HomeMy WebLinkAbout2025-01-15 Planning & Transportation Commission Agenda PacketPLANNING AND TRANSPORTATION COMMISSION
Special Meeting
Wednesday, January 15, 2025
Council Chambers & Hybrid
6:00 PM
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 Commission 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.Election of Vice Chair 6:10 PM – 6:40 PM
3.PUBLIC HEARING / QUASI‐JUDICIAL. 3265 El Camino Real [24PLN‐00012]:
Recommendation on Applicant’s Request to Rezone the Subject Site from Commercial
Service (CS) to Planned Community/Planned Home Zoning and to Construct a 100%
Affordable, Six‐Story, 55‐Unit Multi‐family Rental Development. Environmental
Assessment: Initial Study/15183 Streamlined CEQA Review. Zoning District: CS
(Commercial Service). 6:40 PM – 8:10 PM
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 COMMISSIONSpecial MeetingWednesday, January 15, 2025Council Chambers & Hybrid6:00 PMPlanning 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 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 Commission 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.Election of Vice Chair 6:10 PM – 6:40 PM
3.PUBLIC HEARING / QUASI‐JUDICIAL. 3265 El Camino Real [24PLN‐00012]:
Recommendation on Applicant’s Request to Rezone the Subject Site from Commercial
Service (CS) to Planned Community/Planned Home Zoning and to Construct a 100%
Affordable, Six‐Story, 55‐Unit Multi‐family Rental Development. Environmental
Assessment: Initial Study/15183 Streamlined CEQA Review. Zoning District: CS
(Commercial Service). 6:40 PM – 8:10 PM
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 COMMISSIONSpecial MeetingWednesday, January 15, 2025Council Chambers & Hybrid6:00 PMPlanning 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 Commission 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.Election of Vice Chair 6:10 PM – 6:40 PM
3.PUBLIC HEARING / QUASI‐JUDICIAL. 3265 El Camino Real [24PLN‐00012]:
Recommendation on Applicant’s Request to Rezone the Subject Site from Commercial
Service (CS) to Planned Community/Planned Home Zoning and to Construct a 100%
Affordable, Six‐Story, 55‐Unit Multi‐family Rental Development. Environmental
Assessment: Initial Study/15183 Streamlined CEQA Review. Zoning District: CS
(Commercial Service). 6:40 PM – 8:10 PM
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 COMMISSIONSpecial MeetingWednesday, January 15, 2025Council Chambers & Hybrid6:00 PMPlanning 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 Commission 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.Election of Vice Chair 6:10 PM – 6:40 PM3.PUBLIC HEARING / QUASI‐JUDICIAL. 3265 El Camino Real [24PLN‐00012]:Recommendation on Applicant’s Request to Rezone the Subject Site from CommercialService (CS) to Planned Community/Planned Home Zoning and to Construct a 100%Affordable, Six‐Story, 55‐Unit Multi‐family Rental Development. EnvironmentalAssessment: Initial Study/15183 Streamlined CEQA Review. Zoning District: CS(Commercial Service). 6:40 PM – 8:10 PMCOMMISSIONER 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: January 15, 2025
Report #: 2501-3967
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:
•Upcoming PTC Agenda Items
•PTC Meeting Schedule
•PTC Representative to City Council (Rotational Assignments)
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/cityof-palo-alto/boards-and-
commissions/planning-and-transportation-commission.
Item 1
Staff Report
Packet Pg. 5
Item No. 1. Page 2 of 2
UPCOMING PTC ITEMS
January 29, 2025
•Parking Programs Update
•Draft Safe Streets for All (SS4A) Safety Action Plan
February 12, 2025
•Bike/Pedestrian Plan Update
ATTACHMENTS
Attachment A: PTC 2025 Schedule & Assignments
AUTHOR/TITLE:
Jennifer Armer, Assistant Director
Item 1
Staff Report
Packet Pg. 6
Planning & Transportation Commission
2025 Meeting Schedule
2025 Schedule
Meeting Dates Time Location Status Planned Absences
1/8/2025 6:00 PM Hybrid Canceled
1/15/2025 6:00 PM Hybrid Special
1/29/2025 6:00 PM Hybrid Regular
2/12/2025 6:00 PM Hybrid Regular
2/26/2025 6:00 PM Hybrid Regular
3/12/2025 5:00 PM Hybrid Regular
3/26/2025 6:00 PM Hybrid Regular
4/9/2025 6:00 PM Hybrid Regular
4/30/2025 6:00 PM Hybrid Regular
5/14/2025 6:00 PM Hybrid Regular
5/28/2025 6:00 PM Hybrid Regular
6/11/2025 6:00 PM Hybrid Regular
6/25/2025 6:00 PM Hybrid Regular
7/9/2025 6:00 PM Hybrid Regular
7/30/2025 6:00 PM Hybrid Regular
8/13/2025 6:00 PM Hybrid Regular
8/27/2025 6:00 PM Hybrid Regular
9/10/2025 6:00 PM Hybrid Regular Hechtman
9/24/2025 6:00 PM Hybrid Regular
10/8/2025 6:00 PM Hybrid Regular
10/29/2025 6:00 PM Hybrid Regular
11/12/2025 6:00 PM Hybrid Regular
11/26/2025 6:00 PM Hybrid Canceled
12/10/2025 6:00 PM Hybrid Regular
12/31/2025 6:00 PM Hybrid Canceled
2025 Assignments - Council Representation (primary/backup)
January February March April May June
Bryna Chang
Bart Hechtman
Allen Akin
Doria Summa
Doria Summa
Cari Templeton
Bart Hechtman
Bryna Chang
Cari Templeton
Allen Akin
Bryna Chang
Cari Templeton
July August September October November December
Council
Summer Break
Allen Akin
Bart Hechtman
Bart Hechtman
Bryna Chang
Cari Templeton
Allen Akin
Allen Akin
Cari Templeton
Bryna Chang
Bart Hechtman
Item 1
Attachment A: PTC 2025
Schedule & Assignments
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Item No. 2. Page 1 of 2
Planning & Transportation Commission
Staff Report
From: Planning and Development Services Director
Lead Department: Planning and Development Services
Meeting Date: January 15, 2025
Report #: 2501-3973
TITLE
Election of Vice Chair
RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommends the Planning & Transportation Commission (PTC) elect a Vice Chair to serve
from January 15, 2025 to April 9, 2025.
BACKGROUND
Section 2.1 of the Planning and Transportation Commission By-Laws provides:
The offices of Chairperson and Vice Chairperson shall be filled by election of members of
the Commission from among their members, and persons so elected shall serve for a
term of one year or until their successors are elected. Elections shall be held at the first
meeting in April that has full member attendance each year or following the first
meeting with newly appointed Board members in attendance, when this occurs after the
first April meeting. In the event that either office becomes vacant during the regular
term, the Commission shall elect a member to serve the remainder of the term.
With the recent vacancy of Vice Chair, a new Vice Chair must be elected to serve the remainder
of the term until the next cycle of elections in April. Though there is no express procedure for
Chair and Vice Chair elections in the PTC’s By-Laws, the presiding officer may decide questions
of procedure. Any commissioner may appeal a decision to the PTC. Below is a summary of the
most recent election process:
1. Nominations for Vice Chair are made from the floor. Commissioners may nominate
anyone, including themselves. A second is required for a nomination.
2. The Nominee states whether they will accept the nomination.
3. The commissioners who moved and seconded the nomination make a brief statement
on why they support the nomination.
4. Nominee(s) may also make a brief statement regarding their candidacy.
5. Other commissioners may give comments or ask questions to the nominees(s).
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6. The PTC will take a vote after all nominations have been made, seconded, and the
nominee(s) have stated their acceptance.
7. A majority vote is required for confirmation.
ATTACHMENTS
There are no attachments.
AUTHOR/TITLE:
Jennifer Armer, Assistant Director
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Item No. 3. Page 1 of 10
Planning & Transportation Commission
Staff Report
From: Planning and Development Services Director
Lead Department: Planning and Development Services
Meeting Date: January 15, 2025
Report #: 2411-3791
TITLE
PUBLIC HEARING / QUASI-JUDICIAL. 3265 El Camino Real [24PLN-00012]: Recommendation on
Applicant’s Request to Rezone the Subject Site from Commercial Service (CS) to Planned
Community/Planned Home Zoning and to Construct a 100% Affordable, Six-Story, 55-Unit
Multi-family Rental Development. Environmental Assessment: Initial Study/15183 Streamlined
CEQA Review. Zoning District: CS (Commercial Service).
RECOMMENDATION
Staff Recommends the Planning and Transportation Commission (PTC) take the following
actions:
1. Consider the Initial Study/Streamlined Environmental Review prepared in accordance
with CEQA Guidelines Section 15183; and
2. Recommend that Council adopt both the Ordinance in Attachment B amending the zone
district from CS to Planned Community/Planned Home Zoning and the Record of Land
Use Action in Attachment C.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The applicant proposes to rezone the vacant parcel located at 3265 El Camino Real from
Commercial Services (CS) to Planned Home Zoning1 in accordance with Palo Alto Municipal
Code (PAMC) Chapter 18.38 (Planned Community Zoning). The parcel would be redeveloped
with a 100% affordable, 55-unit residential rental project.
1 Referred to in this report as "Planned Home Zoning" (PHZ) to emphasize the focus on housing as the benefit to
the community. PAMC Section 18.38, which outlines the requirement and process for Planned Community (PC)
Zoning, remains the underlying code supporting application of this policy.
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The PTC held the first formal hearing for this project on April 10, 2024. Links to the PTC staff
report, meeting minutes, and video recording are provided in this report.2 This report
summarizes key comments from that hearing as well as the applicant’s response to those
comments. Following the initial PTC hearing, the ARB held a hearing on April 18, 2024. Although
the ARB were supportive of the design, following that hearing, the applicant revised the project,
increasing the number of units (from 44 to 55) in order to provide a greater number of
affordable units at a deeper level of affordability. The previous design provided all below
market rate units at a rate affordable to low and moderate income, with some achieving the
50%-80% Area Median Income (AMI) and others achieving the 80-120% AMI. The developer
agreed to limit the moderate-income units to no higher than 110% AMI. The current proposal
provides the below market rate units at a rate affordable to low income, not to exceed 70%
AMI, and moderate, not to exceed 110% AMI, respectively. The proposed floor area ratio (FAR)
and height have increased commensurate to the increase in units, resulting in a new FAR of
4.42 (previously 3.58 FAR) and height of 79 feet, 8 inches (previously 64 feet). The ARB
recommended approval of the revised project on November 21, 2024.
