Public Meetings - Davis, California

The Davis City Council met on Tuesday, April 23, 2024, at 6:45 PM (agenda listed 6:30 PM) in Community Chambers. The meeting included ceremonial proclamations for Earth Day and Arbor Day, a presentation from the Mosquito and Vector Control District, a discussion on downtown Form-Based Code amendments, and the presentation of the 2024-2027 Davis Police Department Strategic Plan. The Consent Calendar was approved 5-0. Ceremonial Presentations - Earth Day Proclamation (April 22, 2024): Vice Mayor Vaitla read the proclamation; community member Lynn Nittler spoke in support, highlighting the 2024 theme “Planet vs. Plastics.” - Arbor Day Proclamation (April 27, 2024): Councilmember Partida read the proclamation; Torrin Denavant accepted, thanking the city for urban forest support. City Manager & Council Announcements - City Manager Mike Webb announced commission recruitment (deadline April 29), a memorial bench and bike path naming for Kareem Abu Najim at Sycamore Park on April 29, Picnic in the Park returning May 1, and Lupalooza on May 5. - Councilmember Arnold thanked staff for successful Picnic Day. Public Comments & Testimony - General Public Comment (Item 3): Multiple speakers addressed anti-Semitic incidents and hate rhetoric in Davis, citing flag vandalism, offensive posters at Picnic Day, and personal harassment. Speakers (Yaniv, Dan Ovaria, Margaret, Robert Holland, Natalia) urged council to take a stand. Another speaker (Alan Miller) requested enforcement of minor traffic infractions and raised concerns about tinted windows and bright headlights. One voicemail (Connor Gorman) supported creating more public space downtown and criticized police involvement in non-criminal issues. Consent Calendar - Approved 5-0. Items included Senior Center Facility Improvement Project contract, Water System Saddle Replacements, landscape maintenance agreements, Watchman 8 sculpture repair (declared emergency), water service agreement amendment, E Street Plaza parking lot restrictions (Councilmember Chapman recused due to business proximity), Golden Heart Awards, Environmental Recognition Awards, and City Council Goals 2024/2025 informational. Discussion Items - Sacramento-Yolo Mosquito & Vector Control District (Item 5): Manager Gary Goodman presented 2024 outlook. Last year saw a tenfold increase in West Nile virus human cases in Yolo County (26 deaths in 2022, 23 in 2023, per county data). Invasive Aedes mosquitoes threaten Zika, dengue, chikungunya transmission. District uses integrated management: public information, surveillance (hundreds of traps), biological control (4,000 lbs of fish/year), ecological management, and control operations. Councilmember Vaitla connected spread to climate change; Goodman confirmed. Council praised outreach improvements during aerial spraying. - Downtown Davis Form-Based Code (Item 6): Principal Planner Dara Dungworth presented five topics: (1) adding detached house as allowed building type in Neighborhood Medium zone; (2) exempting nonconforming structures from site design standards; (3) rebuilding on existing nonconforming footprints; (4) development on large consolidated lots; (5) allowing second primary structure on a building site. Council consensus: no to allowing new detached homes (uphold code intent); support for reasonable additions to existing homes; no to rebuilding on nonconforming footprints for new construction; support for lot consolidation; no to second primary structure on same site. Staff will take direction to Planning Commission. Potential unit loss if detached homes allowed: 210 units (30 lots × 7 units each). - Davis Police Department 2024-2027 Strategic Plan (Item 7): Deputy Chief Todd Henry presented the plan developed through community meetings, business surveys, school district input, and internal staff survey. Six goals: community engagement (public dashboards, diverse workforce), crime reduction (DDI program, fentanyl tracking, emergency medical dispatch), traffic safety (OTS grants, education), employee development, employee health & well-being, and futures (technology, ALPRs, AI). Council discussion: Vice Mayor Vaitla asked about building trust with marginalized communities – Chief Pytel emphasized consistent presence and connections; Councilmember Neville noted staffing challenges; Councilmember Arnold supported intelligence-led policing detective position. No vote taken. Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar: Approved 5-0. - Form-Based Code: Council gave clear direction on five topics; staff will craft amendments for Planning Commission and return to Council. - Police Strategic Plan: Informational only; Council requested future check-ins and a focus on mental health support for officers. - Long Range Calendar (Item 8B): Councilmember Vaitla requested future agenda items on city actions for severe mental illness, Measure J RDA exemption options, and General Plan update preparations. Agreed to discuss in May.

