to 50 cents a gallon high now. We will go in the middle and say 40 cents that we DON’T save. If 4000 cars got just 10 gallons of gas at 40 cents higher per gallon than Costco. That would be $4 NOT saved on every car. $16,000 a day NOT saved and $5,840,000 NOT saved a year.That’s at Just 40 cents. today’s gas prices: Pleasanton Chevron $3.25. Livermore Costcos gas $2.77. Costco save us 48 cents per gallon! This is just one reason why your master dose not want Costco here. His friends would not be getting our money. 60% sale tax to Pleasanton and no loan from a bank works just fine for me and THE MAJORITY!
Good Sunday morning…
Vicki, you say get a clue, educate myself
We Voted!!!, you call me “son of Sullivam’
Goodness…
Vicki, I asked the number years for the payoff to Costco, because I knew that you would not quote it. The number is shameful. The City lists over 18 years to share revenue with Costco for loan repayment. This is based on the false premise thar Costco sales will increase at a compounded annual rate. . In actuality, Costco’ mature store sales level off after 5 years and begin to decline. It will most likely take 25 years. Can you find one city in the United States that has shared revenue with Costco for 25 years?
We Voted!! – may I ask what you voted for? Costco was not on the ballot. Were the terms of this one-sided deal known last year when there was a vote to limit square footage of retail in the JDEDZ?
Joe, the 18 years also assumes no other lots in the zone develop or redevelop. Two hotels have already stated they are going to submit applications in January which means they would be paying traffic fees that would be used to pay down the advance. At a city council meeting it was stated the fee would be about $1.75 million which would dramatically affect the time to payback the advance. This is an example where you choose to ignore the facts.
I don’t know about you but I had a sign in my front yard that said No on MM We want Costco!! Seemed pretty clear to me what the issue was!
Justthefacts
There are the costs of of right of ways – at least $1.5 million
There will be cost overruns – at least 10-20%. Another $2 million to $4 million
The City will need fees to pay these; not reduce the loan to Costco.
Any fees coming in from other businesses, are not scheduled to reduce the debt to Costco. See what the loan says. I stick with 25 years!
Joe – Facts lacking again.
1 I never referred to you as “son of Sullivan”
2 no I didn’t state the years because I was not at a place where I could easily look up the info – there is no hidden agenda here, I prefer to list factual data not working just from memory.
3 You are assuming no other businesses go in Johnson Drive – but oh wait there are applications for other business lining up which will help pay down the loan.
4 you say Costco was never on the ballot and people didn’t know what they voted for – wrongo again. The measure MM supporters clearly had signs all over town with the financial data and clearly stating no Costco. Again making an assumption that is not based on fact that the poor people of pleasanton didn’t know they were voting to allow a Costco. Just go back through the Yes on MM campaign materials – financials and Costco clearly there on signs all over town.
I am done with this conversation because you cannot stick to the FACTS – the fake news is getting boring.
Have a good day. Can’t wait for the Costco to be build.
Vicki,
Don’t blame you for being done. If I were you, I would not want to continue to discuss the costs, the borrowing, the years of payback, the costs of right of ways , the costs of constuction overruns, the false accounting used by the city for compounded yearly increases in Costco sales.
You voted in November 2016 without knowing all of the facts.
You still want Costco. Yes, I understand. I hope you, too, have a good day.
Do everyone notice that the last 3 post by Joe “son of Sullivam’, that he never answer the questions as well? Went on with his fake facts and 25 years assumptions instead.
1. Who paid for the people to get the signatures for the petition that failed?
Matt Who Paid for it. Answers please. everyone that spent money on it.
2 Do you work for or have any affiliation of any kind with any of these company? and if so list them. Shell oil, Black Tie limousine, CHEVRON, Safeway.
Matt!!!! Where did you go.
Now that Matt and his son have accused us of “fascism”, I’m sure that real soon we will hear the father and son team, talking about how Russia hacked the election on Measure MM. The Measure that THE MAJORITY VOTED FOR!!!
Joe “son of Sullivam BEFORE YOU SAY ANYTHING ELSE here on this post, get the answers to those 2 question from you and your dad. The cloud of mistrust is so thick that no one even cares any more what you say because we can and don’t trust you and you dad.
