Novato Planning Commission Meeting - May 11, 2026: Capital Improvement Program Consistency Review

The Novato Planning Commission met on May 11, 2026, to review the proposed Capital Improvement Program (CIP) projects for the upcoming fiscal year and determine their consistency with the General Plan. Chris, the Public Works Director, presented a list of projects, including the Annual Pavement Rehabilitation Project, Storm Drain Pipe Replacement, Pedestrian Safety Measures, and the San Marin Drive Corridor Study. Commissioners questioned project timelines, prioritization methodology, and specific concerns such as the lack of basic pedestrian improvements on San Marin Drive. A resident expressed support for the San Marin Drive study. The commission voted unanimously to adopt a resolution finding the CIP consistent with the General Plan and to forward the recommendation to the City Council.

Consent Calendar

• The consent calendar was moved and seconded, then approved unanimously by all commissioners present (Commissioners Haver, Roche, Stuckenbroker, Harov, Derby, and Griggs).

Public Comments & Testimony

• One resident, a former student of San Marin High School, spoke in support of the San Marin Drive corridor study, noting improvements for safety at the San Marin Drive and San Andreas Drive intersection. No other public comments were made.

Discussion Items

• Presentation of Capital Improvement Program (CIP) – Chris, Public Works Director
  • Presented proposed projects for Fiscal Year 2026-27, including transportation, storm drain, park, and municipal building improvements. Key projects: Novato Boulevard rehabilitation (three-lane road with bike lanes and sidewalks), San Marin Drive corridor study ($350,000), pedestrian safety improvements (three crosswalks near schools), pool and playground structure replacement at Hamilton, Marion Park turf analysis, and HVAC replacement at the Margaret Todd Senior Center and other city buildings.
  • Commissioner Roche expressed frustration over delays on pedestrian safety improvements, particularly a crosswalk at San Marin Drive and San Andreas Way, calling for immediate low-cost solutions rather than waiting for a corridor study. Chris explained that the study would provide a comprehensive plan for safety after the Marin Municipal Water District's pipeline project (ARC project) is completed, minimizing rework.
  • Commissioner Stuckenbroker asked about the impact of a potential roundabout at San Marin Drive and Simmons on adjacent properties; Chris clarified that no property acquisition is intended.
  • General discussion on prioritization: The City uses a data-driven approach (PCI, service requests, criticality/consequence of failure) combined with resident input to rank projects.
• Commissioner Roche expressed frustration about the lack of basic pedestrian crossings on San Marin Drive, noting it is a safety hazard for students. Chris acknowledged the concern but explained that the corridor study is needed to coordinate with the forthcoming ARC pipeline project, ensuring long-term efficiency.

Voting Outcome

• Motion: Commissioner Roche moved to adopt the resolution approving the proposed Capital Improvement Program projects as consistent with the General Plan. Commissioner Stuckenbroker seconded.
• Vote: All commissioners present (Haver, Roche, Stuckenbroker, Harov, Derby) voted aye. The motion passed unanimously.

Key Outcomes

• Commission unanimously adopted a resolution confirming that the proposed CIP projects for FY 2026-2027 are consistent with the General Plan.
• The resolution will be forwarded to the City Council for final approval.
• Staff noted ongoing coordination with the Transportation Authority of Marin (TAM) for school route safety studies.
• Commissioner Roche’s concerns about immediate safety improvements on San Marin Drive were noted, but staff maintained that the corridor study is necessary for long-term solutions.