Public Meetings - Novato, California

The Novato City Council met on November 18, 2025, to present proclamations, hear public comments, and vote on the Downtown Novato Business Improvement District (BID) annual assessment and an energy efficiency contract with Eco-Green Solutions. All council members were present (Eckwind, Jacobs, Farak, O'Connor). The meeting lasted from approximately 2:00 PM (closed session) through the regular meeting. Consent Calendar - The council approved the final agenda and consent calendar unanimously (4-0), including routine items. Public Comments & Testimony - Marin Valley Mobile Country Club (MVMCC): Four residents (Serena Fisher, Janine Bradley, Julie Manson, and Alan Gump) requested a six-month extension of the exclusive negotiating agreement (ENA) with the city. They cited ongoing productive negotiations and the need for a well-informed resident vote on self-ownership, noting that a December 31 deadline was unrealistic given the holidays. - Building Fees: Speaker Dale White criticized building department fees for a house and ADU, claiming some were excessive or illegal under Supreme Court rulings. He asked the council to follow the law. - BID Assessment: Three speakers (Rob Sundberg, Steve Gibbs, Stephanie Kohler) spoke in support of renewing the Downtown Novato Business Improvement District, highlighting its role in beautification, marketing, and economic vitality. Discussion Items - Proclamations: The council presented two proclamations: Native American Heritage Month (accepted by Dean Hoglan, president of the Museum of American Indian) and National Alzheimer's Disease Awareness and Family Caregivers Month (accepted by Lauren Vreeland Lang, representing Age and Disability Friendly Novato Volunteers and Alzheimer's Association volunteers). - Public Hearing – BID Annual Assessment: Economic Development Manager Katie Skirping presented the 2026 assessment process. Two formal protests were received (Novato Builders and Cyrus Properties), but they did not meet the 50% threshold to halt proceedings. The council discussed minor budget modifications (deleting white lights and planters) and confirmed the 2025 annual report and 2026 budget as modified at the October 28, 2025 meeting. The council voted 4-0 to adopt the resolution authorizing the levy. - Public Hearing – Energy Efficiency Contract: Sustainability Coordinator Gretchen Schubek presented a sole-source contract with Eco-Green Solutions for energy efficiency upgrades at four city facilities (Administration Building, Hamilton Pool, Gymnastics Center/Downtown Rec Center, Margaret Todd Senior Center/Hill Gymnasium). Total project cost is approximately $246,700, with projected energy savings of $248,800 over the loan term (up to 120 months). Financing is through PG&E’s zero-interest on-bill financing, making the project cost-neutral. The council adopted the resolution 4-0, authorizing the city manager to execute agreements. Key Outcomes - Approved the Downtown Novato Business Improvement District 2026 assessment by a 4-0 vote. - Approved a sole-source energy services contract with Eco-Green Solutions and authorized PG&E on-bill financing, 4-0. - No action was taken on the Marin Valley Mobile Country Club ENA request; it was received during public comment. - The next regular council meeting is scheduled for December 9, 2025. - The council adjourned in memory of Robert Bruce Levine and Phil Brown.