The Davis City Council met on Tuesday, April 9, 2024, at 6:31 p.m. in the Community Chambers. The meeting included ceremonial proclamations, public comments, approval of a consent calendar, discussion and adoption of 2024/2025 City Council Goals, a mid-year budget update, and a long-range calendar item. The meeting adjourned after approximately three hours. Ceremonial Presentations - National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week (April 14-20): Councilmember Partida presented the proclamation. Jennifer Candelario and Jean Lyan accepted. Partida shared a personal story about relying on dispatchers for her son's health emergencies. - Child Abuse Prevention Month (April): Councilmember Neville presented. Rochelle (Vice Chair of the Child Abuse Prevention Council) and Jennifer (Yolo County Children's Alliance Director) accepted. Rochelle noted that in 2023, Yolo County conducted 1,044 child abuse investigations, leading to 135 children entering foster care. Black children aged 0-5 represented 10% of those despite being only 2% of the child population. - National Donate Life Month (April): Vice Mayor Vaitla presented. Steve Streeter shared the story of his son Nathan, a 31-year-old filmmaker with cerebral palsy who died in March 2021. Nathan's organ donations saved two lives: a chiropractor (kidney) and a married woman with two children (liver). Angelica Williams from Sierra Donor Services also spoke. Consent Calendar The consent calendar was approved unanimously (5-0) after brief comments on items E, H, and M: - Item 4E: Safety Enhancement Zone for Picnic Day 2024. Mayor Chapman noted last year's spillover into Walnut Park. City Manager Webb explained the zone is based on historical call volumes and that patrols will monitor areas outside the zone. - Item 4H: Co-application with The Climate Center for a grant to develop roadmaps for municipal utilities to own/operate community microgrids. Councilmember Neville highlighted alignment with climate goals. - Item 4M: 2024 Thong Hy Huynh Awards nominations. Councilmember Partida acknowledged community concerns about some nominees but stressed the importance of supporting uncomfortable but brave work. She also apologized for scheduling the ceasefire resolution on a Jewish holiday. - Other items approved: Community Park Shade Structure Rehabilitation contract, audit services amendment, Cool Davis MOU, fire protection services amendment, Pony Express trail signs, Unitrans LCTOP funding authorizations, ICARP grant applications, salary table and position listing, weed abatement public hearing, parking ordinance second reading, budget adjustments, commission minutes. Public Comments & Testimony - Daniel (External Affairs Commission chair): Urged council to prioritize physical accessibility, lighting, and student engagement. - Anika Ogerwall (External Affairs Commission): Re-emphasized accessibility issues, especially for people with disabilities. - Beth Bourne: Spoke against transgender identity and drag performances, claiming they harm children. She referenced two competing events on April 13: a forum on girls' sports at the library and a "Drag for Liberty" event by Davis Phoenix Coalition. She alleged taxpayer funds ($6,000) were used for the drag event. - Dorothy Jensen: Expressed concern about potential bomb threats at the upcoming library event (April 13, 2 p.m.) and defended Beth Bourne, calling defamation claims "disgraceful." - Todd Edelman: Questioned commission recruitment website errors and asked about impacts of the Oakland A's potential relocation to West Sacramento on Davis traffic. - Anush (LGBTQ+ community member): Called for consequences for escalating anti-LGBTQ+ hate campaigns, citing recent threats. - Dylan: Supported proclamations, noted work with Nathan Streeter, and urged full inclusion. - Joshua Smith: Asked council to weigh in on state bills affecting renters and housing (AB 2785, AB 2801, AB 3116, SB 312). - Connor Gorman (pre-recorded): Discussed Cesar Chavez celebration and UC Davis Pow-Wow on April 13. Also commented on I-80 tolls, alleging misrepresentation in grant applications. On consent item M, he raised concerns about Patty Fong's past work as a deputy DA. - Dima Tmimi (pre-recorded): Strongly supported Annie Temple's nomination for the Thong Hy Huynh Award, citing her work for peace and social justice. - Additional pre-recorded comment on item 6: Connor Gorman questioned police overtime and training effectiveness, urging reallocation of police funds to social services. Discussion Items Item 5: City Council Goals 2024/2025 - Consultants Bill Mueller and Jerry Azevedo (Integrated Communications Strategies) presented a draft based on a February 2024 goal-setting retreat. Six objectives were proposed: 1) Striving for Fiscal Resilience, 2) Strengthening Climate Resilience, 3) Shoring Up the Housing Continuum, 4) Improving Social Services for Vulnerable Populations, 5) Maintaining High-Quality Infrastructure and Services, 6) Stepping Up Economic Development Activities. - Council feedback: Vice Mayor Vaitla suggested merging objective 6 into objective 1 (fiscal resilience) and changing "striving" to "achieving" fiscal resilience. He proposed adding carbon negativity language, sustainability in economic development, and support for underrepresented small business owners. Councilmember Neville supported measurable outcomes, especially a housing dashboard. Councilmember Partida preferred keeping objective 6 separate, emphasizing equity preamble. Councilmember Arnold agreed on keeping objective 6, adding urban forest to infrastructure. Mayor Chapman suggested reordering objectives. - Amendments adopted: change title to "Achieving Greater Fiscal Resilience"; add preamble on equity, diversity, inclusion, and community engagement; add carbon neutrality commitment with vision toward carbon negativity; reference urban forest in infrastructure objective; include sustainability language and support for small businesses (especially underrepresented) in economic development; add annual progress report and housing dashboard under housing continuum. - The motion passed unanimously (5-0) with the understanding staff would incorporate edits and finalize the document. Item 6: FY 2023/24 Mid-Year Budget Update - Finance Director Elena Adair presented remotely. Key points: - General fund reserves projected at under 10% (down from adopted 16.4%), driven by increased costs (PGE, labor contracts, insurance) and revenue fluctuations. - Property tax up 6.2% (25% from new construction, rest from CPI and property sales). Sales tax state portion declining, local portion increasing from new car sales. - Business license stable; transient occupancy tax (TOT) down $200,000; cannabis tax down due to state slowdown. - Construction/development-related revenues variable; $0.8 million collected so far vs. $2.5 million budgeted. - Police overtime up $600,000 (leaves, mandatory training), fire down $500,000 (fewer fires). - Proposed budget amendments: reallocating salary savings, covering PGE increases, adjusting for grant-funded easement purchase ($780,000 for Gill Orchard 2 from DIF to grant). - Council discussion: concerns about declining reserves; Councilmember Neville asked about immediate actions; Vice Mayor Vaitla asked about revenue declines (attributed to economic factors, shopping habits, cannabis black market). Councilmember Partida emphasized communicating reserve importance to public. - Staff recommendation 1 (accept mid-year report) was acknowledged. Council approved Resolution amending the FY 2023/24 budget (motion by Partida, second by Neville), unanimous (5-0). Key Outcomes - Proclamations: Declared weeks for Public Safety Telecommunicators, Child Abuse Prevention, and Donate Life. - Consent Calendar: Approved unanimously (5-0). - City Council Goals 2024/2025: Adopted with amendments (5-0). Staff will finalize document; next reporting is annual (with more frequent housing dashboard). - Mid-Year Budget Amendments: Approved resolution (5-0). Staff will continue monitoring reserves and bring mid-cycle update May 21, 2024. - Long-Range Calendar: Councilmember Partida requested a future agenda item on a Trans Sanctuary City resolution. Council consensus supported adding it.

