Loading...
The URL can be used to link to this page
Your browser does not support the video tag.
Home
My WebLink
About
Staff Report 2506-4878
CITY OF PALO ALTO CITY COUNCIL Special Meeting Monday, August 11, 2025 Council Chambers & Hybrid 5:30 PM Agenda Item 2.332 Forest Avenue [25PLN-00130]. Request for Council Prescreening to Rezone the Subject Property from Multifamily Residential (RM-40) to Planned Home Zoning (PHZ) and to Allow Construction of a New Multi-Family Apartment Complex with 82 units in an Eight-Story Structure on a 25,000 Square Foot (0.57 Acre) Site. CEQA Status: Not a Project. Public Comment, Staff Presentation, Applicant Presentation City Council Staff Report From: City Manager Report Type: STUDY SESSION Lead Department: Planning and Development Services Meeting Date: August 11, 2025 Report #:2506-4878 TITLE 332 Forest Avenue [25PLN-00130]. Request for Council Prescreening to Rezone the Subject Property from Multifamily Residential (RM-40) to Planned Home Zoning (PHZ) and to Allow Construction of a New Multi-Family Apartment Complex with 82 units in an Eight-Story Structure on a 25,000 Square Foot (0.57 Acre) Site. CEQA Status: Not a Project. RECOMMENDATION Staff recommends that Council conduct a prescreening and provide informal comments regarding the applicant’s request to rezone 332 Forest Avenue from Multifamily Residential (RM-40) to Planned Community/Planned Home Zoning (PHZ).1 Comments provided during the prescreening process are not binding on the City nor the applicant. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY This prescreening is a request by the applicant to rezone the subject property, which is currently zoned Multifamily Residential (RM-40) to “Planned Home Zoning (PHZ).”1 The project site is comprised of two parcels totaling 25,000 square feet. The project includes demolition of an existing 16-unit apartment complex and construction of a 105,230-square-foot building (4.21:1 FAR) with 82 residential rental units. In accordance with Palo Alto Municipal Code (PAMC) Section 18.79.030(A), a prescreening review is required for legislative changes, including rezoning, prior to submittal of a formal application. Prescreenings are intended to solicit early feedback on proposed projects and, like all study sessions, cannot result in any formal action. Since this proposal may return to the City Council as a formal application, Councilmembers should refrain from forming firm opinions supporting or opposing the project. 1 Referred to in this report as "Planned Home Zoning" 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. Following this prescreening, the applicant may choose to file a formal application to amend the zoning for the site. Planned Community Rezoning applications require an initial review by the Planning and Transportation Commission followed by a formal recommendation from the Architectural Review Board, a formal recommendation from the Planning and Transportation Commission, and Council’s final decision as set forth in PAMC Chapter 18.38. BACKGROUND On February 3, 2020, Council unanimously endorsed using Planned Home Zoning (PHZ) for housing and mixed-use housing projects to help spur housing production. In exchange for deviation from the development standards, as allowed under the rezoning if approved by Council, the project must include at least 20% of the housing units as deed restricted, or equivalent based on a menu of options, for lower income households. Ramona Street) invite public use and enhance quality of life. The project site is located less than one-half mile from the University Avenue Caltrain station. Across Forest Avenue, to the north of the property is Lanning Chateau/Staller Court, a five-story 85-unit apartment building. To the east, there is a two-story 19-unit condominium development. To the south, there is a four-story 30-unit condominium development. To the west of the property, there is a 40-unit apartment building, Casa Real, listed as a Category 4 Historic Resource on the City’s Historic Inventory. When completed in 1930, it was the only seven-story building in the City. ANALYSIS 2 The property is located within the boundaries of the South of Forest Area (SOFA) 1 Coordinated Area Plan (CAP).3 The Comprehensive Plan designation is SOFA 1 CAP. This CAP implements the City of Palo Alto Comprehensive Plan and provides more detailed programs and policies for the specifically defined SOFA 1 CAP. For the subject property, the SOFA 1 CAP simply designates the site as "RM-40." During the 1999-2006 Housing Element cycle, the City Council adopted SOFA 1 CAP as a planning tool to address a specific nine block area comprised of 19 acres. The policy framework for SOFA 1 CAP is for a walkable and livable neighborhood that is compatible with the surrounding area, transitioning from a low-density detached housing in the south-east to higher density closer to downtown. The SOFA 1 CAP also envisions a neighborhood that takes advantage of the opportunities presented by its close proximity to Downtown Palo Alto and the regional transit center at the University Avenue/Downtown train station. Some existing zoning designations remain in effect, e.g. RM-30, RM-40, R-2, and PF, which largely retain the current associated zoning designation and development standards. Maintaining housing on the site would align with Comprehensive Plan Policy B-6.2 that provides uses in SOFA 1 CAP should be maintained that complement the downtown business district. Further, promoting infill development with higher densities nearby transit corridors helps to reach the goals of energy conservation and integrating land use with transportation. 2 The Palo Alto Comprehensive Plan is available online: https://www.paloalto.gov/files/assets/public/v/2/planning- amp-development-services/3.-comprehensive-plan/comprehensive-plan/full-comp-plan-2030_with-june21- amendments.pdf 3 The South of Forest Area (SOFA) 1 Coordinated Area Plan is available online: https://www.paloalto.gov/files/assets/public/v/1/planning-amp-development-services/file-migration/current- planning/forms-and-guidelines/south-of-forest-coordinated-area-plan-phase-1.pdf Goal L-7 that provides for the conservation and preservation of Palo Alto’s historic buildings, sites, and districts. 4 The site is currently zoned RM-40 (medium density multi-family residential). Multi-family housing is identified as a permitted use in the RM-40 Zone District. The proposed project exceeds the standards under the RM-40 zone district and proposes to deviate from these standards in a manner consistent with the zoning ordinance through the PHZ rezoning process as set forth in PAMC Chapter 18.38. For projects proposing to rezone to PHZ, Council has the authority to set the parameters for most development standards, which would be reflected in the tailored ordinance for the new Planned Community District. However, for informational purposes, Attachment B compares the development standards under the current RM-40 zone district with the proposed project in order to assist Council in considerations of how these deviations relate to the proposed public benefits of the project. A 4.21:1 FAR where 1:1 FAR is allowed in the RM-40 zone; 85 feet height where 40 feet is allowed in the RM-40 zone; The private open space meets the 50 square feet per unit average, however, the project proposes common open space be provided through a shared common space located on the adjacent parcel; Does not comply with the required side and rear daylight planes; 110 parking spaces where no minimum parking is required (AB 2097); No bicycle parking shown where 82 long term spaces are required; and No loading space is proposed, where one space would normally be required. The building massing is not stepped back where it is more than 20 feet taller the average height of an adjacent building. This step back standard starts within two vertical