This special meeting of the Novato Planning Commission focused on a proposed amendment to the General Plan Safety Element to address climate change adaptation, resilience, and evacuation constraints. The commission held a public hearing, received testimony, and voted to recommend adoption of the amendment with modifications. Consent Calendar - The agenda was approved unanimously. - The minutes from previous meetings were approved by a single motion with all commissioners voting aye (Commissioners Crockett, Griggy, Tiernan, Havill, Roche, Derby; Commissioner Stuckenbroker absent). Public Comments & Testimony - Katie White (Pacheco Valley Firewise Committee) expressed support for the safety element update but urged that the findings not be shelved. She highlighted that her neighborhood has a single-lane evacuation route (Alameda del Prado) serving nearly 600 homes and asked how the report's findings would connect to the city's capital improvement plan (CIP) to help existing developments. - Derek Nell (Novato Unified School District) stated NUSD supports staff's recommendations. He offered updated enrollment projections (more stable than earlier numbers) and reminded the commission that the NUSD district office is a designated emergency center with a large generator. Discussion Items - Presentation by Staff and Consultant: Brett Walker (Planning Manager) and Jacqueline Protzman Rohr (Placeworks) presented the safety element update, including a climate vulnerability assessment, community outreach summary, and proposed policy changes. Key updates include adding a climate change vulnerability assessment appendix, new policies for sea level rise, severe weather, and human health hazards, and mapping evacuation-constrained residential parcels (with single ingress/egress). - Defensible Space Policy (SH33): The proposed change from "encourage" to "require" for private property owners sparked debate. Commissioners expressed concern that a requirement could impose unexpected burdens on existing homeowners. Multiple commissioners favored retaining "encourage" for existing properties, noting that the Novato Fire Protection District already enforces defensible space regulations. Staff noted that new developments typically require vegetation management plans through the fire code. - Evacuation Route Policy (SH50): The draft included a 10-unit threshold for requiring a second evacuation route. Staff recommended, based on the fire marshal's input, removing the specific unit count and instead referencing collaboration with the fire district to implement applicable codes. Commissioners supported this change, noting the fire code evolves and decisions should be site-specific. - Evacuation Constrained Map (CW3): The map originally used a 10-unit threshold; staff recommended shifting to a 30-unit threshold to align with the California Fire Code. Commissioner Griggy noted that the Marin Valley Mobile Country Club area appeared on the 10-unit map but not the 30-unit map, despite having more than 30 parcels; staff agreed to re-examine that area. - Other Topics: Commissioners discussed implications for new development (additional studies for hazards like emergent groundwater), grant eligibility under AB 2140, insurance market challenges, and the need to coordinate with special districts (e.g., North Marin Water, Novato Sanitary District, PG&E). Key Outcomes - Motion: Commissioner Derby moved to adopt the resolution recommending City Council approval of the CEQA addendum and safety element amendments (Exhibits A and B) with three modifications: 1. Revise policy SH50 as recommended by staff (remove unit count threshold, rely on fire district codes). 2. Change policy SH33 from "require" to "encourage" for defensible space. 3. Modify map CW3 to use a 30-unit threshold for identifying evacuation-constrained parcels, and re-evaluate the Marin Valley area. - Vote: The motion passed unanimously (6-0; all commissioners present voted aye). - Next Steps: Staff will finalize the safety element for City Council consideration at a public hearing on December 9, 2025. The commission also noted upcoming meetings: no meeting on November 24, and a December meeting (date TBD) to review the draft EIR for the Costco fuel station.

The Novato City Council met on October 28, 2025, beginning with a moment of silence for former Councilmember Mark Milberg. The council addressed routine business, public comments, and key agenda items including entitlements for a golf driving range, a building codes update, the downtown business improvement district assessment, and filling a vacant council seat. Consent Calendar - The consent calendar was approved unanimously with a 4-0 vote. Public Comments & Testimony - Christina Niles, CEO of the Novato Chamber, expressed gratitude for the city's partnership in the Leadership Novato program. - Kim Staley, director of the Novato Chamber, introduced the Leadership Novato class of 2026 and honored Mark Milberg's contributions. - Larissa Thomas and Tina McMillan from the Finance Advisory Commission praised the finance staff for completing backlogged audits. - Sylvia Barry from the Sedmarine Improvement Association reported on a successful neighborhood Halloween parade. - Jim Gilday spoke in support of a consent item related to a memorial for the Hamilton Refugee Transit Center. Discussion Items Stone Tree Golf Club Driving Range - The council held a public hearing to consider entitlements for an existing golf driving range, including CEQA review, general plan amendment, zoning map amendment, and a use permit. Staff recommended approval, and no public comments were made during the hearing. Building Codes Update - A public hearing was held to update the city's building codes to the 2025 California Building Standards Code, with local amendments for wildland urban interface, gate safety, and administrative provisions. No public comments were made during the hearing. Downtown Novato Business Improvement District - The council reviewed the annual report and proposed budget for the Downtown Novato Business Improvement District (BID). Discussion focused on budget deficits related to tree light and planter maintenance. Councilmembers expressed support for having the city reassume maintenance responsibilities to alleviate financial pressure on the BID. Filling Vacant City Council Seat - The council discussed options to fill the vacant District 5 seat. Councilmember Eklund advocated for a special election, citing fairness concerns, while other councilmembers supported an appointment to ensure representation and continuity. Key Outcomes - Consent calendar approved 4-0. - Stone Tree Golf Club Driving Range entitlements approved unanimously 4-0. - Building codes update approved unanimously 4-0. - Downtown Novato BID budget approved with direction for staff to work with the DNBA on having the city reassume maintenance of downtown tree lights and planters. - Decision to appoint an interim council member for District 5, with a 3-1 vote (Councilmember Eklund opposed). The appointment process will include applications, interviews in early December, and a start date by December 9, 2025.

