Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAbout2024-05-29 Palnning & Transportation Commission Agenda PacketPLANNING AND TRANSPORTATION COMMISSION Regular Meeting Wednesday, May 29, 2024 Council Chambers & Hybrid 6:00 PM Remote Call In Location: Commissioner Bart Hecthman virtual teleconference address: 6343 Via de sonrisa Del Sur, apartment 195, Boca Raton Florida 33433 Planning and Transportation Commission meetings will be held as “hybrid” meetings with the option to attend by teleconference/video conference or in person. To maximize public safety while still maintaining transparency and public access, members of the public can choose to participate from home or attend in person. Information on how the public may observe and participate in the meeting is located at the end of the agenda. Masks are strongly encouraged if attending in person. The meeting will be broadcast on Cable TV Channel 26, live on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/c/cityofpaloalto, and streamed to Midpen Media Center https://midpenmedia.org. Commissioner names, biographies, and archived agendas and minutes are available at http://bit.ly/PaloAltoPTC.  VIRTUAL PARTICIPATION CLICK HERE TO JOIN (https://cityofpaloalto.zoom.us/j/91641559499) Meeting ID: 916 4155 9499    Phone: 1(669)900‐6833 PUBLIC COMMENTS Public comments will be accepted both in person and via Zoom for up to three minutes or an amount of time determined by the Chair. All requests to speak will be taken until 5 minutes after the staff’s presentation. Written public comments can be submitted in advance to Planning.Commission@CityofPaloAlto.org and will be provided to the Commission and available for inspection on the City’s website. Please clearly indicate which agenda item you are referencing in your subject line. Spokespersons that are representing a group of five or more people who are identified as present at the meeting at the time of the spokesperson's presentation will be allowed up to fifteen (15) minutes at the discretion of the Chair, provided that the non‐speaking members agree not to speak individually. The Chair may limit Public Comments to thirty (30) minutes for all combined speakers. The Chair may reduce the allowed time to speak for Study Sessions and Action Items to two (2) minutes or less to accommodate a larger number of speakers. PowerPoints, videos, or other media to be presented during public comment are accepted only by email to Planning.Commission@CityofPaloAlto.org at least 24 hours prior to the meeting. Once received, the Clerk will have them shared at public comment for the specified item. To uphold strong cybersecurity management practices, USB’s or other physical electronic storage devices are not accepted. Signs and symbolic materials less than 2 feet by 3 feet are permitted provided that: (1) sticks, posts, poles or similar/other type of handle objects are strictly prohibited; (2) the items do not create a facility, fire, or safety hazard; and (3) persons with such items remain seated when displaying them and must not raise the items above shoulder level, obstruct the view or passage of other attendees, or otherwise disturb the business of the meeting. TIME ESTIMATES Listed times are estimates only and are subject to change at any time, including while the meeting is in progress. The Commission reserves the right to use more or less time on any item, to change the order of items and/or to continue items to another meeting. Particular items may be heard before or after the time estimated on the agenda. This may occur in order to best manage the time at a meeting or to adapt to the participation of the public. CALL TO ORDER/ ROLL CALL PUBLIC COMMENT  Members of the public may speak to any item NOT on the agenda. Three (3) minutes per speaker. AGENDA CHANGES, ADDITIONS AND DELETIONS The Chair or Board majority may modify the agenda order to improve meeting management. CITY OFFICIAL REPORTS 1.Director's Report, Meeting Schedule and Assignments ACTION ITEMS Public Comment is Permitted. Applicants/Appellant Teams: Fifteen (15) minutes, plus three (3) minutes rebuttal. All others: Five(5) minutes per speaker. 2.Review and Recommendation to Finance Committee and the City Council on Proposed 2025‐2029 Capital Improvement Plan and Comprehensive Plan Compliance.   6:10 PM ‐ 6:50 PM 3.Ordinance of the Council of the City of Palo Alto Amending Chapters 18.14 (Housing Incentives), 18.18 (Downtown Commercial District), 18.30(F) (Automobile Dealership (AD) Combining District Regulations), 18.42 (Standard for Special Uses), 18.52 (Parking Regulations) of Title 18 (Zoning) and 18.77 (Processing of Permits and Approvals), and Adding Chapter 21.11 to Title 21 (Subdivisions and Other Divisions of Land) of the Palo Alto Municipal Code to Clarify Existing Regulations and to Implement Recent State Housing Laws   6:50 PM ‐ 8:00 PM APPROVAL OF MINUTES 4.Approval of Planning & Transportation Commission Draft Verbatim Minutes of May 8, 2024 COMMISSIONER QUESTIONS, COMMENTS, ANNOUNCEMENTS OR FUTURE MEETINGS AND AGENDAS Members of the public may not speak to the item(s). ADJOURNMENT PUBLIC COMMENT INSTRUCTIONS Members of the Public may provide public comments to teleconference meetings via email, teleconference, or by phone. 1. W r i t t e n   p u b l i c   c o m m e n t s  m a y   b e   s u b m i t t e d   b y   e m a i l   t o planning.commission@cityofpaloalto.org. 2. Spoken public comments using a computer will be accepted through the teleconference meeting. To address the Commission, click on the link below to access a Zoom‐based meeting. Please read the following instructions carefully. You may download the Zoom client or connect to the meeting in‐ browser. If using your browser, make sure you are using a current, up‐to‐date browser: Chrome 30, Firefox 27, Microsoft Edge 12, Safari 7. Certain functionality may be disabled in older browsers including Internet Explorer. You may be asked to enter an email address and name. We request that you identify yourself by name as this will be visible online and will be used to notify you that it is your turn to speak. When you wish to speak on an Agenda Item, click on “raise hand.” The Clerk will activate and unmute speakers in turn. Speakers will be notified shortly before they are called to speak. When called, please limit your remarks to the time limit allotted. A timer will be shown on the computer to help keep track of your comments. 3. Spoken public comments using a smart phone will be accepted  through the teleconference meeting. To address the Commission, download the Zoom application onto your phone from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store and enter the Meeting ID below. Please follow the instructions above. 4. Spoken public comments using a phone use the telephone number listed below. When you wish to speak on an agenda item hit *9 on your phone so we know that you wish to speak. You will be asked to provide your first and last name before addressing the Commission. You will be advised how long you have to speak. When called please limit your remarks to the agenda item and time limit allotted. CLICK HERE TO JOIN    Meeting ID: 916 4155 9499   Phone:1‐669‐900‐6833  Americans with Disability Act (ADA) It is the policy of the City of Palo Alto to offer its public programs, services and meetings in a manner that is readily accessible to all. Persons with disabilities who require materials in an appropriate alternative format or who require auxiliary aids to access City meetings, programs, or services may contact the City’s ADA Coordinator at (650) 329‐2550 (voice) or by emailing ada@cityofpaloalto.org. Requests for assistance or accommodations must be submitted at least 24 hours in advance of the meeting, program, or service. PLANNING AND TRANSPORTATION COMMISSIONRegular MeetingWednesday, May 29, 2024Council Chambers & Hybrid6:00 PMRemote Call In Location:Commissioner Bart Hecthman virtual teleconferenceaddress: 6343 Via de sonrisa Del Sur, apartment 195, BocaRaton Florida 33433Planning and Transportation Commission meetings will be held as “hybrid” meetings with theoption to attend by teleconference/video conference or in person. To maximize public safetywhile still maintaining transparency and public access, members of the public can choose toparticipate from home or attend in person. Information on how the public may observe andparticipate in the meeting is located at the end of the agenda. Masks are strongly encouraged ifattending in person. The meeting will be broadcast on Cable TV Channel 26, live onYouTube https://www.youtube.com/c/cityofpaloalto, and streamed to Midpen MediaCenter https://midpenmedia.org. Commissioner names, biographies, and archived agendas andminutes are available at http://bit.ly/PaloAltoPTC. VIRTUAL PARTICIPATION CLICK HERE TO JOIN (https://cityofpaloalto.zoom.us/j/91641559499)Meeting ID: 916 4155 9499    Phone: 1(669)900‐6833PUBLIC COMMENTSPublic comments will be accepted both in person and via Zoom for up to three minutes or anamount of time determined by the Chair. All requests to speak will be taken until 5 minutesafter the staff’s presentation. Written public comments can be submitted in advance toPlanning.Commission@CityofPaloAlto.org and will be provided to the Commission and availablefor inspection on the City’s website. Please clearly indicate which agenda item you arereferencing in your subject line.Spokespersons that are representing a group of five or more people who are identified aspresent at the meeting at the time of the spokesperson's presentation will be allowed up tofifteen (15) minutes at the discretion of the Chair, provided that the non‐speaking membersagree not to speak individually. The Chair may limit Public Comments to thirty (30) minutes forall combined speakers. The Chair may reduce the allowed time to speak for Study Sessions andAction Items to two (2) minutes or less to accommodate a larger number of speakers.PowerPoints, videos, or other media to be presented during public comment are accepted only by email to Planning.Commission@CityofPaloAlto.org at least 24 hours prior to the meeting. Once received, the Clerk will have them shared at public comment for the specified item. To uphold strong cybersecurity management practices, USB’s or other physical electronic storage devices are not accepted. Signs and symbolic materials less than 2 feet by 3 feet are permitted provided that: (1) sticks, posts, poles or similar/other type of handle objects are strictly prohibited; (2) the items do not create a facility, fire, or safety hazard; and (3) persons with such items remain seated when displaying them and must not raise the items above shoulder level, obstruct the view or passage of other attendees, or otherwise disturb the business of the meeting. TIME ESTIMATES Listed times are estimates only and are subject to change at any time, including while the meeting is in progress. The Commission reserves the right to use more or less time on any item, to change the order of items and/or to continue items to another meeting. Particular items may be heard before or after the time estimated on the agenda. This may occur in order to best manage the time at a meeting or to adapt to the participation of the public. CALL TO ORDER/ ROLL CALL PUBLIC COMMENT  Members of the public may speak to any item NOT on the agenda. Three (3) minutes per speaker. AGENDA CHANGES, ADDITIONS AND DELETIONS The Chair or Board majority may modify the agenda order to improve meeting management. CITY OFFICIAL REPORTS 1.Director's Report, Meeting Schedule and Assignments ACTION ITEMS Public Comment is Permitted. Applicants/Appellant Teams: Fifteen (15) minutes, plus three (3) minutes rebuttal. All others: Five(5) minutes per speaker. 2.Review and Recommendation to Finance Committee and the City Council on Proposed 2025‐2029 Capital Improvement Plan and Comprehensive Plan Compliance.   6:10 PM ‐ 6:50 PM 3.Ordinance of the Council of the City of Palo Alto Amending Chapters 18.14 (Housing Incentives), 18.18 (Downtown Commercial District), 18.30(F) (Automobile Dealership (AD) Combining District Regulations), 18.42 (Standard for Special Uses), 18.52 (Parking Regulations) of Title 18 (Zoning) and 18.77 (Processing of Permits and Approvals), and Adding Chapter 21.11 to Title 21 (Subdivisions and Other Divisions of Land) of the Palo Alto Municipal Code to Clarify Existing Regulations and to Implement Recent State Housing Laws   6:50 PM ‐ 8:00 PM APPROVAL OF MINUTES 4.Approval of Planning & Transportation Commission Draft Verbatim Minutes of May 8, 2024 COMMISSIONER QUESTIONS, COMMENTS, ANNOUNCEMENTS OR FUTURE MEETINGS AND AGENDAS Members of the public may not speak to the item(s). ADJOURNMENT PUBLIC COMMENT INSTRUCTIONS Members of the Public may provide public comments to teleconference meetings via email, teleconference, or by phone. 