feet of the height of the adjacent building. The step back would be a minimum depth of six feet along both the façade on the primary building frontage and the facing façade of the adjacent building, and the step shall occur for a minimum of 70% of each façade length. This project proposes ground-level parking as well as a portion underground. In order to 4 The Palo Alto Zoning Code is available online: https://codelibrary.amlegal.com/codes/paloalto/latest/paloalto_ca/0-0-0-76269 do so, it must also be lined with commercial or habitable uses with a minimum depth of 20 feet along the street frontage. The alternative is to fully underground the parking (PAMC 18.24.060(c)(7)). A 50-foot height limit. A daylight plan of 45-degree angle measured at 10 feet up on the property line for the side lot lines and the setbacks of the RM-30 zone district would apply or a daylight plane of 30-degree angle measured at 10 feet up on the property line may be used with lesser setbacks. A 10-foot setback with landscape screen on the southern interior side yard that abuts the RM-30 zoned parcel. use or business), or be charged a parking fee, but cannot require that any voluntary parking is free of charge to residents.5 No bicycle parking is currently shown on the plans. Based on the 82-unit count, 82 long-term bicycle spaces are required. Bike parking would be required to be shown on the plans as part of any formal application and would need to be designed to meet the requirements of a Restricted-Access Bicycle Enclosure as defined in PAMC 18.54.060(a)(2)(B). SOFA 1 CAP does provide reductions in parking requirements for mixed-use projects with shared parking of up to 20%, and 15% for housing, community development projects, and office projects with shared parking. The project site could potentially accommodate a through lot connection to Homer Avenue connecting the property to the adjacent Museum of American Heritage property located at 351 Homer Avenue. The applicant indicated that there is no desire to have a connection through the property. Since the proposed project is a rezoning, Council has the discretion to approve or deny the applicant’s request. This project has yet to be analyzed for consistency with the City’s Bicycle and Pedestrian Transportation Plan and other transportation policies such as Council’s Local Transportation Impact Analysis Policy adopted on June 15, 2019 (CMR 11256). This analysis would be conducted as a part of any formal application and reviewed by the Office of Transportation. Inclusionary Requirement and Jobs Housing Imbalance The intent of limiting PHZ projects to residential and residential mixed-use is to address the job/housing imbalance and to support increased housing production within the City, consistent with the City’s RHNA allocation. PHZ projects are required to provide more housing than jobs on site. As this is a 100% residential project, no new jobs would be created. The project is required to provide 20% of the units at Below Market Rate at an average of 80% AMI in accordance with Council’s requirements for projects seeking to rezone using the PHZ process. The applicant is currently proposing 20% (16 units) provided at a rate affordable to low income. This is consistent with Option 2 presented in the June 23, 2020, Council staff report,6 which provides greater weight and flexibility towards providing very-low income units. Open Space Project plans indicate that 91 square feet of private open space will be provided per unit. The floor plan provided for a typical level of the building indicates that most units would have a balcony or patio space. The existing open space provided on the adjacent parcel for the Casa Real building is shown to be shared with the project. An easement would be required over the 5 Gov. Code, § 65863.2, subd. (g). 6 June 23, 2020, Council staff report: https://www.paloalto.gov/files/assets/public/v/1/agendas-minutes- reports/reports/city-manager-reports-cmrs/year-archive/2020/id-10715.pdf Casa Real open space to provide access to the subject property. Project plans also note that the lobby and amenity space would be located on the adjacent parcel. A lot line adjustment would be needed to allow the proposed amenity space to be located on the same property rather than crossing property lines. POLICY IMPACT FISCAL/RESOURCE IMPACT STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW ATTACHMENTS APPROVED BY: LMAN STREET FOREST A V ENU E BRYANT STREET WAV HO 365 Bldg C 675 Bldg A 385 Bldg D 690 Bldg D 315 707 332 345 36050 40-746 40 372 704 712 720 730 724 351 646 6 650 643 325 664 730 724 1 350 737 375 Bldg C 654 This map is a product of the City of Palo Alto GIS This document is a graphic representation only of best available sources. Legend Assessment Parcel Palo Alto Assessment Parcel Palo Alto Assessment Parcel Outside Palo Alto abc Road Centerline Small Text (TC) Curb Face (RF) Pavement Edge (RF) Address Label Points (AP) Current Features 0' 51' Attachment A 332 Forest Ave CITY OF PALO ALTO INCOR P O R ATED CALIFORNIA P a l o A l t oT h e C i t y o f APRIL 1 6 1894 The City of Palo Alto assumes no responsibility for any errors. ©1989 to 2016 City of Palo Alto sswitze, 2025-06-23 09:10:09Assessor Parcels (\\cc-maps\Encompass\Admin\Meta\View.mdb) ATTACHMENT B 332 Forest Ave, 25PLN-00130 Table 1: COMPARISON WITH CHAPTER 18.13 (RM-40 DISTRICT), and Section 18.38.150 (PC District Special Requirements) Regulation Required Proposed Residential Project Minimum/Maximum Site Area, Width and Depth 8,500 square feet area, 70 foot width, 100 foot depth 25,000 square feet lot, 100 foot width, 300 foot depth Minimum Front Yard (2) 0-25 feet (1) 10 feet Rear Yard 10 feet 10 feet Interior Side Yard 10 feet, 6 feet for properties less than 70 feet wide 10 feet Street Side Yard 0-16 feet (2)N/A Setback from major roadways (1) [18.13.040(b)(1)(A)] 0-25 feet (1)N/A Max. Building Height 40 feet, 35 feet for portions of a building within 50 feet of a more restrictive residential zone/use 85 Feet PC Special Requirements for Height 50 ft when within 150 feet of RM-30, no restriction otherwise. 85 Feet Side Yard Daylight Plane (7)10 feet at interior side lot line then 45 degree angle Does Not Comply Rear Yard Daylight Plane (7)10 feet at rear setback line then 45 degree angle. None for lots > than 70 ft wide Does Not Comply PC Special Requirements for Daylight Plane daylight planes same as most restrictive abutting residential district (RM-30) Does Not Comply Max. Site Coverage 45%, plus 5% for covered patios (11,250 square feet) 87% (21,780 square feet) Max. Total Floor Area Ratio (4)1.0:1 4.21:1 Max. Residential Density (3) 40 DU/AC 143 DU/AC Minimum Site Open Space 20% (5,000 square feet) 0 square feet Minimum Usable Open Space (5)100 square feet per unit (8,200 square feet) 0 square feet Minimum Common Open Space 50 square feet per unit (4,100 square feet) 0 square feet Minimum Private Open Space 50 square feet per unit (4,100 square feet) 91 square feet (1) Minimum front setbacks shall be determined by the Architectural Review Board upon review pursuant to criteria set forth in Chapter 18.76 and the context-based criteria outlined in Section 18.13.060. Arterial roadways do not include residential arterials. (2) Minimum street side setbacks in the RM-40 zone may be from 0 to 16 feet and shall be determined by the Architectural Review Board upon review pursuant to criteria set forth in Chapter 18.76 and the context-based criteria outlined in Section 18.13.060. (3) Provided that, for any lot of 5,000 square feet or greater, two units are allowed, subject to compliance with all other development regulations. (4) Covered parking is not included as floor area in multi-family development, up to a maximum of 230 square feet per required parking space. Covered parking spaces in excess of required parking spaces count as floor area. (5) Subject to the