Staff’s review of the revised project concludes that the proposed project is consistent with the
findings for approval. Staff recommends that the PTC recommend Council approve the project.
Following the PTC’s review, the ARB and PTC’s recommendations would be forwarded City
Council for review. The City Council would review the Development Plan in conjunction with the
proposed PC Ordinance and render a decision on the application.
ANALYSIS
On April 10, 2024, the PTC held a first formal hearing to provide feedback on the proposed
design. Comments from commissioners and the applicant’s responses are summarized in the
following table.
PTC Comments/Direction Applicant Response
Affordability. Provide additional
information on the affordability of
these units for teachers who are the
target demographic for this project.
See “Affordability” section below for
discussion.
2 April 10, 2024, PTC Agenda Item #2, 3265 El Camino Real:
https://cityofpaloalto.primegov.com/Portal/Meeting?meetingTemplateId=13632
November 21, 2024 ARB Agenda Item #2, 3265 El Camino Real:
https://cityofpaloalto.primegov.com/Portal/Meeting?meetingTemplateId=13933
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Item No. 3. Page 3 of 10
Rooftop Open Space. Study ways to
expand the rooftop open space
available to the project.
The size of the rooftop garden has increased
from 1,155 square feet to 1,700 square feet,
an increase of almost 50%.
TDM Plan. The TDM Plan must be
robust to encourage alternative modes
of transit and enforcement
mechanisms.
The proposed TDM plan is provided in
Attachment E. The TDM plan includes free
VTA Smart Passes for all tenants. See
“Modifications to Parking” section below for
additional discussion.
Parking and Circulation. Concerned
with the number of spaces provided
and that circulation will be challenging
within the site.
By introducing another level of stacker stalls,
the project includes 32 vehicular spaces
where 25 were previously proposed.
Additionally, the vehicles assigned to stalls 7
and 8 will be smaller mid-size vehicles that
can more easily access the stalls. See
“Modifications to Parking” section below for
additional discussion.
Affordability and Compliance with PHZ Requirements
On February 3, 2020, Council unanimously endorsed using Planned Community (PC) Zoning for
housing and mixed-use housing projects to help spur housing production, and rebranded it
Planned Home Zoning (PHZ). In exchange for deviation from certain standards as allowed under
the rezoning, if approved by Council, the project must include at least 20% of the housing units
as deed restricted for lower-income households. Moreover, the number of housing units must
offset the number of net new commercial jobs that are generated by the project.
As a part of this, several options to meet the 20% affordability requirements were established.
Using Option #2, the weighted system, as shown below, the project is proposing an equivalency
of 75% affordable units, exceeding the 20% minimum requirement as noted in Table 1 below.
Since no retail is proposed, this project would inherently create more housing than jobs.
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Item No. 3. Page 4 of 10
Several commissioners raised concerns that these units would not be affordable to the target
demographic the applicant has committed to serving and requested additional information
from staff about affordability levels and teacher salaries. The California Department of Housing
and Community Development (HCD) provides yearly data on the Average Median Income (AMI)
limits for each income category, which varies based on the number of individuals in each
household. The image below reflects the AMI for Santa Clara County for 2024:3
An image of the 2024-25 Palo Alto Unified School District (PAUSD) salary schedule is below:4
3 HCD Income Table: https://www.hcd.ca.gov/sites/default/files/docs/grants-and-funding/income-limits-2024.pdf
4 PAUSD Salary Schedule:
https://resources.finalsite.net/images/v1717104008/pausdorg/r4v8ge0e5ln1e3szj8zw/salary_schedule_teachers_
202425.pdf
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Based on the anticipated rent limits, a low-income studio would be affordable to all salaries in
the schedule, low-income one-bedrooms would be affordable to over 90% of salary levels,
moderate-income studios would be affordable for 35% of salary levels, and moderate-income
one-bedrooms would be affordable to 4% of salary levels. It’s important to note, however, that
the PAUSD salary schedule only represents one individual’s income, while many units could be
occupied by households with more than one income. Even the most expensive unit in the
project will be affordable to a household making 1.8 times the lowest salary in the PAUSD
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Item No. 3. Page 6 of 10
schedule. Given the sizes of each unit within the proposed project, it’s likely that a two-person
household would be the largest household size occupying these units. The City’s Below Market
Rate (BMR) administrator would be responsible for income certifying individual(s) who apply to
live in these units with the additional caveat that any teachers that apply to live in these units
would be considered first over other potential tenants. There is no requirement in the draft
ordinance that all or any of the future tenants in the building be teachers.
As noted earlier in the report, following the April PTC and ARB meetings, the developer
modified their design to increase the number of units from 44 to 55. This was driven by
feedback from the PTC which encouraged ways to deepen the levels of affordability for the
project. By increasing the number of units in the project, the applicant is able to commit to
limiting rent for the low-income units at 70% AMI as well as limiting rents for moderate-income
units at 110% AMI. Previously, it was not financially feasible for the applicant to limit the low-
income rents at 70% AMI and had proposed limiting them to 80% AMI instead. Anticipated
2024-25 rents for each unit type are shown below, as well as the household incomes at which
these units would be affordable; anticipated rents are subject to change each year. Notably,
although rents are set using assumed household sizes of 1-person per studio and 2-persons per
1-bedroom, income qualification is based on actual household size. Thus, although the rent for
a low-income studio may not exceed $2,259 per month, a two-person household may qualify
for such studio with a household income of up to $118,000 per year (80% AMI for a two-person
household).
Rent at
70% AMI
Affordable to
Annual Income
Rent at
110% AMI
Affordable to
Annual Income
Studio $2,259 $90,370 $3,548 $142,010
1-Bed $2,582 $103,250 $4,056 $162,250
Modifications to Parking
Based on the nature of the proposed puzzle lift system, vehicle stalls are shuffled around using
the wall kiosk or a remote key fob until a stall is moved to the ground level for a vehicle to exit
from or pull into the space. For the puzzle lift system to function properly, some stalls need to
be left unused. In this case, two stalls will be left unused resulting in 32 of the 34 parking lift
stalls being usable within the garage.
On behalf of the City, Fehr & Peers analyzed the vehicle turning radii for the proposed parking
lift stalls using a mid/full-size vehicle as required by PAMC 18.54.020(b)(4)(F). Stalls 1 through 6
can be accessed with three or fewer turning maneuvers for both vehicle types while stalls 7 and
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8 require more than three maneuvers; three or fewer maneuvers is the industry standard to
determine whether a parking stall design is viable as a parking space.
For stalls 7 and 8, Fehr & Peers notes that only mid-size vehicles will be able to access those
stalls with three maneuvers which is consistent with the vehicle size requirements of PAMC
18.54.020(b)(4)(F). Each space is assigned to a specific tenant and the system can be
programmed so that smaller vehicles are placed in the above ground stalls. Given that all stalls
comply with the size requirements set forth in Chapter 18.54, and with the City’s standard
conditions of approval for management of the system, the proposed design is consistent with
the City’s requirements.
In addition to increasing the number of stalls in the development, the applicant has updated
their TDM plan to provide free bus passes to all tenants via the VTA Smart Pass program. In
addition to un-bundling parking, providing free transit passes is one of the most impactful
components a TDM can incorporate to be successful. Within a couple hundred feet from the
site, there are North and South-bound VTA bus stops which connect the site to other regional
transit options like Caltrain. Conditions of Approval #30 and #31 require monitoring of the
parking lift system and TDM program to ensure they are effective. If any deficiencies are found
within the annual monitoring reports, penalties or modifications to the programs can be
enacted to ensure the lift system works and the TDM plan goals are achieved.
Comprehensive Plan, Area Plans, and Guidelines Compliance
The PTC, prior to recommending approval of any PC district application, must find that the use
and site development regulations are consistent with the Palo Alto Comprehensive Plan. The
Comprehensive Plan land use designation for the project site is Service Commercial, which
allows for higher density multi-family near transit. The proposed project is located along El
Camino Real, which is considered a high-quality transit corridor. Therefore, the proposed use is
consistent with this land use designation. The project is consistent with the policies set forth in
the Comprehensive Plan, as detailed in Attachment C.
Housing Element
This site is included as a Housing Inventory Site in the adopted Housing Element, with an
anticipated capacity of 44 units that may be provided at market rate. The project proposes 55
units, all of which would be below market rate, provided at a rate affordable to low income
(70%) or moderate income (110%). Therefore, the project is consistent with the Housing
Element and contributes to the City’s Regional Housing Needs Allocation goals, including goals
at below market rate levels.
North Ventura Coordinated Area Plan
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The proposed development is located within the boundaries of the North Ventura Coordinated
Area Plan (NVCAP). Therefore, the land use designation and the zoning of the site has changed
since the application was first filed. However, as detailed in the ordinance implementing the
NVCAP, projects that have been deemed complete prior to the effective date of the ordinance,
would not be subject to the NVCAP goals and policies or the zoning regulations set forth in the
ordinance. This project has already been deemed complete and therefore continues to be
analyzed in accordance with the regulations set forth under the existing zoning and land use
designation. Nevertheless, the proposed land use designation under NVCAP is High-Density
Mixed-Use. This land use designation is “intended to support five-to-six story mid-rise
apartment buildings.” This designation requires active uses for ground floor frontages. As
detailed in NVCAP, active uses include building lobbies. Therefore, the project is also consistent
with the land use designation under the NVCAP.
El Camino/South El Camino Real Design Guidelines5
The project is subject to both the El Camino Real and the South El Camino Real Design
Guidelines. As detailed in Attachment F, the project is consistent with these guidelines.
Zoning Compliance
Attachment D identifies how the project compares with the existing CS zone district
development standards. In addition, it provides a comparison to the Affordable Housing
Incentive Program (AHIP) for informational purposes, though the applicant is proposing to
rezone through the PC process instead of utilizing the AHIP, which is now by-right for this site.