The City of Davis Planning Commission met on Wednesday, March 27, 2024, at 7:00 p.m. in Community Chambers, 23 Russell Boulevard, Davis, CA. Chair Greg Rowe presided; Vice Chair Michelle Weiss and Commissioners Linda Deos, Vince McLaughlin, Johannes Troost, Georgina Valencia, and alternate Alan Bennett were present. Commissioner Darryl Rutherford was excused, and Bennett voted in his place. The Commission approved the agenda and minutes, held a public hearing on the University Retirement Community (URC) Covell expansion, and unanimously approved the project with an added design-review condition related to intersection safety. The meeting adjourned at approximately 9:06 p.m. Brief Announcements - Principal Planner Dara Dungworth announced a soft launch of the city's pre-designed accessory dwelling unit (ADU) plans; several inquiries and applications are moving forward. - Commissioner Troost reported on the March 11, 2024 Palomino Ranch EIR scoping meeting: roughly 20–25 people attended, and most public questions concerned home prices and possible workforce housing set-asides similar to Grand Village, rather than environmental topics. Consent Calendar Chair Rowe modified the consent calendar so each set of minutes was voted separately because commissioners who were absent for a given meeting recused themselves. All were approved unanimously: - September 27, 2023 minutes - October 11, 2023 minutes (Rutherford and Valencia absent) - November 8, 2023 minutes (Rowe and Troost absent) - December 13, 2023 minutes (Troost absent) - January 10, 2024 minutes (Bennett absent) Public Comments & Testimony No members of the public spoke during the general non-agenda public comment period, and no recorded comments were received. For the URC public hearing, the Commission heard from ten speakers. Positions included: - Elaine Roberts Musser, a private attorney and former Davis Senior Citizens Commission chair, expressed strong concern that placing the expansion across Covell Boulevard from the main campus creates a burden on frail elders, risks inadequate skilled nursing supply, and may raise state licensing and ADA compliance problems. - John Taylor, an independent-living resident since 2014, former resident council president, and URC board member, expressed support, citing demand, parking relief, state approval, and planned upgrades to the existing campus. - Judith Williams, a URC resident, expressed concern about shuttle capacity and hours, dining access after 7 p.m., handicapped parking, and whether the expansion's construction costs would be fully covered by new resident buy-ins. - Gary Godefroy, a URC resident for two years, expressed support, saying the project is proactive and meets demand for continuing care retirement community amenities. - Jim Daniel, retired actuary, URC resident, and Senior Citizens Commission co-chair speaking personally, argued the expansion does not comply with voter-approved Measures J, R, and L and City Council Resolution 18-094 because the Senior Citizens Commission concluded that negative impacts on current residents far outweigh positive benefits. - Larkin Lapides, a URC resident, expressed support and noted planned improvements to assisted living, memory care, dining, and parking. - Marcia Wilson, URC resident and Master Plan Resident Task Force chair, expressed support and asked for improvements to the Covell/Shasta corridor and intersection, plus upgrades to existing facilities. - Kim Icorn, a Davis resident, URC board member, and realtor, expressed support, saying demand is high (some prospective residents have waited up to 10 years) and the adjacent location is the best available option. - Alika Castillo, URC executive director, expressed support, describing the campus master plan process since February 2020, resident engagement, and improvements benefiting current residents. - Bob Kerr, URC Board of Directors chair, expressed support, citing multi-year board collaboration, resident council input, financial monitoring, and the board's community credentials. Discussion Item: URC Covell Expansion Public Hearing Staff and applicant presentation: - The proposed project is a 74,396 sq. ft., four-story residential building with 34 two-bedroom licensed Residential Care Facility for the Elderly (RCFE) units and administrative offices, a two-story parking structure with rooftop gardens and amenities, and seven two-bedroom cottages on a 3.1-acre site in the Bretton Woods Final Planned Development. - Staff recommended (1) determining that no further environmental review is needed under EIR SCH2017042043 and (2) approving Design Review application 23-65, including a floor area ratio (FAR) increase from 0.5 to 0.66. Staff stated that the FAR increase was what triggered Planning Commission review; the project would otherwise have been administratively approvable. Staff also noted the nearby affordable apartments were approved at a 0.77 FAR. - Staff explained that operational concerns, including health, safety, and welfare of current residents, were assigned to the Senior Citizens Commission by the preliminary planned development; the Planning Commission's action is limited to design review findings under Municipal Code Section 40.31.08 and the Bretton Woods Design Guidelines. - Applicant Brian McLamore and architect Jay Blatter described the design, resident consultation, state Department of Social Services review, financial and market feasibility studies, parking and bicycle improvements, emergency power planning, and a draft shuttle schedule. They noted the building is set back about 142 feet versus the guideline's 75-foot minimum and that the parking structure helps screen Covell Boulevard noise. - Commissioner questions addressed Department of Social Services approval timing, RCFE licensing, parking placement, flood mitigation, EV charging, solar/battery systems, emergency power, dining and transportation plans, and whether the bonus provisions in Municipal Code Section 40.15.080 apply. Staff confirmed those bonus provisions do not apply because the project is not in a mixed-use zone. Commission deliberation focused on the Covell/Shasta/Riesling intersection. Several commissioners supported the project as much-needed senior housing but wanted stronger assurance that the intersection would be safe for residents to cross. Commissioner McLaughlin proposed expanding Condition of Approval 30 to require a survey assessing the overall safety of that intersection. Staff responded that subdivision improvements already meet city standards, the city traffic engineer can adjust signal timing, and the master developer (De Nova) is responsible for the improvements. Commissioner Troost cited past city cost issues such as the Cannery underpass and Mace Boulevard and urged clarifying responsibility. Chair Rowe also suggested measuring crosswalk timing on a summer Thursday when residents use shopping carts to reach the farmers market. Key Outcomes - The Commission unanimously (7–0) approved the first recommendation: no further environmental review is necessary and the project is consistent with the certified Bretton Woods EIR. - The Commission unanimously (7–0) approved Planning Application 23-65 for design review, including the FAR increase from 0.5 to 0.66, subject to the findings and conditions of approval, with Condition of Approval 30 expanded to require a survey assessing the overall safety of the Covell/Shasta/Riesling intersection. - The Commission did not incorporate the Senior Citizens Commission's operational motions into the approval, because those issues are outside the Planning Commission's design-review scope. Long Range Calendar - Staff stated the April 10, 2024 meeting likely will not occur; the next meeting is likely April 24, 2024. Future scheduled dates are April 10 and 24, May 8 and 22, and June 12 and 26. - Upcoming or potential items include objective design standards work, downtown specific plan/form-based code cleanup amendments, and the Child's Ranch development agreement extension. Staff also provided an informal update on form-based code implementation, including a resubmitted hotel project that staff said is now more consistent with the code.