Here’s a new number for you and your fake 25years. In 25 years we would pay $146,000,000 EXTRA IN GAS, if there is no Costco. That’s a big number that Matt and his son and there company’s want to themselves. $146,000,000 million!!!!!!
“BEFORE I SAW ANYTHING ELSE” …Really? You dictate?
I could ask you if you are affiliated with Costco? Nearon? The City? The Chamber? Why would I ask? Would you be truthful? This is a useless question. Of course, you would say no.
As to the gas savings, you now have choices for dicounted gasoline, including Safeway or Costco in Livermore? If this is important to you, I suggest you go there.
Let’s see….this thing will cost over $25 million with interest, right of ways, overruns, etc We will pay at least 75%. Costco had revenue of $32 BILLION in this last quarter (only 3 months!)
They are only contributing $6.5 million to the $25 million?? The Nearon/ City study said Costco needed help. It would not be economically feasible for Costco to build in Pleasanton without significant help.
Give it up Joe. Your math sucks and nobody cares what you have to say. Quit insulting people by saying they didn’t know what they were voting for. The vote is in and it was 67% to 33%. Come on Costco. Same nimbys as went crazy on the Stoneridge extension to Livermore.
@Wow
Have I ever said people did not know what they were voting for?
I said that Costco was not on the ballot.
I said the facts of the deal were not known last November when people voted.
People voted to let the ZDEDZ process continue. Some hoped for a fair deal. Some wanted Costco even if it was a bad deal.
My position is that this is a very bad deal.
Hope you guys and gals don’t miss me. Going to Safeway to get my gas and groceries. Patronize a local company.
Then to see my grandkids. Be back tonight.
Have fun!
Joe: How is this a bad deal? The City is hardly paying anything. Taxpayers in Pleasanton are paying zero. I get it you are late to this issue, but please do try to keep up. You have brought nothing new up, in fact, the NIMBYs haven’t brought anything new up in months that is credible.
I wonder, Joe, when the costco opens will you be there with Matt picketing? or will you be first through the doors as a shopper?
Let us know when you understand the ‘match’ here because it seems you still think the people of Pleasanton are paying…they won’t unless they shop in the zone and they would be paying sales tax ANYWAY.
Region wants a new costco, time to accept that and move on.
Safeway is local? Costco has much better beef!
You should go to Gene’s instead of Safeway, better beef and seafood!
Safeway is not a local company.
Safeway is owned by Albertson
Albertson is head quartered in Boise Idaho.
Albertson is owned by Cerberus Capitol Management Company.
Cerberus Capitol Management Company is located in New York New York.
There is an old saying: you can’t teach a pig to sing. It wastes your time and annoys the pig. Not calling names here but Joe and Sullivan aren’t interested in facts.
Joe “son of Sullivan’
I see what you did there. You turned the question back on me. The old “Misdirection” tactics. Good job! Now people will forget about the spot lite being on you and your dad. NOPE!!! I will do what you and your dad won’t do and are afraid of doing. An answer your question. Am I affiliated with Costco? Nearon? The City? The Chamber?
Yes! I shop at Costco, I live in Pleasanton, so am affiliated with the city that way. I know were the Chamber is but do not or have ever been to a meeting. I have no ties to Nearon.
There I did It!!!!!! Truth was told, just not by you and your dad.
People of Pleasanton… I have asked the same 2 to Matt Sullivan and his son Joe..Just 2..question several times now and still nothing was ever said. Matt Sullivan and his son Joe are out right Liars and will say anything to keep the money they and ties with there company will lose when we get our Costco.
Matt Sullivan and you son”Joe” you’ve lost any credibility from this point forward.
Safeway was local, but now a subsidiary of Albertson’s. So, owners are not local, just the HQ offices of Safeway, which has been reduced greatly since being purchased.
Most people I know do daily/weekly shopping at a regular grocery store and Costco perhaps less often for larger quantity items. so, saying to shop at Safeway instead of Costco, is kinda a silly statement almost as silly as saying Safeway is a ‘local’ company.
BOB B and SHALE99-
the Safeway HQ still employs a lot of people right here in Pleasanton. Their website indicates HQ in Pleasanton. They are still a major presence in the business community. To say they are not is a little contrived. Most businesses are in fact owned by corporations with their HQ elsewhere.
Safeway employs local people just like Costco would employ local people. What a concept.
