How sick can you be. Complaining about your property value over putting in elderly care- one of the most selfish things I've heard of. I'm only 26 years old, but I think putting in an elderly care home is needed in this town. My grandma has had to live at my parents house because she had cancer when I was 12/13 yeards old. After she completed all her treatment, she put her name on the waiting list at the senior center- well that was over 10 years and she is still here. Just wait till you're old and need some place. Maybe you'll get sent to an "eyesore", but then when you are there you can complain about house values are falling because you are being helped with everday tasks.

I have to agree with the first person, I lived in a town in san mateo county, my former street where i grew up had 3 care homes on the block before i finally got fed up and moved out. Property values did drop and the homes were eyesores. we also had traffic at all hours of the day and parking problems. They are state regulated but it is a joke there are more laws to protect the care givers then the poor people wherehoused in these homes. they are a way for people to get rich off the old and sick. If you really care for your family members keep them with you and love them the way they loved you. i doubt your parents would have put yoou in a home if you were sick, dont put them in these DEATH houses

I'm curious about this allegation, and will probably call the Planning commission to find out the particulars. Is it really a state-run facility for the elderly? The reason I ask is that there are currently a number of privately-owned small care facilities for the elderly in Pleasanton, Dublin, San Ramon, etc. There is one in our neighborhood, and while some of the neighbors were a bit apprehensive when it was purchased and opened a couple of years ago, the only outward change turned out to be the construction of a wheelchair ramp in the front, a lovely one at that. I have been in to see the facility, since one of my friends had her mother move in there when she became disabled and unable to live on her own and required full-time care. The home is clean, lovely, quiet, the grounds are well-tended and there is no more traffic for the 4 or 5 residents than there is for a normal family household; in fact much less noise and traffic than families with kids/teens produce. The property value has not diminished, and the neighbors have no complaints. For adult children of elderly parents with full-time health needs, most of whom have children of their own to care for, full-time work, and whose houses are not able to accommodate disabled access, these small group homes are often a safe and caring environment and allow for frequent visits and checking in. Please do not condemn them off the cuff.

So I'm not sure if the complaint and outrage above is fear of the unknown(?) or whether this indeed is a different situation and a state-run house is becoming an eyesore to the neighborhood.

Deflated property values in Pleasanton? WHERE?!

To the pissed off person of Walnut Grove!!!! Your parents should care for your grandmother as me and my parents did!!!! It's not about the elderly...it's about strangers who will visit the elderly and their family members (more traffic/cramped court) coming to our court (not street). It's about ambulances coming to our court on a regular basis. We bought a house in a court so our children would be able to get to know our neighbors and be able to play outside without the problems of living on a street. We did not buy a house in a court to live next to a business (these owner's don't care about the elderly...they care about making a profit off of them). Wait till you can afford a house and have to deal with this. Until then, your opinion doesn't matter!!!

I'm reading these comments, especially the last one, and can't help but feel sad that people have to take such a strong approach and personally attack each other. It does seem that the venture attempting to put a facility on this property didn't think it through and consider the impact on the neighbors in an already cramped court. If this is the situation, then it shouldn't be allowed to go forward. Please, though, everyone's opinion has a right to be heard.

What saddens me is that folks here have strong opinions on elderly care in general. Not every situation is the same. Keeping a grandparent at home with the family may not work for everyone, including the grandparent!

As for converting a regular old house in a neighborhood to an elderly care facility, this is actually the first time I've heard of such a thing. I agree there is some impact on the neighbors, but I doubt it would be as bad as it is being made out to be. Find some facts about these types of facilities first.

Well I see why people from other towns/cities call us all snobs in Pleasanton. To the person who said to take care of my grandma, I'm a little bit ahead of you. As the years went by and she realized she'll never get in there before she dies, she is living with us and has since then. To bad though, because you all complain about loosing the value of your house- haven't the homes already lost the value because it smells like poo half the time, in that area? (and no, that is a serious question as I know many people living over there) And then to the person who said my opinion doesn't matter? Again, typical Pleasanton comment, being stuck up thinking your comments are "better"- get an education and learn how to take in other's opinions without having to belittle. And this thing is about the elderly- if they have enough strength to live on their own in a community house, let them. Maybe some of you moved into a court housing area so you can tell your kids to go play in the middle of the street and not have to pay 100% attention to them. Getting to know the neighbors? That's a bunch of crap as well- you can know any of your neighbors no matter where you live, not just on a court.

The problem with this town is that there are too many double standards- you all want a rich life here, want only the stores/malls/center you approve of. If it's not to your liking, then down the drain with it and anybody else doesn't matter. This town needs to start treating people with respect and realize that "you" may not like it, but it's something that a lot of people might benefit from.

It might interest you all to know that there are currently 21 elderly board and care residences in Pleasanton, most of them licensed for up to six clients.

I was surprised at the number, mostly because, in my 9 years on City Council we never heard any neighborhood complaints about existing elder care residences or applications for new licenses or permits. And as most of us know, Pleasanton residents aren't shy about telling the City when things in their neighborhood are, or might possibly in the future irritate them. The Council has spent many hours debating in home daycare, a tree house, music instruction which included sheet music sales, birthing centers, and many a home addition. I can only conclude that eldercare residences must make better than average neighbors!

I went to the State licensing website and did not see any application pending for Singletree Court, and there is nothing on the Planning Commission Agenda, though the City may not have any jurisdiction over this use. If there is an elder board and care planned, they will need a State license to operate. You can check with the Code Enforcement Officer or the Planning Department to see what's happening on Singletree Court.