The Davis City Council convened on March 19, 2024, at 6:46 PM. The meeting included ceremonial proclamations, City Manager announcements, approval of the consent calendar, and discussion and votes on two tree appeals, a downtown decorative lighting plan, and the city's Water Assistance Program. Consent Calendar - The council approved the consent calendar (5-0), which included routine approvals and items not pulled for discussion. - Councilmember Arnold requested that staff send responses to public commenters who asked questions regarding consent items, particularly around electrification and fleet electrification. Staff agreed to share that information. Public Comments & Testimony - David Carlson (property owner at 2121 Second Street): Expressed support for updating the city's cannabis tax rate, suggesting matching Santa Rosa's rate to attract more cannabis businesses to his property, which has space for cannabis manufacturing and distribution. He noted the industry is struggling but that his property has six years of no significant incidents. - Colleen G. Gorman: Spoke during general public comment against Proposition 1, arguing incarceration is not an effective way to address mental health issues, and urged residents to check their vote status. Also promoted union rallies for AFSCME 3299. - Robert Traverso (homeowner at 1316 Torrey Street): Argued for removal of a Chinese tallow tree, citing $15,000 in property damage (roof, landscaping, driveway, water line) from limb-falling and root damage. He said the tree is an invasive species not suited as a street tree. - Sophia Mattingley (homeowner at 1104 Los Robles): Expressed safety concerns about a Beta pine tree in her backyard, citing lean, large sap dropping, and buckle Termites. She said the tree is creating an unsafe yard for her children. - Colin Walsh (Tree Commission member, speaking as an individual): First comment: Supported staff recommendation for 1104 Los Robles but noted that if councils vote to remove, mitigation fees should be charged. Second comment: Supported staff recommendation for decorative lighting on poles, noting it protects tree health, is compliant with Dark Sky and city codes, and benefits wildlife. - Several public commenters (via written/online comments): Supported the lighting plan, praised tree commission for advocating tree health, and expressed appreciation for the tree canopy and the need for safe lighting. - One public commenter: Expressed concern about students not being able to attend the meeting but supported the lighting plan. - One public commenter: Supported expanding the water assistance program and increasing the monthly allowance. Discussion Items - Tree appeal on 1316 Torrey Street (Tree Commission decision, February 7, 2024): The property owner appealed a decision to retain a Chinese tallow tree. Staff recommended putting the tree on annual inspection. Council members debated the issue. Councilmember Arnold raised points about the asymmetry of property owners facing costs when the city requires a tree to remain, and Councilmember Chapman supported the appeal, noting that the tree is invasive and that property damage can occur without city records. Council voted 4-1 to grant the appeal and approved removal with a $3,067 mitigation fee. - Tree appeal on 1104 Los Robles (Tree Commission decision, August 2, 2023): The homeowner appealed a decision to retain a bruta pine tree. Staff recommended structural pruning and annual inspections. Council heard about the homeowner's concerns regarding property damage and property damage. Councilmember Neville preferred to rely on the Tree Commission's judgment, while Councilmember Partita wanted to test the tree for lean before deciding. Councilmember Arnold supported the appeal, saying the tree is in poor form and the homeowner has compelling reasons. The mayor (Chapman) was excused. The motion to grant the appeal lacked a second, so it failed. Councilmember Partita moved staff recommendation with an added to inspect the tree within 10 days for lean and root gaps. The motion passed 4-0. - Downtown Decorative Lighting Plan (Item 7): Staff presented results from 500 additional survey respondents. The preferred option (Option 2) is to have decorative lighting on poles with Edison bulbs, anchored to streetlights. Benefits: no harm to trees, compliance with Dark Sky, reduced vandalism, and better consistency. Estimated costs: $3,000 to $5,800 per block for installation, plus $564 for a full block. Staff proposed engaging the Downtown Business Association (which already receives $10,000/year for beautification) for cost-sharing. Council supported the plan and directed staff to return with an implementation plan, phased approach, and cost-sharing A motion for staff recommendation passed 5-0. - Water Assistance Program (Item 8): Staff reported that the program had a $10/month credit for eligible households (through PG&E Care enrollment). Only 77 of 250 available spots used. Late fees (typical $100,000/year in inflated after COVID have been $300,000 but are expected to drop). Staff recommended increasing the monthly credit and removing the amount from city code to allow easier future adjustments, and also recommended maximizing initial the current cap before expanding. Council directed staff to proceed with legislation and outreach. The motion passed 5-0. - City Manager Announcements: Mike Webb reported the purchase of a 120-acre agricultural conservation easement ($960,000 total, funded 25% from Measure O and open space fees) and the launch of the HateFree Together website (hatefretogethr.org). - Council Member Announcements: Councilmember Arnold requested that public commenter questions be shared; staff agreed. - Councilmember Reports/Voter: No reports were made. - Dir. Proclamations: American Red Cross Month, Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, and Women’s History Month were recognized. Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar: Approved 5-0, with a request for public sharing of responses to commenters. - Tree Appeal (1316 Torrey): Appeal granted (motion 5-0 with 4 ayes, 1 nay). Mitigation fee of $3,067 to be paid. - Tree Appeal (1104 Los Robles): Appeal denied; motion (4-0) to retain the tree with mandatory inspection within 10 days for snag. The tree commission will continue monitoring. - Downtown Lighting Plan: Direction to staff to return with plan, phase, and cost estimate with DBA involvement; motion passed 5-0. - Water Assistance Program: Staff directed to increase monthly credit (value to be determined), remove fixed amount from code, and report back by end of 2024; motion passed 5-0. - Long-Range Calendar: Next meeting scheduled for April 2, 2024. No changes noted.