The project deviates from the allowable FAR and height. The proposed FAR is 4.42:1.0 where
the CS zone allows 0.6:1.0 FAR; the proposed height is 79 feet, 8 inches measured to the roof of
the elevator cab/staircase where 50 feet is permitted. Additionally, the project proposes 326
parking stalls where 55 are required and does not provide a short-term vehicle loading space
required in accordance with PAMC 18.52.040 due to site constraints. Because Caltrans is
restriping El Camino Real for bicycle lanes and eliminating potential loading areas at the front of
the property, any future pick/drop-off would occur on Lambert Avenue.
The application was deemed complete on October 3, 2024, and therefore is not subject to the
NVCAP requirements. Should this application be withdrawn, an approval of this application
5 South El Camino Real Design Guidelines: chrome: www.cityofpaloalto.org/files/assets/public/v/1/planning-amp-
development-services/file-migration/current-planning/forms-and-guidelines/south-el-camino-real-design-
guidelines.pdf
6 PAMC 18.52.040(b)(8) provides that the accessible loading zone adjacent to an accessible parking stall
contributes to the number of vehicle spaces provided on site. While 32 spaces are provided, only 31 can be used to
park a vehicle.
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expires, or the project be denied by City Council, any subsequent application filed will need to
be evaluated in context with the NVCAP requirements.
Consistency with Application Findings
Staff has prepared a detailed review of the proposed project’s consistency with the Findings for
approval. The draft finding for a planned community zone change are provided in Attachment
C. Staff finds that the proposed project, as conditioned, meets all of the applicable findings.
FISCAL/RESOURCE IMPACT
In accordance with the adopted fee schedule, applications for zone changes are processed as
Cost Recovery applications; therefore, the city recovers the cost of staff time for processing the
application. Additionally, because this is a 100% affordable housing development, no impact
fees are required. The property is currently undeveloped; therefore the current site does not
generate any revenue for the City. Therefore, there is no financial impact as a result of
processing of this application except that property taxes would increase as a result of the
development, once constructed.
STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT
The Palo Alto Municipal Code requires notice of this public hearing be published in a local paper
and mailed to owners and occupants of property within 600 feet of the subject property at
least ten days in advance. Notice of a public hearing for this project was published in the Daily
Post on January 6, 2025. Postcard mailing occurred on January 2, 2025.
Public Comments
As of the writing of this report, the City received one comment from the property owner for
3295 El Camino Real, which is provided in Attachment G. At a follow up meeting, the
neighboring property owners asked for further clarity as to how their site would be protected
during construction and afterwards for any regular maintenance needs, as well as understand
whether any shoring or maintenance easements would be necessary between the two
properties. The project has been designed to ensure that all shoring would be done within their
own property boundaries and that no access or maintenance easements would be needed from
the adjacent owners. Staff confirmed with the Chief Building Official that should any easements
be necessary in the future, the City does not need to be party to those agreements and they
can be established and recorded between the property owners at their own expense outside of
the City’s review process. Subsequently, there have been no additional public comment on the
application.
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
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The City, acting as the lead agency, has analyzed the project in accordance with the authority
and criteria contained in the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). Specifically, the City
prepared an analysis of the project in accordance with CEQA Guidelines Section 15183, which
evaluated the project’s consistency with the Comprehensive Plan and the Comprehensive Plan
Environmental Impact Report (EIR). Section 15183 allows for streamlining of infill projects
where the previously adopted EIR for a Comprehensive Plan adequately addresses the impacts
of the proposed project. Plan level technical reports were prepared to confirm that the
Comprehensive Plan EIR, including any mitigation that would be addressed as required through
that EIR, would adequately address the impacts of the proposed project.
ALTERNATIVE ACTIONS
In addition to the recommended action, the PTC may:
1. Recommend the project return to the PTC at a date (un)certain;
2. Recommend approval of the project with modified conditions;
3. Recommend denial of the project to the City Council.
ATTACHMENTS
Attachment A: Location Map
Attachment B: Ordinance
Attachment C: Draft Record of Land Use
Attachment D: Zoning Comparison Table
Attachment E: TDM Plan
Attachment F: South El Camino Real Design Guidelines Comparison
Attachment G: Public Comments
Attachment H: Applicant’s Project Description
Attachment I: Project Plans & Environmental Documents
Report Author & Contact Information PTC6 Liaison & Contact Information
Garrett Sauls, Principal Planner Jennifer Armer, Assistant Director
(650) 329-2471 (650) 329-2191
Garrett.Sauls@CityofPaloAlto.org Jennifer.Armer@CityofPaloAlto.org
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Map
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Camino Draft PC
Ordinance
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Ordinance
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Ordinance
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Ordinance
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APPROVAL NO. 2024-____
RECORD OF THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PALO ALTO LAND USE ACTION FOR 3265 El
Camino Real: PLANNED COMMUNITY REZONING
[FILE NO 24PLN-00012]
On _________, the City Council of the City of Palo Alto (“City Council”) approved a Planned
Community Rezoning, making the following findings, determinations, and declarations:
SECTION 1. Background.
A. On January 10, 2024 Architect Isaiah Stackhouse, on behalf of Half Dome Capital, LLC.
(“Applicant”) applied for a Planned Community Rezoning and Comprehensive Plan Text Amendment to construct
a 100% affordable, six-story, 55 dwelling unit housing development with ground level lobby and parking garage.
B. The project site consists of one existing, vacant, parcel located at 3265 El Camino Real (APN
132-38-020) totaling 0.17 acres.
C. On September 11, 2023 Council conducted a prescreening review of the proposed legislative
actions in accordance with PAMC 18.79
D. On April 10, 2024 the Planning and Transportation Commission (PTC) held a duly noticed
public hearing and recommended that the applicant submit the proposed plans to the Architectural Review Board
(ARB) based on the conceptual design and proposed project in accordance with the Planned Community Rezoning
process.
E. Following the Planning and Transportation Commission’s initial review, the ARB held a duly
noticed public hearing on April 18, 2024 to provide feedback and allow for public comment on the proposed
project. On _____________, the ARB.
F. On _________, the PTC held a duly noticed public hearing and recommended approval of the
proposed project.
G. On _________, the City Council reviewed the request for a Planned Community rezoning.
After hearing public testimony, the Council voted to approve/adopt:
Resolution _______ adopting the 15183 CEQA Exemption;
Ordinance _______ amending the zoning of the proposed resulting parcel to Planned
Community _______; and
This Record of Land Use Action
H. This application is subject to the conditions set forth in Section 6 of this Record of Land Use
Action.
SECTION 2. Environmental Review.
In accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) the City prepared a Category
15183 Environmental Exemption (“Exemption”) for the 3265 El Camino Real Housing Project to provide an
assessment of the potential environmental consequences of approving and constructing the Project. The Draft
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Exemption was published on the project webpage on _______. The City Council certified and made related
findings by Resolution No ________on ________, prior to approval of the decision that is the subject of this RLUA.
SECTION 3. PLANNED COMMUNITY FINDINGS
Finding #1:The site is so situated, and the use or uses proposed for the site are of such characteristics that the
application of general districts or combining districts will not provide sufficient flexibility to allow the
proposed development.
The project is consistent with Finding #1 because:
The proposed project includes a density of units for the site that exceed what is allowed by the size of the
parcel. The property is very narrow and short which limits its ability to achieve the minimum 44-unit Housing
Inventory Site capacity without exceeding many of the CS zone district requirements.
Finding #2: Development of the site under the provisions of the PC planned community district will result in
public benefits not otherwise attainable by application of the regulations of general districts or combining
districts. In making the findings required by this section, the planning commission and city council, as
appropriate, shall specifically cite the public benefits expected to result from use of the planned community
district.
The project is consistent with Finding #2 because:
The primary public benefit for this project is additional housing units to assist the City in reaching their Regional
Housing Needs Assessment goals. Under the CS zoning, the maximum development potential of this property
would be 5 units, but through this PC application the project proposes 55 units. This site is currently listed as a
Housing Inventory Site with an expected capacity of 44 units. The project proposes 100% of the units to be
designated Below Market Rate, 25% allocated to Low Income and 75% to Moderate Income households. In
addition, the owner has agreed to limit the affordable rents for the Low-Income units at 70% and the Moderate-
Income units at 110% of SCC AMI, instead of the traditional City standard of 80% and 120% of Santa Clara
County AMI respectively.
Finding #3: The use or uses permitted, and the site development regulations applicable within the district
shall be consistent with the Palo Alto Comprehensive Plan, and shall be compatible with existing and
potential uses on adjoining sites or within the general vicinity.
The project is consistent with Finding #3 because:
The project is compatible with the Comprehensive Plan as detailed further in Section 4, Finding #1 below. The
proposed uses are compatible with the surrounding neighborhood, as it is hotels, restaurants, day cares, and
offices. The City has developed the North Ventura Coordinated Area Plan (NVCAP) for properties in this vicinity
which will increase housing and mixed-use sites within this area. Additional care has been taken to ensure
viability of the existing street tree.
SECTION 4. ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW FINDINGS
The design and architecture of the proposed improvements, as conditioned, complies with the
Findings for Architectural Review as required in Chapter 18.76 of the PAMC.
Finding #1: The design is consistent with applicable provisions of the Palo Alto Comprehensive Plan,
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Zoning Code, coordinated area plans (including compatibility requirements), and any relevant design guides.
The project is consistent with Finding #1 because:
With approval of the requested Comprehensive Plan Amendment and Planned Community
Rezoning in accordance with Ordinance _______ and Resolution _______, the proposed project
complies with the zoning code and Comprehensive Plan. The project is not located within a coordinated
area plan area as the application was deemed complete prior to the adoption of NVCAP. The El Camino
Real/South El Camino Real Design Guidelines apply to the project and a comparative analysis has been
provided in attachment __. The proposed project is consistent with relevant goals and policies set forth
in the Comprehensive Plan. Below is an analysis of the applicable goals and policies:
Comp Plan Goals and Policies How project adheres or does not adhere to Comp
Plan?
The Comprehensive Plan land use designation for
the site is Service Commercial.
The project proposes high-density housing along
El Camino Real, the City’s high-quality transit
corridor, which is an area designated for high-
density housing. The site is located less than a
mile from the California Avenue Caltrain station
but has a Northbound/Southbound VTA bus stop
within 500 feet from the parcel.
Land Use Element
Policy L-1.3 Infill development in the urban
service area should be compatible with its
surroundings and the overall scale and character
of the city to ensure a compact, efficient
development pattern.
The project is an urban infill development
proposal in the urban service area of the city.