Hey all you Costco lovers,
Since you worship access to large quantities of cheap stuff, I thought you might be interested in this interview with the authors of a new book called “A History of the World in Seven Cheap Things”. Just a warning, it may throw a shock in your narrow, selfish world view.
https://www.dissentmagazine.org/online_articles/raj-patel-jason-moore-history-world-seven-cheap-things-interview
I can hear it now: “Sullivan’s a Communist! He needs to move to Russia and hang out with his friend Putin.” Oh, except that Russia is now a Capitalist country ….
Hey Matt.
When are you going to answer “We Voted” questions? What do I hear again? Crickets!
Oh Matt: Love costco? Cheap stuff? Have you heard that things tend to cost less if you buy in bulk? It’s a theory based on facts. In fact, it is a FACT. While true a single person, or small family won’t find much value at Costco, others really do. In my case perhaps once a month and usually just for those items (in bulk) that one can’t find at ala Safeway etc. Bigger families I can see going more often and those with decent pantry storage going even more. Still, it’s a segment of consumer one shouldn’t diss.
Seems you never shop there, or do and won’t tell us. That’s fine. Still a bit confused why you refuse to answer what YOU want in the zone. Note, your silly idea of office buildings won’t float since that was THERE to begin with.
Please regale us with your plan. You must also buy the zone and replace the developer. Oh, and a silly thing called tenants as well. We await your wise wisdom.
So now we are facisists, narrow minded and selfish because we are in favor of a Costco.. WOW just WOW. And I did read the interview. I think someone on here needs a mental exam. You have truly lost it buddy.
Bella: Once upon a time Safeway was owned kinda locally and they did have a giant HQ base in Pleasanton. NO more. They sold themselves and now have corporate overlords. Their HQ office footprint has been shrinking ever since the change of ownership.
BUT one could not say Safeway is a locally owned business. Nuff said?
PS and the sarcastic ones could point out that people who live in Pleasanton could own stock of Safeway’s owner. Half credit…..
Matt Sullivan is right. We don’t need any more big box stores in Pleasanton. What I would like to see at that site is a marijuana dispensary, which can serve the needs of the tri-valley. I am willing to throw my money behind any efforts to make that happen.
Let Costco sell pot.
First of all, it’s unfortunate that Pleasanton neighbors can’t seem to remain civil in this online forum. Whether you like it or not, Pleasanton citizens have the right to sue, just as you would if you found the results of a recent election untenable. That’s the nature of our legal system. Matt Sullivan, et al, have put themselves out there, and to be honest, most of us just see fit to criticize from the anonymity of our computers. The level of vitriol on some of these posts is pretty sad.
But, back to the discussion. Everyone who shops at Costco loves Costco. It does not mean it needs to be in Pleasanton’s backyard. The “I like Costco/Convenience factor” is terribly short sided because no-one in this forum who is pro-Costco has discussed or considered what Costco will bring with it…traffic from OUTSIDE Pleasanton, traffic from all over the Bay Area, not just Pleasanton. The juncture of the 680/580 corridor is a feeder from 580/880, which brings traffic from Castro Valley all the Way to Oakland, Hayward, Fremont. The fact is that some Costcos, like all chain stores, are better than others depending on location. The San Leandro Costco is dumpy and I know that many would come from Oakland, etc., areas simply because a brand new Pleasanton location, with all the higher end merchandise, would be attractive. (My family lives in the Oakland hills and Pleasanton Costco would be perfect). Perhaps the biggest pull for outside traffic will be the new Dublin IKEA, because after IKEA, who wouldn’t want to go to Costco to complete the full shopping experience?
I’m positive that many of you drive the 680/580 corridor at some point during your week if not daily. The interchange is dangerous most of the time and traffic horrendous from about 2:30 pm on during weekdays. What exactly do you think will happen to Pleasanton residents who want to go home from either 680 or 580 in the evenings?
And please end the NIMBY discussion. For goodness sake, Costco is at most 10 minutes away in Livermore and 15 to Danville. It takes me 20 minutes to get across Pleasanton during peak times. This NIMBY argument is a non starter.
Perhaps all the discussion of taxes and sales tax, etc., is a bit complicated for most to care about, but all of us are familiar with traffic and the havoc it can play in our lives. If you want to make the 580/680 corridor even worse, then Costco is just the answer you’re looking for. I love Costco, but I love Pleasanton more, and I support Matt Sullivan because a Costco in Pleasanton is an outrageous, unnecessary build that will hurt the city longterm.