limitations of Section 18.13.040(e). Usable open space is included as part of the minimum site open space; required usable open space in excess of the minimum required for common and private open space may be used as either common or private usable open space; landscaping may count towards total site open space after usable open space requirements are met. (6) Tandem parking is allowed for any unit requiring two parking spaces, provided that both spaces in tandem are intended for use by the same residential unit. For projects with more than four (4) units, not more than 25% of the required parking spaces shall be in a tandem configuration. (7) Each daylight plane applies specifically and separately to each property line according to the adjacent use. Table 2: CONFORMANCE WITH CHAPTER 18.52 (Off-Street Parking) for Multiple-Family Residential Type Required Proposed Vehicle Parking 1 space per 1 bedroom unit (27 units) 2 spaces per 2 bedroom or more unit (55 units) 137 spaces required 110 spaces Bicycle Parking 1 space per unit (100% long term) 82 required None Development Statement May 16, 2025 Project Summary As a local family with deep roots in Palo Alto spanning nearly 50 years, the Giovannotto family is proud to introduce Forest Commons, a thoughtfully designed 82-unit residential community located at 332 Forest Avenue in downtown Palo Alto. Forest Commons presents a unique opportunity to deliver a substantial number of pedestrian- friendly, transit-oriented housing units on a scale that can make a real difference while enhancing the existing neighborhood fabric. A diverse mix of family-friendly unit types will be made available —as well as a significant number of below market rate housing units—attracting a wide range residents seeking a vibrant, walkable community with proximity to downtown services and abundant transit options. The project delivers significant community benefits, including housing units not accounted for in the Housing Element, as well as 16 below market rate units (20%). Additionally, the development will further bolster the vitality of downtown and generate substantial new property tax revenue for the City. This is the right site for new downtown housing, the property is strategically located less than a half- mile from the University Avenue Caltrain station and is only steps from downtown Palo Alto. For families, several local Elementary Schools, including Addison, are within walking distance, and our middle and high schools are within short biking distances. To support residents while minimizing any impact on street parking availability, the proposal includes a generous 1:1 parking ratio. Constructed with a Type III wood structure over a Type I concrete podium, this project promises a high-quality and sustainable addition to Palo Alto's housing stock. Beyond walkability to City services and amenities, residents will enjoy modern on-site wellness amenities such as a well- equipped fitness center, welcoming community gathering spaces, and access to the reimagined outdoor grounds of the adjacent ‘Casa Real’ property. Architecturally, the project demonstrates contextual sensitivity at its core. Its design draws inspiration from its surroundings, notably the prominent and architecturally significant Casa Real. Respecting the neighborhood's scale, the design aligns with existing datum lines and maintains an 85-foot building height (plus parapet), which allows for it to achieve significant density without overwhelming the existing context. Additionally, the project will offer residents access to the combined amenities of both Forest Commons and Casa Real, fostering a richer living experience. We are eager to collaborate with the City to deliver this vital housing project, enriching downtown Palo Alto’s vibrancy while honoring its character, embracing inclusivity, and advancing a forward- thinking vision. Addressing The Need for Housing Our review of the Housing Element reveals a recognized need for increased housing density near transit hubs. Within a half-mile radius of both Palo Alto Caltrain Stations, 24 identified sites are collectively planned to yield 346 housing units. This underscores the demand for additional housing in transit-oriented areas. Although Forest Commons was not specifically listed as an opportunity site, its realization would by itself contribute nearly one-quarter of the total housing units targeted for the downtown area, which is the most transit-oriented and pedestrian-friendly of all districts. Due to the scarcity of underutilized sites in the downtown area, the Housing Element identifies only four potential units within RM-40 zoning—all designated for above moderate-income households. This lack of viable sites is not limited to RM-40 zones. A significant majority of the opportunity sites near the Caltrain stations are also too small to support economically viable development. For example, Table 3-17 in the Housing Element highlights four representative sites averaging just 0.14 acres, with an average allocation of only 4.25 units. Approving this project would represent a major stride toward achieving the City's stated housing goals. This infill project is a rare underutilized downtown site and will address Palo Alto’s pressing housing needs. Density & Entitlements – The PHZ Process The proposed project achieves a density of 143 units per acre to yield 82 new housing units. The site's current RM-40 zoning limits density to 40 units per acre, and thus requires a Planned Housing Zone (PHZ) application to realize this more appropriate density. Considering the property's existing land use and height context, we firmly believe that a density of 143 units per acre is both fitting and essential to meaningfully address Palo Alto's pressing housing needs. As part of the PHZ application, we will ask the City consider the following adjustments to the current zoning: Standard Zoning Proposed Existing Use The existing 1925 building currently houses only 16 units and occupies a mere 27% of the lot. This leaves a significant portion of valuable land in Palo Alto's urban core underutilized. The existing building does not have a historic designation. Major Project Benefits • Catalyzes Major Investment and Redevelopment near CalTrain: Transforms underutilized property in a transit-proximate location. • Prioritizes Pedestrian and Bicycle Connectivity: Creates a walkable and bikeable environment. • Directly Addresses Palo Alto's Housing Needs: Provides crucial new units to meet community demands. • Integrates 16 Dedicated Below Market Rate Housing Units: Fosters inclusivity and affordability within the community. • Generates Significant Economic Stimulus: Injects vitality into the Palo Alto economy. • Harmonizes with Surrounding Commercial Character: Respects and complements the existing commercial landscape. • Delivers Diverse, High-Quality Housing Options: Offers a range of residences near transit, employment hubs, and essential services. • Elevates Community Sustainability and Energy Efficiency: Incorporates environmentally responsible design and operation. Relevant Figure and Table from the 2023-2031 Palo Alto Housing Element If you need assistance reviewing the above documents, please contact the Project Planner or call the Planner-on-Duty at 650-617-3117 or email planner@paloalto.gov Project Plans In order to reduce paper consumption, a limited number of hard copy project plans are provided to Council members for their review. The same plans are available to the public, at all hours of the day, via the following online resources. Directions to review Project plans and environmental documents online: 1. Go to: bit.ly/PApendingprojects 2. Scroll down to find “332 Forest Ave” 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.paloalto.gov/Departments/Planning-Development-Services/Current- Planning/Projects/332-Forest-Avenue From:christie Posnak