The Novato City Council held a special meeting to honor and celebrate the life and legacy of Councilmember Mark Milberg, who passed away while in office. Colleagues, community leaders, and friends delivered heartfelt tributes, emphasizing his dedication, kindness, and profound impact on the city. Tributes and Eulogies - Opening Speaker: Offered a poetic tribute, recounting Mark Milberg's service from the Finance Oversight Committee to his role as mayor, and his advocacy for community projects such as mobile homes, childcare, and Pioneer Park. - Vice Mayor Eric Farak: Shared personal stories, expressing admiration for Mark's thoughtful and calming presence on the council, and his ability to find goodness in imperfect moments. He conveyed deep personal loss and gratitude to Mark's family. - Council Woman: Recalled meeting Mark when he moved to Hamilton, his appointment to the Finance Authority, and noted his historical significance as the first city council member in the county to die in office. She thanked attendees for their support. - Former Council Member Kevin: Spoke about Mark's passion for the Dodgers, his dedication to improving residents' lives, and his role as a mentor and friend during Kevin's campaign and oath of office. - Susan Gilmore (North Bay Children's Center): Described Mark's thorough due diligence in visiting the center, his ongoing support for their mission, and his enthusiasm for community events. She invited Mark's wife, Lauren, to a future assembly dedicated to him. - Paul Fordham (Homeward Bound of Marin): Highlighted Mark's intellect, kindness, and humor, sharing anecdotes of his personal advocacy for homeless services and his genuine, positive character. - Another Councilmember (likely Tim): Reflected on meeting Mark in 2018, his authentic and cheerful personality, and his adherence to personal values inspired by Don Miguel Ruiz's "Four Agreements". He expressed the void left by Mark's passing and the enduring legacy of his work. Key Outcomes - The meeting served as a public memorial, culminating in an invitation for attendees to join a candlelight ceremony outside, symbolizing community solidarity and remembrance. - Mark Milberg's contributions were celebrated, and his family was honored for sharing him with the community, ensuring his legacy lives on in Novato.

The Nevada City Council met on September 23, 2025, covering a presentation on the Atmospheric River Capture Project, a Bully Prevention Month proclamation, the adoption of the Climate Action Plan 2030, and a report on service improvements in the community development department. Consent Calendar - The council unanimously approved the consent calendar with a 4-0 vote (Councilmember Milberg absent). Public Comments & Testimony - Berna Holland, a public defender, urged compassion for unhoused residents at Hamilton and highlighted the Bethany Project providing services. - Tom Jordan praised the Novato Police Department for pedestrian safety enforcement, expressing support for their efforts. - Carrie Ford and Heidi Merchant advocated for treating unhoused individuals with dignity and compassion, supporting Camp Compassion. - Jason Saras, a former Camp Compassion resident, argued for allowing the camp to remain while housing solutions are finalized. - Other speakers including Deborah Butler, Michael Williams, and Robbie Pallison echoed similar positions, calling for compassionate policies towards the unhoused. Discussion Items - Atmospheric River Capture Project: Marin Municipal Water District representatives Paul Sellier and Lucy Croy presented a project to capture atmospheric river water via a 13-mile pipeline to Nicasio Reservoir, providing 3,800-4,800 acre-feet annually (15-20% of demand). Council members inquired about construction impacts, cost estimates ($167 million preliminary), and logistical details. - Bully Prevention Month Proclamation: Mayor O'Connor proclaimed October 2025 as Bully Prevention Month, emphasizing community efforts to stop bullying. Pamela Look, Multicultural Advisory Commission Chair, accepted the proclamation and stressed the role of adult behavior. - Climate Action Plan 2030: Assistant City Manager Bill Rose and Sustainability Coordinator Gretchen presented the draft plan, targeting a 40% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions below 1990 levels by 2030. Council members discussed costs, incentives, and implementation timelines, with requests for more frequent updates. - Service Improvements Report: Community Development Director Claire Hartman reported on phase three of customer service improvements, including new staff, promotional videos, express permits, and the launch of the MainStar permit software system. Council members asked about permit processes for homeowners and contractors. Key Outcomes - The council adopted the Climate Action Plan 2030 via a resolution with a 4-0 vote. - The consent calendar was approved unanimously. - Direction was given for more frequent updates on climate plan implementation and continued focus on service improvements.