To the last person who wrote about "SNOBS OF PLEASANTON", please until the type of situation actually happens next door to you, your opinion means absolutely NOTHING. We are far from snobs, we are everyday people who work and have families and when we moved to this court we had a CHOICE to live here on a nice quiet FAMILY oriented court. As for letting are children play out in the court yes we have to be less concerned about the traffic than someone on a main street. That is one reason we chose to be on a court was the safety of our kids! Don't sit there and say we are on a court so that we don't have to offer our kids our full attention! That my friend is a bunch of crap. As I said before until it happens across the street or next door to you. You should probably keep your UNWISE opinions and asumptions to yourself!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I have visited the State website and there are 21 facilities currently in Pleasanton with 2 pending, Singletree Ct location is not listed at this time. I do know that the Singltree Ct facility is planning to open on Dec 1st, although residents hope to pro long the opening or stop all together if we can? I am also aware that they have had no property inspections from the permits they have pulled from the City, and from what I understand they actually do not need the inspections until the house is sold..... Is this correct? The nieghbors in and around Singletree Ct are invited to attend the City Council meeting tomorrow evening (Wednesday) to voice concerns and see if we can stop this from happening. I do not want our court to be number 24 on the State's list. Seems as though this is quite a money maker as they continue to open these facilities. I urge you to take a drive past 6839 Singletree Ct to see it looks like, what a nightmare is all I can say.

Well proper english goes as "our children", not "are chilren". I am entitled to my opinion just as much as you are. For your information, I happen to live right behind the aquatic center and hear noise all the time. The value here hasn't gone down. And if you move to a court with the mind frame that "our children will be more safe here than a regular street"- get real. It seems then that if you move to a court you have less to worry, thus creating an environment where parent's don't have to worry, then leading on to not checking on your children as much.

Please don't tell me my opinion is a waste or doesn't matter- when you do that, is when I call someone a SNOB, which is exactly what the defintion means :your adopted values/beliefs are inferior to mine. And when you tell someone their comments are unwise or don't matter, you doing just that. So the more you claim my comments don't matter or are stupid, the more I will believe Pleasanton to be snobbish.

One more thing, if you had the choice to live on a family oriented court, why don't elderlies have the same choice?????? No matter what kind of house it is, no matter what city/town it is in????

Meant to put "your adopted values/beliefs are superior to mine...."

"I urge you to take a drive past 6839 Singletree Ct to see it looks like, what a nightmare is all I can say."

I took this advice to heart and just drove by the area. I saw what looked like a nice street/court (I guess I had never pondered the distinction before the rather strong messages above). I saw a very elaborate Halloween display which took up an entire lawn (one might call that a nightmare!), two houses for sale (hence the concern about the house values?) and the construction going on at the 6839 address, which looked as if it might be fine and quite presentable, once completed. Seems that anytime construction is "in progress", it sure looks messy.

Again, I might have similar feelings of concern if no one had provided me or my neighbors with warning, information or an opportunity to discuss or debate. On the other hand, I would not call these facilities simply "quite the money maker(s)"; they do provide just as essential and often, just as warm and caring an environment as any home-based daycare center. Just because they require a modification such as a wheelchair ramp doesn't make them villains. Think about it - if one of your neighbors became disabled, you would certainly support their right to be able to enter their home by putting in a wheelchair ramp, yes?

The only part that I'm unclear on here is why the house is going to be sold after renovation -- am I reading that part correctly, the part about inspections, etc.?

I have actually discovered that I am not perfect and I did type in error (our vs. are). You are sooooo petty that you caught that. I guess you are looking for any little thing to stab me back with. Well, just to let you know that yes we purposely bought on the court for the saftey of our kids and if you think otherwise you must live on a main street and didn't have the advantage of buying in a court location. I'm sorry for you! Just to let you know that every single person bought in this court for quiet, quaint and safety. It is a lot different living on a court and knowing everyone than living on a street and knowing the person to the left or right!!!!! Whether you THINK SO OR NOT I, however know first hand as I have had the advantage of living on both. As for the care for our kids someone is ALWAYS WATCHING! Your opinion DOESN'T MATTER! Oh, and by the way my deceased Grandmother lived in a senior care center in Castro Valley. The location was on a main street with a lot of rental units and apartments. That kind of location seems much more appropriate. I am all for the care of the elder but in this case I don't believe the realator is doing it for the care, he unfortunately is seeing $$$$$$$$$$$ signs!!!!!!! If he had such a concern for the elder he would be caring for them himself and not just collecting whatever pension they have left, if any!

Actually no, I don't live on a main street, far from one. I live on a horseshow, and I know neighbors down the street, around the corner, and on the other horsehoes as well as courts over here. And no I'm not looking to "stab" anyone, I have no need to- I'm simply responding to your words of my comments being "pointless,unwise, or don't matter."

Again though, why do you have a choice of being able to live in a nice community but other's do not? Set aside all notions of a someone selling a house for profit. If a group of 3/4 elderly ladies, that are quiet, caring, respectful etc, don't care about money issues, why wouldn't someone want them to live on their street? Wish hard enough and maybe there won't be that kind of home next to you, but instead some 20 somethings will rent it out and have parties.

..can anyone give me reason why an Elder Care facility would damage home values? Seriously.

No B.S about ambulances and strangers visiting...

I personally have had a grandmother who was in a rehabilitation/nursing home. Not because we didn't want her at home, but she needed round the clock nursing care. I would have much rather had her in "home" environment but because of insurance reasons we had no choice. She was assigned by her HMO to a horrible facility in Hayward. If i had the option for a facility like the proposed Singletree Ct. i would have definetly gone there, even if my family had to pay out of pocket.

And for those that wonder... why didn't we have a nurse come to the house? Two reasons... my grandmother is from lil ol'San Lorenzo in a 900 square foot home, definetly not equipped for hospital beds, equipment or wheelchair access, two - she didn't want to stay with me in pleasanton or my aunt in livermore... because her friends can't drive that far to visit her! crazy i know!

Concerned,

Unfortunately this discussion looks to be filled with lots of emotion and ad hominem attacks, but no facts. The original poster seems to have decided that a "residential care facility", as they are called, is bad for the neighborhood without doing any research on the subject.

So far the only thing I found on the topic of residential care homes and property values is this: "Why Affordable Housing Does Not Lower Property Values" Web Link

It looks like too that residential care facilities are for the more independent elderly who still need some sort of supervision. So I don't anticipate the fear of ambulances driving down the street all the time to materialize.

"What is Residential Care for the Elderly?" Web Link

My intention for the initial posting was to get honest opinions and a few of you have given which I appreciate, the rest just have nothing else better to do than try to upset others by their less than comments. Building a small ramp for a disabled Person is not comparable to what is happening at 6839 Singletree Ct. I truly believe that a lot of People will not understand until they are put in the our situation.