To:Council, City; Switzer, Steven Subject:Re: 25PLN-00130 - 332 Forest Avenue (“Forest Commons”) Date:Monday, August 11, 2025 12:00:23 PM CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautiousof opening attachments and clicking on links. i Letter Opposing the rezoning of 332 Forest Avenue, Palo Alto Dear Members of the Palo Alto City Council and Mr Switzer, I am writing to express my deep concern and strong opposition to the proposed building project at 332 Forest Avenue. This development would significantly impact the quality of life of every resident of our neighborhood, and on a personal note the health of my elderly mother, who has Parkinson’s disease and lives at home under 24-hour care. Our condo is directly across the fence from where the proposed eight-story “Forest Commons” would be built. My mother carefully planned her retirement to ensure she could enjoy her later years in the comfort of her home and the proposed construction threatens her cognitive health and overall well-being. I am not sure if the Council is aware that approval of this project would mean cutting down deeply rooted Redwoods protected by the Tree Ordinance Protection. If this plan is approved not only would you be setting a precedent for overriding long-standing zoning protections, but would remove protection of our Redwoods which provide environmental benefit and are a source of community pride. Development must not come at the expense of the residents who are the foundation of this community. I urge you to reject this proposal and uphold protections that preserve the character, safety, and well-being of our neighborhood. Our community’s fragile peace and the health of its most vulnerable residents should remain a priority over short-term monetary gains for builders. Thank you for your careful and compassionate consideration. I trust you will make the decision that best safeguards the spirit and health of our neighborhood. Sincerely, Christie Posnak 707 Bryant St., Apt #303 cposnak@gmail.com This message needs your attention This is a personal email address. This is their first email to your company. Mark Safe Report From:Clerk, City To:Council, City Subject:332 Forest Ave Public Comment Date:Monday, August 11, 2025 11:59:30 AM Attachments:332 Forest Ave 1.pdf 332 Forest Ave 2.pdf 332 Forest Ave 3.pdf 332 Forest Ave 4.pdf Hello City Councilmembers, Please find the attached public comment letters. Thank you, City Clerk’s Office 1 Bissell, Nicole From:Humphrey Yang <humphrey06@gmail.com> Sent:Friday, August 8, 2025 5:09 PM To:Switzer, Steven Subject:332 Forest Avenue - Support Letter CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautious of opening attachments and clicking on links. i This message needs your attention This is a personal email address. This is their first email to your company. Mark Safe Report Powered by Mimecast Steven, I wanted to write a letter to voice my support of the development project at 332 Forest Avenue. As a recent downtown Palo Alto resident, I was able to spend the majority of my day within walking distance of everything I needed, including the Hasset Hardware, the Post Office, Stanford Campus, and plenty of restaurants. This project is a win for sustainable urban living. The building’s scale makes sense in its location, since it is so close to everything Palo Alto has to offer in its downtown and near other bigger buildings. I urge you to approve this development to enhance Palo Alto’s walkable, pedestrian-focused future. thank you, Humphrey 1 Bissell, Nicole From:CARTER WILLIAMS <carterwilliams26@gmail.com> Sent:Saturday, August 9, 2025 11:08 AM To:Switzer, Steven Subject:Item #2: 332 Forest Avenue project CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautious of opening attachments and clicking on links. i This message needs your attention This is a personal email address. This is their first email to you. Mark Safe Report Powered by Mimecast Dear Palo Alto City Council, I'm a current resident of downtown Palo Alto and I’m writing in strong support of the proposed housing project at 332 Forest Avenue. I love being part of the downtown — everything's here and walkable (so nice!) — but actually finding a place to live downtown was incredibly difficult. There just isn’t enough downtown housing. I walk by 332 Forest often and have looked at the building illustration on the sign many times. It looks like it belongs and fits in well with the neighborhood. Thank you and I hope you’ll support this project. Sincerely, Carter Williams 1 Bissell, Nicole From:Karen White <kwhite.karenl@gmail.com> Sent:Saturday, August 9, 2025 4:09 PM To:Council, City Subject:Support for 332 Forest Ave. Development CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautious of opening attachments and clicking on links. i This message needs your attention This is a personal email address. This is their first email to you. Mark Safe Report Powered by Mimecast Hon. Members of the Palo Alto City Council: My husband and I are writing to you in support of the proposed development at 332 Forest Ave. This support comes with a strong caveat that the number of non-resident parking permits in zone 5 be reduced by at least 50%. First, the proposed structure would blend in well with the tall rental buildings that are very close to the proposed development. We agree that we need more housinging in University South and appreciate the number of parking spaces that the developers have provided. However, to pay the very high rent in University South (we have been homeowners for 30+ years), you usually need two jobs and two cars. The construction of these apartments and the new residents will require dozens of additional parking spaces in the University South area. Our home is within a few hundred yards of the development, and we have two cars and only one parking space, so one must park on the street. It is usually hard to find a space, as the restaurant patrons and the nonresident/employee permit holders park it all up. So, please approve this building, but recommend that the authorities reduce the number of non-resident parking permits in zone 5. There are lots of spaces a few more blocks away that are often unused. We believe that property owners should have a better chance of finding a parking space in their own block. Respectfully, Karen White and Patrick Butler 700 Block of Ramona Street, University South 1 Bissell, Nicole From:BPA membership <barronpark.paloalto@gmail.com> Sent:Sunday, August 10, 2025 11:10 PM To:Switzer, Steven Subject:332 Forest CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautious of opening attachments and clicking on links. i This message needs your attention This is a personal email address. Mark Safe Report Powered by Mimecast Dear Steven Switzer, I am writing to express my concerns regarding the proposed development at 332 Forest Ave. The City Packet for 332 Forest goes into detail how the proposed plan needs exemptions for many codes. These exemptions are detrimental to the adjacent structures (ex. 707 Bryant - incorrectly labeled 707 Forest in the City Packet). There is no need to have the exemptions on such a large property. The owner/builder has space to work within the expected guidelines. Two parking entrances ( 707 Bryant & proposed 332 Forest) located close together and near the Bryant corner are a danger for bikes, pedestrians & cars. Since Giovannotto owns Casa Real & 332 Forest, there are many ways to make this project compatible with neighboring structures.The project can be altered to limit adverse impact on the small density neighbors & limit new safety issues. Possible changes: 1. Lower level areas ( Lobby, community room, lounge, townhome units) can be placed on the side of 707 Byrant. This has less adverse impact on 707 Byrant neighbors. 2. Locate driveway/parking entrance adjacent to the Casa Real Driveway ( not adjacent to 707 Bryant). This is safer for the Bryant Ave Bike Blvd. Also this has less adverse impact on 707 Bryant. 