The Davis City Council met on Tuesday, March 5, 2024, at 6:30 PM in Community Chambers. Key topics included a proposed letter to state officials regarding I-80 widening, an update on the city's cannabis regulatory framework, and the 2023 Housing Element Annual Progress Report. After extensive public comment and council debate, the council declined to send the I-80 letter but directed the legislative subcommittee to submit comments on the Caltrans Investment Framework. On cannabis, the council directed staff to align local rules with state licensing, review regulatory fees and tax structure, and complete a Cannabis Benefit Fund Impact Report, while deferring a decision on increasing the retail cap pending further market analysis. The housing report was received with appreciation. Consent Calendar - Approved third extension for Final Map No. 5199 (Bretton Woods Phase 1, Lot 3) and authorized the City Manager to execute the Subdivision Agreement with DeNova Homes, Inc. - Appointed Councilmembers Donna Neville and Will Arnold to an Ad Hoc Subcommittee on the Village Farms Davis project for development agreement and tax share negotiations. - Received informational minutes from the Historical Resources Management Commission meeting of September 18, 2023. Public Comments & Testimony Item 4 – I-80 Letter: - Numerous public comments were received, both in person and via voicemail. Speakers expressed a range of views: - Support for the letter (and for stronger opposition to widening) came from: Alan Hirsch (Davis Lorax), Dylan (individual), Greg Crawford (individual), Jan Trost (Congregation Beth Hava’ne Social Justice Committee), Todd Edelman (individual), and many voicemail callers (e.g., Gaina Landang, Angie Fondo as chair of Yolo County Climate Action Commission, Ellen Callark, Steve Murphy, Dr. Roy Kaplan, Judy Ennis, Ferris Fendronski, Dora Lee Gwendur Catona, John Catona, Victoria Whitworth, Gabriel Ehrlich, Barbara Cletter, David Schoenbrunn, Mark Hushing, Roberta Milstein, Alan Miller, Bill Miller, Jim Zanetto). They argued that widening would not fix congestion, would increase greenhouse gas emissions (including a 15% increase to Davis’s carbon footprint), undermine climate goals, and encouraged the council to focus on transit alternatives. Some requested the letter be sent to Yolo TD. - Opposition to the letter and support for the widening (or for a more moderate approach) came from: Ken Wagstaff (former councilmember, argued for managing congestion), Autumn Bernstein (executive director of Yolo Transportation District, presented survey data showing majority of 750 Davis respondents prefer a carpool lane or bus-only lane, not a tolled express lane), Don Saylor (former SACOG board member, urged council not to pass the letter, called for “all of the above” approach), Kathleen Hanley (SACOG principal planner, highlighted freight needs and regional toll network), and voicemail callers Robert Davidson, Gene Dinas, Julie Curry (supported HOV lane). - Several commenters suggested the letter should explicitly call for stopping the project and should be sent to Yolo TD. Item 5 – Cannabis Business Update: - Ashley Cammar (CEO, Davis Cannabis Collective) urged the council not to lift or remove the cap on retail storefronts, stating the industry is struggling due to high taxes, illicit markets, and large corporations engaging in predatory pricing. - Rob (co-owner, F Street Dispensary) argued that more dispensaries would not increase total revenue due to a fixed and shrinking market, citing openings in Woodland, Winters, and Vacaville. - Mary Kay Hole (owner, Good People Farms – delivery only) requested the council consider allowing her business to open a retail storefront, noting that delivery sales mostly come from outside Davis and a storefront would increase city revenue. Item 6 – Housing Element Report: No public comments. Item 7 – Long Range Calendar: No public comments. Discussion Items Item 4 – Consideration of Letter to State Regarding Transportation – I-80: - City Manager Mike Webb provided background: the council had previously (Jan 9, 2024) submitted CEQA comments on Caltrans’s draft EIR for the I-80 project. The current item was a letter drafted by the Legislative Subcommittee (Councilmembers Arnold and Neville) to Governor Newsom and state agencies, focusing on broader policy conflicts between the project and state climate/transportation goals (e.g., CAPTI). - Councilmember Neville, a co-author, explained she initially supported the letter but now believed it did not serve a clear purpose, lacked an actionable request, and did not reflect a consensus view of the council or community. She recommended not sending it and instead suggested the council submit comments on the Caltrans Investment Framework (due April 15) which seeks alignment with CAPTI. - Councilmember Arnold stated he was comfortable with the letter, acknowledging that all sides had valid points (induced demand, temporary congestion relief, transit funding), but he would not support sending it on a bare majority vote. - Councilmember Partida expressed similar concerns about lack of community consensus and noted that many residents she spoke with support widening to reduce cut-through traffic. She preferred to focus on transit investment rather than the letter. - Vice Mayor Vaitla strongly supported the letter, citing state policy (CAPTI) and research on induced demand. He argued that the status quo is not an option and that the council should take a clear position. - Mayor Chapman opposed sending the letter, stating the council does not have the power to stop the project, and the letter misrepresents a community consensus. He argued for a regional perspective and noted that the I-80 project includes a managed lane that could fund transit. - The council ultimately defeated the motion to send the letter (no formal vote taken; lack of consensus led to action not proceeding). Instead, they voted 5-0 on a motion by Vice Mayor Vaitla, seconded by Councilmember Arnold, to direct the Legislative Subcommittee (Neville and Arnold) to submit comments to the Caltrans Investment Framework by the April 15 deadline, representing the council’s views. Item 5 – Cannabis Business Update: - Assistant City Manager Kelly Stachowicz presented an overview of the city’s cannabis regulatory framework, including land use permits, cannabis business permits (operational), and business license tax. Current counts: 4 active storefront dispensaries, 1 non-operational storefront (946 Olive – CUP still valid), and 3 other businesses (delivery, manufacturing, etc.). Revenues have fluctuated; FY2024 to date is $1.2 million, with FY2025 estimated at $2.4 million. - Staff asked for council feedback on: (2) whether to increase or remove the cap on retail storefronts (currently at 5); (3) align local licensing with state rules; (4) update regulatory fees; (5) complete a Cannabis Benefit Fund Impact Report. - Councilmembers discussed the state of the industry (market saturation, corporate consolidation, black market, high local taxes). Councilmember Arnold noted that the original five operators included Good People Farms, which was not selected. He supported increasing the cap only for delivery-only businesses to open a storefront, but not a free-for-all. He also expressed interest in commercial cultivation and addressing the black market. - Councilmember Partida asked about education requirements in dispensaries (none currently) and inquired about allowing delivery-only businesses to open storefronts. - Vice Mayor Vaitla expressed interest in getting one more year of revenue data before deciding on increasing the cap. - Mayor Chapman preferred not to remove the cap entirely, nor to add more without better understanding market impacts. He wanted staff to come back with more data, including a comparison of tax and fee structures with neighboring jurisdictions. - The council voted 5-0 to approve recommendations 3, 4, and 5 (align licensing, update fees and tax structure, complete benefit fund report). On recommendation 2 (cap), no action was taken; the council requested additional data before making a decision. Staff will bring back information on market conditions, regional competition, and potential impacts before revisiting the cap. Item 6 – Housing Element Annual Progress Report and Residential Development Status Report for 2023: - Community Development Director Sherri Metzger presented: 384 dwelling units finalized in 2023 (only 1 single-family; 2 apartment projects). The city has 8 years to meet its RHNA allocation of 2,075 units. Table of pending projects shows 1,000 units in entitlement process, 878 units in construction/permit process, and 3,000 units in the county with possible annexation. 