1. W r i t t e n   p u b l i c   c o m m e n t s  m a y   b e   s u b m i t t e d   b y   e m a i l   t o planning.commission@cityofpaloalto.org. 2. Spoken public comments using a computer will be accepted through the teleconference meeting. To address the Commission, click on the link below to access a Zoom‐based meeting. Please read the following instructions carefully. You may download the Zoom client or connect to the meeting in‐ browser. If using your browser, make sure you are using a current, up‐to‐date browser: Chrome 30, Firefox 27, Microsoft Edge 12, Safari 7. Certain functionality may be disabled in older browsers including Internet Explorer. You may be asked to enter an email address and name. We request that you identify yourself by name as this will be visible online and will be used to notify you that it is your turn to speak. When you wish to speak on an Agenda Item, click on “raise hand.” The Clerk will activate and unmute speakers in turn. Speakers will be notified shortly before they are called to speak. When called, please limit your remarks to the time limit allotted. A timer will be shown on the computer to help keep track of your comments. 3. Spoken public comments using a smart phone will be accepted  through the teleconference meeting. To address the Commission, download the Zoom application onto your phone from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store and enter the Meeting ID below. Please follow the instructions above. 4. Spoken public comments using a phone use the telephone number listed below. When you wish to speak on an agenda item hit *9 on your phone so we know that you wish to speak. You will be asked to provide your first and last name before addressing the Commission. You will be advised how long you have to speak. When called please limit your remarks to the agenda item and time limit allotted. CLICK HERE TO JOIN    Meeting ID: 916 4155 9499   Phone:1‐669‐900‐6833  Americans with Disability Act (ADA) It is the policy of the City of Palo Alto to offer its public programs, services and meetings in a manner that is readily accessible to all. Persons with disabilities who require materials in an appropriate alternative format or who require auxiliary aids to access City meetings, programs, or services may contact the City’s ADA Coordinator at (650) 329‐2550 (voice) or by emailing ada@cityofpaloalto.org. Requests for assistance or accommodations must be submitted at least 24 hours in advance of the meeting, program, or service. PLANNING AND TRANSPORTATION COMMISSIONRegular MeetingWednesday, May 29, 2024Council Chambers & Hybrid6:00 PMRemote Call In Location:Commissioner Bart Hecthman virtual teleconferenceaddress: 6343 Via de sonrisa Del Sur, apartment 195, BocaRaton Florida 33433Planning and Transportation Commission meetings will be held as “hybrid” meetings with theoption to attend by teleconference/video conference or in person. To maximize public safetywhile still maintaining transparency and public access, members of the public can choose toparticipate from home or attend in person. Information on how the public may observe andparticipate in the meeting is located at the end of the agenda. Masks are strongly encouraged ifattending in person. The meeting will be broadcast on Cable TV Channel 26, live onYouTube https://www.youtube.com/c/cityofpaloalto, and streamed to Midpen MediaCenter https://midpenmedia.org. Commissioner names, biographies, and archived agendas andminutes are available at http://bit.ly/PaloAltoPTC. VIRTUAL PARTICIPATION CLICK HERE TO JOIN (https://cityofpaloalto.zoom.us/j/91641559499)Meeting ID: 916 4155 9499    Phone: 1(669)900‐6833PUBLIC COMMENTSPublic comments will be accepted both in person and via Zoom for up to three minutes or anamount of time determined by the Chair. All requests to speak will be taken until 5 minutesafter the staff’s presentation. Written public comments can be submitted in advance toPlanning.Commission@CityofPaloAlto.org and will be provided to the Commission and availablefor inspection on the City’s website. Please clearly indicate which agenda item you arereferencing in your subject line.Spokespersons that are representing a group of five or more people who are identified aspresent at the meeting at the time of the spokesperson's presentation will be allowed up tofifteen (15) minutes at the discretion of the Chair, provided that the non‐speaking membersagree not to speak individually. The Chair may limit Public Comments to thirty (30) minutes forall combined speakers. The Chair may reduce the allowed time to speak for Study Sessions andAction Items to two (2) minutes or less to accommodate a larger number of speakers.PowerPoints, videos, or other media to be presented during public comment are accepted onlyby email to Planning.Commission@CityofPaloAlto.org at least 24 hours prior to the meeting.Once received, the Clerk will have them shared at public comment for the specified item. Touphold strong cybersecurity management practices, USB’s or other physical electronic storagedevices are not accepted.Signs and symbolic materials less than 2 feet by 3 feet are permitted provided that: (1) sticks,posts, poles or similar/other type of handle objects are strictly prohibited; (2) the items do notcreate a facility, fire, or safety hazard; and (3) persons with such items remain seated whendisplaying them and must not raise the items above shoulder level, obstruct the view orpassage of other attendees, or otherwise disturb the business of the meeting.TIME ESTIMATES Listed times are estimates only and are subject to change at any time, including while the meeting is in progress. The Commission reserves the right to use more or less time on any item, to change the order of items and/or to continue items to another meeting. Particular items may be heard before or after the time estimated on the agenda. This may occur in order to best manage the time at a meeting or to adapt to the participation of the public. CALL TO ORDER/ ROLL CALL PUBLIC COMMENT  Members of the public may speak to any item NOT on the agenda. Three (3) minutes per speaker. AGENDA CHANGES, ADDITIONS AND DELETIONS The Chair or Board majority may modify the agenda order to improve meeting management. CITY OFFICIAL REPORTS 1.Director's Report, Meeting Schedule and Assignments ACTION ITEMS Public Comment is Permitted. Applicants/Appellant Teams: Fifteen (15) minutes, plus three (3) minutes rebuttal. All others: Five(5) minutes per speaker. 2.Review and Recommendation to Finance Committee and the City Council on Proposed 2025‐2029 Capital Improvement Plan and Comprehensive Plan Compliance.   6:10 PM ‐ 6:50 PM 3.Ordinance of the Council of the City of Palo Alto Amending Chapters 18.14 (Housing Incentives), 18.18 (Downtown Commercial District), 18.30(F) (Automobile Dealership (AD) Combining District Regulations), 18.42 (Standard for Special Uses), 18.52 (Parking Regulations) of Title 18 (Zoning) and 18.77 (Processing of Permits and Approvals), and Adding Chapter 21.11 to Title 21 (Subdivisions and Other Divisions of Land) of the Palo Alto Municipal Code to Clarify Existing Regulations and to Implement Recent State Housing Laws   6:50 PM ‐ 8:00 PM APPROVAL OF MINUTES 4.Approval of Planning & Transportation Commission Draft Verbatim Minutes of May 8, 2024 COMMISSIONER QUESTIONS, COMMENTS, ANNOUNCEMENTS OR FUTURE MEETINGS AND AGENDAS Members of the public may not speak to the item(s). ADJOURNMENT PUBLIC COMMENT INSTRUCTIONS Members of the Public may provide public comments to teleconference meetings via email, teleconference, or by phone. 1. W r i t t e n   p u b l i c   c o m m e n t s  m a y   b e   s u b m i t t e d   b y   e m a i l   t o planning.commission@cityofpaloalto.org. 2. Spoken public comments using a computer will be accepted through the teleconference meeting. To address the Commission, click on the link below to access a Zoom‐based meeting. Please read the following instructions carefully. You may download the Zoom client or connect to the meeting in‐ browser. If using your browser, make sure you are using a current, up‐to‐date browser: Chrome 30, Firefox 27, Microsoft Edge 12, Safari 7. Certain functionality may be disabled in older browsers including Internet Explorer. You may be asked to enter an email address and name. We request that you identify yourself by name as this will be visible online and will be used to notify you that it is your turn to speak. When you wish to speak on an Agenda Item, click on “raise hand.” The Clerk will activate and unmute speakers in turn. Speakers will be notified shortly before they are called to speak. When called, please limit your remarks to the time limit allotted. A timer will be shown on the computer to help keep track of your comments. 3. Spoken public comments using a smart phone will be accepted  through the teleconference meeting. To address the Commission, download the Zoom application onto your phone from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store and enter the Meeting ID below. Please follow the instructions above. 4. Spoken public comments using a phone use the telephone number listed below. When you wish to speak on an agenda item hit *9 on your phone so we know that you wish to speak. You will be asked to provide your first and last name before addressing the Commission. You will be advised how long you have to speak. When called please limit your remarks to the agenda item and time limit allotted. CLICK HERE TO JOIN    Meeting ID: 916 4155 9499   Phone:1‐669‐900‐6833  Americans with Disability Act (ADA) It is the policy of the City of Palo Alto to offer its public programs, services and meetings in a manner that is readily accessible to all. Persons with disabilities who require materials in an appropriate alternative format or who require auxiliary aids to access City meetings, programs, or services may contact the City’s ADA Coordinator at (650) 329‐2550 (voice) or by emailing ada@cityofpaloalto.org. Requests for assistance or accommodations must be submitted at least 24 hours in advance of the meeting, program, or service. PLANNING AND TRANSPORTATION COMMISSIONRegular MeetingWednesday, May 29, 2024Council Chambers & Hybrid6:00 PMRemote Call In Location:Commissioner Bart Hecthman virtual teleconferenceaddress: 6343 Via de sonrisa Del Sur, apartment 195, BocaRaton Florida 33433Planning and Transportation Commission meetings will be held as “hybrid” meetings with theoption to attend by teleconference/video conference or in person. To maximize public safetywhile still maintaining transparency and public access, members of the public can choose toparticipate from home or attend in person. Information on how the public may observe andparticipate in the meeting is located at the end of the agenda. Masks are strongly encouraged ifattending in person. The meeting will be broadcast on Cable TV Channel 26, live onYouTube https://www.youtube.com/c/cityofpaloalto, and streamed to Midpen MediaCenter https://midpenmedia.org. Commissioner names, biographies, and archived agendas andminutes are available at http://bit.ly/PaloAltoPTC. VIRTUAL PARTICIPATION CLICK HERE TO JOIN (https://cityofpaloalto.zoom.us/j/91641559499)Meeting ID: 916 4155 9499    Phone: 1(669)900‐6833PUBLIC COMMENTSPublic comments will be accepted both in person and via Zoom for up to three minutes or anamount of time determined by the Chair. All requests to speak will be taken until 5 minutesafter the staff’s presentation. Written public comments can be submitted in advance toPlanning.Commission@CityofPaloAlto.org and will be provided to the Commission and availablefor inspection on the City’s website. Please clearly indicate which agenda item you arereferencing in your subject line.Spokespersons that are representing a group of five or more people who are identified aspresent at the meeting at the time of the spokesperson's presentation will be allowed up tofifteen (15) minutes at the discretion of the Chair, provided that the non‐speaking membersagree not to speak individually. The Chair may limit Public Comments to thirty (30) minutes forall combined speakers. The Chair may reduce the allowed time to speak for Study Sessions andAction Items to two (2) minutes or less to accommodate a larger number of speakers.PowerPoints, videos, or other media to be presented during public comment are accepted onlyby email to Planning.Commission@CityofPaloAlto.org at least 24 hours prior to the meeting.Once received, the Clerk will have them shared at public comment for the specified item. Touphold strong cybersecurity management practices, USB’s or other physical electronic storagedevices are not accepted.Signs and symbolic materials less than 2 feet by 3 feet are permitted provided that: (1) sticks,posts, poles or similar/other type of handle objects are strictly prohibited; (2) the items do notcreate a facility, fire, or safety hazard; and (3) persons with such items remain seated whendisplaying them and must not raise the items above shoulder level, obstruct the view orpassage of other attendees, or otherwise disturb the business of the meeting.TIME ESTIMATESListed times are estimates only and are subject to change at any time, including while themeeting is in progress. The Commission reserves the right to use more or less time on any item,to change the order of items and/or to continue items to another meeting. Particular items maybe heard before or after the time estimated on the agenda. This may occur in order to bestmanage the time at a meeting or to adapt to the participation of the public.CALL TO ORDER/ ROLL CALLPUBLIC COMMENT Members of the public may speak to any item NOT on the agenda. Three (3) minutes per speaker.AGENDA CHANGES, ADDITIONS AND DELETIONSThe Chair or Board majority may modify the agenda order to improve meeting management.CITY OFFICIAL REPORTS1.Director's Report, Meeting Schedule and AssignmentsACTION ITEMSPublic Comment is Permitted. Applicants/Appellant Teams: Fifteen (15) minutes, plus three (3) minutes rebuttal. All others:Five(5) minutes per speaker.2.Review and Recommendation to Finance Committee and the City Council on Proposed2025‐2029 Capital Improvement Plan and Comprehensive Plan Compliance.   