Facts are facts as listed below:

1.SAFETY AND MOST IMPORTANT OF ALL: Our Children.
All Families in this court have Children between the ages of 5 and 15 and did not move to Pleasanton to a court location just to fear for our kid’s safety. There will no doubt be more traffic due to this “facility”, which will be a Safety concern for our Kids who normally are able to freely play outside in our court. There will be elderly visitors as well as family visitors from who knows where, that our children will now be exposed to. Some of our kids are home alone after school and we have never had any concerns until now. We will now have people in our court on a regular basis that we do not know and this could be trouble which we do not want.

2.HOMEOWNER PARKING:
There is limited parking in the court and now again with this Facility and the added
traffic there will no doubt be an issue for parking, I as well as my neighbors do not want
to be forced to park down the street from our house because of others being parked in
front of our houses.

3.HOME APPERANCE:
I have attached a few pictures of this house so that maybe you can understand this part; this once beautiful Home is now probably the worst looking home in the court now. The front now has an entry door as well as a sliding door which looks bad enough and then add the large hideous “Country Style” ramp, it adds up to an “EYESORE”. We are actually one of the luckier neighbors when it comes to this item as I live next door and will not have to look at it from my Home, but the neighbors that will have to see this everyday are not very happy at all. This 1500 SQ. FT. Home is having 350 FT. plus of decking added?

4.HOMEOWNERS NOT BEING NOTIFIED:
If I wanted to cut down a tree in my yard, I would need to post a note on the tree and if just 1 neighbor does not want the tree removed, for whatever reason, it stays? Yet something as important and life changing to our families and children as this facility is we get no say?

5.HOME VALUES:
The home modifications are horrendous and are sure to bring down our already
deflated home prices. There are currently 2 homes in our court for sale which now
probably will not have a chance of to sale unless of course the home owners want to
sell for even less and lose even more money.

6.PUT YOURSELF IN OUR FAMILIES SHOES:
Is this something that you would really want next to your house in a quiet court location?

Now that you just told the world children are home alone I hope that makes you feel good about yourself. And remember the street parking is free parking and does not belong to any home owner. It you are being very negative and these poor individuals have not even moved in. Hopefully you can become a better person and make these people feel welcome in your neighborhood. Don't forget that some day you may need the help.

Just visited State Website and now there are currently 22 of these Facilities in Pleasanton and 4 pending. There is another pending on Singletree Way at: Money, Money.....at no expense for the Homeowners....

Facility No: 015601317 Capacity: 0006
License Status: Pending
JASON ELDERLY CARE HOME
6304 SINGLETREE WAY
PLEASANTON , CA 94588
(510) 332-0719
Contact: MANN, GURPREET SINGH
DO: CENTRAL COAST SC/RES (14)
DO Phone: (650) 266-8800

Posted by "Doesn’t matter" you are right you don’t matter, if you thought your opinion really meant something you would post your real name.... I did not tell the world anything, this information is being viewed by the same 8 or 10 people that know of this site within our area. As for my care when I get older, I know who will be taking care of me as I have Family and Children who truly care and know what the right thing to do is, seems you do not posses the same values..... And again, this has nothing to do with the elderly and all to do with the idea of this type of facility being allowed to open without any concern for neighbors; we were mis-lead from the beginning. I can see a few of these postings are actually being done by People who have a vested interest in these types of facilities....

I think some of you are missing the point. Take the senoir care facility out of the equation. Let's just say this was being converted into a in-home insurance office. Let's address the potential problems.

This residential home begins to look more like a commercial building with the decking and added doors to the front.

Increase in traffic, parking, and deliveries.

Regardless of being a care facility or insurance office it is still a business. I can see why these neighbors do have concerns. If you have not driven by the address please do so. It is very clear this is no longer a residential FAMILY home.

I understand the concerns of these neighbors. So before you label them as being unsympothetic toward senoir citizens please take the care facilty out of equation. Like a I mentioned earlier, make it a insurance office, 7-11, or auto shop. The point is, these businesses will change the make-up to this residential neighborhood.

My 2 Cents, you've made a valid argument. I wish Mr. DeRossett would make a clear point like that. Mr. DeRossett your points are unfounded and not factual. Use My 2 cents point instead in your argument to the City Council, you'll sound more stable. Using the fact that they are changing the home from a "family" residential housing unit to a business front (especially with the decking, sliding doors, etc) should widen the eyes of the City Council. Otherwise you sound ridiculous.

I wish Heather "no sense" would have asked instead of assuming what information we have to submit to the City? She would have known that the area of conducting a Bussiness is and has been part of what we plan to present to the City. Heather please change your name to "no sense", more fitting for you.

The State licensing website is Web Link For "Select the Facility Type to Locate" choose Residential Care for the Elderly.

It lists the contact for 6839 Singletree Court as Steve Chou. Looks like this person also operates a few other rest homes, one in Walnut Creek and one in Dublin. He has pending licenses for homes in Alamo, Danville, and Pleasanton. Since this particular person is running currently operating rest homes in the area it might be worth someone's while to take a drive to them to see them and talk with neighbors about the operation.

I learned that there is a rest home in my neighborhood over on Tanager. Never noticed even though we walk or bike by it all the time.

Joseph S DeRossett,

Your ad hominem attacks on people doesn't help anyone become sympathetic to your problems.

I truely don't get it. These are older people moving into a home. How many would even have cars? And if you are that worried about your children's safety with strangers, simple. Don't leave them home alone. You complain then about parking. What's going to happen when all these children are old enough to drive and have their own car's? Parking will disappear and you will have to park down the street. Compared to old people, where many of them do not drive or they take Dial A Ride thing. I've been told not judge till it happens, but you peoples that are against it are judging yourselves! What if a group of old ladies moved in, are quiet, and really into gardening? Maybe there front yards would turn out better. I don't know the answer to this, but if it does turn into an elderly care home, I hope they prove you all wrong.

Here's the real truth about 6839 Singletree Court.

Now I have an informant who told me what really is happening at this address. This news perhaps will be re-assuring to all of you who have in this thread vigorously argued against any group or social unit occupying the property if they are not family with children like yourselves.