2 3. Locate areas of open space to be adjacent to 707 Bryant. Casa Real/ 332 Forest ( note pool removed from Casa Real) have many areas of proposed open space. Lisa Landers 707 Bryant From:Judith Swope To:Council, City; Switzer, Steven Subject:332 Forest Avenue Date:Monday, August 11, 2025 9:39:14 AM CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautious of opening attachments and clicking on links. I am very concerned about proposed construction of an apartment building at 332 Forest Avenue. I live in a three story condo next door to the proposed building. I met the developer (from New York) a few years ago when he was trying to cut down the three large Redwood Trees that border our properties. He could care less about the concerns of the residents of our beautiful city. Money was his only motivation. We got the city involved and they denied his request. The zoning standards should not be exempt on this project. Other projects in our downtown neighborhood have obeyed the zoning standards. This is not NewYork City. The owners of our condos will be subjected to two plus years of noise, dirt, and construction plus the loss of sunlight, views, and privacy. I will be at the meeting tonight with many of the condo owners. Thank you, Judith Swope 707 Bryant Street, Unit 207 Sent from my iPad From:Clerk, City To:Council, City Subject:FW: Yes to 332 Forest Avenue Date:Monday, August 11, 2025 8:00:10 AM Good morning City Council, Please see the below public comment letter. Thank you, City Clerk’s Office From: Melanie Bentley <melanielsbentley@gmail.com> Sent: Friday, August 8, 2025 4:01 PM To: Switzer, Steven <Steven.Switzer@paloalto.gov> Subject: Yes to 332 Forest Avenue CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautious ofopening attachments and clicking on links. Dear Project Planner,The pressing need to support Palo Alto’s essential workers, particularly in healthcare, drives my enthusiastic endorsement of the proposed housing development at 332 Forest Avenue. As a nurse at Stanford Hospital, I work grueling shifts—often exceeding 80hou i This message needs your attention This is a personal email address. This is their first email to your company. Mark Safe Report CGBANNERINDICATOR Dear Project Planner, The pressing need to support Palo Alto’s essential workers, particularly in healthcare, drives my enthusiastic endorsement of the proposed housing development at 332 Forest Avenue. As a nurse at Stanford Hospital, I work grueling shifts—often exceeding 80 hours a week—with residents, fellows, and doctors-in-training alongside me, sometimes managing only 12 hours off between marathon schedules. Living in Redwood City, I rarely have the energy or time to enjoy Palo Alto’s vibrant downtown, like grabbing a meal at Reposado or catching a yoga class at Yoga Source, both of which are just blocks from the 332 Forest Avenue site. I noticed the development sign while parking to visit a friend, and it sparked hope that housing in this prime downtown location could be possible. This project could allow so many people, including healthcare workers like myself and coworkers, to live closer to Stanford, reducing punishing commutes and enabling us to enjoy Palo Alto more frequently. I urge you to advance this initiative swiftly to address our critical housing shortage. Sincerely, Melanie Bentley From:Clerk, City To:Council, City Subject:FW: Support for 332 Forest Avenue Development Date:Monday, August 11, 2025 7:54:34 AM Good morning City Council, Please see the below public comment. Thank you, City Clerk’s Office From: Brad Ehikian <brad.ehikian@prprop.com> Sent: Thursday, August 7, 2025 3:29 PM To: Switzer, Steven <Steven.Switzer@paloalto.gov> Subject: Support for 332 Forest Avenue Development CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautious ofopening attachments and clicking on links. Hi Steven,I wanted to write an email to express my support for the 332 Forest Avenue Development. Palo Alto is a great place to work and live, and DOWNTOWN sites like 332 Forest Avenue, which have the scale to create meaningful housing units, are incredibly rare. As a city which i This message needs your attention This is their first email to you. Mark Safe Report CGBANNERINDICATORHi Steven, I wanted to write an email to express my support for the 332 Forest Avenue Development.Palo Alto is a great place to work and live, and DOWNTOWN sites like 332 Forest Avenue,which have the scale to create meaningful housing units, are incredibly rare. As a city whichprides itself on being both pedestrian and bike friendly, 332 Forest Ave delivers. This projectwill be a great addition to Palo Alto. I hope you can recommend positive feedback for 332Forest Ave. Thank you, -- BRAD EHIKIAN Partnerdre license #01736391 539 ALMA ST PALO ALTO, CA 94301DIRECT: 650 / 618-3001 MAIN: 650 / 618-3000FAX: 650 / 618-3009 www.premierpaloalto.com Nothing in this message (or any attachments thereto) should be interpreted as an offer to enter into a lease, contact, or other legally binding agreement nor shall this email (or any attachments thereto) constitute a digital or electronic signature that can be used to execute, accept or authenticate a document, contract, or offer. Powered by Mimecast From:Clerk, City To:Council, City Subject:FW: Strong support- From a long term resident of Palo Alto Date:Monday, August 11, 2025 7:53:40 AM Good morning City Council, Please see the below public comment. Best, City Clerk’s Office From: Patrick Foy <patrickfoy@gmail.com> Sent: Friday, August 8, 2025 11:44 AM To: Switzer, Steven <Steven.Switzer@paloalto.gov> Subject: Strong support- From a long term resident of Palo Alto CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautious ofopening attachments and clicking on links. Dear Mayor and City Council of Palo Alto,I encourage you to advance the project proposed at 332 Forest Avenue because we critically need it. I grew up in Palo Alto and I still live here, but I’m the exception – most of my classmates from Palo Alto now live in other cities. Theyt i This message needs your attention This is a personal email address. This is their first email to your company. Mark Safe Report CGBANNERINDICATOR Dear Mayor and City Council of Palo Alto, I encourage you to advance the project proposed at 332 Forest Avenue because we critically need it. I grew up in Palo Alto and I still live here, but I’m the exception – most of my classmates from Palo Alto now live in other cities. They tell me that lack of housing is almost always the reason, because they would prefer to live here. We keep losing the special Palo Alto culture when the people that grew up here are not able to raise their own family here. It’s really important that this project keeps moving forward and gets built. Thank you, Patrick Foy Powered by Mimecast From:BPA membership To:Council, City Subject:332 Forest Concerns Date:Sunday, August 10, 2025 10:47:23 PM CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautiousof opening attachments and clicking on links. i Dear Mayor Lauing and Council Members: I am writing to express my concerns regarding the proposed development at 332 Forest Ave. The City Packet for 332 Forest goes into detail how the proposed plan needs exemptions for many codes. These exemptions are detrimental to the adjacent structures (ex. 707 Bryant - incorrectly labeled 707 Forest in the City Packet). There is no need to have the exemptions on such a large property. The owner/builder has space to work within the expected guidelines. Two parking entrances ( 707 Bryant & proposed 332 Forest) located close together and near the Bryant corner are a danger for bikes, pedestrians & cars. Since Giovannotto owns Casa Real & 332 Forest, there are many ways to make this project compatible with neighboring structures.The project can be altered to limit adverse impact on the small density neighbors & limit new safety issues. Possible changes: 1. Lower level areas ( Lobby, community room, lounge, townhome units) can be placed on the side of 707 Byrant. This has less adverse impact on 707 Byrant neighbors. 