Policy L-1.6: Encourage land uses that address
the needs of the community and manage change
and development to benefit the community.
The project provides 55 units to those with low
income (50-80% of AMI) and moderate incomes
(80%-120%, restricted to no greater than 110%).
The project seeks to addresses the housing crisis
that the City Council has identified as a top
priority, particularly targeting the deepest
affordability levels.
Policy L-1.11: Hold new development to the
highest development standards in order to
maintain Palo Alto’s livability and achieve the
highest quality development with the least
impacts.
The material palette consists of traditional
materials, like stucco and metal panels, in a warm
neutral color scheme to complement the
surrounding context.
Policy L-2.5 Support the creation of affordable
housing units for middle to lower income level
earners, such as City and school district
employees, as feasible.
This project includes 100% of the units as BMR
units at the Low Income (25%) and Moderate
Income (75%) criteria.
Policy L-2.8: When considering infill
redevelopment, work to minimize displacement
of existing residents.
The property is undeveloped; therefore, no
residents would be displaced as a result of this
project.
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Policy L-2.11 Encourage new development and
redevelopment to incorporate greenery and
natural features such as green rooftops, pocket
parks, plazas and rain gardens.
The proposed building includes a rooftop terrace
for the residents, which will provide the primary
open/landscape space for the site. Trees will be
planted at the roof and replacement trees will be
provided off-site to expand the City’s tree canopy.
Policy L-3.1: Ensure that new or remodeled
structures are compatible with the neighborhood
and adjacent structures.
Although the development is taller than adjacent
single-story developments, the proposed massing
at the ground floor transitions well between the
one- and two-story structures. The proposed
design steps in-ward at the shared interior sides
of the property to maximize the massing breaks
between neighboring structures given the
narrowness of the site.
Policy L-3.4:Ensure that new multi-family
buildings, entries and outdoor spaces are
designed and arranged so that each
development has a clear relationship to a public
street.
The building is designed to have the primary
pedestrian entry off El Camino Real.
Policy L-6.1:Promote high-quality design and site
planning that is compatible with surrounding
development and public spaces.
The proposed residential building places its
massing along El Camino Real in keeping with the
minimum 50% built-to setback requirements. In
addition, the primary entries occur along El
Camino Real which reinforces the streetscape
between the adjacent restaurant and hotel uses.
Policy L-6.2: Use the Zoning Ordinance, design
review process, design guidelines and
Coordinated Area Plans to ensure high quality
residential and commercial design and
architectural compatibility.
The project is consistent with the City’s Zoning
Ordinance and, on balance, meets the City’s
design guidelines and the ARB findings for
approval.
Policy L-6.7 Where possible, avoid abrupt
changes in scale and density between residential
and non-residential areas and between
residential areas of different densities. To
promote compatibility and gradual transitions
between land uses, place zoning district
boundaries at mid-block locations rather than
along streets wherever possible.
Although the development is taller than adjacent
single-story developments, the proposed massing
at the ground floor transitions well between the
one- and two-story structures. The proposed
design steps in-ward at the shared interior sides
of the property to maximize the massing breaks
between neighboring structures given the
narrowness of the site.
Policy L-9.2: Encourage development that
creatively integrates parking into the project,
including by locating it behind buildings or
underground wherever possible, or by providing
for shared use of parking areas. Encourage other
alternatives to surface parking lots that minimize
the amount of land devoted to parking while still
maintaining safe streets, street trees, a vibrant
local economy and sufficient parking to meet
demand.
The current site is undeveloped and the proposed
project provides all vehicle parking inside a
garage.
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Policy L-9.3: Treat residential streets as both
public ways and neighborhood amenities.
Provide and maintain continuous sidewalks,
healthy street trees, benches and other
amenities that promote walking and “active”
transportation.
The project proposes to increase the sidewalk
along El Camino Real by providing a public
easement to allow for a 12-foot effective sidewalk
width. In addition, the applicant is proposing
short-term bike parking in the public right of way
that will help to activate the streetscape for
individuals that visit the site.
Policy T-1.19 Provide facilities that encourage
and support bicycling and walking.
The project includes long-term bicycle parking in
compliance with the code requirements. The
applicant is proposing short-term bike parking in
the public right of way that will help to activate
the streetscape for individuals that visit the site.
Policy T-5.1: All new development projects
should manage parking demand generated by
the project, without the use of on-street parking,
consistent with the established parking
regulations. As demonstrated parking demand
decreases over time, parking requirements for
new construction should decrease.
The property owner is providing all tenants with a
free VTA passes as a part of their TDM plan as
well as un-bundling parking spaces with the units
to incentivize multi-modal forms of transit.
Policy N-2.10: Preserve and protect Regulated
Trees, such as native oaks and other significant
trees, on public and private property, including
landscape trees approved as part of a
development review process and consider
strategies for expanding tree protection in Palo
Alto.
The project protects existing street trees. Any
tree of 4” removed will be replaced pursuant to
City requirements to ensure no net loss of
canopy, as required by code.
Program H2.1.2: Allow increased residential
densities and mixed-use development only
where adequate urban services and amenities,
including roadway capacity, are available.
The project is located within an urban area along
the El Camino Real corridor in close proximity to
high-quality transit.
Goal H-2: Support the construction of housing
near schools, transit, parks, shopping,
employment and cultural institutions.
The project infills an existing vacant property with
a new multi-family housing development in a
transit-oriented location that is also near schools,
shopping, and employment along El Camino Real
and within the immediate vicinity of Stanford
Research Park.
The project has also been reviewed for conformance with the development standards in the zoning code (see
Attachment C for a complete zoning consistency analysis). The proposed project exceeds City Council’s 20%
minimum affordable housing requirement for Planned Home Zoning (PHZ) applications by providing an
affordability rating of 75.3% based on Option #2 of the PHZ guidelines. In addition, the owner has agreed to limit
affordable rents for the Low-Income units at 70% and the Moderate-Income units at 110% of Santa Clara County
AMI, instead of the traditional City standard of 80% and 120% of SCC AMI respectively. This substantial benefit
justifies the deviations from the zoning code requested by the applicant.
Finding #2: The project has a unified and coherent design, that:
a. creates an internal sense of order and desirable environment for occupants, visitors, and the general
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community,
b. preserves, respects and integrates existing natural features that contribute positively to the site and
the historic character including historic resources of the area when relevant,
c. is consistent with the context-based design criteria of the applicable zone district,
d. provides harmonious transitions in scale, mass and character to adjacent land uses and land use
designations,
e. enhances living conditions on the site (if it includes residential uses) and in adjacent residential areas.
The project is consistent with Finding #2 because:
The use of stucco and metal panel elements within the design is well composed and reflects a consistent and
coherent order between the proposed structure in context with the surrounding stucco buildings. The entrance
along the ground floor on El Camino Real is clearly defined and the transition in scale between the surrounding
buildings is appropriate as the building places most of its massing at the front and rear of the site and tapers
inward along the shared interior side property lines. Given the narrowness and shallowness of the site, ground
level landscaping is minimized, however, substantial landscaping has been provided at the rooftop which provides
the majority of the open/landscape space requirements for the property.
Finding #3: The design is of high aesthetic quality, using high quality, integrated materials and appropriate
construction techniques, and incorporating textures, colors, and other details that are compatible with and
enhance the surrounding area.
The project is consistent with Finding #3 because:
The project incorporates a variety of materials, including gray cast concrete, wood tone panels, painted siding,
glass, and landscape elements that are of high quality and that integrate well to create a cohesive design. The
project proposes on site Public Art, which will also enhance the design. The project will stand out from other
nearby buildings, because it uses a variety of materials to break up the massing and add visual interest. Most other
buildings in the area use a more limited palette.
Finding #4: The design is functional, allowing for ease and safety of pedestrian and bicycle traffic and providing
for elements that support the building’s necessary operations (e.g. convenient vehicle access to property and
utilities, appropriate arrangement and amount of open space and integrated signage, if applicable, etc.).
The project is consistent with Finding #4 because:
The driveway to the at-grade garage and parking lifts is located on the narrow street frontage along El Camino
Real which is appropriate to efficiently direct vehicle traffic on and off the site. The long-term bike parking
facility is located at the rear of the property in a bike room which has a direct walking path out to El Camino
Real. Pedestrian access to the lobby is clear and the lobby provides easy access to the residences above ground
via elevator or staircase.
Finding #5: The landscape design complements and enhances the building design and its surroundings, is
appropriate to the site’s functions, and utilizes to the extent practical, regional indigenous drought resistant
plant material capable of providing desirable habitat that can be appropriately maintained.
The project is consistent with Finding #5 because:
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Due to the small lot size, significant landscaping at the ground level is difficult to achieve. Therefore, a significant
amount of landscaping has been provided at the rooftop terrace which will serve as the primary shared open
space for the residents. Seven trees will be planted at the rooftop terrace to maximize vegetative canopy for
residents and 72% of the landscaping proposed in the project will utilize California Native species.
Finding #6: The project incorporates design principles that achieve sustainability in areas related to energy
efficiency, water conservation, building materials, landscaping, and site planning.
The project is consistent with Finding #6 because:
In accordance with the City’s Green Building Regulations, the building will satisfy the requirements for CALGreen
Mandatory + Tier 2. The project also proposes an all-electric design and will be consistent with Model Water
Efficiency Landscape Ordinance (MWELO) requirements.
SECTION 5. Conditions of Approval.
PLANNING DIVISION
1. CONFORMANCE WITH PLANS. Construction and development shall conform to the approved plans entitled,
"3265 El Camino Real, Palo Alto, CA,” uploaded to the Palo Alto Online Permitting Services Citizen Portal on
October 11, 2024, as modified by these conditions of approval. These conditions of approval shall apply to
any successors and/or future owners of the property such that they may be modified through mutual
agreement between the City and said successor/future owner.
2. BUILDING PERMIT. Apply for a building permit and meet any and all conditions as contained in this
document. The ARB recommended the plans be modified to incorporate the following conditions be
addressed prior to building permit issuance:
a. Modify the stairway/elevator tower elements on the building to provide opportunities for natural
light, via window or skylight, where feasible.
b. Modify the rear façade of the building at the bike room to provide opportunities for natural light, via
window or skylight, where feasible.
c. Incorporate Auditory and Visual warnings at the garage door when the door opens to signal to
bicyclists and pedestrians that vehicles are entering or exiting the garage. The Auditory warnings
may be turned off outside of normal business hours to limit noise impacts to residents on the site,
however, the Visual warning system must be active at all times. These warning systems must be
maintained and repaired immediately if damaged or malfunctioning.
d. The garage door must be kept open during peak travel hours (7:00am-9:00am in the morning and
4:00pm-6:00pm in the evening; Monday through Friday) to allow for efficient vehicle movement in
and out of the property.