The Novado City Council met on September 9, 2025, to approve the agenda, hear council reports, receive public testimony on SEIU contract negotiations and homeless encampments, discuss the tourism committee's annual report, and review conceptual policies for the General Plan Safety Element update. Consent Calendar - The consent calendar was approved unanimously with a 5-0 vote. Public Comments & Testimony - Nick M., a city employee in Unit D, expressed support for the SEIU proposal, advocating for fair wages based on comparable agencies. - Robbie Palison, representing the Hamilton encampment, urged collaboration with the city and highlighted community efforts like weekly barbecues. - Jennifer Mallow clarified misinformation about the encampment and called for empathy and housing solutions. - Jason Service, an unhoused individual, described mobility challenges and requested city assistance in finding safe housing. - Heidi criticized the council for criminalizing homelessness and not supporting SEIU, demanding dignity for workers and unhoused people. - Perry Sue, a recreation supervisor and Unit D member, emphasized the need for a fair contract to address recruitment and retention issues. - Brian Skinner expressed concerns about the encampment's impact on safety and programs like Homeward Bound, urging enforcement of the no-camping ordinance. - Jana Blunt, representing SEIU, presented a cost breakdown and urged council to approve the contract proposal to avoid impasse. - David Tillotson shared his personal experience of homelessness and disappointment with the city's response. - Joan, a resident, asked for action to close encampments and safely relocate individuals. Discussion Items - Tourism Committee Report: Garrett Garillo presented marketing activities, digital campaigns, and future plans. Council members discussed economic development ties, pet inclusivity, trade shows, and metrics for tourism growth. - General Plan Safety Element Update: Jacqueline Prozmann Rohr presented climate change vulnerabilities, community outreach findings, and conceptual policies. Council members provided feedback on managed retreat, sea level rise adaptation, evacuation routes, and inclusion of vulnerable populations like young families. Key Outcomes - The agenda was approved with a modification to remove a remote participation item. - The consent calendar passed 5-0. - The council adopted a resolution accepting the Novato Chamber of Commerce Tourism Committee report for FY 2425 and the budget for FY 2526. - No formal action was taken on the safety element update; staff was directed to incorporate feedback into the draft. - The meeting was adjourned in memory of John Burton.

The Novato Planning Commission convened on September 8, 2025, primarily to hold a public hearing and consider approvals for a proposed 95,400 square foot self-storage facility at 501 Davidson Street. The meeting included staff and applicant presentations, extensive public testimony, and commission deliberations. Consent Calendar - Approved the meeting minutes from March 10, 2025, with Commissioner Griggy abstaining. Public Comments & Testimony - Multiple residents expressed strong opposition to the project. Concerns included increased traffic on narrow Davidson Street, safety hazards for pedestrians, potential crime, light pollution, noise disruptions, and negative impacts on property values. Speakers such as Loretta DeGrief and Hilary Peters questioned the environmental review process and zoning compliance. A few commenters, including Lauren Elkin, supported the project, citing the community's need for additional storage capacity. Discussion Items - Staff presented the project, detailing CEQA exemptions under guidelines sections 15183 and 15332, design revisions from Design Review Commission hearings, and recommended conditions of approval. The applicant, represented by Mario Gialotti and Riley Hurd, explained the project's evolution, low traffic generation, security measures, and benefits such as revenue for the city and improved stormwater management. Commissioners asked questions about fencing, drainage, hours of operation, and the interpretation of floor area ratio for non-habitable spaces. Key Outcomes - The commission adopted a resolution finding the project exempt from additional CEQA review. - Approved a use permit and design review for the self-storage facility, with a condition amendment to clarify that frontage improvements are required only along the project site's frontage on Davidson Street. - Votes were unanimous, with Commissioner Griggy abstaining on the minutes approval.