2. Locate driveway/parking entrance adjacent to the Casa Real Driveway ( not adjacent to 707 Bryant). This is safer for the Bryant Ave Bike Blvd. Also this has less adverse impact on 707 Bryant. This message needs your attention This is a personal email address. This is their first email to you. Mark Safe Report 3. Locate areas of open space to be adjacent to 707 Bryant. Casa Real/ 332 Forest ( note pool removed from Casa Real) have many areas of proposed open space. Lisa Landers 707 Bryant From:cherry@cherrylebrun.com To:Council, City; Switzer, Steven Subject:Proposal for 332 Forest Avenue Date:Sunday, August 10, 2025 7:13:26 PM Dear Palo Alto City Council and Planning Department, I am writing to you regarding the proposal the City of Palo Alto is considering to rezone the property at 332 Forest Avenue. I own a unit in the three-story adjacent condominium building(707 Bryant Street). The proposed plan would allow the construction of an 8-story, 82-unit apartment complex. I am very concerned that this project would dramatically change the character of our residential neighborhood, block views from our building and others, and create significant impacts in terms of traffic, noise, privacy, and parking congestion. We want to ask that you do not allow a building that is taller than other apartment buildings already on our block, such as the one at 360 Forest, the neighboring property. Sincerely, Cherry LeBrun and Forrest Warthman 707 Bryant Street, Unit 202 Palo Alto, CA 94301 From:Robin Farmanfarmaian To:Council, City Subject:Proposed building at 332 Forest Ave, Palo Alto Date:Sunday, August 10, 2025 5:32:30 PM CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautiousof opening attachments and clicking on links. i Dear Mayor and Councilmembers, I am a resident of 360 Forest Ave, directly adjacent to the proposed development at 332 Forest Ave. I strongly oppose this project due to the severe and lasting impact it will have on my health, my quality of life, and the livability of our neighborhood. The proposed height and density are far outside the scale and character of this area. An 8-story structure will: 1) Block sunlight entirely on one side of our building, depriving many apartments of natural light and contributing to poorer physical and mental health for residents. 2) Eliminate long-standing views, replacing open space with a wall of concrete and glass. 3) Set a dangerous precedent for allowing oversized developments in established residential neighborhoods. 4) As someone who works from home full-time, I am deeply concerned about the multi-year construction process. The constant, high-decibel noise will make working from home nearly impossible. I don't have the choice to go to an office, because the company I work for doesn't have a physical office. I don't know what I would do if I can't work from home anymore. 5) Many residents here, including myself, are partially disabled or live with severe chronic illnesses. For us, prolonged exposure to loud noise, vibration, and dust is not just an inconvenience, it is a serious health risk. My healthcare providers have cautioned me that this type of long term construction could cause me to have multiple hospitalizations. I can have my healthcare professionals write letters if that is helpful. 6) Our building is over 50 years old, with original windows that offer no sound insulation and have large gaps that allow air (and dust) to pass through even when closed. Demolition and construction will release toxins into the air, which will easily infiltrate our homes. For those of us with respiratory and autoimmune conditions, this could trigger hospitalizations. This message needs your attention This is a personal email address. This is their first email to your company. Mark Safe Report 7) Parking is already challenging in this area. During construction, the influx of large vehicles will make parking for residents and visitors, including my nurses and other vital medical care providers, extremely difficult, potentially delaying time-sensitive medical treatments. To be clear, my life could be at risk. 8) Beyond the construction period, adding 82 new units in this location will overwhelm parking and increase traffic congestion on narrow neighborhood streets. This level of density will fundamentally change the character and safety of our community. 9) For those of us tenants with disabilities, cancer, and chronic diseases like myself, moving would be an extreme hardship. Staying would also be an extreme hardship. I urge you to reject this project to preserve the livability, safety, and health of the residents who already call this neighborhood home. Please help us keep the area habitable, healthy, and in harmony with the existing community Thank you for considering everyone who lives and works in the area, Robin Farmanfarmaian 15-year resident of (since 2010): 360 Forest Ave, Apt 506 Palo Alto, CA 94301 415-994-2138 From:slevy@ccsce.com To:Council, City Subject:332 Forest Date:Sunday, August 10, 2025 12:35:43 PM CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautiousof opening attachments and clicking on links. ! Dear Mayor Lauing and council members, I just got a letter from our board president alerting residents but also saying this project would dramatically change the character of the neighborhood. This not my perspective living in one of 3 large adjacent buildings but also I go on alert whenever I hear character of the neighborhood. I wrote back to owners and residents explaining where DTN fits into the city's housing goals and other background omitted in the first letter. But I imagine you may hear more of this from residents who themselves enjoy the convenience and accessibility of living near DTN. I again hope you give positive feedback to the owner as we thi kind of housing and location meet so many city goals and, as yet there are few if any large proposals for the DTN area. Stephen Levy This message could be suspicious The sender's email address couldn't be verified. Mark Safe Report Powered by Mimecast From:Brigham Wilson To:Council, City Subject:Support for rezoning 332 Forest Ave Date:Sunday, August 10, 2025 8:26:30 AM CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautiousof opening attachments and clicking on links. i I am writing in support of rezoning 332 Forest avenue into PHZ in order to allow for the construction of 82 units. Our city needs new housing. A larger building matches the size and density of the properties next door and across the street. This is the type of development that is perfect for downtown to help there continue to be residents that keep the neighborhood lively and retail having customers who can walk to their stores. We need more developments like this! Brigham Wilson 9yr resident of Palo Alto This message needs your attention This is a personal email address. This is their first email to you. Mark Safe Report From:Karen White To:Council, City Subject:Support for 332 Forest Ave. Development Date:Saturday, August 9, 2025 4:09:12 PM CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautiousof opening attachments and clicking on links. i Hon. Members of the Palo Alto City Council: My husband and I are writing to you in support of the proposed development at 332 Forest Ave. This support comes with a strong caveat that the number of non-resident parking permits in zone 5 be reduced by at least 50%. First, the proposed structure would blend in well with the tall rental buildings that are very close to the proposed development. We agree that we need more housinging in University South and appreciate the number of