3. BUILDING PERMIT PLAN SET. A copy of this cover letter and conditions of approval shall be printed on the
second page of the plans submitted for building permit.
4. ARB SUB-COMMITTEE. The following items shall be returned to the ARB sub-committee for review
and approval prior to issuance of any Building permit:
a. Provide additional details on Hardie-board siding to be used on the stairway/elevator tower
elements of the building which clarifies the vertical transition between boards. Consider using a
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different material altogether or a different color on the projecting and recessing elements of this
material to express greater depth and shadow play so that the material does not appear flat.
5. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS. All modifications to the approved project shall be submitted for review and
approval prior to construction. If during the Building Permit review and construction phase, the project is
modified by the applicant, it is the responsibility of the applicant to contact the Planning Division/project
planner directly to obtain approval of the project modification. It is the applicant’s responsibility to
highlight any proposed changes to the project and to bring it to the project planner’s attention.
6. ENTITLEMENT EXPIRATION. The project approval shall be valid for a period of two years from the date of
issuance of the entitlement. If construction of buildings has not commenced within two years from the date
of issuance of the entitlement, the Planning entitlement shall expire. Application for a one-year extension of
this entitlement may be made prior to expiration.
7. LANDSCAPE PLAN. Plantings shall be installed in accordance with the approved plan set and shall be
permanently maintained and replaced as necessary.
8. NESTING BIRD SURVEY. Per the City’s standard conditions, vegetation or tree removal shall be prohibited
during the general avian nesting season (February 1 – August 31), if feasible. If nesting season avoidance is
not feasible, the applicant shall retain a qualified biologist, as approved by the City of Palo Alto, to conduct a
preconstruction nesting bird survey to determine the presence/absence, location, and activity status of any
active nests on or adjacent to the project site no more than 14 days prior to scheduled vegetation clearance
and/or demolition activities. If nesting birds are found to be present, a suitable buffer (typically a minimum
buffer of 50 feet for passerines and a minimum buffer of 250 feet for raptors) as determined appropriate by
the biologist, shall be established around such active nests and no construction shall be allowed within the
buffer areas until a qualified biologist has determined that the nest is no longer active (i.e., the nestlings
have fledged and are no longer reliant on the nest). A report documenting any data recovered during
monitoring shall be prepared by a qualified biologist and submitted to the Director of Planning prior to final
planning inspection.
9. UNANTICIPATED DISCOVERY OF BURIED ARCHAEOLOGICAL, PALEONTOLOGICAL, AND TRIBAL CULTURAL
RESOURCES. No known archeological or paleontological resources are present on or within the immediate
vicinity of the site. However, in the unlikely event that an archeological resource or paleontological resource
is unearthed during ground disturbing activities, work in the immediate area must be halted and an
archaeologist meeting the Secretary of the Interior’s Professional Qualifications Standards for archeology
(National Park Service 1983) shall be contacted immediately to evaluate the find. If the find is Native
American in origin, then a Native American representative must also be contacted to participate in the
evaluation of the find. The qualified archaeologist, and, if applicable, the Native American representative,
shall examine the find and make recommendations regarding additional work necessary to evaluate the
significance of the find and the appropriate treatment of the resource. Recommendations could include, but
are not limited to, invasive or non-invasive testing, sampling, laboratory analysis, preservation in place, or
data recovery. A report of findings documenting any data recovered during monitoring shall be prepared by
a qualified archaeologist and submitted to the Director of Planning prior to final planning inspection.
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10. COE PLUME AREA. For projects within the California-Olive-Emerson (COE) Plume area, which are known to
be subject to risk of vapor intrusion, the applicant shall assess site conditions to determine both the nature
and extent of contamination. If contamination at the site exceeds the most current environmental screening
levels (ESLs) identified by the Regional Water Quality Control Board (RWQCB) for volatile organic
compounds, the applicant shall prepare and submit a Site Management and Contingency Plan (SMCP) to
either the Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC), RWQCB, or the County of Santa Clara
Department of Environmental Health for approval. The SMCP shall include details regarding the pending
development and propose remediation and/or mitigation to address any environmental risk identified in the
site assessment. The applicant shall agree to and implement all recommendations of the reviewing
regulatory agency approving the SMCP in order to reduce the exposure of future occupants to vapor
intrusion. A copy of the approved SMCP shall be submitted to the Director of Planning prior to issuance of a
building permit. If the reviewing agency requires that a vapor intrusion barrier system be installed, the VIMs
shall be documented in the building permit plan set prior to issuance of the building permit.
11. OPEN AIR LOUDSPEAKERS (AMPLIFIED MUSIC). In accordance with PAMC Section 18.40.230(i), the use of
sound amplifying equipment shall be prohibited at the rooftop terrace. Signs shall be affixed adjacent to
access elevators and stairs within the rooftop terrace providing notice of this prohibition.
12. NOISE REPORT AT BUILDING STAGE. An analysis of the proposed project’s compliance with the City’s noise
requirements for the proposed HVAC was prepared as part of the documentation to support the CEQA
Guidelines 15183 consistency analysis. At the time of building permit issuance for new construction or for
installation of any such mechanical equipment, if the proposed equipment exceeds the anticipated noise
level that was analyzed or is proposed in a location that is closer to the property line, the applicant shall
submit an acoustical analysis by an acoustical engineer demonstrating projected compliance with the Noise
Ordinance. The analysis shall be based on acoustical readings, equipment specifications and any proposed
sound reduction measures, such as equipment enclosures or insulation, which demonstrate a sufficient
degree of sound attenuation to assure that the prescribed noise levels will not be exceeded.
13. SIGN APPROVAL NEEDED. No signs are approved at this time. All signs shall conform to the requirements of
Title 16.20 of the Palo Alto Municipal Code (Sign Code) and shall be subject to approval by the Director of
Planning.
14. AFFORDABLE HOUSING PLAN AND AGREEMENT. The applicant shall prepare an affordable housing plan.
An affordable housing agreement, reviewed and approved by the City of Palo Alto, shall be recorded prior
to the approval of any final or parcel map or building permit for the development project (PAMC
16.65.090).
15. BELOW MARKET RATE (BMR) HOUSING. A Regulatory Agreement in a form acceptable to the City
Attorney for the fifty-five (55) BMR units shall be executed and recorded prior to building permit issuance.
All BMR units constructed under this condition shall be in conformance with the City’s BMR Program rules
and regulations. Failure to comply with the timing of this condition and any adopted BMR Program rules
and regulations shall not waive its later enforcement. Failure to comply with the timing of this condition
and any adopted BMR Program rules and regulations shall not waive its later enforcement.
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16. REFUSE. All trash areas shall be effectively maintained in an orderly state to prevent water from entering into
the garbage container. Outdoor storage on Lambert Avenue is only allowed/permitted on collection days as
shown on the approved plan set. The bins must be moved into the trash staging area on-site promptly after the
waste hauler has collected it so that the bins are not left on the street during the day. Trash areas shall be
maintained in a manner to discourage illegal dumping.
17. TDM PROGRAM AND ANNUAL REPORTING REQUIREMENT. The applicant shall abide by the Final
Transportation Demand Management (TDM) plan, entitled “3265 El Camino Real Residential Development,
Transportation Demand Management Prepared on Behalf of Half Dome Capital LLC”, dated October 29, 2024 to
the satisfaction of the Director of Planning and Development Services. The TDM plan includes measures and
programs to achieve a reduction in single-occupancy vehicle trips to the site by a minimum of 30%, in
conformance with the City’s Comprehensive Plan. The TDM plan includes an annual monitoring plan to
document mode split and trips to the project site. The TDM annual report shall be submitted to the Chief
Transportation Official. Monitoring and reporting requirements may be revised in the future if the minimum
reduction is not achieved through the measures and programs initially implemented. Projects that do not
achieve the required reduction may be subject to daily penalties as set forth in the City’s fee schedule.
18. MECHANICAL LIFT PARKING. Up to 30 parking spaces are provided in a puzzle parking system, which allows
independent access to each vehicle. The property owner has agreed to limit vehicles assigned to stalls 7 and
8 to mid-size vehicles in order to ensure minimal turning maneuvers for those stalls and to optimize
circulation within the garage.
19. DEVELOPMENT IMPACT FEES. Per PAMC 16.58.030(c), a 100% affordable housing project is exempt from
paying development impact fees.
20. REQUIRED PUBLIC ART. Per PAMC 16.61.020(b)(iii), a 100% affordable housing project is exempt from the
Public Art requirements of the City.
21. INDEMNITY. To the extent permitted by law, the Applicant shall indemnify and hold harmless the City, its
City Council, its officers, employees and agents (the “indemnified parties”) from and against any claim,
action, or proceeding brought by a third party against the indemnified parties and the applicant to attack,
set aside or void, any permit or approval authorized hereby for the Project, including (without limitation)
reimbursing the City for its actual attorneys’ fees and costs incurred in defense of the litigation. The City
may, in its sole discretion, elect to defend any such action with attorneys of its own choice.
22. FINAL INSPECTION. A Planning Division Final inspection will be required to determine substantial
compliance with the approved plans prior to the scheduling of a Building Division final. Any revisions during
the building process must be approved by Planning, including but not limited to; materials, landscaping and
hard surface locations. Contact your Project Planner, Garrett Sauls at Garrett.Sauls@CityofPaloAlto.org to
schedule this inspection.
BUILDING
23. A building permit is required for the scope of work shown.
24. At time of building permit, the following items shall be reviewed in detail.
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a. The Occupied roof complies with 503.1.4 of the California Building Code;
b. Show opening protection, fire wall separation, and overhang time at each side of the building.