60 ADU permits issued over 3 years. City Manager Webb noted the UC Davis campus also increased housing, leading to a higher rental vacancy rate (near 3%, up from under 1%). - Councilmembers thanked staff and requested a simpler dashboard tracking progress against RHNA categories. They also praised the pre-approved ADU plans. - The report was received. Item 7 – A. AB 1234 Reporting: No meetings reported. B. City Council Long Range Calendar: No changes. Next meeting March 19, 2024. Councilmember Neville requested an update on the homelessness crisis, including use of $1.17M in federal rescue funds. City Manager noted a city-county 2x2 meeting on March 20. Councilmember Partida raised the idea of placing an at-large mayoral election on the November ballot; City Attorney Inder Khalsa noted complexities with district elections and suggested further discussion. Key Outcomes - Item 4: The council did not send the proposed I-80 letter. Approved (5-0) a motion directing the Legislative Subcommittee (Neville, Arnold) to submit comments on the Caltrans Investment Framework by April 15, 2024, representing the council’s views. - Item 5: The council voted 5-0 to direct staff to: 1) align local licensing requirements with state rules; 2) review and propose updates to regulatory fees and tax structure (including a regional comparison); 3) complete the Cannabis Benefit Fund Impact Report. No decision on increasing the retail cap; staff will gather additional market data and return with recommendations. - Item 6: The Housing Element Annual Progress Report and Residential Development Status Report were received. Staff will develop a simplified dashboard tracking RHNA category progress. - Item 7: No formal actions. The long-range calendar was noted. The homelessness update and at-large mayor question will be addressed in future meetings.

The Davis City Council meeting on February 20, 2024, began with a ceremonial proclamation recognizing February 2024 as Black History Month, accepted by representatives from the local Black Student Unions. After brief announcements and public comments, the Council unanimously approved the consent calendar (with Mayor Chapman abstaining on item 4E due to a conflict of interest). The main discussion centered on the General Plan Update process for 2024, leading to formal direction to issue a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for a consulting firm and the formation of two council subcommittees. Consent Calendar - A. Civic Gym Roof Replacement Phase II – Approved resolution awarding contract to I&A Contractor Inc. - B. Richards Boulevard/I-80 Interchange Right-of-Way – Approved purchase and sale agreements for easements. - C. FTA Program of Projects and Grant Application – Approved resolution authorizing grant submittal and subrecipient agreement with UC Davis for Unitrans. - D. DOJ Body-Worn Camera Grant – Approved acceptance of grant funds and budget amendment. - E. Cannabis Benefit Fund MOUs with First Five Yolo and Davis Joint Unified School District – Approved renewal (Mayor Chapman abstained). - F. Revised FY 2023/24 Position Listing and Salary Table – Approved resolutions. - G. Second Reading: Ordinance Prezoning Wastewater Treatment Plant Properties – Adopted. - H. Treasurer’s Report for Quarter Ended June 30, 2022 – Accepted. - I. Commission Minutes: Open Space and Habitat Commission Meeting of December 4, 2023 – Received as information. Public Comments & Testimony - Elaine Roberts Musser (resident) criticized the process for merging commissions, stating it was flawed and lacked input from commissioners and staff; she presented a petition signed by 76 residents. - Alan Miller (resident) delivered a poem expressing concerns about commission mergers and urged the council to take more time for input. - Alan Hirsch (resident) raised concerns about Brown Act interpretations limiting commission actions and asked that any long-term committees be open meetings. - Katie Casserus (UC Davis student) urged the council to include student-specific high-density housing in the General Plan, citing severe housing insecurity among students. - Catherine Brinkley (UC Davis professor) recommended using environmental justice as a guiding principle for the General Plan and suggested small grants for community outreach. - Eileen Samitz (former planning commissioner) opposed merging commissions, arguing it undermines democratic public input, and stated the current General Plan is a good model needing only tweaks. - Ethan Stern (UC Davis student) supported including environmental justice as a core section and adding a housing element for more high-density housing. - Connor Gorman (voicemail) supported direct council involvement and broad community engagement, including formal feedback from commissions. - Ron Orkell (voicemail) warned that consolidating commissions could endanger expansion goals and alienate voters. - Dan C. Price (voicemail) cautioned against a full overhaul of the General Plan, favoring targeted updates with an inclusive democratic process. Discussion Items General Plan Update Process, 2024 City Manager Mike Webb and Community Development Director Sherri Metzker presented an overview of the General Plan update. Key discussion points included: - Breadth of Update: Council directed staff to focus on state-required elements and incorporate existing plans (e.g., Downtown Plan, Housing Element) rather than starting from scratch. Emphasis on an “update” rather than a rewrite. - Timeline: Council expressed desire for a 2-3 year process, with 9-12 months for the EIR. - Budget: Estimated at $1-2 million; $800,000 already budgeted from development fees. - Community Engagement: Strong consensus on robust, inclusive outreach reaching beyond traditional stakeholders. Council supported using a consultant to design and facilitate engagement, with commissions playing a key role. - Council Involvement: Council members affirmed they want to be actively involved throughout the process, not just at the end. - Staff Input: Discussion on how to meaningfully include professional staff input; Vice Mayor Vaitla stressed the importance of staff creativity in long-term visioning. - Environmental Justice: Council considered whether to make it a standalone element or integrate it throughout; they will evaluate pros and cons with the consultant. Key Outcomes - Motion to Approve Staff Recommendation 2 (Issue RFQ for General Plan Consultant) – Passed 5-0 (Motion by Councilmember Neville, second by Vice Mayor Vaitla). - Formation of Community Engagement Subcommittee – Councilmembers Vice Mayor Vaitla and Mayor Chapman appointed; motion passed 5-0. - Formation of Staff Input Subcommittee – Councilmembers Neville and Arnold appointed; motion passed 5-0. - Consent Calendar Approved – 5-0 (Mayor Chapman abstained on item 4E). - Meeting Date Change: The regular meeting of April 16, 2024, was moved to April 23, 2024, with April 16 becoming an on-call meeting. - Adjournment: The meeting adjourned after item 6B.