It turns out, according to my contact, that a family has purchased the house and is re-novating it according to their tastes. There are four boys in the family, 10 years, 13 years, 15 years, and 18 years old. Dad is in the trades and besides his pickup he also parks his van out front. I hear he is into motorcycles and each son has one and they spend a lot of time on them. The oldest boy has his own rock band, and they practice in the garage with the door open about three times a week. I understand this has set an example for the younger brothers and they are also into music and will likely follow their older brother in this regard. Mom runs sort of an open house. A lot of friends are in and out after school. I hear that what the friends of the 18 year old like about the court is the parking space. They will spend a lot of after school time over there.

So, the outlook for this property perfectly fits with typical American values and you-all should not fear. I hope this information re-assures those who have reacted so vigorously against the proposition of nasty old people living at this property and you should not be concerned, if my contact is correct.

Enjoy!

LOL!!!! If that is correct, I would think that to be worse than having old folks living next to me. If a family does move in like that, have fun hearing a band practice for years to come.

To Stacy of amberwood

You seem like a very bitter and upset person. You always seem to have a chip on your shoulder,and an opinion, no matter what the subject is, I would like to offer you a HUG. I hope it helps =)

And because I know you will respond, I forgive you for your next personal attack full of big words, web links, and catchy phrases. If we all could be a good as you....

God Bless

yea! shut up!

To I wish I lived on Singletree Court...........You have a rotten source for information! You couldn't be more wrong about the new homeowners of Singletree Court. Let us just clear the air since no one really seems to get it. This house is turning into a BUSINESS, the people of Singletree Ct. did not move to this location to be near to a business! It is NOT the elderly people we have a problem with (lets face it we are all going to be old one day) it is a business and the visitors that this business will bring to our area! Does everyone get it now???????????? You people sure are nasty, hateful and very opinionated, I wonder how you would react if a business opened up next door to you? Oh, that's right you have absolutely NO CLUE because it hasn't happened to you...................

First off, if you are not a home owner and have not worked hard for a lot of years to have a little piece of land to call your own, please take your opinions and place them in the diaper bin, because just like diapers, your opinion is full of it.

If you are a home owner however and you think the neighbors of Singletree Court are being ridiculous, please post your address and any homes that are currently for sale in your immediate neighborhood so we can go open the Singletree Car Care Facility next to your house.

As someone on this thread posted, this is not about the elderly. I did not purchase my home to have it sit next to a BUSINESS, regardless of who runs it or what it does. It very well could be a drug rehab clinic, or maybe even a "massage parlor" with some really good looking D cup massage therapists, it would still be a business.

I remember a couple of years ago the property on Foothill and Stoneridge was purchased by a developer who wanted to build an Elderly Care facility. The CITY as a whole spoke out loud and denied the permit. Why was this? Oh no, a large facility like that in my back yard, how dare they!

But now this facility has been broken down into a few home sites, and since it does not affect neighbors in other areas, it's okay with them. Maybe we should all get together and purchase a home in Golden Eagle estates, or Ruby Hills, I'm sure they would be just fine with a facility like that in their neighborhoods. I'm sure we could fit even more poor elderly people in those homes, and look at the bright side, they wouldn't even have to drive in order to get their golfing needs out of the way!

I know in the eyes of many, those of us who live on this court are now that "evil group who hates the elderly". But please realize this is not the case. This house now looks like that thumb you struck with a hammer. It's over sized and stands out from a block away. All that's left is a big neon sign along 680 pointing to it and you'll be able to see it from space.

-Mauricio

Made the ContraCosta times, must be of some interest?


SENIOR FACILITY IN WORKS
Some upset they weren't notified of in-home care plans

By Meera Pal
STAFF WRITER

Article Launched: 10/26/2007 03:01:32 AM PDT

PLEASANTON -- With a state license pending and construction close to complete, a group of Pleasanton residents recently learned an in-home senior care facility will soon open on their quiet, dead-end street.And, according to city officials, facility operator did everything by the book.

Because Chou plans to have six or fewer residents at his Welcome Home Senior Residence on Singletree Court, he is required to follow the licensing rules of the California Department of Social Services' Community Care Licensing Division.

He was not required to notify the city or his neighbors.

According to Oscar Ramirez, a spokesman for the Department of Social Services, his department is concerned with the suitability of the operator in taking care of seniors. There is no requirement for public notification.

"It's been determined by the state that these uses are residential uses and the people living there are family," said Pleasanton's principal planner Donna Decker, "Therefore, the state trumps city codes and ordinances and local regulations."

Elder care facilities with more than six patients typically trigger a local review, she added.

Chou, who owns and operates Welcome Home Senior Residences in Walnut Creek and Dublin, also has licenses pending in Danville and Alamo. He plans to invite all Springtree Court neighbors over for a tour as soon as construction is complete.

In the meantime, neighbors have watched with apprehension as a brick pathway was torn out and replaced by a redwood deck and a wheelchair-accessible ramp.
According to the building permit, the living room has been converted into a bedroom and a few windows were replaced with sliding glass doors.

Neighbor Joseph DeRossett sent a letter to the city asking why neighbors weren't notified about the new business.

"Something as important and life changing to our families and children as this facility is ... we get no say?" he wrote.

Decker said the city is not involved in the state licensing process and the changes to the home didn't trigger the city's design review process.

"We are not required to notify residents when a building permit is issued," Decker said. "We would spend a great deal of time noticing." The building department issues about 4,500 permits a year, she added.

Residents of senior care facilities usually need supervision and assistance with daily activities.

In-home senior care is growing in popularity and the numbers are rising in the Tri-Valley area. A search on the state's Web site found 10 licensed homes and two pending in Dublin; 28 licensed homes and three pending in Livermore; 25 licensed homes and one pending in San Ramon; and 24 licensed with three pending in Danville.

Chou has spoken to neighbors to assuage their fears such as increased traffic and activity.

"They are in these types of homes because (residents) aren't coming and going," Chou said, adding that most visitations occurs on weekends.

A group of neighbors attended the Planning Commission meeting Wednesday to voice their concern and dissatisfaction with the process. The same group plans to make an appearance before the City Council.

To Decker's knowledge, the planning department has not received complaints about a residential senior care facility in Pleasanton.