6:10 PM ‐6:50 PM3.Ordinance of the Council of the City of Palo Alto Amending Chapters 18.14 (HousingIncentives), 18.18 (Downtown Commercial District), 18.30(F) (Automobile Dealership(AD) Combining District Regulations), 18.42 (Standard for Special Uses), 18.52 (ParkingRegulations) of Title 18 (Zoning) and 18.77 (Processing of Permits and Approvals), andAdding Chapter 21.11 to Title 21 (Subdivisions and Other Divisions of Land) of the PaloAlto Municipal Code to Clarify Existing Regulations and to Implement Recent StateHousing Laws   6:50 PM ‐ 8:00 PMAPPROVAL OF MINUTES4.Approval of Planning & Transportation Commission Draft Verbatim Minutes of May 8,2024COMMISSIONER QUESTIONS, COMMENTS, ANNOUNCEMENTS OR FUTURE MEETINGS ANDAGENDAS Members of the public may not speak to the item(s). ADJOURNMENT PUBLIC COMMENT INSTRUCTIONS Members of the Public may provide public comments to teleconference meetings via email, teleconference, or by phone. 1. W r i t t e n   p u b l i c   c o m m e n t s  m a y   b e   s u b m i t t e d   b y   e m a i l   t o planning.commission@cityofpaloalto.org. 2. Spoken public comments using a computer will be accepted through the teleconference meeting. To address the Commission, click on the link below to access a Zoom‐based meeting. Please read the following instructions carefully. You may download the Zoom client or connect to the meeting in‐ browser. If using your browser, make sure you are using a current, up‐to‐date browser: Chrome 30, Firefox 27, Microsoft Edge 12, Safari 7. Certain functionality may be disabled in older browsers including Internet Explorer. You may be asked to enter an email address and name. We request that you identify yourself by name as this will be visible online and will be used to notify you that it is your turn to speak. When you wish to speak on an Agenda Item, click on “raise hand.” The Clerk will activate and unmute speakers in turn. Speakers will be notified shortly before they are called to speak. When called, please limit your remarks to the time limit allotted. A timer will be shown on the computer to help keep track of your comments. 3. Spoken public comments using a smart phone will be accepted  through the teleconference meeting. To address the Commission, download the Zoom application onto your phone from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store and enter the Meeting ID below. Please follow the instructions above. 4. Spoken public comments using a phone use the telephone number listed below. When you wish to speak on an agenda item hit *9 on your phone so we know that you wish to speak. You will be asked to provide your first and last name before addressing the Commission. You will be advised how long you have to speak. When called please limit your remarks to the agenda item and time limit allotted. CLICK HERE TO JOIN    Meeting ID: 916 4155 9499   Phone:1‐669‐900‐6833  Americans with Disability Act (ADA) It is the policy of the City of Palo Alto to offer its public programs, services and meetings in a manner that is readily accessible to all. Persons with disabilities who require materials in an appropriate alternative format or who require auxiliary aids to access City meetings, programs, or services may contact the City’s ADA Coordinator at (650) 329‐2550 (voice) or by emailing ada@cityofpaloalto.org. Requests for assistance or accommodations must be submitted at least 24 hours in advance of the meeting, program, or service. Item No. 1. Page 1 of 2 Planning & Transportation Commission Staff Report From: Planning and Development Services Director Lead Department: Planning and Development Services Meeting Date: May 29, 2024 Report #: 2405-3021 TITLE Director's Report, Meeting Schedule and Assignments RECOMMENDATION Staff recommends that the Planning and Transportation Commission (PTC) review and comment as appropriate. BACKGROUND This document includes the following items:  PTC Meeting Schedule  PTC Representative to City Council (Rotational Assignments)  Upcoming PTC Agenda Items Commissioners are encouraged to contact Veronica Dao (Veronica.Dao@CityofPaloAlto.org) to notify staff of any planned absences one month in advance, if possible, to ensure the availability of a PTC quorum. PTC Representative to City Council is a rotational assignment where the designated commissioner represents the PTC’s affirmative and dissenting perspectives to Council for quasijudicial and legislative matters. Representatives are encouraged to review the City Council agendas (https://www.cityofpaloalto.org/City-Hall/City-Council/Council-Agendas-Minutes) for the months of their respective assignments to verify if attendance is needed or contact staff. Prior PTC meetings are available online at https://midpenmedia.org/category/government/city- of-palo-alto/boards-and-commissions/planning-and-transportation-commission. UPCOMING PTC ITEMS These are placeholder dates targeted for items listed below; the dates for items may change. Item 1 Staff Report     Packet Pg. 5     Item No. 1. Page 2 of 2 June 12, 2024 4075 El Camino Way Palo Alto Commons 2nd initiation meeting w/parking study (PDS) 660 University Avenue (PDS) - ARB on 4-18 forwarded the project to the PTC June 26, 2024 Municipal Code cleanup Chapters 18.54.060. 2.31.040, 10.04, 10.32, and 10.64 updating regulations for pedestrians, bicyclists and bicycle parking facilities to comply with the current practices and California Vehicle Code (OOT) 830 Los Trancos Road Open Space Home Site and Design Review (PDS) July 2024 July 10 TBD items (an item targeted for June 26 may move to this date) July 31 meeting was cancelled by PTC vote (items moved to August 14) August 14, 2024 Housing Incentive Program (HIP) to implement HE program 3.4 (PDS) Dark Skies and Bird Safe Design draft ordinance (PDS) Stream Corridor Ordinance update (PDS) ATTACHMENTS Attachment A: 2024 Meeting Schedule & Assignments AUTHOR/TITLE: Amy French, Chief Planning Official Item 1 Staff Report     Packet Pg. 6     Planning & Transportation Commission 2024 Meeting Schedule & Assignments 2024 Schedule Meeting Dates Time Location Status Planned Absences 1/10/2024 6:00 PM Hybrid Cancelled 1/31/2024 6:00 PM Hybrid Regular 2/14/2024 6:00 PM Hybrid Canceled 2/28/2024 6:00 PM Hybrid Regular 3/13/2024 5:00 PM Hybrid Special Joint Meeting w/ HRC 3/27/2024 6:00 PM Hybrid Regular Hechtman 4/10/2024 6:00 PM Hybrid Regular 4/15/2024 5:30 PM Hybrid Joint Meeting w/ Council 4/24/2024 6:00 PM Hybrid Regular 5/8/2024 6:00 PM Hybrid Regular Lu 5/29/2024 6:00 PM Hybrid Regular Hechtman 6/12/2024 6:00 PM Hybrid Regular 6/26/2024 6:00 PM Hybrid Regular 7/10/2024 6:00 PM Hybrid Regular 7/31/2024 6:00 PM Hybrid Canceled 8/14/2024 6:00 PM Hybrid Regular Templeton 8/28/2024 6:00 PM Hybrid Regular 9/11/2024 6:00 PM Hybrid Regular 9/25/2024 6:00 PM Hybrid Regular 10/9/2024 6:00 PM Hybrid Regular 10/30/2024 6:00 PM Hybrid Regular 11/13/2024 6:00 PM Hybrid Regular 11/27/2024 6:00 PM Hybrid Regular 12/11/2024 6:00 PM Hybrid Regular 12/25/2024 6:00 PM Hybrid Cancelled 2024 Assignments - Council Representation (primary/backup) January February March April May June Cari Templeton Keith Reckdahl Bart Hechtman Doria Summa Bryna Chang George Lu Doria Summa Allen Akin Keith Reckdahl Cari Templeton George Lu Bryna Chang July August September October November December Allen Akin Bart Hechtman Doria Summa George Lu Bart Hechtman Keith Reckdahl Cari Templeton Bryna Chang George Lu Bart Hechtman Doria Summa Cari Templeton Item 1 Attachment A - 2024 Schedule & Assignments     Packet Pg. 7     Item No. 2. Page 1 of 5 Planning & Transportation Commission Staff Report From: Planning and Development Services Director Lead Department: Planning and Development Services Meeting Date: May 29, 2024 Report #: 2403-2751 TITLE Review and Recommendation to Finance Committee and the City Council on Proposed 2025- 2029 Capital Improvement Plan and Comprehensive Plan Compliance. RECOMMENDATION Staff recommends the Planning and Transportation Commission take the following action: 1. Recommend to the Finance Committee and City Council that the proposed 2025-2029 Capital Improvement Projects (CIPs) listed in Attachment A are consistent with the Comprehensive Plan 2030 policies and programs. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY Every year, the Planning and Transportation Commission (PTC) reviews the proposed CIPs for consistency with the Comprehensive Plan (Comp Plan) and forwards its recommendation to the Finance Committee and City Council. This review is part of the annual budget process. The Fiscal Year 2024 Proposed Capital Budget was presented to the City Council on June 19, 2023 and is available on the City’s website1. The 2025-2029 proposed Capital Improvement Plan consists of a total of 270 active CIPs, including 16 new CIPs. Staff has reviewed these 16 new projects and found they are consistent with the Comprehensive Plan 2030. The remaining 254 projects in this year’s Capital Budget book were previously found consistent with the Comprehensive Plan and do not require additional compliance review. Staff recommends that the PTC find that the proposed new CIPs are consistent with the City’s Comprehensive Plan. BACKGROUND The authority for this PTC review is contained in Palo Alto Municipal Code (PAMC) Section Fiacal Year 2024 Adopted Capital Budget: 1 https://www.cityofpaloalto.org/files/assets/public/v/1/administrative- services/city-budgets/fy-2024-city-budget/adopted/palo-alto-adopted-capital-budget-book.pdf Item 2 Staff Report     Packet Pg. 8     Item No. 2. Page 2 of 5 19.04.0402. Specifically, this section states: “The planning commission shall submit an annual report to the council regarding the capital improvement program, which shall review each project for its conformity to the master plan; review the program as a whole in order to suggest any improvement in economy or efficiency which might be effected through the combining of various projects; and suggest any needed improvements which do not appear in the program.” The PTC communicates its findings through a letter to the City Council via the Finance Committee. The PTC is asked to consider the draft letter (Attachment C) reflecting staff’s recommendations; this letter may be revised to reflect the PTC action. The PTC’s recommendation for FY 2025 will be presented during budget hearings to the City Council, which is tentatively scheduled to adopt both the Operating and Capital budgets for Fiscal Year 2025 on June 17, 2024. ANALYSIS New Capital Improvement Projects The 2025-2029 Proposed Capital Improvement Plan includes a total of 270 active projects. Of these projects, 16 new CIPs (approximately six percent) are recommended to be added this year. The relationship of each new project to the City’s Comprehensive Plan is established in two ways. First, by linking the project to an element and section of Comp Plan. Second, by reviewing the project for consistency with individual goals, policies, or programs of that element. Staff have reviewed the 16 new CIPs and evaluated their compliance with the Comp Plan. All the projects have been determined to be consistent with one or more policy or program. Attachment A provides a summary list of new CIPs for quick reference with the associated Comp Plan compliance programs/policies, required reviews by boards and commissions, and anticipated environmental review. Attachment B provides an expanded project description for each new FY 2025 CIPs. Additional information about the projects and their funding can be found on the respective project pages in the FY 2025 Proposed Capital Budget document (see Footnote 1 above). Below is the list of new projects identified in the FY 2025 budget. New Project List: 1.Children's Theatre Lighting System 2.Children’s Theatre Facility Upgrade/Repair Palo Alto Municipal Code Section 19.04.040: 2https://codelibrary.amlegal.com/codes/paloalto/latest/paloalto_ca/0-0-0-82257#JD_19.04.040 Item 2 Staff Report     Packet Pg. 9     Item No. 2. Page 3 of 5 3.Palo Alto Art Center Ceramics Equipment 4.Fire Equipment Replacement 5.Gas Line Repair at Arastradero Creek 6.City Radio Replacement Program 7.Electric Operations Office Remodel 8.California Avenue