You have a right to object to Matt’s lawsuit, and he has a right to file one. If you don’t like it, file a suit yourselves.
@ ilovecostcotoo
You mark your post as a “resident of Sycamore Heights” however, in your post you state “my family lives in the Oakland Hills and Pleasanton Costco would be perfect”. Oops, seems like you pulled back the curtain by accident.
Yeah I guess it is terribly short sited to want places where we shop, go to school, work, etc. to be close to home. How terribly selfish, please forgive us.
Buc, family can mean extended family. I’m assuming you have extended family or other family that don’t just live in Pleasanton?
10-15 minutes is not far from home if it takes you 20 minute to get across town via city streets. So, yes, you are behaving selfishly if you want what you want to the detriment of the entire city and the future of your town. Isn’t that what we warn our children against? Consuming without end or temperance? I’m a commuter and drive and understand that I have to do my part to make sure I don’t overburden our cities our environment. In addition, how long exactly do you think it’s going to take you to get in and out of Costco? Ironically it may take you a shorter time to drive to Livermore or Danville in the future given the impending congestion.
If you want an example of what a messy interchange + big box stores does to a community and traffic, take a look at the 80/580 interchange at Emeryville. Have you ever driven there without traffic or a headache?
Buc, I don’t have to forgive you. You’ll have to ask forgiveness of future Pleasanton residents.
IloveCostco or silly screen name #1: You are late to the debate. You bring up nothing that hasn’t been debated for the last year.
Try bringing a new issue to the table. Or revert back to your original user name here, aye? silly boy.
Got my gas at Saeway. Good discount. Who needs Costco? Got meat and fish at Gene’s (local store). Good suggestion “Huh”. Thank you.
$21.4 million Costco Infrastructure
$ 1.5 million Right of Ways
$ 1.0 million Interest onnCostco Loan
$ 3.0 million Cost Overrtuns at 15%
$26.9 million total
$ 6.5 Costco contribution (all they could afford)
$20.4 Net Cost to Pleasanton
Only post for tonight. Have fun!
If that is the real Matt Sullivan who posted let me say about his comment that we like cheap stuff. First of all Matt, you are environmental elitist. Furthermore you are an anti-snob snob. Costco has sustainable practices and in fact their sustainability coordinator was previously with the sierra club. Costco has the ability to effect major positive changes in their selection of products and manufacturing processes. Given population growth, we cant pretend that farmers markets and co-ops will suffice.
Matt, until you sell your West Side home, cars, and stop commuting, dont preach to us that we like cheap stuff. I knew your objection to Costco was really about your personal view of the world and how he should live in it. Maybe you shoud pitch a tent somewhere else, start a cult, and quit spending my hard earned taxpayer money fighting frivilous lawsuits that abuse CEQA.
Oh look who’s back again with out any answers to the Questions that I’ve stated many times through out this post, and they brought there big sister “ilovecostcotoo”. Funny how she complains that we ‘criticize from the anonymity of our computer” yet she is not the smartest sister Matt has, for she her self did not use her real name. Just as hypocritical as Matt and his son “Joe’. SHale99 is right your late to the game with the lame “traffic” argument. Telling us your brothers has “the right sue” if he wants to, but your telling we have to stop using ‘NIMBY”. hypocritical runs in the family blood.
Joe “son of Sullivan” Stop with the fake numbers!! You lie and still haven’t showed use were you got you made up numbers and still haven’t answered the two question below. Thanks for telling us you got cheep gas at the ONLY place that has cheep gas. I guess Pleasanton is only aloud one per 100000 people.
Joe “son of Sullivan” go get you smart aunt and see if she can help you and your dad Matt Sullivan Answer the question, we are waiting to see if you can bring any truth to what you say. And please stop with you daily itinerary to us. For one we don’t believe you because you lie and make up fake stores for you dad, and two…this might sting…we don’t care. It’s not relevant. Sorry if that hurt. Sometimes truth hurts.
Here you go Matt and Joe “son of Sullivan”. Because you can’t answer is why you’ve lost any credibility from this point forward. ANY!!!!!!!!!!!! CREDIBILITY!!!!!
1. Who paid for the people to get the signatures for the petition that failed?
Matt Who Paid for it. Answers please. everyone that spent money on it.