According to the Community Care Licensing Division Web site, there are 26 facilities in Pleasanton, with four pending approval.

Chou noted that when he opened his facility on Wasden Court in Walnut Creek several years ago, neighbors originally raised concerns there as well. Walnut Creek has 73 licensed care homes, five pending and one probationary license.

"Once we opened, they saw there was no problem," he said.

However, one Wasden Court neighbor said traffic often increases on weekends with more cars parked on the quiet court. He added that the neighbors did not receive any notification of the facility coming in and only heard about it through word-of-mouth.

When you rent a house too, isn't that a business for the person who owns the house? Regardless of what it is used for. The way I see it, is renting is the same thing as this elderly home being put in. Except, since it's licensed by the state of Cali, they will get some money and obviously have people helping the old folks out. Take out the money, same thing as having old people just rent it and having family/friends over to help 24/7.

Wow, what rabid, emotional claptrap is appearing on this blog from those who appear to be Singletree Court residents. Your rage even blinded you from seeing through my tongue-in-cheek post about a family of teen age boys moving in. Maybe my post was too subtle.

What occurred subsequently was I, and others who simply posted common sense views and recommendations about this situation, have been accused of being hateful, bitter, etc. Also, anyone's view does not count unless you are a homeowner - this was clearly stated. And further, you have to have a "business" about to move in on your court before you can even comment or opinionate. Welcome to America and free speech, for which our sons and daughters are dying in Iraq and elsewhere, past and present. No, you don't get to tell us to shut up!

Well, I owned two rental homes in Pleasanton over the years as well as two residences, one of which I currently occupy. The teen age boy family situation was based upon the real-life circumstance regarding the home across the street from one of my rentals. They were problematic because prospective renters were PUT OFF when they heard the rock band in the garage. Now, I was a "business" but the non-business family was the nuisance!!!

I think posters like "R" from Amador High School have their heads screwed on straight. Thank goodness for our youth. They are our salvation. He points out the only difference between this situation and renting is that a state license is required. Good point! But, I suppose perhaps renters would also be forbidden on Single Tree Court, given the emotions raging on that court.

Now the Valley Times article is illuminating. It simply shows that the exterior view is changing because a wheel chair ramp in being installed. It appears that Maureeechheeoo objects to this at the end of his post! No Granny's in wheelchairs on his court, implied by his comment "house now looks like that thumb you struck with a hammer"!!! Well, interestingly just last August I drove through my old blue collar neighborhood in a suburb of Cleveland where I grew up. Quite a few homes on my parent's former street now have these ramps. Yes, there are old people in our society and they live SOMEWHERE. And if you live that long, I guarantee you will be one of them! And I may yet install one on my front steps because one of our family members has a debilitating chronic disease. I assume my neighbors would not object, but now I'm unsure about these Pleasanton citizens whom I call my neighbors after reading these posts.

Let's assume we were flying at 50,000 feet and looking down. Better yet, assume you are God looking down from heaven. What do you think he sees when he looks at SingleTree Court? I think he sees a "no old people on my court!" attitude and he does not understand the stuff being presented in this blog as something of which he approves. And neither did the State during their considerations regarding licensing these businesses in view of simple rentals and the fact that old people in groups of six of less need to live somewhere, State sponsored or not.

Oh my God--someone is trying to care for the ELDERLY? In Pleasanton? We must put a stop to this at once! If we allow this, next thing you know, people will be caring for the handicapped, small children, and wayward pets next. And after that, some leftist radical bent on deflating the already rock-bottom real estate prices in the Pleasanton-Dublin area will no doubt propose housing the homeless and feeding the hungry. No telling where madness like this ends.

And to answer your unasked questions:

Yes, I live in Dublin. It's a horrible ghetto and I long to escape to Pleasanton, where the skies are always blue and all ice cream is non-fattening. It rains over here in Dublin all the time, and crack-addicted gangs have gun battles in the street. On the bright side, we have an Old Navy store, and I bought a nice shirt there.

Yes, I'm a property owner and concerned about my own property values.

Yes, I'm amused that "Mauricio" thinks only home owners should have the right to voice their opinion. I thought there were no property qualifications for participation in a democracy? So many things have changed during the Bush Junior years, one simply can't keep track. Good thing I'm a property owner and therefore not one of the disenfranchised.

WOW YOU PEOPLE REALLY DON'T GET IT! I feel very sorry for each and every one of you! As dumb as dumb can get! The people of Singletree are just regular people (if anyone is to sound superior, it would be all of you BAD MOUTHING US) who care about the house and its APPEARANCE no longer looking like your average resident. IT IS NOT ABOUT THE ELDERLY (YOU PEOPLE HAVE A ONE TRACK MIND) It is about turning a home into an obvious business and not having the COMMON COURTESY TO RUN IT BY ANY ONE OF THE RESIDENTS ON THIS COURT. Don't forget we are people too. How is it that NO one is concerned about the owner and how much he will be "ripping" the elderly off to make a "buck" for himself? What, no one sees that to be of an issue? I really don't know why I'm even enticing in these blogs, it seems to be nothing but a VICIOUS circle.

You are so self absorbed you will never "get it right", get it right. Don't be sorry for us, be sorry for yourself because you can't present competitive, convincing arguments for your point-of-view without resorting to name-calling your critics("dumb as dumb can get"). All you can do is yell out "it's a business!". So are rentals, but you conveniently ignore that point.

21-22 of these facilities currently in Pleasanton and only the Singletree residents have made it into a sky-is-falling, City Council issue. God forbid any resident on Singletree require wheelchair access to their own home! Singletree property owners have no rights apparently and have to "run it by the neighbors" first. Hopefully no one opens a daycare on Singletree "ripping" off all those little kids.