Parking District Parking Improvements 9.Eucalyptus Tree Removal 10.Rinconada Pool Starting Blocks 11.Traffic Intersection Accessibility Improvement Project 12.Alma/Charleston Railroad Crossing Safety Improvements 13.Hamilton System Upgrades 14.Center Drive Capacity Upgrades 15.Scheduled Vehicle and Equipment Replacement - Fiscal Year 2029 16.Wastewater Collection Main Replacement Project 34 Table 1 below shows the distribution of the new CIPs by individual Comp Plan elements. Table 1. Distribution of New Capital Improvement Programs by Comprehensive Plan Elements Comprehensive Plan Element Number of New CIPs Community Services & Facilities 5 Natural Environment 5 Transportation 3 Safety 3 Total 16 Source: City of Palo Alto Planning Department & ASD Office of Management and Budget 2025 Existing Capital Improvement Projects In addition to the new CIPs, the FY 2025 Proposed Capital Budget includes 254 existing and/or continuing CIPs from previous years. These projects account for the rest of the 94% of the 2025-2029 CIPs in the budget book. All these existing and/or continuing CIPs have been previously reviewed for consistency with the Comprehensive Plan and, therefore, do not require additional consistency review, as those previous findings are carried over to the FY 2025 Proposed Capital Budget. The Natural Environment Element was the most cited Comprehensive Plan element for existing and new CIPs (106 existing and five new CIPs), followed by Community Services and Facilities Element (92 existing and five new CIPs), Land Use and Community Design Element (20 existing Item 2 Staff Report     Packet Pg. 10     Item No. 2. Page 4 of 5 CIPs), Safety Element (12 existing and three new CIPs) and Transportation Element (19 existing and three new CIPs). Figure 1 shows the distribution of CIPs by Comprehensive Plan element. Figure 1. Distribution of CIPs by Comprehensive Plan Elements Source: City of Palo Alto Planning Department & ASD Office of Management and Budget 2024 FISCAL/RESOURCE IMPACT Funding for the new CIPs is subject to the Council’s review and adoption of the FY 2025 Budget. Council only appropriates funding for the first year of the recommended five-year Capital Improvement Plan, the remaining four years are used as a planning tool for future budget cycles. STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT The Palo Alto Municipal Code requires publication of a notice of this public hearing in a local paper at least ten days in advance of the meeting. Notice of the PTC public hearing was published in the Daily Post on May 17, 2024. Staff did not perform specific community outreach for this PTC agenda item. Members of the public will have the opportunity to comment during the PTC hearing. ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW The review of the CIPs for Comprehensive Plan consistency does not constitute a project under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). Individual CIP projects may or may not be subject to CEQA. The environmental determination will be made on each individual project at the time of project implementation. 106 92 20 19 12 4 5 5 0 3 3 0 NATURAL ENVIRONMENT ELEMENT COMMUNITY SERVICES & FACILITIES ELEMENT LAND USE AND COMMUNITY DESIGN ELEMENT TRANSPORTATION ELEMENT SAFETY ELEMENT BUSINESS & ECONOMICS ELEMENT 0 20 40 60 80 100 120 New CIPs Continuing CIPs Item 2 Staff Report     Packet Pg. 11     Item No. 2. Page 5 of 5 NEXT STEPS The City Council and the Finance Committee will be reviewing the City’s budget through June, with the final budget adoption hearing planned for June 17, 2024. ATTACHMENTS Attachment A: List of New CIPs & Comprehensive Plan Goals, Policies and Programs (PDF) Attachment B: FY 2025 New CIPs with Project Description (PDF) Attachment C: PTC Conformance Letter, 2024 AUTHOR/TITLE: Chitra Moitra, Planner Item 2 Staff Report     Packet Pg. 12     Num b e r Titl e Div i s i o n Pro j e c t Cat e g o r y Def a u l t F u n d Rec u r r i n g Pro j e c t Prim a r y Com p r e h e n s i v e Pla n E l e m e n t Prim a r y Com p r e h e n s i v e Pla n S e c t i o n Prim a r y Com p r e h e n s i v e Pla n G o a l Prim a r y Com p r e h e n s i v e Pla n P o l i c y Prim a r y Com p r e h e n s i v e Pla n P r o g r a m Yea r I d e n t i f i e d Env i r o n m e n t a l Rev i e w Pot e n t i a l Com m i t t e e Rev i e w Pro j e c t L o c a t i o n Pro j e c t L e a d AC-28001 Children's Theatre Lighting System CSD Arts and Sciences Buildings and Facilities 471 - Capital Improvement Fund No Community Services & Facilities Maintenance of Parks and Community Facilities C-3 C-3.2 2024 This project is expected to have a possible exemption from CEQA under Section 15301. None 1305 Middlefield Road Public Works AC-28002 Children’s Theatre Facility Upgrade/Repair CSD Arts and Sciences Buildings and Facilities 471 - Capital Improvement Fund No Community Services & Facilities Maintenance of Parks and Community Facilities C-3 C-3.2 2024 This project is expected to have a possible exemption from CEQA under Section 15301. None 1305 Middlefield Road Public Works AC-28003 Palo Alto Art Center Ceramics Equipment CSD Arts and Sciences Buildings and Facilities 471 - Capital Improvement Fund No Community Services & Facilities Maintenance of Parks and Community Facilities C-3 C-3.2 2024 This project is expected to have a possible exemption from CEQA under Section 15301. None 1313 Newell Rd Community Services FD-25000 Fire Equipment Replacement FIR Emergency Response Asset Planning 471 - Capital Improvement Fund Yes Safety Natural Hazards S-2 S-2.13 S2.13.1 2024 Not Applicable None Various Fire GS-25001 Gas Line Repair at Arastradero Creek UTL CIP Gas Fund System Improvements 524 - Gas Fund No Natural Environment Energy N-7 N-7.1 2025 This project is expected to have a possible exemption from CEQA under Section 15301. Yes Arastradero Creek Utilities PD-25000 City Radio Replacement Program POL Technical Services Citywide Technology Upgrades and Improvements 471 - Capital Improvement Fund No Safety Community Safety S-1 S-1.6 S1.6.2 2025 Not Applicable None CItywide Police Page 1 of 5 Item 2 Attachment A: List of New CIPs & Comprehensive Plan Goals, Policies and Programs     Packet Pg. 13     Num b e r Titl e Div i s i o n Pro j e c t Cat e g o r y Def a u l t F u n d Rec u r r i n g Pro j e c t Prim a r y Com p r e h e n s i v e Pla n E l e m e n t Prim a r y Com p r e h e n s i v e Pla n S e c t i o n Prim a r y Com p r e h e n s i v e Pla n G o a l Prim a r y Com p r e h e n s i v e Pla n P o l i c y Prim a r y Com p r e h e n s i v e Pla n P r o g r a m Yea r I d e n t i f i e d Env i r o n m e n t a l Rev i e w Pot e n t i a l Com m i t t e e Rev i e w Pro j e c t L o c a t i o n Pro j e c t L e a d PE-26001 Electric Operations Office Remodel PWD CIP General Fund Buildings and Facilities 471 - Capital Improvement Fund No Community Services & Facilities Maintenance of Parks and Community Facilities C-3 C-3.2 2025 This Project is expected to have a possible exemption from CEQA under Section 15301. None MSC Building C Public Works PF-25000 California Avenue Parking District Parking Improvements PWD Special Revenue Funds Buildings and Facilities 471 - Capital Improvement Fund Yes Transportation Motor Vehicle and Bicycle Parking T-5 T-5.2 T5.2.1 2025 This project is expected to have a possible exemption from CEQA under Section 15301. Yes Various Locations within the California Avenue Parking District area Public Works PG-25002 Eucalyptus Tree Removal CSD CIP General Fund Parks and Open Space 471 - Capital Improvement Fund No Safety General Safety Measures S-2 S-2.14 S-2.14.2 2025 This project is expected to have a possible exemption from CEQA under Section 15301. Yes Foothills Nature Preserve, Pearson Arastradero Preserve, Esther Clark Park Community Services PG-25003 Rinconada Pool Starting Blocks CSD Open Space, Parks and Golf Parks and Open Space 471 - Capital Improvement Fund No Community Services & Facilities Maintenance of Parks and Community Facilities C-3 C-3.2 2024 This project is expected to have a possible exemption from CEQA under Section 15301. None 777 Embarcadero Rd Community Services PL-25001 Traffic Intersection Accessibility Improvement Project OOT CIP Traffic and Transportation 471 - Capital Improvement Fund No Transportation Traffic Delay and Congestion T-2 T-2.1 T2.1.1 2025 Environmental Review Required Yes Various locations Office of Transportati on Page 2 of 5 Item 2 Attachment A: List of New CIPs & Comprehensive Plan Goals, Policies and Programs     Packet Pg. 14     Num b e r Titl e Div i s i o n Pro j e c t Cat e g o r y Def a u l t F u n d Rec u r r i n g Pro j e c t Prim a r y Com p r e h e n s i v e Pla n E l e m e n t Prim a r y Com p r e h e n s i v e Pla n S e c t i o n Prim a r y Com p r e h e n s i v e Pla n G o a l Prim a r y Com p r e h e n s i v e Pla n P o l i c y Prim a r y Com p r e h e n s i v e Pla n P r o g r a m Yea r I d e n t i f i e d Env i r o n m e n t a l Rev i e w Pot e n t i a l Com m i t t e e Rev i e w Pro j e c t L o c a t i o n Pro j e c t L e a d PL-25002 Alma/Charleston Railroad Crossing Safety Improvements OOT Administratio n Traffic and Transportation 471 - Capital Improvement Fund No Transportation Road Safety T-6 T-6.1 T6.1.4 2025 Environmental Review Required Yes Charleston Road and Alma Streets Office of Transportati on SD-25000 Hamilton System Upgrades PWD CIP Stormwater Management Fund Capacity Improvements 528 - Stormwater Management Fund No Natural Environment Water Resources N-4 N-4.14 N-4.14.2 2025 This project is expected to have a possible exemption from CEQA under Section 15302. Yes Hamilton Avenue from Center Drive to Rhodes Drive Public Works SD-26001 Center Drive Capacity Upgrades PWD CIP Stormwater Management Fund Capacity Improvements 528 - Stormwater Management Fund No Natural Environment Water Resources N-4 N-4.14 2025 This project is expected to have a possible exemption from CEQA under Section 15302 Yes Center Drive from Channing Ave to Hamilton Ave Public Works VR-29000 Scheduled Vehicle and Equipment Replacement - Fiscal Year 2029 PWD CIP Vehicle Fund Vehicle and Equipment Replacement 681 - Vehicle Replacement & Maintenance Fund No Natural Environment Air Quality N-5 N-5.2 2025 Not Applicable Yes Not Applicable Public Works WC-26000 Wastewater Collection Main Replacement Project 34 UTL CIP Wastewater Collection Fund System Improvements 527 - Wastewater Collection Fund No Natural Environment Water Resources N-4 N-4.16 N4.16.1 2024 This project is expected to have a possible exemption from CEQA under Section 15301. Yes Various locations Utilities Source: Source: City of Palo Alto Planning Department and ASD Office of Management and Budget 2024. List of Cited 2030 Comprehensive Plan Goals, Policies and Programs COMMUNITY SERVICES AND FACILITIES ELEMENT MAINTENANCE OF PARKS AND COMMUNITY FACILITIES Goal C-3: Recognize the intrinsic value and everyday importance of our parks and community centers, libraries, civic buildings, and cultural assets by investing in their maintenance and improvement. Page 3 of 5 Item 2 Attachment A: List of New CIPs & Comprehensive Plan Goals, Policies and Programs     Packet Pg. 15     Num b e r Titl e Div i s i o n Pro j e c t Cat e g o r y Def a u l t F u n d Rec u r r i n g Pro j e c t Prim a r y Com p r e h e n s i v e Pla n E l e m e n t Prim a r y Com p r e h e n s i v e Pla n S e c t i o n Prim a r y Com p r e h e n s i v e Pla n G o a l Prim a r y Com p r e h e n s i v e Pla n P o l i c y Prim a r y Com p r e h e n s i v e Pla n P r o g r a m Yea r I d e n t i f i e d Env i r o n m e n t a l Rev i e w Pot e n t i a l Com m i t t e e Rev i e w Pro j e c t L o c a t i o n Pro j e c t L e a d Goal N5: Clean, healthful air for Palo Alto and the San Francisco Bay Area. Policy N5.2: Support behavior changes to reduce emissions of particulates from automobiles ENERGY Goal N7: A clean, efficient energy supply that makes use of cost-effective renewable resources Policy N7.1: Meet customer electricity needs with least total cost resources after careful assessment of environmental cost and benefits. Goal N4: Water resources and infrastructure that are managed to sustain plant and animal life, support urban activities, and protect public health and safety. Policy N4.14: Improve storm drainage performance by constructing new system improvements where necessary. Program N4.14.2: Complete improvements to the storm drainage system consistent with the priorities outlined in the City's Storm Drainage Master Plan, as amended. Policy N4.16: Provide, maintain and operate wastewater treatment facilities, including maintaining adequate capacity at the Regional Water Quality Control Plant (RWQCP) located in Palo Alto, to accommodate projected economic and population growth. Ensure that the plant operates in compliance with applicable local, State, and federal clean water, clean air, and health and safety regulatory requirements. Program N4.16.1: 1 Implement approved recommendations based on the Long-Term Facilities Plan prepared for the RWQCP. AIR QUALITY Goal S-2: Protection