The Planning Commission held a public hearing and unanimously approved The Lumberyard Project, a five-story mixed-use development at 500-512 G Street with 227 residential units and ground-floor commercial uses. The commission also heard public comments on a proposed merger of the Historic Resources Management Commission with the Planning Commission and approved consent calendar items. Consent Calendar - The commission approved the Objective Design Standards Memorandum as an informational item, along with other routine matters. Public Comments & Testimony - Commission Merger Opposition: Multiple speakers criticized a subcommittee proposal to merge the Historic Resources Management Commission into the Planning Commission, arguing it would eliminate specialized expertise, disrespect volunteer commissioners, and jeopardize the city's Certified Local Government status. Speakers urged the council to reverse course and allow commissions to provide input. - Lumberyard Project Support: Several residents spoke in favor of the project, noting the housing crisis and the site's suitability for a car-reduced lifestyle. Greg Francis praised the project's alignment with Davis values. Jim Gray, a longtime real estate broker, urged approval, calling it an innovative, pedestrian-friendly development. John Meyer commended developer outreach and requested cooperative parking solutions. - Lumberyard Project Concerns: Residents raised issues including: - Parking spillover into Old North Davis, especially given the project's lack of on-site parking. - Bike storage concentration at 5th and G creating congestion; suggestion to move more storage to 6th Street. - Tree removal of mature street trees, asking that mitigation include replanting along G Street. - The civic space (paseo) potentially attracting homeless populations. - Need for safe routes to school and bicycle education for new residents. - Transit Agency Comment: Brian Abinant (YoloTD) supported the project but requested a transit shelter, bench, and bike rack at the existing bus stop, and a future bus pull-out on G Street. - Todd Adelman emphasized bicycle parking convenience, questioned the building's sound reflection, and urged composting infrastructure. Discussion Items - The Lumberyard Project (Item 6A): Staff presented the project, noting it is the first under the Downtown Davis Specific Plan and form-based code. The project includes demolition of existing structures, design review, and an affordable housing plan providing 11 units (5%) for very low-income households. The developer requested one concession (building dimension) and three waivers (vertical articulation, unbroken facade, secondary wing) under state density bonus law. The affordable housing plan had been reviewed and recommended by the Social Services Commission. - Commissioner Questions: - Commissioner Bennett asked about civic space alternatives and bike parking distribution. - Commissioner Valencia inquired about noise and air quality mitigation for units near the railroad tracks; the developer noted a quiet zone study and acoustical consultant recommendations. - Commissioner Rutherford asked about bicycle education; the developer plans to join YOLO Commute. - Commissioner Troost questioned the passageway design, solar panels, and potential congestion from bike egress. The city traffic engineer found no issue. - Commissioner McLaughlin pressed on parking mitigation, affordable housing unit mix, tree removal for utility boxes, and the project's environmental history (no significant contamination found). - The city attorney confirmed the project is subject to standards at the time of application (5% inclusionary) under SB 330, and that the commission's role is to apply those standards, not require additional community benefits. - Staff Clarification: Principal Planner Eric Lee explained the density bonus waivers are unlimited but require showing that not granting them would physically preclude the housing density. Key Outcomes - The commission unanimously approved Planning Application 23-28 for demolition, design review, and affordable housing plan, adopting the findings and conditions of approval as recommended by staff. The vote was 7-0 (Commissioner Deos recused due to a conflict of interest; all other commissioners present voted aye). - The commission found the project consistent with the Downtown Davis Specific Plan Environmental Impact Report and categorically exempt under CEQA (Section 15332, infill projects). - The consent calendar was approved. - The meeting adjourned with no further long-range calendar items.