I read on a California State website that the state does not have to inform the city or the people of that neighbor/elderly care house, if a certain amount of people are going to be living in that house (I think it said 5/6 or less, not sure on exact #). I still don't see what the big hype is about. If the state nor the "owner" has to run it by you, just accept it. From what I have read too, the owner has spoken to a few individuals on the court, so be happy he did that. He could have just gone about his business and not said one word. But as for this "business" label, so many make it sound like there will be customer after customer coming and going every hour of the day- I highly doubt that. It does sound like a good idea for the people on Singletree to go and seek out the neighborhoods of the "owners" other elderly houses, see what they have to say. Here's another thought to think about, and I'm in no way trying to change peoples mind. Just see all sides of the situation:

What if this was a family or 5 or 6:mom, dad, 3 kids, and grandma. Something happened to the family and 2 or 3 of them were wheelbound for the rest of there lives and needed in-home nursing asistance. A ramp was placed in and a 24 hr nurse was there M-F, with 3 diff. nurses alternating through out the day. Would something like piss you guys off as well?

Just trying to see where people are coming from, cuz these are human lives we are talking about. And this guy who is turning the house, doesn't sound like just money grabber- since he already has other homes. He might genuinly have a concern for elder care. K I'm done =0)

And enough bad mouthing peoples. Geeezzzz go drink a glass of wine or something

R,

Be careful! With talk like that you might just get labeled a bitter and upset person.

How? All I have done is question people to see what other's opinions/ideas are. I didn't say "go screw yourselves people of Singletree Ct." I wouldn't ever say that. How would I be labeled a bitter person? And if someone does, so be it. I know I'm not which is all that matters. =)

SEE I KNEW SHE COULDNT RESIST

I'm sorry, but all the people complaining about this house are a bunch of babies. It has been clearly stated that the state doesn't have to inform anybody- court/street or the city. I read the letter in the Weekly and now in a local newspaper. Just get over it! The city of Pleasanton has also clearly stated that of all the other elderly care homes in this town, not one complaint has been made about them. Why now? Don't act as if this is some Walmart or convienence store being built across the street; it's not, it's still a house. Mr. Cho has even been respectful enough to invite people over for a tour after construction completion- again he doesn't have to do that!!! This seems to be turning into a power game of who can and who can't move into "my street". Remember owners, you don't own the street, sidewalks or court. You own the land your house is built on.

It's obvious that the complaints coming from the neighbors on this street reflect both a lack of maturity and more importantly a lack of respect for others. Do you think that we could be a little more selfish?

While raising our 3 kids (now teens & twenties) my wife and I made it a priority to bring them to a local convalescent home every week. The goal was to have them grow up knowing the full color and complexion of our town. They now have such great admiration for the aged.

What better idea to have a few of our grandparent's living among our neighborhhoods!

Mr. DeRossett - you are obviously worked up way to much over this. When you catch your breath I'll suggest that your life will be richer if you're brave enough to spend 1 hour week simply talking to the residents of the home (that is legal and WILL be occupied). The elderly (OUR elderly) have so much to give us. Your children will be better persons if you're brave enough to share this experience with them.

Compassion and love are learned. Hopefully your children won't warehouse you when you are no longer able to care for yourself. Think outside yourself.

Wow, my first time on 'town square' and this was the first thread I read! Very emotional from all sides. First, I'd like to say that I think people are being very hard on Joseph DeRossett and the neighbors of SingleTree Ct. Second, no I don't live on a court, but grew up on one and would of prefered to live on one instead of the busy street that we currently do. It was great for us kids, and my parents did think that it was 'ideal' for our family. But I would be skeptical if the same thing were to occur next to our home (court or not). But most importantly, I think all of us would like no be informed what is going on in the homes next to us. I feel for all, the elderly and the the residents on Singletree Ct. I sincerely hope that the owner of 6304 Singletree does what's right for everyone.

Posted by Joseph S DeRossett
First of all to all of the People that know Steve Chou that have posted in His favor on this blog, I am sure he appreciates it. Steve does have a few facilities and it is easy to say that you really care about elderly people when you are pulling in 200K to 300K a year from each of these facilities, saying it's all about the elderly and His caring for them plays on everyone's soft side. If Mr. Chou truly cares for the elderly then he should charge them a cost which is more reasonable than 5K a Month. Here is another point to think about...what happens when the money run's out after a Person (your Mom, Dad, Grandparents)living there for a few years, do you think Mr. Chou will feel obligated to the elderly and actually care enough to say "hey it's not about the money and you are more than welcome to stay" the answer is "no", I mean how would Mr.Chou pay for His beautiful Home in Blackhawk? Gee I wonder how many of these care facilities are actually in Blackhawk? My guess would be "0"! Here is the correct answer after the money is gone. Your loved one is out of money and you now need to make arrangements with a convalescent Hospital for their continued care under medi-cal because you don't want that responsibility, if you did they would not have been put in this type of facility in the first place! What a change that would be for that loving Parent, grandmother etc. To all of you that do not "clearly" understand the situation, but were given the opportunity by me to contribute and chose to focus on the Singletree residents as if we were against the Elderly, you could not be farther off base. Singletree residents are family oriented and all of our kids are probably the most well rounded that you will ever meet as we do not sugar coat real Life situations in order to protect them from the real world, things will not get easier as the kids get older and all of the Parents that try to protect the kids from what is real are only hurting the kids in the long run. I too have rental property and would be doing exactly the samething as I am doing now if it were happening there. Take a drive by the other 25 Pleasanton facilities and see what they look like, you would hardly notice that the Home is a care facility. If you would take the time to look at the bigger picture, as home values drop and buyers continue to dwindle turning a Home into a care facility will be an option that’s top on the list. Singletree Ct residents have the right to speak the "facts" and have done their homework concerning Sate guidelines for these types of facilities, we do understand that Cities do not have a choice in these matters as far as the business itself and we are fine with that, again as this is not about the Elderly. What the City has the right to do is approve the way a House may look and this is what we are truly concerned about, yes we are concerned about the added traffic and safety of or Children in this once quiet Ct, but the State does not care about that part as of yet, but we are working on it....Hope Arnold flexes His Muscle. The City should also look into the zoning areas that allows and maybe change some of those as well, It would be ideal if the City would have specific designated areas for these and other types of care facilities. To "most" of the People who have posted anonymously, your opinion truly does not matter as I am sure you are aware of by now, if you thought it did you would not hide behind something that is as made up just as your opinion which truly falls on deaf ears. As for that handicap ramp "walkway" which is actually 11Ft from sidewalk and Pleasanton requires 12ft, how do they expect to get someone out on a bed in an Emergency, it clearly will not make the turn???? FYI: Tune into channel 30 this evening so you have more to talk about. Boy this is getting good.