of life, ecosystems and property from natural hazards and disasters, including earthquake, landslide, flooding, and fire. Policy S2.13: Minimize exposure to wildland and urban fire hazards through rapid emergency response, proactive code enforcement, public education programs, use of modern fire prevention measures and adequate emergency management preparation. Program S2.13.1: Regularly review and update the Fire Department’s operations, training facilities and programs to ensure consistency with current standards and Best Management Practices Policy S2.14: Require that the planning and design of development in areas exposed to wildland fire hazards minimize the risks of wildfire and include adequate provisions for vegetation management, emergency access and firefighting Program S2.14.2: mplement the Foothills Fire Management Plan to balance conservation of natural resources with reduction of fire hazards especially in open space areas. WATER RESOURCES NATURAL ENVIRONMENT ELEMENT SAFETY ELEMENT COMMUNITY SAFETY Goal S-1: A safe community that is aware of risks and prepared for emergencies. Policy S1.6: Work with the PAPD to develop effective, transparent law enforcement strategies that protect the privacy and civil liberties of the public and results in a safe community for all people. Program S1.6.2: Support the PAPD in implementing and maintaining approved technologies for data gathering, surveillance and recording interactions with the public. Incorporate best practices in use policies with special consideration in ensuring the programs protect the public’s privacy rights and civil liberties, in accordance with current legislation. Ensure transparency by communicating new equipment implementation, usage, privacy NATURAL HAZARDS Policy C-3.2: Reinvest in aging facilities to improve their usefulness and appearance. Avoid deferred maintenance of City infrastructure. (PF-23001) Page 4 of 5 Item 2 Attachment A: List of New CIPs & Comprehensive Plan Goals, Policies and Programs     Packet Pg. 16     Num b e r Titl e Div i s i o n Pro j e c t Cat e g o r y Def a u l t F u n d Rec u r r i n g Pro j e c t Prim a r y Com p r e h e n s i v e Pla n E l e m e n t Prim a r y Com p r e h e n s i v e Pla n S e c t i o n Prim a r y Com p r e h e n s i v e Pla n G o a l Prim a r y Com p r e h e n s i v e Pla n P o l i c y Prim a r y Com p r e h e n s i v e Pla n P r o g r a m Yea r I d e n t i f i e d Env i r o n m e n t a l Rev i e w Pot e n t i a l Com m i t t e e Rev i e w Pro j e c t L o c a t i o n Pro j e c t L e a d Policy T5.2: Continue to implement a comprehensive program of parking supply and demand management strategies citywide to optimize the use of existing parking spaces Program T5.2.1: Use technology to help identify parking availability and make it easy to pay any parking fees. ROAD SAFETY Goal T6: Provide a safe environment for motorists, pedestrians and bicyclists on Palo Alto streets. Policy T6.1: Continue to make safety the first priority of citywide transportation planning. Prioritize pedestrian, bicycle and automobile safety over motor vehicle level of service at intersections and motor vehicle parking. Program T6.1.4: Address pedestrian safety on shared-use paths through the use of signs, pavement markings and outreach to users, encouraging them to be safe and courteous. TRAFFIC DELAY AND CONGESTION Goal T2: Decrease delay, congestion and VMT with a priority on our worst intersections and our peak commute times, including school traffic. Policy T2.1: Working with congestion management authorities including the VTA and the City/County Association of Governments of San Mateo County (C/CAG), implement traffic management strategies and technologies, such as signal coordination, centralized traffic control and real-time travel information, to reduce traffic congestion in and around Palo Alto. Program T2.1.1: Implement computerized traffic management systems to improve traffic flow when feasible. MOTOR VEHICLE AND BICYCLE PARKING Goal T5: Encourage attractive, convenient, efficient and innovative parking solutions for all users. TRANSPORTATION ELEMENT Page 5 of 5 Item 2 Attachment A: List of New CIPs & Comprehensive Plan Goals, Policies and Programs     Packet Pg. 17     FY 2025 New CIPs with Project Description and Comprehensive Plan Compliance 1. Children's Theatre Lighting System (AC-28001) This project will upgrade and replace lighting systems for the Children’s Theatre Main Stage Auditorium and Magic Castle Stage for backstage work areas, the performance stage, and audience areas. This CIP is aligned with the Community Services & Facilities Element of the Comprehensive Plan and complies with Goal C-3, Maintenance of Parks and Community Facilities section, and Policy C-3.2. Public Works Department is the lead on the project. 2. Children’s Theatre Facility Upgrade/Repair (AC 28002) This project will upgrade and repair the Children’s Theatre Facility, including backstage work and storage areas, classrooms, performance stages, restrooms, and public spaces. Funding is requested for phase 1 of 3 for building rehabilitation: Phase 1: Consultant to establish facility needs and cost of rehabilitation Phase 2: Architectural Blueprint Completion (Estimated Cost: $250,000) Phase 3: Project Implementation (Estimated Cost: $10 million) This CIP is aligned with the Community Services & Facilities Element of the Comprehensive Plan and complies with Goal C-3, Maintenance of Parks and Community Facilities section, and Policy C-3.2. Public Works Department is the lead on the project. 3. Palo Alto Art Center Ceramics Equipment (AC 28003) The Palo Alto Art Center request CIP funding for ceramics program equipment renewal and replacement to sustain revenue-generating ceramics class programs that are experiencing record demand. While other municipalities (e.g., Sunnyvale) have extensive equipment renewal and replacement programs for their ceramic’s equipment, the Art Center has not sustainable plan to maintain equipment for this program. This CIP is aligned with the Community Services & Facilities Element of the Comprehensive Plan and complies with Goal C-3, Maintenance of Parks and Community Facilities section, and Policy C-3.2. Community Services Department is the lead on the project. 4. Fire Equipment Replacement (FD 25000) This project includes ongoing replacements for Fire and EMS equipment used for training, medical response, and technical rescue in all emergency situations. Item 2 Attachment B: FY 2025 New CIPs with Project Description     Packet Pg. 18     This CIP is aligned with the Safety Element of the Comprehensive Plan and complies with Goal S-2, Natural Hazards section, and Policy S-2.13. Fire Department is the lead on the project. 5. Gas Line Repair at Arastradero Creek (GS25001) This project includes design and repair of an exposed gas pipeline at Arastradero Creek from the January 2023 storms. The project also impacts the wastewater and water pipelines and will reimburse Gas Fund for their portion of the costs. This CIP is aligned with the Natural Environment Element of the Comprehensive Plan and complies with Goal N-7, Energy section, and Policy N-7.1. Utilities Department is the lead on the project. 6. City Radio Replacement Program (PD-25000) This new CIP is used to replace existing radios. This replacement program will be the first-time digital radios have been replaced since the City joined the Silicon Valley Regional Interoperability Authority. While the project scope is still in development, the Department has determined there are three options to replacing radios: 1) replace all at one-time; 2) Contract or propose a 1.0 FTE to manage the City radio inventory indefinitely; or 3) seek a vendor to manage and supply all radios to Departments on contract. This CIP is aligned with the Safety Element of the Comprehensive Plan and complies with Goal S-1, Community Safety section, and Policy S-1.6. Police Department is the lead on the project. 7. Electric Operations Office Remodel (PE-26001) This project provides funding for renovations to the Electric Operations office space at the Municipal Services Center (MSC). The current space no longer meets the operational needs of the Utilities Department. This project will reconfigure the space so it is more efficient for departmental operations and will include the replacement of aging furniture and finishes such as cubicle furniture, carpet, paint, and lighting. Enclosed offices may be demolished and relocated. Additionally, electrical, mechanical (HVAC), and fire systems work will be required. This CIP is aligned with the Community Services & Facilities Element of the Comprehensive Plan and complies with Goal C-3, Maintenance of Parks and Community Facilities section, and Policy C-3.2. Public Works Department is the lead on the project. 8. California Avenue Parking District Parking Improvements (PF-25000) This project provides funding for parking improvements in the California Avenue parking district such as parking lot resurfacing, striping and signing; parking structure painting or staining; electrical system upgrades needed to support improved lighting security, parking, fountains and/or other systems; and replacement or rehabilitation of parking lot signs. Item 2 Attachment B: FY 2025 New CIPs with Project Description     Packet Pg. 19     This CIP is aligned with the Transportation Element of the Comprehensive Plan and complies with Goal T- 5, Motor Vehicle and Bicycle Parking section, and Policy T-5.2. Public Works Department is the lead on the project. 9. Eucalyptus Tree Removal (PG-25002) This project will remove approximately 30 of 110 identified eucalyptus trees from the City of Palo Alto’s Open Space Preserves. The removal of the invasive trees will help improve wildland fire safety. It will also improve the surrounding habitat by allowing native trees and vegetation to thrive in the absence of the eucalyptus trees. This CIP is aligned with the Safety Element of the Comprehensive Plan and complies with Goal S-2, General Safety Measures section, and Policy S-2.14. Community Services Department is the lead on the project. 10. Rinconada Pool Starting Blocks (PG-25003) This project will replace Rinconada Lap Pool starting blocks used for practice and competitions. The age of the starting blocks is unknown but have been deteriorating and unstable. Temporary repairs have been made to shim the base of the blocks for stability until replacement. This CIP is aligned with the Community Services & Facilities Element of the Comprehensive Plan and complies with Goal C-3, Maintenance of Parks and Community Facilities section, and Policy C-3.2. Community Services Department is the lead on the project. 11. Traffic Intersection Accessibility Improvement Project (PL-25001) This project will fund traffic intersection improvement at 4 intersections using 2016 Measure B Local Streets and Roads Funding. The improvements suggested are the followings: i. Traffic signal modifications to the intersection at Embarcadero/E. Bayshore and San Antonio Road/ Middle Field. The modifications which will include the addition of new crosswalks, curb ramps, an accessible pedestrian system (APS) push buttons, and video detection for improved operations and implementation of Automated Traffic Signal Performance Measures (ATSPM) for ongoing data collection, operational, and safety analysis. ii. Traffic signal modifications at the intersections of Stanford/Escondido and Meadow/Cowper which will include upgrading to accessible pedestrian system (APS) push buttons and updating existing 8” traffic signal indication heads to 12”. This CIP is aligned with the Transportation Element of the Comprehensive Plan and complies with Goal T- 2, Traffic Delay and Congestion section, and Policy T-2.1. Office of Transportation is the lead on the project. Item 2 Attachment B: FY 2025 New CIPs with Project Description     Packet Pg. 20     12. Alma/Charleston Railroad Crossing Safety Improvements (PL-25002) This project will provide funding for a proposed railroad crossing improvement project at Charleston Road and Alma Street. The project will include, but not be limited to, traffic signal modifications, street lighting improvements, roadway resurfacing, sidewalk realignment and/or widening, drainage improvements, utility relocations, signage and striping, and way-finding improvements. The FY25 and FY26 project budget reflects funding for the design phase only. Additional funding to complete this project will only be provided through the execution of amendments for additional work and with authorization for subsequent phase(s); Right of Way/Utility Relocation (RW), Construction (CON)/Construction Engineering (CE). This CIP is aligned with the Transportation Element of the Comprehensive Plan and complies with Goal T- 6, Road Safety section, and Policy T6.1. Office of Transportation is the lead on the project. 