parking spaces that the developers have provided. However, to pay the very high rent in University South (we have been homeowners for 30+ years), you usually need two jobs and two cars. The construction of these apartments and the new residents will require dozens of additional parking spaces in the University South area. Our home is within a few hundred yards of the development, and we have two cars and only one parking space, so one must park on the street. It is usually hard to find a space, as the restaurant patrons and the nonresident/employee permit holders park it all up. So, please approve this building, but recommend that the authorities reduce the number of non-resident parking permits in zone 5. There are lots of spaces a few more blocks away that are often unused. We believe that property owners should have a better chance of finding a parking space in their own block. Respectfully, Karen White and Patrick Butler 700 Block of Ramona Street, University South This message needs your attention This is a personal email address. This is their first email to you. Mark Safe Report From:Fred Kohler To:Council, City Cc:pdsdirector Subject:332 Forest Prescreening Date:Friday, August 8, 2025 3:29:23 PM CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautiousof opening attachments and clicking on links. i To Palo Alto City Council: Several corrections to the Planning Department Analysis for the prescreening of the 332 Forest project which are important for the review at the 8/11/25 City Council meeting. 1)The project covers both the 332 and 350 Forest lots, not just 332 as marked on the map. 2)Therefore, the proposed project adjoins the Weatherly condo building (315 Homer) as well as the 707 Bryant condo building (misidentified in the report as 707 Forest. 3)Daylight plane and setback analysis must be performed for 315 Homer as well as 707 Bryant. In addition, we saw that the proposed project specifications were compared to the current zoning for the site. There is a paragraph on the State Bonus Density Law Alternative which indicates that the proposed project far exceeds the number of units required by the law. However, there is no further analysis of what would comply with the state law. Given the support for housing projects in the downtown area, this could well be a critical point in the analysis of this project. Regards, Fred Kohler Kuo-Jung Chang This message needs your attention This is a personal email address. This is their first mail to some recipients. Mark Safe Report From:Richard Mager To:Council, City; Switzer, Steven Subject:Rezoning Proposal for 332 Forest Avenue: City Meeting Aug 11 Date:Thursday, August 7, 2025 1:29:39 PM CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautiousof opening attachments and clicking on links. i Dear Planning Department, I am writing to you as the City of Palo Alto is considering a proposal to rezone the property at 332 Forest Avenue. I live in the three-story adjacent property (707 Bryant Street). It looks like the plan would be to allow the construction of an 8-story, 82-unit apartment complex. No other apartment building in our neighborhood comes close to the scale and size of this building and I fear that this project would drastically change the character of this quiet neighborhood, block views, and create significant impacts in terms of traffic, noise, privacy, and parking congestion. Someone said that parking would be above ground on the first few floors. The noise created by this would be very disturbing to the residents on that side of our building. Please try to keep any project reasonable in scale and have the parking underground. Sincerely, Richard and Shari Mager Apartment 302 Palo Alto, CA 94301 This message needs your attention This is a personal email address. This is their first email to your company. Mark Safe Report From:Ardan Michael Blum To:d.Lauing@paloalto.gov; Veenker, Vicki; Burt, Patrick; Lythcott-Haims, Julie; Lu, George; Reckdahl, Keith; Stone, Greer; Council, City Cc:Ah Yun, Mahealani Subject:All too often, ambitious project visions eclipse essential details that can lead to unintended, lasting impacts. Date:Thursday, August 7, 2025 11:30:54 AM CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautious of opening attachments and clicking on links. Dear Members of the Palo Alto City Council, I am writing as a concerned resident of Palo Alto to advocate for a more thorough and comprehensive review process for building and development proposals. My comments focus on the proposed eight-story housing project at 332 Forest Avenue, part of the South of Forest Area (SOFA) Coordinated Area Plan (CAP) Phase 2. While I commend the city's commitment to addressing our housing shortage, I urge greater scrutiny of project details to ensure they align with the community's long-term well-being. All too often, ambitious project visions eclipse essential details that can lead to unintended, lasting impacts. In the case of 332 Forest Avenue—located near the library and City Hall—this development would adjoin the existing tall Casa building but disrupt a neighborhood that has maintained a charming blend of smaller structures, with only occasional taller ones, for many decades. Introducing another large-scale "monster building" would irrevocably alter the area's character and, for residents at nearby addresses like 345 Forest, permanently obstruct southward views. Moreover, the demolition and construction phases of such projects impose significant burdens on surrounding residents, a factor that warrants more attention in approvals. These activities generate excessive noise, dust, and traffic disruptions, which can be intolerable for those in adjacent rental units—often leading to involuntary displacement among financially vulnerable households. To mitigate health risks, I strongly recommend mandating a comprehensive pre-demolition inspection for hazardous materials, including asbestos and lead, in the building's basement and foundation. Though I have no specific knowledge of contaminants at this site, residents. Looking ahead, Palo Alto must prioritize sustainable community development beyond mere housing expansion. This includes fostering public dialogue on rent control to stabilize housing for many residents. I suggest incorporating a clause in this project—and all future ones—stipulating that, should rent control legislation be enacted, properties built beforehand would retroactively comply with its provisions. Additionally, I request greater transparency from the applicant regarding project specifics. For example, the plans reference studios and an on-site gym; the Planning Department should require explicit clarification on whether this amenity will result in higher rents for those units. I do not oppose progress, but I believe it must be equitable, thoughtful, and inclusive. I respectfully ask the City Council and Planning Department to adopt a more rigorous evaluation framework that balances broad goals with granular details affecting residents' daily lives. Thank you for your attention to this vital issue. Sincerely, Ardan Michael Blum From:Clerk, City To:Council, City Subject:FW: Letter Regarding 332 Forest Avenue Proposal (25PLN‑00130) Date:Thursday, August 7, 2025 8:36:14 AM Attachments:Opposition Letter to 332 Forest Avenue Rezoning.pdf Good morning City Council, Please see the attached public comment. Thank you, City Clerk’s Office From: Doron Noyman <dnoyman@aol.com> Sent: Tuesday, August 5, 2025 6:27 PM To: Switzer, Steven <Steven.Switzer@paloalto.gov> Cc: Donna Noyman <donnanoyman@gmail.com> Subject: Letter Regarding 332 Forest Avenue Proposal (25PLN‑00130) CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautiousof opening attachments and clicking on links. Dear Mr. Switzer, Attached is my letter regarding the proposed development at 332 Forest Avenue. I will not be able to attend the meeting