PUBLIC WORKS ZERO WASTE
25. Per Palo Alto Municipal Code 5.20.108 the site is required to have color-coded refuse containers, related
color-coded millwork, and colored signage. The three refuse containers shall include recycle (blue
container), compost (green container), and garbage (black container). Applicant shall present on the plan
the locations and quantity of both (any) internal and external refuse containers, it’s millwork, along with the
signage. This requirement applies to any external or internal refuse containers located in common areas
such as entrances, conference rooms, open space, lobby, garage, mail room, gym, and etc. except for
restrooms, copy area, and mother’s room. Millwork to store the color-coded refuse containers must have a
minimum of four inches in height worth of color-coding, wrapping around the full width of the millwork.
Signage must be color coded with photos or illustrations of commonly discarded items. Restrooms must
have a green compost container for paper towels and an optional black landfill container if applicable. Copy
area must have either a recycle bin only or all three refuse receptacles (green compost, blue recycle, and
black landfill container). Mother’s room must minimally have a green compost container and black landfill
container. Please refer to PAMC 5.20.108 and the Internal Container Guide. Examples of appropriate signage
can be found in the Managing Zero Waste at Your Business Guide. Electronic copies of these signage can be
found on the Zero Waste Palo Alto’s website, https://www.cityofpaloalto.org/Departments/Public-
Works/Zero-Waste/What-Goes-Where/Toolkit#section-2 and hard copies can be requested from the waste
hauler, Greenwaste of Palo Alto, (650) 493-4894.
26. For the restroom, a green compost bin for paper towels and a small black landfill for sanitary products will
be required with proper signage posted on each of the bins.
27. For the refuse bins in the garage, for the center bin (recycling) will need four swivel wheels to be added onto
the bin to allow it to maneuver in and out of this space. Since the bin will need to be moved from 3265 El
Camino Real to Lambert Avenue, we recommend two people maneuver the bin as it will not be able to move
straight.
28. For the lobby/mail area, a recycle and landfill bin (blue recycle, and black landfill) will be required with
proper signage posted on each of the bins.
TRANSPORTATION
29. The developer shall provide queuing capacity within the property, designed to accommodate vehicles
entering the development during peak hours so that vehicle queuing does not impede the ROW or the bike
lane on El Camino Real. The property owner shall recess their gate by the distance required to
accommodate at a minimum one vehicle. The owner shall also install a high-speed gate that opens within
10 seconds or less to minimize impact on queuing during peak hours.
30. LIFT SYSTEM. The applicant shall submit an analysis and report, prepared by a qualified professional for
review and approval by the Director of Planning and Development Services, that demonstrates the
effectiveness of the proposed parking lift system with respect to operational details, identifies a regular
and emergency maintenance schedule, and procedures and backup systems for tenants prior to building
permit issuance. The applicant agrees to maintain service contract with a certified individual/organization
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that will provide a prompt response (within the same or next day) to address system issues. An annual
audit of the system must be provided to Planning/Transportation staff of the system to ensure the system
operates effectively. If the audit reveals that the system is not functioning or is failing to meet required
operational standards, the applicant will be required to take corrective measures. Failure to address
identified issues may result in penalties, including but not limited to enforcement actions under local code
enforcement procedures.
31. The Owner and any subsequent Owner(s) of the property, including their successors, assigns, or agents,
shall comply with all Transportation Demand Management (TDM) measures set forth in this approval.
Monitoring reports shall be submitted to the Director of Planning on an annual basis, demonstrating
adherence to the approved TDM measures. Should the Owner fail to meet the established targets and
goals of the TDM Plan, the director may require program modifications and may impose administrative
penalties if identified deficiencies are not addressed within six months.
32. The developer shall be responsible for the maintenance of the short-term bike racks installed within the
public right-of-way. This includes cleaning, inspections, and timely repairs to keep the racks in good
working condition, free of rust, debris, or damage. The developer must also ensure that the racks remain
accessible and do not obstruct pedestrian pathways.
URBAN FORESTRY
33. The owner and contractor shall implement all protection and inspection schedule measures, design
recommendations and construction scheduling as stated in the TPR and/or Sheet T-1, and is subject to code
compliance action pursuant to PAMC 8.10.080. The required protective fencing shall remain in place until
final landscaping and inspection of the project. If called for, project arborist approval must be obtained and
documented in the monthly activity report sent to the City. When required, the Contractor and Arborist
Monthly Tree Activity Report shall be sent monthly to the City (pwps@cityofpaloalto.org) beginning with the
initial verification approval, using the template in the Tree Technical Manual, Addendum 11.
34. Tree Damage, Injury Mitigation and Inspections apply to Contractor. Reporting, injury mitigation measures
and arborist inspection schedule (1-5) apply pursuant to TTM, Section 2.20-2.30. Contractor shall be
responsible for the repair or replacement of any publicly owned or protected trees that are damaged during
the course of construction, pursuant to Title 8 of the Palo Alto Municipal Code, and city Tree Technical
Manual, Section 2.25.
35. The following general tree preservation measures apply to all trees to be retained: No storage of material,
topsoil, vehicles or equipment shall be permitted within the tree enclosure area. The ground under and
around the tree canopy area shall not be altered. Trees to be retained shall be irrigated, aerated and
maintained as necessary to ensure survival.
36. Prior to any site work, contractor must call Derek Sproat at 650-496-6985 to schedule an inspection of any
required protective fencing. The fencing shall contain required warning sign and remain in place until final
inspection of the project.
37. Any approved grading, digging or trenching beneath a tree canopy shall be performed using ‘air-spade’
method as a preference, with manual hand shovel as a backup. For utility trenching, including sewer line,
roots exposed with diameter of 1.5 inches and greater shall remain intact and not be damaged. If directional
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boring method is used to tunnel beneath roots, then Table 2-1, Trenching and Tunneling Distance, shall be
printed on the final plans to be implemented by Contractor.
a. NO NET LOSS OF CANOPY: The proposed removal of protected coast live oak tree (40" DBH tree #3
33' canopy spread) will be approved at building permit issuance due to compliance with municipal
code 8.10.050. The applicant and consulting Arborist report has demonstrated compliance in the
discussion provided in the consulting arborist report. The replacement value is six new 24" box
trees. Three new 24" box trees are proposed in the planting plan. Due to lack of space for the
remaining three 24" box trees will be accepted via in-lieu fee in the amount of $1,950 ($650x3
unplanted trees). The fee must be paid prior to permit issuance. A 14-day public notice is required
prior to removal of the 40" coast live oak tree and must be posted after building permit issuance.
PUBLIC WORKS ENGINEERING
38. PUBLIC WORKS APPLICATIONS, FORMS, AND DOCUMENTS: Applicant shall be advised that most forms,
applications, and informational documents related to Public Works Engineering conditions can be found at
the following link:
https://www.cityofpaloalto.org/Departments/Public-Works/Engineering-Services/Forms-and-Permits
39. STREETWORK PERMIT: The applicant shall obtain a Streetwork Permit from the Department of Public Works
for all public improvements.
40. GRADING AND EXCAVATION PERMIT: A Grading Permit is required per PAMC Chapter 16.28. The permit
application and all applicable documents (see Section H of application) shall be submitted to Public Works
Engineering. Add the following note: “THIS GRADING PERMIT WILL ONLY AUTHORIZE GENERAL GRADING
AND INSTALLATION OF THE STORM DRAIN SYSTEM. OTHER BUILDING AND UTILITY IMPROVEMENTS ARE
SHOWN FOR REFERENCE INFORMATION ONLY AND ARE SUBJECT TO SEPARATE BUILDING PERMIT
APPROVAL.”
41. ROUGH GRADING: provide a Rough Grading Plan for the work proposed as part of the Grading and
Excavation Permit application. The Rough Grading Plans shall including the following: pad elevation, elevator
pit elevation, ground monitoring wells, limits of over excavation, stockpile area of material, overall
earthwork volumes (cut and fill), temporary shoring for any existing facilities, ramps for access, crane
locations (if any), tree protection measures, etc.
42. CIVIL ENGINEER CERTIFICATION: Upon completion of the rough grading work and at the final completion of
the work, applicant shall provide an as-graded grading plan prepared by the civil engineer that includes
original ground surface elevations, as-graded ground surface elevations, lot drainage patterns and locations
and elevations of all surface and subsurface drainage facilities. The civil engineer shall certify that the work
was done in accordance with the final approved grading plan.
43. SHORING & TIEBACKS: Provide a shoring plan showing the existing utilities (if needed), to clearly indicate
how the new structures will be constructed while protecting the existing utilities (if any). If tiebacks are
proposed they shall not extend onto adjacent private property, existing easements or into the City’s right-of-
way without having first obtained written permission from the private property owners and/or an
encroachment permit from Public Works.
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44. GEOTECHNICAL ENGINEER STATEMENT: The grading plans shall include the following statement signed and
sealed by the Geotechnical Engineer of Record: “THIS PLAN HAS BEEN REVIEWED AND FOUND TO BE IN
GENERAL CONFORMANCE WITH THE INTENT AND PURPOSE OF THE GEOTECHNICAL REPORT”.
45. ENCROACHMENT PERMIT: Prior to any work in the public right-of-way, the applicant shall obtain an
encroachment permit from the Public Works Department for any work that encroaches onto the City right-
of-way.
46. LOGISTICS PLAN: A construction logistics plan shall be provided addressing all impacts to the public
including, at a minimum: work hours, noticing of affected businesses, bus stop relocations, construction
signage, dust control, noise control, storm water pollution prevention, job trailer, contractors’ parking, truck
routes, staging, concrete pours, crane lifts, scaffolding, materials storage, pedestrian safety, and traffic
control. All truck routes shall conform to the City of Palo Alto’s Trucks and Truck Route Ordinance, Chapter
10.48, and the route map. NOTE: Some items/tasks on the logistics plan may require an encroachment
permit.
47. STORMWATER POLLUTION PREVENTION: All improvement plan sets shall include the “Pollution Prevention –
It’s Part of the Plan” sheet.
48. C.3 THIRD-PARTY CERTIFICATION: Applicant shall provide certification from a qualified third-party reviewer
that the proposed permanent storm water pollution prevention measures comply with the requirements of
Provision C.3 and Palo Alto Municipal Code Chapter 16.11. Submit the following:
a. Stamped and signed C.3 data form (April 2023 version) from SCVURPPP. https://scvurppp.org/wp-
content/uploads/2023/04/SCVURPPP-C.3-Data-Form-_-updated__4-12-2023_clean_fillable.pdf
b. Final stamped and signed letter confirming which documents were reviewed and that the project
complies with Provision C.3 and PAMC 16.11.