13. Hamilton System Upgrades (SD-25000) This project provides funding to remove and replace approximately 3,700 linear feet the existing storm drainpipes of various sizes (12, 15, 18 and 21) with new 48-inch high-density polyethylene storm drainpipe from Rhodes Drive to Center Drive to increase the storm drain capacity. The project also includes replacing concrete inlets and manholes along with storm drain laterals between the main line and inlets needed due to the pipe changes. This CIP is aligned with the Natural Environment Element of the Comprehensive Plan and complies with Goal N-4, Water Resources section, and Policy N-4.14. Public Works Department is the lead on the project. 14. Center Drive Capacity Upgrades (SD-26001) This project provides funding to remove and replace approximately 1,710 linear feet the existing storm drain pipes of various sizes (12 and 15) with new 36-inch high-density polyethylene storm drain pipe and add approximately 330 linear feet of new pipe, where none exists, from Hamilton Avenue to Channing Drive to increase the storm drain capacity. The pipes will continue to drain to Channing, but this project will provide overflow to the Hamilton Avenue system. The project also includes replacing concrete inlets, manholes, storm drain laterals and relocating other utility laterals due to the pipe size changes. This CIP is aligned with the Natural Environment Element of the Comprehensive Plan and complies with Goal N-4, Water Resources section, and Policy N-4.14. Public Works Department is the lead on the project. 15. Scheduled Vehicle and Equipment Replacement - Fiscal Year 2029 (VR-29000) This project provides funding for the existing City fleet vehicles and equipment scheduled for replacement in Fiscal Year 2029. This CIP is aligned with the Natural Environment Element of the Comprehensive Plan and complies with Goal N-5, Air Quality section, and Policy N-5.2. Public Works Department is the lead on the project. Item 2 Attachment B: FY 2025 New CIPs with Project Description     Packet Pg. 21     16. Wastewater Collection Main Replacement Project 34 (WC-26000) The project replaces 5 miles or 25,000 linear feet of mains and service laterals in various neighborhoods. This CIP is aligned with the Natural Environment Element of the Comprehensive Plan and complies with Goal N-4, Water Resources section, and Policy N-4.16. Utilities Department is the lead on the project. Item 2 Attachment B: FY 2025 New CIPs with Project Description     Packet Pg. 22     May 29, 2024 Honorable City Council C/O City of Palo Alto 250 Hamilton Avenue Palo Alto, CA 94301 RE: Review of 2025-2029 Proposed Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) The Planning and Transportation Commission (PTC) reviewed the 2025-2029 proposed Capital Improvement Plan on Wednesday, May 29, 2024. The PTC determined that the 16 new Capital Improvement Projects included in the 2025-2029 Capital Budget are consistent with the adopted Comprehensive Plan and recommended forwarding this finding to the City Council and Finance Committee. Commissioner ______made the motion and it was seconded by Commissioner ______. The motion was approved by a vote of___ Respectfully submitted Doria Summa, Chair Planning and Transportation Commission Item 2 Attachment C: PTC Conformance Letter, 2024     Packet Pg. 23     Item No. 3. Page 1 of 7 Planning & Transportation Commission Staff Report From: Planning and Development Services Director Lead Department: Planning and Development Services Meeting Date: May 29, 2024 Report #: 2404-2867 TITLE Ordinance of the Council of the City of Palo Alto Amending Chapters 18.14 (Housing Incentives), 18.18 (Downtown Commercial District), 18.30(F) (Automobile Dealership (AD) Combining District Regulations), 18.42 (Standard for Special Uses), 18.52 (Parking Regulations) of Title 18 (Zoning) and 18.77 (Processing of Permits and Approvals), and Adding Chapter 21.11 to Title 21 Title 21 (Subdivisions and Other Divisions of Land) of the Palo Alto Municipal Code to Clarify Existing Regulations and to Implement Recent State Housing Laws RECOMMENDATION Staff recommends the Planning and Transportation Commission recommend Council adoption of the attached ordinance. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The Planning and Transportation Commission (PTC) received an informational report1 on recent State legislation within the PTC packet of November 8, 2023. The attached draft ordinance amending Titles 18 and 21 would address or implement provisions of five State laws: 1. Senate Bill (SB) 684, effective July 1, 2024 (Government Codes (GC) 65852.28, 65913.4.5, and 66499.41), facilitates faster approval by ministerial process for projects with up to ten homes or fewer with size and density criteria in zones allowing multiple-family residential use and no larger than five acres in an urban area. 2. Senate Bill 4, effective January 1, 2024 (GC 65913.16), facilitates faster approval by ministerial process for low-income housing (100% affordable) on lands owned by colleges and religious organizations providing for the use of objective standards. SB 4 is set to expire on January 1, 2036. 1 Link to November 8, 2023 informational report on State legislation: https://www.cityofpaloalto.org/files/assets/public/v/1/agendas-minutes-reports/agendas-minutes/planning-and- transportation-commission/2023/ptc-11.08-2023-state-leg-info.pdf Item 3 Staff Report     Packet Pg. 24     Item No. 3. Page 2 of 7 3. Assembly Bill 2162, effective January 1, 2019 (GC 65650-65656) makes certain supportive housing projects a use by-right in zones permitting multi-family housing uses. 4. Assembly Bill 894, effective January 1, 2024 (GC 65863.1) requires public agencies to approve shared parking arrangements in certain circumstances. 5. Assembly Bill (AB) 2097, effective January 1, 2023 (GC 65863.2 and amending Section 65585) prohibits public agencies from imposing or enforcing a minimum parking requirement on a residential, commercial, or other development project that is within one-half mile of defined “major transit stop” (though transient lodging such as hotels are exempted from this law). SB 684, SB 4, and AB 2162 require a ministerial review process; that is, the City must approve projects that meet these State laws without discretionary permits (and in some cases without hearing) or review under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). Existing Zoning Code Sections in Chapters 18.76 and 18.77 address streamlined and ’by-right’ planning reviews; the ministerial processes set forth in 18.77 are referenced in the attached ordinances. For SB 684 subdivision/housing projects, staff intends to create a voluntary Code review process (working name SB 684 (Multi-family housing) Preliminary Review). This would be similar to the existing SB 9 project/urban lot split review process, where applicants can receive consultation and submit materials for staff review prior to the submittal of building permits and subdivision maps. The attached ordinance refers to existing objective standards; however, staff intends to further tailor the objective standards to address SB 684 projects. The attached draft ordinance would also make non-substantive clarifications to regulations in two of the Title 18 chapters (18.18 and 18.30(F)), unrelated to recent State legislation, as summarized herein. Additionally, a placeholder section is included to amend a third Title 18 chapter (Chapter 18.42), Section 18.42.040 (Late Night Uses and Activities), in the event City Council adopts the North Ventura Coordinated Area Plan (NVCAP) on June 18, 2024. Two proposed NVCAP zone districts NV-MXM and NV-MXH would be added to the scope of this section. Following the PTC’s review and recommendation, staff intends to place the draft ordinance on a City Council agenda for a public hearing sometime after July 2024. BACKGROUND The non-State law code ‘clean-up' items in the draft ordinance are to provide non-substantive clarifications: •To fix a footnote reference (Footnote 3 to Table 3 of Section 18.18.060 (Development Standards) of Chapter 18.18 (Downtown Commercial (CD) District)) •To clarify permitted and conditionally permitted uses in Sections 18.30(F).040 and 18.20(F).045, respectively Item 3 Staff Report     Packet Pg. 25     Item No. 3. Page 3 of 7 •To add proposed NVCAP zone districts NV-MXM and NV-MXH to the list of zones cited (CS and CN) for applicability of the section. The five State laws the ordinance addresses are described further below: Senate Bill (SB) 684: Effective July 1, 2024 SB 684 provides for a streamlined approval process for specific types of housing development projects by making it a ministerial task, thereby bypassing discretionary review or hearings. It requires cities to allow up to the "Mullin" densities specified by the Government Code (30 du/acre for Palo Alto). It requires projects to provide the number of projected units (market- rate and BMR) for sites identified in a housing element or the maximum number of units allowed by the General Plan if not identified in HE. It sets specific timelines for local agencies to approve or deny applications for such projects, such that failure to act within 60 days would result in automatic approval. If denied, the City must provide written feedback within 60 days on how to remedy the application. SB 684 allows the City to establish objective zoning, subdivision, or design standards for SB 684 projects. The attached ordinance refers to the City’s existing objective standards established for Senate Bill (SB) 9 projects and for housing development projects (as defined in GC 65589.5) as set forth in Title 18, Chapter 18.24 (Contextual Design Criteria and Objective Design Standards). SB 684 also addresses the issuance of building permits, outlining the conditions under which a permit would be granted prior to final map recordation. It states that local agencies are not required to permit accessory or junior accessory dwelling units on parcels created under SB 684. Existing provisions regarding SB-9 urban lot splits and two-unit housing developments don’t apply to SB 684 projects. It establishes a streamlined, ministerial approval process, and expands CEQA exemptions for housing developments. All provisions will be operative on July 1, 2024. Senate Bill (SB) 4: Effective January 1, 2024 SB 4 streamlines the building process for faith-based institutions and certain colleges by providing a process that allows 'qualified developers’ to build qualifying housing projects regardless of zoning restrictions if certain requirements are satisfied. Such projects are therefore a "use by right" on land owned by independent higher education or religious institutions. Among other criteria, 100% of the units (exclusive of manager units) must be affordable to lower-income households, with allowances for 20% moderate-income and 5% staff units. Ancillary ground-floor uses are also permitted: •In a single-family residential zone, childcare centers and facilities operated by community-based organizations for the provision of recreational, social, or educational services for use by the residents of the development and members of the local community in which the development is located; and Item 3 Staff Report     Packet Pg. 26     Item No. 3. Page 4 of 7 •In all other zones, the development may include commercial uses that are permitted without a conditional use permit. Housing projects eligible for "use by right" status can also qualify for density bonuses, incentives, and other concessions, including reduced parking standards. No additional parking requirements can be imposed if the development is within half a mile of high-quality public transit or one block from a car-share vehicle. The City must provide written documentation outlining conflicts with objective planning standards within a specified timeframe and failure to do so deems the project compliant. Design reviews can only focus on ministerial review criteria and cannot inhibit or preclude such streamlined approval. The bill would extend the CEQA exemption for ministerial project approvals. The provisions of this bill are set to expire on January 1, 2036. Assembly Bill (AB) 2162: Effective January 1, 2019 This bill makes certain supportive housing projects a “use by right” in zones that permit multi- family housing. To qualify: (1) The project must be deed restricted to be affordable to lower income households for a period of at least 55 years; (2) At least 25% of the units or 12 units, whichever is greater, must be restricted to residents in supportive housing (i.e. housing for a target population that is linked to onsite or offsite services); (3) A certain percentage of square footage must be provided for on-site services; and (4) The project cannot exceed 50 units, unless the City allows larger projects to be a use by right. The City has implemented AB 2162 since it was adopted, including with the recent approval of the Mitchell Park Place supportive housing project at 525 East Charleston Avenue. As part of the Housing Element review process, however, HCD has asked that the City incorporate the bill into its zoning code. Implementation of AB 2162 is included as Program 6.5(D) of the City’s 2023-2031 Housing Element. Assembly Bill (AB) 894: