August 3, 2011

Mr. Hibbs concluded his testimony; and told the Board that Mr.Hanrahan would now give further testimony regarding the planned exhibit. Mr. Hanrahan began by referring to Exhibit A-3, Lower Level Floor plan. Mr. Hanrahan said this was the public face of the building. The lower level interior area has been designed to be used as a public function space to hold public events. He said that there would be ample public restrooms to accommodate a large number of visitors. Mr, Hanrahan said that there would be a holding area for four sea lions, manta rays and sharks; the area would include food preparation station for the animals, and a station for veterinary services. Mr. Hanrahan said the entire structure would have a fully suppressed fire system; Fire Department connections will be located along the front of the building; and the location will be fully accessible to fire and emergency vehicles. Mr. Hanrahan concluded his testimony. Chairman Bagoff asked for questions from the Board. Councilwoman McCartney wanted to know the details of safety features for visitors. Mr. Hibbs said that the safety features were well incorporated in to the exhibit; they include a dual barrier with cables to block pedestrian traffic from divect contact with the sea lions. Councilwoman McCartney asked about catering facility for the planned public events space, and if plans had been submitted to the Health Department. Mr. Hibbs advised that the catering food preparation area would only be a food warming space. No food would be prepared on-premises. He said that plans had been submitted to the Health Department for review. Mr. Weston asked if emergency and fire vehicles would have access all around the perimeter of the exhibit. Mr. Hibbs answered that there were fire hydrants all over the zoo; and that fire hoses would have full reach to any Siamese connections located on zoo grounds. There were gates off the western edge of the Reptile Exhibit that allow emergency vehicles on to the zoo grounds. Mr. Weston asked what the maximum occupancy was for visitors to the interior public space. Mr. Hanrahan answered that the code was strict; that while the real occupancy number was 600, in reality, for a party or public event, the actual number would be between 100 and 200 people. Mr. Weston said that since it had become such a popular destination, had the applicants discussed any

, in reality, for a party or public event, the actual number would be between 100 and 200 people. Mr. Weston said that since it had become such a popular destination, had the applicants discussed any new parking plans for zoo visitors. Mr. Hanrahan answered that currently the zoo has approximately 1,500 visitors per day. The new exhibit would attract about 150 more visitors per day, which would mean no more than 10 to 20 additional vehicles. He said the zoo complex currently has more than 1,200 parking spaces and can adequately handle the increase. Mr. Weston asked if the exhibit would be storing special chemicals. Mr. Hanrahan answered that the only chemical to be stored on premise would be salt. The Board discussed handicap accessibility of the exhibit. Mr. Gurland asked if there would be an elevator in the exhibit and if there was seating inside the building. Mr. Hanrahan answered that there would not be an elevator; and no permanent seating would be inside the venue. He said that the exhibit was designed in a manner that would not necessitate an elevator, and that there would be built in bench seating on the exterior of the exhibit. Director Borg advised the Board that the Zoo Director, Dr. Jeremy Goodman, as well as other County officials were present, and could answer questions from the Board. Councilwoman McCartney said that she had received complaints that buses were making illegal left turns from Northfield Avenue on to Cherry Lane. She said in order to avoid contusion, the County needed to install additional signage on Northfield Avenue to direct drivers to the zoo. NAPLANNING. BROW PUMINUTES\201118-3-11 Minttes.doc 9/1 5/2041/3:53:24 PM