To all of the people who are not dealing with the concerns that the families who live on or around Singletree are...get a life...your a like an angry, over-opinionated mob...do you really think that all of your nastiness...finger pointing and name calling will help those homeowners concerns....you ugly people need to take a long hard look at yourselves...

Here's a fact for you!!!! That business moving into the Singletree neighborhood is charging those sweet elderly people $3500 - $5000 a month to live in that home (that is more than most people pay for a mortgage). Wow...what a nice business...do you really believe that if poor grandma was broke she would be living there!!! No, they would throw her out on her duff....I hope you all have to face a similar issue and you can watch all the ugly people throw stones at you!!!!!!!!!!

So, GRRRRROOOOOOOOOOOOOOOWWWWWWWWWWWWWWW UUUUUUUUUUUPPPPPPPPPPPP!

A happy person,

Welcome to an open public forum!

GOOD FOR YOU MR. JOSEPH D., I COULDN'T HAVE SAID IT BETTER MYSELF!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! OH AND STACY MY DEAR YOU REALLY SHOULD MOVE ON AND FIND SOMETHING BETTER TO DO. HOW ABOUT, GET A REAL JOB, YOU HAVE WAY TO MUCH TIME ON YOUR HANDS! YOU AND YOUR 2 CENTS REALLY SHOULD MOVE ALONG!

I believe the reason you don't see these type of rest homes in upscale neighborhoods like Golden Eagle, Ruby Hill, or Blackhawk is due to simple economics. It is the same reason you wouldn't find rental homes in these neighborhoods either. There isn't money to be made on a rental that you couldn't cover the cost of the mortgage and property tax with by rent. (Who would pay extremely high rent?)

Now why would I do that?

Ok, my dear name-calling "Not worth my time", please describe to all of us participating in this forum how the monthly fee for the future elderly residents affects their neighbors? Please do so without name-calling. Write simple, objective sentences.

And are you showing jealously that these elderly people can afford such a monthly fee? Since you claim to have "facts", could you elaborate on these fees, like do they include in home nursing care, board, other services, etc? Better, do you have Chou's price list? Or are you just throwing out numbers which to me sound like typical monthly fees for assisted-living facilities. Yes, indeed, assisted-living IS expensive. Wait until you need it, if you should live so long.

By the way, I'll bet there are renters in some of the houses on Singletree and how does what rent they pay affect you? What's your point?

What's becoming apparent in this blog the name-calling. Even though the names change, I'll bet it's the same person. "Not worth my time", your continued name-calling continues to undermine your position. Also, by filling up the blog with emotional name-calling responses written over various names only worsens your case since it conveys that all of those who are against the elder care facility are name-callers.

My question also goes to Mr. DeRossett. What does it matter to you as a resident on Singletree what the elderly residents pay?

They will live their by choice and their financial circumstance is their business, so how does this affect you?

KUDOS, a happy person, etc.

If you don't like what I write, you don't have to read it or even respond to it. You are just like me.

Dear Friends and Neighbors of Singletree:

Please do not stoop to the level of the above negative writers; you are only validating their existence! These people are just arguing with you for the sake of arguing. Let's all rise above these people who have no loss here, this does not affect them so they really have no grounds to stand on and seriously, by their tones and comments do you really think they care about anything else other than the sound of their own voice.

So, friend and neighbors with valid concerns, we will see you all again at the next meeting. Take Care!

Man, i hope you Singletree Residents come to my community's opposition meetings against Maktab Tarighat Oveyssi Shahmaghsoudi School of Islamic Sufism trying to be build a five-story center behind my house!

www.mtoshahmaghsoudi.org

Hey Stacy, maybe its not every one else, word is around town were ALL tired of hearing you complain

I find it hilarious that there is a single person out there who would rather hijack a discussion about elderly care on Singletree to focus on me than participate in the current topic. Can't even use the same name in your different posts? If you are so interested in talking about me, may I direct you to the new thread called "Public Forum Civility" and leave this thread on elderly care to those interested in talking about elderly care? In that thread you can explain to me exactly how I have been complaining too since presentation of logical arguments seems to me far from the same thing as complaining. Never took debate in high school?

Val Vista residents-It's a fact that this area is referred to the Projects of Pleasanton. Your cause may be better served to eradicate the meth labs in your area. An elder care facility in the place of what could be another meth lab may actually be good for your projects.

Response to Joseph DeRossett's post on 10.24.07:

"Facts are facts as listed below:

1.SAFETY AND MOST IMPORTANT OF ALL: Our Children.
All Families in this court have Children between the ages of 5 and 15 and did not move to Pleasanton to a court location just to fear for our kid’s safety. There will no doubt be more traffic due to this “facility”, which will be a Safety concern for our Kids who normally are able to freely play outside in our court. There will be elderly visitors as well as family visitors from who knows where, that our children will now be exposed to. Some of our kids are home alone after school and we have never had any concerns until now. We will now have people in our court on a regular basis that we do not know and this could be trouble which we do not want."

>>Be an important part of your childrens' life and teach them safety around vehicles.<<<


"2.HOMEOWNER PARKING:
There is limited parking in the court and now again with this Facility and the added traffic there will no doubt be an issue for parking, I as well as my neighbors do not want to be forced to park down the street from our house because of others being parked in front of our houses."

>>If you can't park in your garage or driveway, you either have:
a)too many cars
b)too much stuff
and therefore are an over-consuming-contributor to our global economic and climate problems.
To my knowledge, people won't generally park in front of someone's driveway/house if it's not theirs.<<

"3.HOME APPERANCE:
I have attached a few pictures of this house so that maybe you can understand this part; this once beautiful Home is now probably the worst looking home in the court now. The front now has an entry door as well as a sliding door which looks bad enough and then add the large hideous “Country Style” ramp, it adds up to an “EYESORE”. We are actually one of the luckier neighbors when it comes to this item as I live next door and will not have to look at it from my Home, but the neighbors that will have to see this everyday are not very happy at all. This 1500 SQ. FT. Home is having 350 FT. plus of decking added?"