on Monday, August 11, but I would like to ensure that my comments are taken into consideration as part of the public record.Thank you for your CGBANNERINDICATORDear Mr. Switzer, Attached is my letter regarding the proposed development at 332 Forest Avenue. I will not be able to attend the meeting on Monday, August 11, but I would like to ensure that my comments are taken into consideration as part of the public record. Thank you for your time. Best regards, Doron Noyman Doron and Donna Noyman 707 Bryant St #305 Palo Alto, CA 94301 From:Clerk, City To:Council, City Subject:FW: Topic: 332 Forest Avenue Date:Thursday, August 7, 2025 8:34:15 AM Good morning City Council, Please see the below public comment. Thank you, City Clerk’s Office -----Original Message----- From: Ardan Michael Blum <ardan.michael.blum@gmail.com> Sent: Wednesday, August 6, 2025 6:27 PM To: Switzer, Steven <Steven.Switzer@paloalto.gov> Subject: Topic: 332 Forest Avenue CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautious of opening attachments and clicking on links. Dear Honorable City Council Members, Members of the Planning Department, and To Whom It May Concern, I am writing as a concerned resident of Palo Alto to advocate for a more thorough and comprehensive review process for building and development proposals. My comments focus on the proposed eight-story housing project at 332 Forest Avenue, part of the South of Forest Area (SOFA) Coordinated Area Plan (CAP) Phase 2. While I commend the city's commitment to addressing our housing shortage, I urge greater scrutiny of project details to ensure they align with the community's long-term well-being. All too often, ambitious project visions eclipse essential details that can lead to unintended, lasting impacts. In the case of 332 Forest Avenue—located near the library and City Hall—this development would adjoin the existing tall Casa building but disrupt a neighborhood that has maintained a charming blend of smaller structures, with only occasional taller ones, for many decades. Introducing another large-scale "monster building" would irrevocably alter the area's character and, for residents at nearby addresses like 345 Forest, permanently obstruct southward views. Moreover, the demolition and construction phases of such projects impose significant burdens on surrounding residents, a factor that warrants more attention in approvals. These activities generate excessive noise, dust, and traffic disruptions, which can be intolerable for those in adjacent rental units—often leading to involuntary displacement among financially vulnerable households. To mitigate health risks, I strongly recommend mandating a comprehensive pre-demolition inspection for hazardous materials, including asbestos and lead, in the building's basement and foundation. Though I have no specific knowledge of contaminants at this site, proactive testing is crucial given its proximity to hundreds of residents. Looking ahead, Palo Alto must prioritize sustainable community development beyond mere housing expansion. This includes fostering public dialogue on rent control to stabilize housing for many residents. I suggest incorporating a clause in this project—and all future ones—stipulating that, should rent control legislation be enacted, properties built beforehand would retroactively comply with its provisions. Additionally, I request greater transparency from the applicant regarding project specifics. For example, the plans reference studios and an on-site gym; the Planning Department should require explicit clarification on whether this amenity will result in higher rents for those units. I do not oppose progress, but I believe it must be equitable, thoughtful, and inclusive. I respectfully ask the City Council and Planning Department to adopt a more rigorous evaluation framework that balances broad goals with granular details affecting residents' daily lives. Thank you for your attention to this vital issue. Sincerely, Ardan Michael Blum From:Doron Noyman To:Council, City Cc:Donna Noyman Subject:Letter Regarding 332 Forest Avenue Proposal (25PLN‑00130) Date:Tuesday, August 5, 2025 6:33:32 PM Attachments:Opposition Letter to 332 Forest Avenue Rezoning.pdf CAUTION: This email originated from outside of the organization. Be cautiousof opening attachments and clicking on links. i This message needs your attention No employee in your company has ever replied to this person. The subject has non-English characters. This is a personal email address. Mark Safe Report Dear Council Members, Attached is my letter regarding the proposed development at 332 Forest Avenue. I will not be able to attend the meeting on Monday, August 11, but I would like to ensure that my comments are taken into consideration as part of the public record. Thank you for your time. Best regards, Doron Noyman Doron and Donna Noyman 707 Bryant St #305 Palo Alto, CA 94301 Powered by Mimecast August 11, 2025 www.PaloAlto.gov 332 Forest Avenue Pre-screening Presenter: Steven Switzer, Planner 2 COUNCIL PRE-SCREENING PROCESS •Required for legislative changes, including rezonings, before a formal application. •Provides early feedback only; no formal decisions are made. •Councilmembers are expected to refrain from forming firm opinions, as the proposal may return for future formal action. 3 •Prescreening to rezone from Multiple Family (RM-40) to Planned Home Zoning (PHZ) to allow for: o 82 rental units o (8) Eight-story structure with at and below grade parking CONCEPTUAL PROJECT 4 PROJECT LOCATION Location •South of Forest Area (SOFA I CAP) •Near Downtown Other nearby housing projects (1) 345 Forest Avenue (Staller Court)–85 Units (2) 365 Forest Avenue – 17 Units (3) 360 Forest Avenue (Casa Real) – 40 Units (4) 707 Bryant Street – 19 Units Project Site 4 5 Site Plan Scale and Design •Height (85 ft vs 50 ft) •Lot Coverage (87% vs 45%) •Floor Area (4.21:1 vs 1:1) •Density (143 DU/AC vs 40 DU/AC) Parking and Services •Required: 137 Spaces •Proposed: 110 Spaces •Underground and at grade parking •Required Bicycle Parking: 82 spaces •Proposed Bicycle Parking: 0 Spaces Open Space •Shared with adjacent property 6 Elevations North (fronting Forest Avenue)South 7 Elevation (East) 8 Elevation (West) 9 Parking and Services •Reduced parking (AB 2097) •Underground and at grade parking •Only residential uses proposed •No bicycle parking (82 required) •Through lot connection Historic •Conflicting Historic Evaluations (Requires Peer Review) KEY CONSIDERATIONS Housing and Affordability •16 BMR units proposed (20% of units at 80% AMI) •Housing Crisis Act of 2019 (Protections/Benefits for 16 existing units) •Local Relocation Assistance (PAMC Ch. 9.68) PHZ Requirements •Transitional Height (85 ft vs 50 ft) •Daylight plane (None) 10 CEQA STATUS •No review under the California Environmental Quality Action (CEQA) is required for a preliminary review. •A full review in accordance with CEQA would be initiated with the formal filing of a development application. 11 RECOMMENDED MOTION Staff recommend that Council conduct a prescreening and provide informal comments regarding the applicant’s request to rezone the property at 332 Forest Avenue from Multiple Family Residential (RM-40) to a Planned Home Zoning (PHZ). Comments provided during the prescreening process are not binding on the City or the applicant. STEVEN SWITZER Planner Steven.Switzer@PaloAlto.gov 650-329-2321 FOREST COMMONS Council Pre-Screening August 11, 2025 Community Benefits Rob Steinberg, FAIA Steinberg Hart Architecture The Fourth Corner – Unique Opportunity SITE One Community – Three Components Fo r e s t A v e n u e A B C A B C Casa Real Existing historic building Forest Commons New residential building Garden Shared by Casa Real and Forest Commons Shared Garden Respect the Past, Celebrate the Future Sculpting the Massing Details from Casa Real Forest Avenue Streetscape Thank you