San Francisco Chronicle: Voters rejecting Alameda development project

Excerpt:

Alameda voters were saying no Tuesday to a measure that would allow high-density development at the former Naval Air Station.
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Measure BSunCal's ballot measure to redevelop Alameda Point. It was defeated by a vote of 85 to 15 percent on February 2, 2010. in Alameda was losing in early returns, 82 percent to 17 percent.

It would have allowed a one-time exemption to Measure A(1973) The actual text of what is known as Measure A is article 26 of the Alameda City Charter. It reads as follows: "Sec. 26-1. There shall be no multiple dwelling units built in the City of Alameda. Sec. 26-2. Exception being the Alameda Housing Authority replacement of existing low cost housing units and the proposed Senior Citizens low cost housing complex, pursuant to Article XXV of the Charter of the City of Alameda. Sec. 26-3. The maximum density for any residential development within the City of Alameda shall be one housing unit per 2,000 square feet of land. This limitation shall not apply to the repair or replacement of existing residential units, whether single-family or multiple-unit, which are damaged or destroyed by fire or other disaster; provided that the total number of residential units on any lot may not be increased. This limitation also shall not apply to replacement units under Section 26-2." , a 1973 ordinance that bans anything larger than a duplex on the island. If it had passed, Measure B would have allowed a development at Alameda Point with 4,500 units of apartments, condominiums and single-family homes, as well as offices, parks, a ferry terminal and other amenities.

"We always thought, if Alamedans really understood what was in Measure B, they'd defeat it," said Nancy Rogers, coordinator of the No on B campaign. "We're really proud that Alameda voters took the time to read this, look beyond the pretty pictures, and see the facts."

The developer, SunCal, plans to continue working with the city on Alameda Point, at least until its contract expires in July.

"We're resolved to move forward. The good news is that most Alameda voters believe something needs to happen at Alameda Point, and there's clear support for a vital, mixed use, transit-oriented development there," said Adam Alberti, a spokesman for the Yes on B campaign.