>>How do you know that your house isn't an eyesore? What should a house look like? Are you a designer or architect?<<

"4.HOMEOWNERS NOT BEING NOTIFIED:
If I wanted to cut down a tree in my yard, I would need to post a note on the tree and if just 1 neighbor does not want the tree removed, for whatever reason, it stays? Yet something as important and life changing to our families and children as this facility is we get no say?"

>>Life-changing indeed! What a great opportunity to teach your children (or brats) respect for the elderly!<<

"5.HOME VALUES:
The home modifications are horrendous and are sure to bring down our already deflated home prices. There are currently 2 homes in our court for sale which now probably will not have a chance of to sale unless of course the home owners want to sell for even less and lose even more money."

>>That's just greedy. Shame on you!<<

"6.PUT YOURSELF IN OUR FAMILIES SHOES:
Is this something that you would really want next to your house in a quiet court location?"

>>Yes<<

Are you sure these are facts or just your opinions?

Regardless of what the business is, it is still a business. Businesses don't belong in residential areas. Not just elderly care homes, but child care, tutoring, piano lessons, etc. Enough said.

Mauricio and the rest of you lot with "children" ...

I am shocked and dismayed with most of you in assuming that "elderly care" is any different than "child care" which a majority of Pleasanton families choose to use rather than caring for their own children. Since when is "child care" not a business or money maker but "senior care" is?! Seems you are caught up in your own lives with young families and can't see beyond your personal needs rather than a broader perspective of community/family based needs.

Shame on you all!

Thank God I do not live next to the first posting. People (Morons) worrying about their value of a home because of an elderly care facility. You only think about your wine stroll, concert in the park and snubbing your nose at anyone who doesn't have money. I would never wish to be in your shoes. Dirty Money, that is what reminds me of people like you. Get a Life LOSER!!!

I remember how one of the initial arguments was that there would no room on the court for the residents to park their cars. When I drove by that court via Holland Drive the other day, a huge boat, boat trailer and vehicle to tow that huge boat was taking up 2 1/2 parking spaces on the street.

I have no objection to elder care homes in the Pleasanton community; however the Val Vista neighborhood has at least 3 of these homes that I know of. Maybe they should be spread around a little more. Maybe the folks in Ruby Hill or Kottinger would like to help out. Oh crazy me, those NIMBY's screamed when PG&E tried to run power lines under their streets.

Check out your neighborhood, James M. There are no trailers, boats and RV's parked in the Ruby Hill or Kottinger Area. You get what you pay for so stop complaining and maybe get yourself another paper route so you can move up in the housing sector.

people in ruby hill need to get off thier high horse. your area is no more perfect than anyone else.

Don't be so small Smalls. Remember Ruby Hill is really in Livermore and we live in a rock quarry with trees and grapes. All of my friends in ValVista can outspend me...they don't have huge house payments or big tax bills.

Don't knock those paper routes...it got me 2000 shares of GOOG at $95.96/share. Yep, I don't work at all now.

Wow this is the funniest comment thread I have read ever, from complaints about a elderly home opening up to people from each neighborhood fighting over who has more money, better jobs etc. All I can say is that none of you are good people, I myself to be honest am not perfect but for heavens sake can you go over each of your comments to eachother and honestly think you people are educated?

I admire those who have made good for themselves, you all have the right to be proud of what you have accomplished, but don't rub it into other peoples faces, we try our best to live in an area that is known for wealth, I personally just want my children to live in a safe and peaceful area... but after reading this I don't know.. am I in the right place?

For those who criticize those with wealth, shame on you, be happy for those, take what they have accomplished and try to do as good, if you can not do not take it against them.

All of us human beings are not perfect, but if we try to look at everyones good side maybe each of our lives would be happier.

The last comment from "Get a life" has me wondering... I honestly thought I tried to "look at everyones (should read everyone's) good side" and try to figure out the situation and provide some positive input and information, but he/she says that "none of you are good people" and I'm "not educated". A bit confusing, that.

I agreee with you... people have to much time complaining about others...

Grace,

If you took Get a Lifes comment personally then something is wrong with you, it seems like it is more generalized. Read in between the lines and learn from the comments... words of wisdom build peoples character if they can take the good from them.

I currently live across the street from a family with teenagers/young adults who like to throw loud parties that last all night. I've had to call the police on them.

I would love to have an elder care home there instead! How wonderful to have the opportunity to have nice quiet elderly folks living next to you. I would trade you any day.

I hear that the home will only be for immigrants! That's gonna really jam your property values! I cannot tell you how tickled I am by all this silly worry. As soon as the property value get low enough, I plan to buy! Then I'll sing: It's a wonderful day in the neighborhood...see you soon neighbor!

I am really appaled that it has come to this that we can't even allow people to make choices. Care facilities are not an eye sore. What is the real issue here. The clients that live in these facilities get good care and loving attention. Have you ever visited a nursing home or a large facility to see that we are short staffed of nurses and caregivers. You donb't make money off of this business, and if you are in it for the money forget it. Clients take time and sometimes they need all night care . They just might want a drink of water or use the bathroom and at least someone is their to see to their needs. Who wants to go to a nursing home if you don't need to. What's wrong with our world today you look for any excuse to be angry. The traffic isn't the issue , nor is the ramp for a wheel chair isn't the real issue we have to look at our on mortality, we might be their someday. Give me a break. I am not even a senior and this is the type of people I will have to deal with as you age. I am growing up with very negative adults in these communities how sad.

I am really appaled that it has come to this that we can't even allow people to make choices. Care facilities are not an eye sore. What is the real issue here. The clients that live in these facilities get good care and loving attention. Have you ever visited a nursing home or a large facility to see that we are short staffed of nurses and caregivers. You donb't make money off of this business, and if you are in it for the money forget it. Clients take time and sometimes they need all night care . They just might want a drink of water or use the bathroom and at least someone is their to see to their needs. Who wants to go to a nursing home if you don't need to. What's wrong with our world today you look for any excuse to be angry. The traffic isn't the issue , nor is the ramp for a wheel chair isn't the real issue we have to look at our on mortality, we might be their someday. Give me a break. I am not even a senior and this is the type of people I will have to deal with as you age. I am growing up with very negative adults in these communities how sad.