Monterey Planning Commission Meeting - February 25, 2025

The Monterey Planning Commission met on Tuesday, February 25, 2025, starting at approximately 3:56 PM and adjourning at 4:15 PM. The meeting covered approval of previous minutes, a public appearance period, and an architectural review permit for structural repairs and maintenance at 2042 North Fremont Street. The commission also discussed future meeting items.

Consent Calendar

• Minutes Approval: The commission unanimously approved the minutes from the previous meeting (February 11, 2025) with Chair Blut, Commissioners Dawson, Fletcher, and Freeman voting yes. Commissioner Brassfield noted he was not present at the last meeting but did not object; Vice Chair Salva and Commissioner Latassa were absent.

Public Comments & Testimony

• On the 2042 North Fremont Street item: A member of the public, identifying as a builder, suggested installing humidity-sensing switches in bathrooms to address moisture concerns raised by Commissioner Fletcher. The commenter noted such switches cost about $30 each and can automatically activate when humidity rises, even if lights are off.

Discussion Items

• 2042 North Fremont Street – Architectural Review Permit (ARP 2402): Senior Associate Planner Chris Schmidt presented the project, which arose from a code compliance case. The site is zoned Visitor Accommodation Facility (VAF) and includes 41 guest rooms and 47 parking spaces on a 41,700-square-foot lot. Proposed work includes structural repairs to decks and stairs, replacement of damaged beams, replacement and extension of the pool deck barrier to meet current code, infilling rear windows (to address security issues), replacement of front windows in kind, and removal of an unsafe trellis. Staff found the project consistent with all four required findings under the city’s architectural review code, noting no change in massing, materials, or adverse impacts on views or privacy. Commissioner Fletcher inquired about bathroom ventilation, suggesting small operable windows to prevent mildew, but staff indicated no such requirement was made. The applicant was not present.

Key Outcomes

• Vote on 2042 North Fremont Street: Commissioner Fletcher moved to adopt the staff recommendation and approve the architectural review permit. The motion was seconded and passed unanimously (5-0). The decision is appealable to the City Council within 10 days.
• Future Meeting Agenda: The next meeting is scheduled for March 11, 2025. Staff announced two upcoming items: (1) a zoning ordinance change to create a review of new businesses for use permit requirements, and (2) review of the General Plan update annual report and the Housing Element annual report as required by the state of California. The commission’s recommendations will be forwarded to the City Council.
• Training Update: Commissioner Fletcher reported that the Planning Commissioner Academy training requested at the last meeting may not be available due to missing the registration deadline.