49. C.3 STORMWATER AGREEMENT: The applicant shall enter into a Stormwater Maintenance Agreement with
the City to guarantee the ongoing maintenance of the permanent storm water pollution prevention
measures. The City will inspect the treatment measures yearly and charge an inspection fee. The agreement
shall be executed by the applicant team prior to building permit final.
50. C.3 FINAL THIRD PARTY CERTIFICATION PRIOR TO OCCUPANCY: Within 45 days of the installation of the
required storm water treatment measures and prior to the issuance of an occupancy permit for the building,
the third-party reviewer shall submit to the City a certification verifying that all the permanent storm water
pollution prevention measures were installed in accordance with the approved plans.
51. IMPERVIOUS SURFACE AREA: The project will be creating or replacing 500 square feet or more of impervious
surface. Accordingly, the applicant shall provide calculations of the existing and proposed impervious
surface areas with the building permit application. The Impervious Area Worksheet for Land Developments
form and instructions are available at the Development Center or on our website. To determine the
impervious surface area that is being disturbed, provide the quantity on the site plan.
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52. PRIOR TO PUBLIC WORKS FINAL/ACCEPTANCE (STORM DRAIN LOGO): The applicant is required to paint “No
Dumping/Flows to Matadero Creek” in blue on a white background adjacent to all onsite storm drain inlets.
The name of the creek to which the proposed development drains can be obtained from Public Works
Engineering. Stencils of the logo are available from the Public Works Environmental Compliance Division,
which may be contacted at (650) 329-2598. Include the instruction to paint the logos on the construction
grading and drainage plan.
53. OUTSIDE AGENCY APPROVAL: A portion of the proposed work is within Caltran’s right-of-way. Evidence of
Caltran’s approval shall be submitted prior to issuance of City permits.
WATERSHED PROTECTION
54. Provide a Completed Special Projects Worksheet which can be found here:https://scvurppp.org/newdev/.
Also provide a Special Projects Narrative as required per the MPR. A template of the narrative can be found
in the SCVURPPP C.3 Handbook Appendix J.
55. Exemption for PAMC 16.09.180(b)(11): Palo Alto Municipal Code (PAMC) section 16.09.180(b)(11) requires
that “new multi-family residential units and residential development projects with twenty-five or more
units shall provide a covered area for occupants to wash their vehicles.” The applicant has stated that the
proposed project located at 3265 El Camino Real (24PLN-00012) is not able to meet this requirement due
to complete build-out of the parcel. Because it is a 100% affordable housing project, Public Works
Watershed Protection is providing an exemption to this requirement. This exemption requires a prohibition
of onsite car washing at 3265 El Camino Real and adherence to the following conditions of approval: 1)
Tenant lease agreements shall contain prohibition language, and new tenants shall be made aware of this
prohibition upon lease signing; and 2) Visible signage with prohibition language shall be posted within the
parking garage and other relevant outdoor areas. Once available, please provide Ryan Mayfield,
Pretreatment Investigator, a copy of the lease template and photos of the signage placement at
ryan.mayfield@cityofpaloalto.org.
WATER-GAS-WASTEWATER UTILITIES
PRIOR TO ISSUANCE OF DEMOLITION PERMIT
56. The applicant shall submit a request to disconnect utility services and remove meters. The utilities demo is
to be processed within 10 working days after receipt of the request. The demolition permit will be issued
by the building inspection division after all utility services and/or meters have been disconnected and
removed.
FOR BUILDING PERMIT (WGW Utility Engineering)
57. The applicant shall submit a completed water-gas-wastewater service connection application - load sheet
for the City of Palo Alto Utilities. The applicant must provide all the information requested for utility service
demands (water in fixture units/g.p.m., gas in b.t.u.h, and sewer in fixture units/g.p.d.). The applicant shall
provide the existing (prior) loads, the new loads, and the combined/total loads (the new loads plus any
existing loads to remain).
58. The applicant shall submit improvement plans for utility construction. The plans must show the size and
location of all underground utilities within the development and the public right of way including meters,
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backflow preventers, fire service requirements, sewer mains, sewer cleanouts, sewer lift stations and any
other required utilities. Plans for new wastewater laterals and mains need to include new wastewater pipe
profiles showing existing potentially conflicting utilities especially storm drain pipes, electric and
communication duct banks. Existing duct banks need to be daylighted by potholing to the bottom of the
ductbank to verify cross section prior to plan approval and starting lateral installation. Plans for new storm
drain mains and laterals need to include profiles showing existing potential conflicts with sewer, water and
gas.
59. The applicant must show on the site plan the existence of any auxiliary water supply, (i.e. water well, gray
water, recycled water, rain catchment, water storage tank, etc).
60. The applicant shall be responsible for installing and upgrading the existing utility mains and/or services,
and laterals as necessary to handle anticipated peak loads. This responsibility includes all costs associated
with the design and construction for the installation/upgrade of the utility mains and/or services/laterals.
61. An approved reduced pressure principle assembly (RPPA backflow preventer device) is required for all
existing and new water connections from Palo Alto Utilities to comply with requirements of California
administrative code, title 17, sections 7583 through 7605 inclusive. The RPPA shall be installed on the
owner's property and directly behind the water meter within 5 feet of the property line. RPPA’s for
domestic service shall be lead-free. Show the location of the RPPA on the plans. An approved reduced
pressure detector assembly (RPDA backflow preventer device, STD. WD-12A or STD. WD-12B) is required
for all existing and new fire water connections from Palo Alto Utilities to comply with requirements of
California administrative code, title 17, sections 7583 through 7605 inclusive. The RPDA shall be installed
on the owner's property and directly behind the City owned meter, within 5’ (feet) of the property line or
City Right of Way.
62. All backflow preventer devices shall be approved by the WGW engineering division. Inspection by the city
inspector is required for the supply pipe between the meter and the assembly.
63. The applicant shall pay the capacity fees and connection fees associated with new utility service/s or added
demand on existing services. The approved relocation of services, meters, hydrants, or other facilities will
be performed at the cost of the person/entity requesting the relocation.
64. If a new water service line installation for fire system usage is required, show the location of the new water
service on the plans. The applicant shall provide to the engineering department a copy of the plans for fire
system including all fire department's requirements. If the existing fire service to remain, then the
applicant must sign an application for CPAU connection for & agree to operate the fire service in
accordance with these rules & regulations. Applicant needs to verify whether the existing water supply can
meet the current & anticipated fire flows at the site & all equipment for the sprinkler system is in
accordance with the fire department requirements.
65. Each unit or building shall have its own water meter shown on the plans. Each parcel shall have its own
water service and sewer lateral connection shown on the plans.
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66. A sewer lateral per lot is required. Show the location of the sewer lateral on the plans. Existing sewer
laterals (city's co to sewer main) if determined to be in poor condition shall be replaced at the owner's
expense. A video inspection and full evaluation of the lateral will be performed by WGW utilities
operations. The applicant will be informed of the sewer lateral assessment and need to install a new
lateral. If a new sewer lateral is required, a profile of the sewer lateral is required showing any possible
conflicts with storm, electric/communications duct banks or other utilities.
67. All existing water and wastewater services/laterals that will not be reused shall be abandoned at the main
per the latest WGW utilities standards.
68. Utility vaults, transformers, utility cabinets, concrete bases, or other structures cannot be placed over
existing water, gas, or wastewater mains/services. Maintain 1’ horizontal clear separation from the
vault/cabinet/concrete base to existing utilities as found in the field. If there is a conflict with existing
utilities, cabinets/vaults/bases shall be relocated from the plan location as needed to meet field conditions.
New trees may not be planted within 10 feet of existing water, gas, and wastewater mains/laterals/water
services/or meters. New water or wastewater services/laterals/meters may not be installed within 10’ of
existing trees. Maintain 10’ between new trees and new water and wastewater services/laterals/meters.
69. The applicant shall provide to the WGW Utility Engineering department a copy of the plans for the fire
system including all fire department's requirements prior to the actual service installation.
70. All utility installations shall be in accordance with the City of Palo Alto utility standards for water, gas, &
wastewater.
PASSED:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTENTIONS:
ATTEST: APPROVED:
_________________________ ____________________________
City Clerk Mayor
APPROVED: APPROVED AS TO FORM:
___________________________ ___________________________
Director of Planning and Deputy City Attorney
Development Services
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PLANS AND DRAWINGS REFERENCED:
1. Those plans prepared by Trachtenberg Architects titled “3265 El Camino Real”, consisting of 44 pages, dated
October 11, 2024 and received October 11, 2024.
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ATTACHMENT C
ZONING COMPARISON TABLE
3265 El Camino Real, 24PLN-00012
The PHZ/PC Special Requirements (18.38.150) do not apply because the site is not within 150 ft of a
residential zoning district
Regulation Required CS
Development Standard
AH Development
Standard
Proposed
Minimum Site Area, width
and depth
No minimum size or
dimensions
No minimum size or
dimensions
7,492 sf
Minimum Front Yard 0-10 ft to create an 8-12 ft
effective sidewalk width (8)
0-10 ft to create an 8-12 ft
effective sidewalk width (8)
4 ft, 12 ft effective
sidewalk
Rear Yard 10 ft 10 ft 0 @ ground floor; 5 ft at
parts of upper floors
Interior Side Yard None None 0-5 ft @ ground floor; 0-8
ft at upper floor
Build-to-Lines 50% of frontage built to
setback (1)
50% of frontage built to
setback (1)
100%; Complies
Max. Site Coverage 50% (3,746 sf)None 87% (6,525 sf)
Max. Building Height 50 feet
Add’l 15 ft for equipment
50 feet
Add’l 15 ft for equipment
70 ft. 8 in. to roof deck
79 ft. 8 in. to elevator
Max. Floor Area Ratio
(FAR)
0.6:1 (4,495 sf) for 100%
residential sites on El
Camino Real
2.0 for 100% affordable
housing
4.42:1 (33,089 sf)
Residential Density (4)No max on El Camino Real No max 323 du/acre
Min. Ground Floor
Commercial FAR (10)
None exists on site;
therefore, no Retail
Preservation
None required None proposed
Daylight Plane for lot lines
abutting one or more
residential zone districts
other than an RM-40 or
PC Zone
None, does not abut
residential
None, does not abut
residential
None, does not abut
residential
Minimum
Landscape/Open Space
Coverage
30% (2,247.6 sf) (2)
Max 1,348.6 sf rooftop
garden (60% of 2,247.6 sf)
20% (1498.4 sf), may
include rooftop garden
35% (2,655 sf)
1,700 sf rooftop garden
(76% of req. 2,247.6 sf)
Minimum Useable Open
Space (Private and/or
Common)
150 sf per unit (2)50 sf per unit 31 sf per unit
(1) Twenty-five-foot driveway access permitted regardless of frontage.