The Novato City Council met on Tuesday, August 26, 2025, at 6:00 PM to discuss a range of items including a study session on a local Just Cause Tenant Protections Ordinance, public comments on the Marin Valley Mobile Country Club negotiations and homeless encampments, and routine consent items. The meeting included a proclamation, approval of consent calendar, and two general business items. Consent Calendar - The council approved the consent calendar (5-0), which included: waiving reading of ordinances, approving July 22, 2025 minutes, adopting Ordinance 1726 (Administrative Remedies for Fee Challenges), Ordinance 1727 (Dangerous Building Abatement), receiving FY 2024/25 Q4 Investment Report, accepting a $110,000 STEP grant from OTS, authorizing down payment for Olive Avenue mitigation credits at Halo Ranch, extending an Exclusive Negotiation Agreement with The Sherman Group, approving bid advertisement for Marin Valley Mobile Country Club roof replacement, approving an amended lease with Novato Chamber of Commerce, adopting response to the Marin County Civil Grand Jury report on housing, ratifying police labor MOUs, and authorizing Councilmember Eklund to participate remotely under AB 2449 due to an emergency. Public Comments & Testimony Marin Valley Mobile Country Club (Consent Calendar and General Comments) - Multiple residents (Serena Fisher, David Gray, Janine Bradley, Susan Hoff, Judy Monson, Gail Atkinson, Sherry Smith, Greg Smith, Bill Davis, Alan Gump) spoke during public comment, expressing strong opposition to the city's reported $26 million counteroffer for the park acquisition, contrasting it with the residents' $20 million offer. Speakers noted that 91% of residents qualify as low-income, that residents have paid $18 million in bonds since 1997 with the understanding they would own the park in 2027, and that the city's conditions were described as an ultimatum. They called for fair, transparent negotiations and emphasized the residents' readiness to form a cooperative with ROC USA and CCCD. Homeless Encampments near Hamilton Skate Park - Several speakers (Robert Belichick, Calvin Willette, Brian Skinner, Stan Lapin, Joan, Bryce Armbruster) raised urgent concerns about a growing homeless encampment visible from the skate park since April 2025. They cited fire risks, public safety issues (indecent exposure, verbal assaults, campsites with dry vegetation), and lack of enforcement of the city's anti-camping ordinance. Speakers requested immediate action and a future agenda item to track progress. Mayor O'Connor acknowledged the concerns. Just Cause Tenant Protections Ordinance (Study Session Public Comment) - A large number of tenant advocates and affected residents spoke in favor of a strong local ordinance, particularly in light of the Romar Court displacement. Speakers included: - Alarceli Florian, Charlotte Ganella, Kira Shaner, Jason Saras, Aaron Hawkins (Community Action Marin), Lucy Hollingsworth (Legal Aid of Marin), Regina Biannucci Russ, Bambi Kleis, Ethan Strell, Norma Lang, Amarantha Silva, Antonio Gramajo, Vilma Monzon, Jesus Portillo, Jocelyn, and others – They shared stories of unsafe living conditions (mold, roof collapse, sewer backups), five-day red tag notices, and inadequate relocation assistance. They urged: (1) no exemptions for small landlords, (2) guaranteed right to return at same rent, (3) higher relocation payments (citing Alameda County's $15,000 minimum), (4) stronger enforcement against negligent landlords, and (5) a rental registry. - Alia Gomez and Victor Gomez (Marin Association of Realtors) – Opposed expanding beyond state law (AB 1482), arguing it would burden small landlords, reduce rental supply, and that the city had not conducted a fiscal analysis. They urged pausing or referring to voters. Discussion Items H.1 – Study Session on Just Cause Tenant Protections Ordinance - Community Development Director Clare Hartman presented a detailed framework for a local ordinance, covering applicability, at-fault and no-fault eviction grounds, relocation assistance options (temporary and permanent), right of return, and noticing requirements. The framework was based on the city's Housing Element (Program 5-I) and direction from May 20, 2025, to include relocation assistance and right of return. - Council questions and discussion: - Councilmember Jacobs inquired about utility payments in