2 Do you work for or have any affiliation of any kind with any of these company? and if so list them. Shell oil, Black Tie limousine, CHEVRON, Safeway.
Happy Holidays and Merry Christmas to everyone!
Joe: You kinda left out a key detail of the ‘cost’ and how it is paid back. Zero cost to Pleasanton besides sales tax. A big portion comes from a fund that only developers pay into. Kinda changes the math, aye? changes the focus, no?
Besides all that, no shopper or person who stays at one of the new hotels will give a hoot about.
I suspect very soon publisher is going to close this thread….one, two, three….
No Linda you will not get attacked. Everything you said is true. You did fail though to see that mr. Matt Sullivan call communist fascist. Way before my thread started. So the attack started with mr. Sullivan. And I did say Merry Christmas to everybody.
Please stop wasting our money and trying to save us from ourselves. This is so ridiculous!
Matt Sullivan is now abusing the environmental review process (EIR)because his group cant get a lowly 10% of the number of registered voter signatures to put a referendum on the ballot. And did I mention the Pleasanton residents would have had to pay for that cost? I think there are many more valueable things like senior housing assistance Id like to have taxpayer money spent on instead of defending Mr Sullivan’s frivilous lawsuit and feeding his obvious anger issues. I would think that CostCo has environmental attorneys also reviewing the EIR during the public review process along with the City Staff to make sure the analyses was thorough and the required process was followed since no one wants a legal exposure. Again, MS appears aligned with the grocery union, Shell Oil franchisee, and perhaps nearby hotels who dont share my democratic view that people have a right to chose where they shop and patronize. Apparently healthy competition is not in their vocabulary.
Matt – what happened to integrity? Win at all costs? I’m sure Isis would support you in trying to stop Costco.
I previously respected your service in public office, you deserve respect for that contribution. I however, on this issue, have no respect for your approach. You just don’t want costco. There is no deal you’d support. and instead of rallying support behind that motivation you’re stirring up any level of support….to the point of insulting Pleasanton voters accusing them of being too stupid to vote on Language you wrote.
Preserve your legacy support for Pleasanton by working with the powers to get this built.
I hope Costco counter sues you as this is a clear which hunt.
I got a pretty good laugh at first about MS posts. Then I reflected on his accusations and claims that people who disagree with him and support CostCo and development of that freeway frontage are fascists and Stalin lovers. Since Stalin killed millions of innocent people, I got pretty disturded and all I could think is MS has really kinda lost it. When I also think about all his accusations of conspiracies against the City Staff and City Council, its kinda scary and kinda paranoid.
Dear Perpetuity
1). The former school board illegally tried to require Signature Homes to pay for the construction of the Neal School in excess of the legal agreement. Talk about extortion. Signature won. The taxpayer money was wasted on that frivilous lawsuit and the kids lost out.
2) Stoneridge Drive was argueably the most studied and analyzed street extension ever done. It was also studied by Livermore in their specific plan. I estimate over 10 years was spent on it, and guess what? No gridlock, funding for H84 was secured, Pleasanton complied with Tri-Valley and State roadway requirements. The only sham was the claim that a rare plant existed it was a delay tactic costing the taxpayers even more money. The additional field studied confirmed it was a common weed.
3) the housing cap erroneously established years ago by another City Council was illegal, and thus the State would not certify the Housing Element because Pleasanton was not doing its share of providing housing. Pleasanton was successfully sued by an advocacy group and the then Attorney General Brown was akso prepared to sue the City. Talk about having a big target now on our City’s back!
4) people lie and the fake schools were owned and operated by foeign investors taking advantage of VISA regulations to gain access for foreign nationals. They followed the zoning regulations but were busted by the Feds
5) ooooh please. Alot of noise over nothing. He got bad advise from the then City Attorney no doubt and has recused from voting.
@Joe,
Your arguments are pure NIMBY arguments.
@Joe,
We have decided. Twice now.
@Joe,
Safeway is not local. You aren’t even a good NIMBY!
Isnt Safeway corporate offices located in Pleasanton?
I thought Safeway corporate offices have been located in Pleasanton for many years.
Costco shoppers have “narrow, selfish world views”? Really?
@Matt S,
Another perspective to consider.
https://newrepublic.com/article/139700/democrats-party-science-not-really