(2) Required usable open space: (1) may be any combination of private and common open spaces; (2) does not need to be located
on the ground (but rooftop gardens are not included as open space except as provided below); (3) minimum private open space
dimension six feet; and (4) minimum common open space dimension twelve feet.
For CN and CS sites on El Camino Real and CC(2) sites that do not abut a single- or two-family residential use or zoning district,
rooftop gardens may qualify as usable open space and may count as up to 60% of the required usable open space for the residential
component of a project. In order to qualify as usable open space, the rooftop garden shall meet the requirements set forth in
Section 18.40.230.
(4) For CN sites on El Camino Real, height may increase to a maximum of 40 feet and the FAR may increase to a maximum of 1.0:1
(0.5:1 for nonresidential, 0.5:1 for residential).
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(8) A 12-foot sidewalk width is required along El Camino Real frontage.
(10) In the CC(2) zone and on CN and CS zoned sites on El Camino Real, there shall be no minimum mixed use ground floor commercial
FAR for a residential project, except to the extent that the retail preservation requirements of Section 18.40.180 or the retail shopping
(R) combining district (Chapter 18.30(A)) applies.
Table 2: CONFORMANCE WITH CHAPTER 18.52 (Off-Street Parking and Loading)
for Multiple Family Use
Type Required Standard Required AH Proposed
Vehicle Parking 1 per studio or 1-
bedroom unit (55
spaces)
.75 per unit of any size
(41 spaces)
2 ADA spaces1
30 stacker spaces
32 spaces total
Bicycle Parking 1 per unit (55 spaces),
100% - LT;
1 every 10 units (6) for
guest parking – ST;
1 per unit (44 spaces),
100% - LT;
1 every 10 units (6) for
guest parking – ST;
55 LT; 4 ST Provided Off-
Site on Sidewalk on El
Camino Real
Loading Space One for more than 50
units
One for more than 50
units
None provided
1 PAMC 18.52.040(b)(6-8) allows accessible loading zones to count as parking spaces. If those loading zones are shared
between two stalls, they are double counted.
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SOUTH EL CAMINO REAL DESIGN GUIDELINES
Address/File #: 3265 El Camino Real [24PLN‐00012]
This checklist provides a summary of the South El Camino Real Design Guidelines in conjunction with the 1979 Council‐
adopted El Camino Real (ECR) Design Guidelines, and the proposed project's consistency.
Proposed Project CommentsGuiding Principles is/has:needs:
1 Within a pedestrian node (California Av., Barron‐Ventura or Triangle at El Camino Way)N/A Site is a corridor area
2 A 12' sidewalk (curb face to building) with trees, planters and seating X
x
Existing street tree will remain; additional short term bike parking provided in furniture zone.
100% of frontage is built to back of sidewalk3 Built with the front wall (building face) located at the back of the sidewalk
4 Outdoor seating and dining, where appropriate x Not feasible given narrowness of the site
5 A minimum height of25 feet (2 and 3‐story building) to reinforce the street's importance X
X
Proposed building is 79 feet tall
Main entrance faces El Camino Real6 An entry or entries facing El Camino Real, so the building is oriented to the street
Not located at a corner7 On a street corner, incorporate special features to highlight building N/A
The façade includes primary and secondary entries on El Camino Real to activate the street8 Facades that animate street: doors and windows, arcades, awnings, balconies, stairs
9 Flat roofs and parapets to create cohesive streetscape
X
X
X
The proposal includes roof parapets that frames the building to El Camino Real
The proposal incorporates all three elements into the design10 Facades that have clearly expressed bases, bodies and roofs or parapets .
The proposed scale is consistent with what is expected along El Camino Real in context with the
standards allowed under the El Camino Real Focus Area and NVCAP provisions11 Scale and presence proportional to the scale and importance of El Camino Real
12 Adjacent to residential neighborhood, variations in scale, articulation, setbacks
Site Planning and Landscape Design Concepts
X
N/A The property isn't adjacent to a residential neighborhood
is/has:needs:
Node Area projects:
15 At least 75% of building face is at ECR setback line/build‐to‐line
16 On a corner, building occupies 50% of side street frontage
Corridor Area projects (Cal Ventura, Hotel Area):
N/A
N/A
Site is a corridor area
Not located at a corner
18 At least 50% of building face is at ECR setback line/build‐to‐line
19 On a comer, building occupies 33% of side street frontage
Increased setbacks: (more than the build‐to‐line)
X 100% of frontage is built to back of sidewalk
Not located at a cornerN/A
21 An increased setback that does not exceed 20 feet of the property frontage length
22 Public amenities (wider sidewalk, outdoor seating or dining)
Curb cuts and parking lots
N/A
X
Built to front setback
Expanded sidewalk and short term bike parking provided in sidewalk
24 A minimized curb cut width X
X
Only one curb cut is provided on ECR
25 An extension of sidewalk material and width across driveways Applicant will provide
Site does not share a driveway with adjoining lots
Access is not provided to the site via an alley.
26 Sharing driveway with adjoining property N/A
N/A27 Using alley access or side street access to parking lot
28 Parking lot no more than 50% of ECR frontage, no more than 120'x X Parking is provided inside building in garage
Usable Open Space Amenities
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Seating and activity areas in the front of the property is not feasible given the narrowness of the
30 Attractive and functional plazas, seating and activity areas
31 Canopies and covered trellises
X
X
site
Seating and activity areas in the front of the property is not feasible given the narrowness of the
site
The edges and spaces between buildings have been treated to ensure that the massing does not
overwhelm adjacent structures and that the quality of the design is consistent across all facades32 Careful treatment of property edges and spaces between buildings X
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Landscape and Hardscape
The existing street tree will remain. Additional landscaping is provided along the front within the
landscape/furniture zone33 Extensive planting and the use of other landscape amenities to create “outdoor rooms”X
Site Lighting
Lighting is provided at the entry on El Camino Real to encourage pedestrian use. Most lighting is
provided on site and at the roof terrace to minimize glare34 Emphasize pedestrian path and safety, minimize glare
35 Use variety of fixtures that are integrated into buliding/landscape design
Alleys
X
X Pedestrian scaled lighting is provided at the entry and walkways throughout the site
37 Windows and doors oriented toward alley
38 Service facilities screened with enclosures
39 Durable, attractive garage doors, entry doors, windows
40 Lighting directed to not impact adjacent properties
Building Design Concepts
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
is/has:
X
The site is not serviced by an alley
The site is not serviced by an alley
The site is not serviced by an alley
The site is not serviced by an alley
needs:
42 An articulated base, body and roof/parapet The proposal incorporates all three elements into the design
The proposed scale is consistent with what is expected along El Camino Real in context with the
standards allowed under the El Camino Real Focus Area and NVCAP provisions43 Building facade reinforces the street X
X44 Facades parallel to right of ways The proposal incorprates this element into the design
Does not abut residential uses which would require a daylight plane
The design is cohesive on all facades of the building
45 Exceptions to front or side daylight plane requirements
46 Design consistency on all facades
N/A
X
47 An articulated facade rather than a merely decorative or false front X The front façade includes projecting bay windows to articulate the facade
The expected use of the site would be an office where access would be limited. The ARB was
previously open to creating pedestrian amenities, such as benches, rather than requiring other
retail or retail‐like uses on site to approve this application.49 Recessed entry arcades X
x
Awnings
Seating and activity areas in the front of the property is not feasible given the narrowness of the
site51 Spaces to gather or retreat
52 Habitable space in front of parking
Windows
X Parking is provided inside building in garage
The bay windows at the front façade have a clear and consistent trim pattern around them that is
visually interesting and supports the architectural expression of the building.54 Inset/trimmed windows X
x
The proposed residential building does not have a ground floor retail space. The ground floor will
have windows to signal habitation towards the building55 Display windows
56 Transparent doors and windows along at least 75% of ground floor ECR facades x This is more appropriate for a commercial use whereas the building is 100% residential.
The primary façade include windows which will introduce visibility into the building at a higher
level than the ground floor57 Transparent windows along at least 50% of upper level ECR facades X
X
Rooflines
The building does not have a prominent roofline that would detract from the architectural style59 Prominent cornices and rooflines that detract from architectural style
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The proposed roof line is subdued such that it allows the other articulations on the building to
stand out with the design. Even though it is subdued, it is integrated well into the design to
provide a clear top element to the structure.60 A flat roof and/or a roof form reflecting facade articulation X
X
The section drawings indicate the the proposed parapet will hide the anticipated mechanical
equipment for the structure.61 Parapet hides rooftop mechanical equipment
Materials
The proposed materials and integration into the design satisfy the City's high quality architectural
review findings63 Durable, high quality materials to convey integrity, permanence and durability
64 Materials integral to facade and structure, not arbitrarily applied
X
X
The varied materials and articulations on the building are well composed which results in a
coherent and aesthetically pleasing design
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Signage is/has:
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
needs:
66 Sign colors limited as set forth in 1979 El Camino Real Design Guidelines
67 Sign area limited to 2/3 of the maximum sign area per PAMC (1979 ECRDG)
68 Integrated into building façade
Signage will be proposed in a future application.
69 Individually formed letters (no sign cabinets)
70 Window sign coverage no greater than 20% maximum
71 No new pole signs
72 Monument signage only when no feasibility for wall signs on building
73 Wall wash lighting or halo lighting ("reverse pan channel letters")/backlighting of signs
74 Colors that coordinate with building colors (no florescent or very bright colors)
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Attachment H
Project Plans
Project plans are available to the public online. Hardcopies of the plans have been provided to
Commission members.
Directions to review Project plans online:
1. Go to: bit.ly/PApendingprojects
2. Scroll down to find “3265 El Camino Real” and click the address link
3. On this project specific webpage you will find a link to the project plans and
other important information
Direct Link to Project Webpage:
https://www.cityofpaloalto.org/Departments/Planning-Development-Services/Current-
Planning/Projects/3265-El-Camino
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