Note: The agenda and transcript identify the meeting date as February 6, 2024, but the summary instruction specifies February 7, 2024. This summary uses the instructed date while acknowledging the discrepancy. The Davis City Council met on the evening of February 7, 2024, at Community Chambers, 23 Russell Boulevard. Mayor Josh Chapman presided with all council members present (Vice Mayor Bapu Vaitla, Will Arnold, Donna Neville, Gloria Partida). The meeting included a presentation from the League of Women Voters, an update on the G Street Activation project with community engagement results, and approval of a consent calendar. Public comments focused on the recent commission reorganization proposal and expressed support or concerns about various commission structures. The council also received updates on storm damage and the Tonghai Huin awards. Consent Calendar - Approved unanimously (5-0) the following items without discussion: - Agreement with Downtown Streets Team to operate the Daytime Respite Homeless Navigation Center through June 2026. - Task Order No. 5 for 2023/24 Pavement Rehabilitation design and construction support services with Nichols Consulting Engineers. - Amendment No. 3 to Task Order No. 4 for Wastewater Treatment Plant Biofilter installation with West Yost Associates. - Subdivision Committee Minutes of November 20, 2023 (informational). Public Comments & Testimony - Commission Reorganization (from previous meeting): Multiple speakers addressed the proposed restructuring of city commissions, a topic discussed at the prior council meeting. - Alan Hirsch (Davis Lorax) argued that agenda control suppresses important topics like I-80 discussions and Black Lives Matter, and warned of diminished commission input. - Patrick Huber (Open Space and Habitat Commission) supported the reorganization, calling the process thoughtful and inclusive, and urged embracing the opportunity for the general plan update. - Kyle Johnson and Shivi (ASUCD legislative directors) urged council to add an ex-officio student position to the newly created Affordable Housing Commission, noting that about 60% of UC Davis students rely on off-campus housing. - Joshua Smith (UC Davis student) spoke about difficulty finding affordable housing and requested student representation on the housing commission. - Greg (Planning Commission chair, speaking personally) strongly supported the subcommittee recommendations, stating that city advisory commissions should be adjusted to reflect evolving needs. - Alan Miller performed a musical commentary defending the existing commissions. - Carol Hillhouse (West Davis tree committee chair) supported the mergers, saying they bring together experts for efficient problem-solving and align with the general plan. - Lorenzo Christoph (Utilities Commission, speaking personally) criticized the process as disrespectful to commissioners and urged council to hold public sessions, take criticism seriously, and build collaborative relationships before moving forward. - Elaine RobertsMester argued that council’s failure to communicate what information it wants from commissions is council’s fault, and that treating commissions with contempt could endanger a future tax hike. - Catherine Brinkley supported streamlining commissions and creating an environmental justice commission ahead of the general plan update. - Jonathan London (UC Davis professor) supported the reorganization’s intention but urged additional consultation, particularly supporting a climate and environmental justice committee. - Colin Walsh (Tree Commission vice chair, speaking personally) expressed concern about merging commissions without consultation and urged council to engage with commissioners. - Mark Housing (personal capacity) supported aligning commissions with state-mandated general plan elements to prepare for climate, housing, and transportation challenges. - G Street Activation: - Alan Hirsch criticized the plan for not mentioning trees and argued that the tree commission is needed to advocate for trees. - Gray Crawford (personal) supported the space but cautioned against narrowing Third to Fifth Street parking, which could harm cyclist safety. - Alan Miller said the problem is closing G Street to cars, causing traffic diversion, and suggested a design contest for any arch. - Prerecorded comment: A speaker favored fixing road/sidewalk, adding brick layout, and insisted seating remain fully public, not reserved for businesses. - Consent Calendar (prerecorded): Russell Tangren objected to the respite center contract as neither trivial nor properly on consent, and questioned spending on a service he believes the private sector already provides. Discussion Items - Item 4: League of Women Voters Presentation – “A Vision of Our Future in Davis” Michelle Famula (League president) and Mary Joe Bryan (committee chair) presented results from a community survey of 932 residents and five focus groups. The project, conducted in 2021-2023, gathered input on the city’s general plan elements. Key findings: residents prioritize housing, land use, conservation, and transportation; they acknowledge need for increased density but want farmland preservation and open space; support economic development and a second research park; desire greywater and water storage mandatory in new housing; see Unitrans as an asset but underused; want stronger enforcement of traffic rules for cyclists; and are skeptical that parking fees would encourage local shopping. The report is informational. Council members thanked the League and noted the timing aligns with the upcoming general plan update process beginning February 20. - Item 5: G Street Activation Update Ryan Chapman (Assistant PWET Director) presented community engagement results (over 200 in-person responses, 500 online) and three design concepts. Concept A (preferred by 70% of respondents) maximizes raised platforms (17.75 ft wide) with a 20-ft fire lane in the middle; Concept B reduces platform size. The “angular/geometric” layout was preferred by 56% for visual interest, but staff noted it is more expensive and harder to maintain. For design style, 41% chose “comfort and traditional” (wood, softer features). Amenities desired: outdoor seating, benches, tables, a small stage, and musical engagement. Parking: no clear consensus; staff recommended no changes between 3rd and 5th streets until after project completion, and restriping the South G lot from angle to perpendicular parking for safety. Staff also presented a cost options menu: raised platforms ($660k), fencing/planters ($125k), street construction items ($95k), decorative lighting ($115k), street furniture ($85k), totaling $1,080,000 against a $1,050,000 budget (from ARPA funds and $60k downtown amenities). Staff recommended proceeding with Concept A, comfortable/traditional design, and incorporating decorative lighting consistent with a downtown lighting survey. They also recommended initiating a Civic Arts mural and discussions with community organizations for entryway elements. Key Outcomes - G Street Activation Direction (Motion by Arnold, seconded by Neville; passed 5-0): 1. Directed staff to proceed with final design using Concept A (narrower center corridor with raised platforms). 2. Directed staff to incorporate the “comfortable and traditional” design style (wood, softer features) and use right-angled platforms rather than angular shapes, due to logistical and cost concerns. 3. Directed staff to initiate development of a Civic Arts mural and identify funding. 4. Directed staff to initiate discussions with community organizations for possible entryway elements (e.g., an arch, subject to funding and engineering feasibility). 5. Approved staff’s parking recommendations: restripe South G lot from angle to perpendicular parking; no changes between 3rd and 5th streets now, with future evaluation after project completion. 6. Added direction: staff to further explore ADA mid-block access points and integrate kid-friendly amenities (e.g., games painted on the ground, interactive art) in collaboration with Parks & Rec and Civic Arts; and to incorporate signage/directory kiosks at key entry points. - Item 6: AB 1234 and Long Range Calendar – No reports or changes; council noted the goal-setting retreat is scheduled for Friday, February 9 at 1 p.m. at Vets. - Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned in memory of Corky Brown, a longtime Davis resident, former planning commissioner, community resource officer, and teacher. Councilmember Arnold shared personal reflections.