Effective January 1, 2024 AB 894 requires the City to approve shared parking agreements for contiguous or nearby uses where a parking analysis shows that the proposed shared parking is “underutilized.” Parking is “underutilized” if at least 20 percent of parking spaces in a development are vacant during the time that the parking will be shared. Assembly Bill (AB) 2097: Effective January 1, 2023 This bill passed in the fall of 2022 had the effect of enabling 100% reductions in required parking spaces for all uses except hotels within one-half mile of the three train stations serving Palo Alto; these are the Palo Alto (aka University Av) station, California Avenue Station, and San Antonio station. The requirements of AB 2097 generally apply to fixed rail station locations (with the slightly offset location of the bus transfer service station near the University Avenue transit stop as shown on the attached map (Attachment B). Item 3 Staff Report     Packet Pg. 27     Item No. 3. Page 5 of 7 The applicable projects are development projects (any activity that requires a building permit) on property depicted within the shaded radius circles on the City’s map are exempt from minimum parking requirements. Developers must still meet local requirements for loading zones and bicycle parking (i.e. all standards other than automobile parking). AB 2097 also states that it does not affect requirements for electric vehicle supply equipment or parking spaces accessible to persons with disabilities. However, because these spaces are only required as a percentage of automobile parking provided, Palo Alto’s approach is to only require these spaces when a developer voluntarily provides parking spaces on site. ANALYSIS To address the following state laws, the attached draft ordinance would amend Title 18, Zoning, Chapters 18.14 (Housing Incentives), 18.42 (Standard for Special Uses), 18.52 (Parking Regulations), and 18.77 (Processing of Permits and Approvals), and add a chapter (Chapter 21.11) to Title 21, Subdivisions and Other Divisions of Land. The ordinance would also make a few non-substantive updates to Title 18 to clarify existing provisions. The attached ordinance modifies PAMC Section 18.77.074, Ministerial and By Right Process, to add SB 684 and SB 4 to the existing list of State bills subject to that code section. SB 684: The ordinance adds Section 18.42.185 (Standards for Up to Ten Units on Lots Subdivided Pursuant to Senate Bill 684) of Chapter 18.42 (Standards for Special Uses) and adds Chapter 21.11 (Streamlined Subdivisions Resulting in Ten or Fewer Parcels). The new Section 18.42.185 includes a reference to ’Ministerial and By Right Process’ in PAMC section 18.77.074. This process enables review of SB 684 project submittals against a checklist of required submittals and allow for applicant consultation with staff on compliance with objective standards and zoning regulations before creating expensive structural/mechanical drawings and applying for a building permit. Any notice cards sent to neighboring properties would be courtesy notices; with non-discretionary projects, there are no mandatory hearings or appeal process. SB 4: The ordinance adds Section 18.14.060 (By Right Affordable and Supportive Housing Projects) that would enable a ministerial review process for 100% affordable housing projects on land owned by an independent institution of higher education or a religious institution. This section would clarify which objective standards apply to qualifying projects, depending on the project size and scope. The ordinance proposes to apply the RM-30 development standards to projects under this section. This is consistent with the City’s treatment of housing opportunity sites in the R-1 zones, as well as the requirement in SB 4 that qualifying projects may build to ”Mullin” densities of 30 du/ac and receive an additional story of height beyond the base district. As with SB 684 projects, a ministerial review process would be utilized for SB 4 projects to assist developers with their project submittals in consultation with staff. Many religious institutions in Palo Alto are located on land owned R-1 (Single-Family Residential). For discretionary projects in R-1 neighborhoods, notice cards are send to property addresses within 150 feet of the Item 3 Staff Report     Packet Pg. 28     Item No. 3. Page 6 of 7 project. As these are ministerial projects, any notices would be courtesy notices, and there would be no hearing or appeal process. AB 2162: The ordinance adds Section 18.14.060 (By Right Affordable and Supportive Housing Projects) that would also make qualifying supportive housing projects a use by-right, permitting only ministerial review by the City. This section would clarify which objective standards apply to qualifying projects. AB 894: The ordinance amends Section 18.52.050 (Adjustments by the Director) to note that shared parking agreements meeting the requirements of AB 894 will be approved, even if they are inconsistent with existing provisions related to off-site parking or exceed the current maximum parking adjustment. AB 2097 Planning and Development Services and Office of Transportation discussed potential changes to PAMC Chapters 18.52 and 18.54 related to AB2097. The revision to 18.52.030 (Basic Parking Regulations) addresses a requirement for TDM plans for projects utilizing AB 2097 to reduce automobile parking requirements. In addition, the revision to 18.52.040 (Off-Street Parking, Loading, and Bicycle Facility Requirements) requires projects, 50 dwelling units or more and doing away with automobile parking entirely, to provide a short-term loading area for rideshare and similar services. . Non-Substantive Clarifications The attached draft ordinance also includes two non-substantive clarifications or 'clean-up' items, which would amend Title 18, Chapters 18.18 (Downtown Commercial (CD) District) to fix a footnote, and Chapter 18.30(F) (Automobile Dealership (AD) Combining District Regulations) to clarify the permitted and conditionally permitted uses. These revisions are unrelated to recent state legislation and do not represent any change in policy. Placeholder Revision The draft ordinance includes a Section 8 as a placeholder to amend Section 18.42.040 (Late Night Uses and Activities) to add zone districts NV-MXM and NV-MXH to the list of zone districts the existing code section applies to. FISCAL/RESOURCE IMPACT In conjunction with Council adoption of the ordinance, PDS staff would coordinate with Public Works Engineering regarding objective standards related to subdivisions proposed pursuant to SB 684. At this time, staff does not plan to utilize consultants to prepare the objective standards. STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT Item 3 Staff Report     Packet Pg. 29     Item No. 3. Page 7 of 7 Staff had prepared an informational report published in the November 8, 2023 PTC packet, and conducted a PTC study session April 24, 2024, where there were no public speakers. Staff alerted the PTC and public on April 24th of its plan to bring to the PTC a draft implementing ordinance of the Palo Alto Municipal Code on May 29, 2024. ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW The draft Ordinance is considered exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3) because it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that updating the municipal code to incorporate existing requirements of State laws will have a significant effect on the environment, and similarly, there would be no significant effect from the non-substantive clarifications. ALTERNATIVE ACTIONS Postpone the PTC recommendation until additional revisions or changes are presented to PTC. ATTACHMENTS Attachment A: Draft Ordinance Amending Sections of PAMC Title 18 and Title 21 AUTHOR/TITLE: Amy French, Chief Planning Official Item 3 Staff Report     Packet Pg. 30     *NOT YET APPROVED* 1 Ordinance No. _____ Ordinance of the Council of the City of Palo Alto Amending Various Chapters of Title 18 (Zoning) and Title 21 (Subdivisions and Other Divisions of Land) of the Palo Alto Municipal Code to Clarify Existing Regulations and to Implement Recent State Housing Laws SECTION 1. Findings and Declarations. The City Council finds and declares as follows: A. On October 11, 2023, the Governor of the State of California signed Senate Bill 684, effective July 1, 2024. SB 684 requires the ministerial approval of certain subdivision maps, planning entitlements, and building permits for developments of up to 10 residential units. B. On October 11, 2023, the Governor signed Senate Bill 4, effective January 1, 2024. SB4 requires housing development projects to be "use by right" on land owned by independent higher education or religious institutions, given certain conditions. C. On September 22, 2022, the Governor signed Assembly Bill 2097, effective January 1, 2023. AB 2097, subject to certain limited exceptions, prohibits public agencies from imposing or enforcing a minimum parking requirement on a residential, commercial, or other development project that is within one- half mile of defined “public transit” D. On September 25, 2018, the Governor signed Assembly Bill 2162, effective January 1, 2019. AB 2162 makes certain supportive housing projects a use by-right in all zones that permit multifamily residential uses. Although the City has been implementing this bill since 2019, Program 6.5(D) of the 2023-2031 Housing Element requires the City to incorporate the bill in the zoning code. E. Upon recommendation of City Staff and the Planning and Transportation Commission, the Council of the City of Palo Alto desires to adopt regulations responding to and implementing these state laws. F. Upon recommendation of City Staff and the Planning and Transportation Commission, the Council further desires to make non-substantive clarifications to existing provisions of the Palo Alto Municipal Code. SECTION 2. Section 18.42.185 (Standards for Up to Ten Units on Lots Subdivided Pursuant to Senate Bill 684) of Chapter 18.42 (Standards for Special Uses) of Title 18 (Zoning) of the Palo Alto Municipal Code is hereby added as follows: 18.42.185 Standards for Up to Ten Units on Lots Subdivided Pursuant to Senate Bill 684 (a) Purpose and Applicability Item 3 Attachment A - Draft Ordinance Implementing State Laws and Clarifying Code     Packet Pg. 31     *NOT YET APPROVED* 2 This section implements California Government Code Sections 65852.28, 65913.4.5, and 66499.41 (Senate Bill 684, 2023) by establishing regulations for development of up to ten units on lots subdivided pursuant to Chapter 21.11. (b) Review Qualifying Development Proposals (1) Housing development projects on a lot or lots subdivided pursuant to Chapter 21.11 and California Government Code Section 66499.41 shall be ministerially reviewed and processed through the City’s Ministerial and By Right Review Process (set forth in PAMC Section 18.77.074), in accordance with Government Code Section 68582.28. (2) Building permits for such projects may be issued prior to recordation of a final map, in accordance with Government Code Section 65913.4.5. (c) Development and Design Standards (1) Housing development projects shall be subject to the development standards set forth in the applicable zone district. (2) Proposed parcels containing up to two units shall comply with all objective standards for SB 9 projects, as adopted by the City Council, the Director of Planning and Development Services, or the Director of Public Works, except that no setback shall be required between units unless in accordance with the California Building Code, as locally amended. (3) Proposed parcels containing three or more residential units or mixed uses shall comply with Chapter 18.24 (Contextual Design Criteria and Objective Design Standards). SECTION 3. Section 18.77.074 (Ministerial and By Right Review Process) of Chapter 18.77 (Processing of Permits and Approvals) of Title 18 (Zoning) of the Palo Alto Municipal Code is hereby amended as follows (additions underlined; deletions struck-through; unchanged text omitted by bracketed ellipses): 18.77.074 Ministerial and By Right Review Process (a) Purpose and Applicability (1) This section is intended to define a streamlined, ministerial review process for qualifying Housing Development Projects that are submitted pursuant to streamlining provisions of state law, such as in AB 2162 (2018), AB 1397 (2017), and SB 35 (2017). This section shall apply to multi-family residential projects that are subject to ministerial review or defined as a “use by right” in state law, including, but not limited to, Government Code sections 65651, 65583, 65583.2, and 65913.4. This section does not apply to the creation of an accessory dwelling unit and/or junior accessory dwelling unit. Item 3 Attachment A - Draft Ordinance Implementing State Laws and Clarifying Code     Packet Pg. 32     *NOT YET APPROVED* 3 (2) The review required by this section shall not involve the exercise of discretion in a manner that would constitute a “project” for purposes of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). This section does not, however, excuse a project involving a subdivision from compliance with Title 21 and the subdivision map processes set forth therein, which may result in a “project” for purposes of CEQA. [. . .] SECTION 4. Chapter 21.11 (Streamlined Subdivisions Resulting in Ten or Fewer Parcels) of Title 21 (Subdivisions and Other Divisions of Land) of the Palo Alto Municipal Code is hereby added as follows: 21.11.010 Purpose This chapter implements California Government Code Section 66499.41 (Senate Bill 684, 2023) by establishing regulations for the ministerial subdivision of up to ten lots. 21.11.020 Applicability This chapter applies only to proposed subdivisions that meet all of the requirements of California Government Code Section 66499.41. A tentative map and final map shall be required for all subdivisions under this Chapter, regardless of the number of parcels created. 