The Sunnyvale Sun

News

Council doesn't close door on church's plan for a new home

By Cody Kraatz

The Sunnyvale City Council voted 5-2 to give Trinity Baptist Church more time to convince the council that its proposal to move to the Peery Park industrial area will not hurt hopes for a biotech hotspot there.

Council members Christopher Moylan and Melinda Hamilton voted no.

"We need to put this in the policy context," said Hamilton. "I have to be able to answer for the land use decisions I make."

Planning officials want to conduct an in-depth study and create a specific plan for Peery Park, detailing the impact churches and places of assembly would have on the economic prospects of that area. This could take some time.

Geoff Bradley, a consultant hired by the church, said he would address city fears that hazardous materials rules would prohibit certain businesses within 1,000 feet of places such as apartments and churches. RREEF, a global real estate group with large investments in Sunnyvale, said the church would hurt investment in Peery Park.

About 120 church members and other supporters spoke in favor of the new church home at 477 N. Mathilda Ave., some sharing passionate, emotional appeals and personal stories of transitions from alcohol abuse and homelessness.

Church representatives said they were surprised by what they said was the city's abrupt opposition after years of support. City staff said that there were never any guarantees made.