21.11.030 Review Qualifying tentative map applications shall be reviewed and processed ministerially in accordance with California Government Code Section 66499.41. Final maps shall be reviewed and processed in accordance with Chapter 21.16, except that a final map under this section may be approved by the City Engineer and Director of Planning and Development Services. 21.11.040 Objective Subdivision Standards The Director of Planning and Development Services may adopt administrative regulations to create objective subdivision standards or clarify existing standards that apply to subdivisions under this section. SECTION 5. Section 18.14.060 (By Right Affordable Supportive Housing Projects) of Chapter 18.14 (Housing Incentives) of Title 18 (Zoning) of the Palo Alto Municipal Code is hereby added as follows: 18.14.060 By Right Affordable Housing and Supportive Housing Projects (a) Affordable Housing on Higher Education and Religious Lands (1) Notwithstanding any conflicting provision of this Title 18 or the Comprehensive Plan, a qualifying housing development project under California Government Code Section 65913.16 shall be a use by right. Item 3 Attachment A - Draft Ordinance Implementing State Laws and Clarifying Code     Packet Pg. 33     *NOT YET APPROVED* 4 (2) Housing development projects utilizing this section in the R-1 Single-Family Residential District and the Low Density Residential Districts shall be subject to the development standards for the RM-30 zoning district, except that maximum Floor Area Ratio (FAR) shall be 1.25. (3) All housing development projects utilizing this section shall comply with Chapter 18.24 (Contextual Design Criteria and Objective Design Standards). (b) Supportive Housing in Multi-family and Mixed-use Zones (1) Supportive housing shall be a use by right in zones where multifamily and mixed uses are permitted, including nonresidential zones permitting multifamily uses, if the proposed housing development satisfies all of the requirements of California Government Code Sections 65650-65656. (2) All housing development projects utilizing this section shall comply with Chapter 18.24 (Contextual Design Criteria and Objective Design Standards). (c) Provided they comply with the City’s objective standards, by-right projects under this section shall not be subject to any discretionary review nor environmental review under the California Environmental Quality Act. By-right projects under this section shall be processed in accordance with Section 18.77.074. SECTION 6. Sections 18.52.030 (Basic Parking Regulations), 18.52.040 (Off-Street Parking, Loading and Bicycle Facility Requirements), and 18.52.050 (Adjustments by the Director) of Chapter 18.52 (Parking and Loading Requirements) of Title 18 (Zoning) of the Palo Alto Municipal Code is hereby amended as follows (additions underlined; unchanged text omitted by bracketed ellipses): 18.52.030 Basic Parking Regulations [. . .] (i) Transportation Demand Management Plan (1) Requirement for TDM Plan: A Transportation Demand Management (TDM) Plan to reduce and manage the number of single-occupant motor vehicle trips generated by the project shall be prepared and submitted by the applicant in the following circumstances: A. For all projects that generate 50 or more net new weekday (AM or PM peak hour) or weekend peak hour trips; B. For all projects claiming a reduction in net new trips due to proximity to public transit or the implementation of a TDM plan; and C. For all projects requesting a parking reduction. Item 3 Attachment A - Draft Ordinance Implementing State Laws and Clarifying Code     Packet Pg. 34     *NOT YET APPROVED* 5 D. For all projects with reduced parking pursuant to California Government Code Section 65863.2 (AB 2097, 2022). (2) The Director shall have the authority to adopt guidelines for preparing TDM plans and when applicable shall coordinate such guidelines with the Transportation Management Association. 18.52.040 Off-Street Parking, Loading and Bicycle Facility Requirements (a) Parking Requirements In each district, off-street parking, loading and bicycle facilities for each use shall be provided in accordance with Tables 1 and 2, shown in subsection (c) of this Section 18.52.040. For affordable housing developments qualifying for density bonuses under Chapter 18.15 of the Palo Alto Municipal Code, adjustments to parking requirements will be calculated in accordance with Chapter 18.15. For projects within one-half mile of public transit, as defined in California Government Code Section 65863.2, no automobile parking shall be required, but loading a bicycle parking facilities shall be provided in accordance with this Section. The requirement for any use not specifically listed shall be determined by the director on the basis of requirements for similar uses, and on the basis of evidence of actual demand created by similar uses in Palo Alto and elsewhere, and such other traffic engineering or planning data as may be available and appropriate to the establishment of a minimum requirement. [. . .] (d) Residential and mixed use structures with fifty (50) or more dwelling units shall provide at least one (1) on-site, short-term loading space for passenger vehicles, to be used by taxicabs and similar transportation and delivery services. Where feasible, projects providing no automobile parking pursuant to California Government Code Section 65863.2 shall provide at least one (1) on-site, short-term loading space for passenger vehicles, to be used by taxicabs and similar transportation and delivery services. [. . .] 18.52.050 Adjustments by the Director [. . .] (e) Shared Parking Agreements Notwithstanding the limitations set forth in Table 4, subdivision (a), and subdivision (c) of this Section, the Director shall approve a parking adjustment where the applicant meets all of the requirements of California Government Code Section 65683.1, including but not limited to, preparation of a parking analysis and a recorded shared parking agreement. Item 3 Attachment A - Draft Ordinance Implementing State Laws and Clarifying Code     Packet Pg. 35     *NOT YET APPROVED* 6 SECTION 7. Footnote 3 to Table 3 of Section 18.18.060 (Development Standards) of Chapter 18.18 (Downtown Commercial (CD) District) of Title 18 (Zoning) of the Palo Alto Municipal Code is hereby amended as follows (additions underlined; unchanged text omitted by bracketed ellipses): 18.18.060 Development Standards [. . .] TABLE 3 MIXED USE AND RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS [. . .] Footnotes: [. . .] (3) FAR may be increased with transfers of development, increased floor area for housing development projects with 3-10 residential units pursuant to 18.18.065, and/or bonuses for seismic and historic rehabilitation upgrades, not to exceed a total site FAR of 3.0:1 in the CD-C subdistrict or 2.0:1 in the CD-S or CD-N subdistrict. [. . .] SECTION 8. Chapter 18.30(F) (Automobile Dealership (AD) Combining District Regulations) of Title 18 (Zoning) of the Palo Alto Municipal Code is hereby amended as follows (additions underlined; unchanged text omitted by bracketed ellipses): Chapter 18.30(F) AUTOMOBILE DEALERSHIP (AD)COMBINING DISTRICT REGULATIONS [. . .] 18.30(F).040 Permitted Uses The following uses shall be permitted in the (AD) combining district: (a) Automobile dealerships. (b) All other uses permitted in the underlying district. 18.30(F).045 Conditional Uses The following uses may be conditionally permitted in the (AD) district, subject to the issuance of a conditional use permit in accord with Chapter 18.76 (Permits and Approval): (a) All other conditional uses allowed in the underlying district. [. . .] Item 3 Attachment A - Draft Ordinance Implementing State Laws and Clarifying Code     Packet Pg. 36     *NOT YET APPROVED* 7 SECTION 9. Section 18.42.040 (Late Night Uses and Activities) of Chapter 18.42 (Standards for Special Uses) of Title 18 (Zoning) of the Palo Alto Municipal Code is hereby amended as follows (additions underlined; deletions struck-through): 18.42.040 Late Night Uses and Activities (a) Purpose The purpose is to restrict retail or service commercial businesses abutting (either directly or across the street) or within 50 feet of residentially zoned properties or properties with existing residential uses located within nonresidential zones, with operations or activities between the hours of 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. Operations subject to this code may include, but are not limited to, deliveries, parking lot and sidewalk cleaning, and/or clean up or set up operations, but does not include garbage pick up. (b) Requirements (1) Retail (including restaurants) or service commercial businesses abutting or within 50 feet of residentially zoned properties or properties with existing residential uses located within nonresidential zones, that are open or with operations or activities between the hours of 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. shall be operated in a manner to protect residential properties from excessive noise, odors, lighting or other nuisances from any sources during those hours. (2) Where planning or building permits are required or for a change in use that results in any such commercial business in the CN, or CS, NV-MXM, and NV-MXH zone districts, operating or with activities between the hours of 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m., a conditional use permit shall be obtained and conditions of approval shall be applied as deemed necessary to ensure the operation is compatible with the abutting (or within 50 feet of) residential property. Said use permit shall be limited to operations or activities occurring between 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. SECTION 10. If any section, subsection, sentence, clause, or phrase of this Ordinance is for any reason held to be invalid or unconstitutional by a decision of any court of competent jurisdiction, such decision shall not affect the validity of the remaining portions of this Ordinance. The City Council hereby declares that it would have passed this Ordinance and each and every section, subsection, sentence, clause, or phrase not declared invalid or unconstitutional without regard to whether any portion of the Ordinance would be subsequently declared invalid or unconstitutional. SECTION 11. The Council finds that the Ordinance is exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to CEQA Guidelines Section 15061(b)(3) because it can be seen with certainty that there is no possibility that updating the municipal code to incorporate existing changes in State Density Bonus Law will have a significant effect on the environment. // Item 3 Attachment A - Draft Ordinance Implementing State Laws and Clarifying Code     Packet Pg. 37     *NOT YET APPROVED* 8 SECTION 12. This Ordinance shall be effective on the thirty-first date after the date of its adoption. INTRODUCED: PASSED: AYES: NOES: ABSENT: ABSTENTIONS: ATTEST: ____________________________ ____________________________ City Clerk Mayor APPROVED AS TO FORM: APPROVED: ____________________________ ____________________________ Assistant City Attorney City Manager ____________________________ Director of Planning and Development Services Item 3 Attachment A - Draft Ordinance Implementing State Laws and Clarifying Code     Packet Pg. 38     Item No. 4. Page 1 of 1 Planning & Transportation Commission Staff Report From: Planning and Development Services Director Lead Department: Planning and Development Services Meeting Date: May 29, 2024 Report #: 2405-3059 TITLE Approval of Planning & Transportation Commission Draft Verbatim Minutes of May 8, 2024 RECOMMENDATION Staff recommends that the Planning & Transportation Commission (PTC) adopt the verbatim meeting minutes. BACKGROUND Draft verbatim minutes from the May 8, 2024 Planning and Transportation Commission (PTC) meeting was made available to the Commissioners prior to the May 29, 2024 meeting date. The draft PTC minutes can be viewed online on the City’s website at bit.ly/PaloAltoPTC. AUTHOR/TITLE: Madina Klicheva Item 4 Staff Report     Packet Pg. 39