relocation, limits on temporary per diems, and potential abuse of temporary tenancy exemptions. - Mayor Pro Tem Farac asked about the three-unit threshold, whether the city would track compliance, and the balance between protecting tenants and encouraging maintenance. - Councilmember Eklund raised concerns about process, wanting to include additional protections (rent stabilization, rental registry, tenant right to counsel, mediation) and criticized the limited scope of the presentation. She also noted a 2025 ABAG guidance on preventing displacement from substandard conditions. - Councilmember Milberg sought clarification on buyout options (Option D) and the tension between being more protective than state law while maintaining exemptions. - Mayor O'Connor expressed interest in reducing exemptions, a potential rental registry, stronger relocation assistance (up to five months' fair market rent as proposed), and a guaranteed right of return at current rent, but also noted that withdrawal from the market for legitimate reasons should not require relocation payments. J.1 – Interim Public Works Director Appointment - Staff presented a resolution to amend and ratify the limited-term retired annuitant appointment of Tim Burke as Interim Public Works Director, extending his service beyond June 30, 2025, until a permanent hire is made. The resolution ensured compliance with CalPERS rules (960-hour limit, specialized skills, active recruitment). The council approved 5-0. J.2 – League of California Cities Voting Delegate - The council selected Councilmember Jacobs as the primary voting delegate and Councilmember Milberg as alternate for the Cal Cities Annual Conference General Assembly. Approved 5-0. Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar: Approved 5-0. All routine items passed without discussion. - Just Cause Ordinance Direction: The council provided broad direction to staff to draft a local ordinance that includes: - Stronger protections than state law, with minimal exemptions (no exemption for landlords with three or fewer units; single-family homes and owner-occupied duplexes as per AB 1482 exemptions may be excluded). - Guaranteed right of return at current rent for no-fault evictions (red tags, substantial remodels). - Relocation assistance that reflects actual costs, with a cap of up to five months' fair market rent for red tag situations. - All 11 at-fault just cause grounds retained. - Noticing requirements in English and Spanish. - Exploration of a proactive rental inspection program and a rental registry to identify substandard conditions. - No requirement for city-funded relocation payments; costs to be borne by landlords. - Councilmember Eklund requested a broader scope including rent stabilization and tenant right to counsel, but no formal vote was taken on those items; staff will bring back a draft ordinance for further discussion. - J.1: Approved 5-0. - J.2: Approved 5-0. - Closed Session: The council voted 5-0 to initiate litigation (particulars available upon request). - Next Meeting: September 9, 2025. - Adjournment: The meeting adjourned in memory of Diane Thompson.

The Novato Planning Commission met on August 11, 2025, primarily to receive a presentation and provide feedback on the city's update to its general plan safety element. The update aims to incorporate climate adaptation and resiliency policies, identify residential developments with fewer than two evacuation routes, and comply with new state laws. Commissioners expressed overall support and raised questions about implementation, collaboration, and data. Discussion Items - Safety Element Update Presentation: Consultants from Placeworks presented the climate change vulnerability assessment, community outreach findings, and conceptual policy topics covering drought, extreme heat, emergency preparedness, flood and sea level rise, fire hazards, human health hazards, and severe weather. - Commissioner Questions and Comments: - Commissioner Crockett expressed support for the comprehensive plan and raised concerns about long-term timing and funding for implementation. - Commissioner Havill shared anecdotes about wildfire risks and sustainable design, emphasizing the importance of the plan's broad scope. - Commissioner Griggy asked about data sources (e.g., census data, landslide maps), collaboration with regional agencies (e.g., transit, water districts), evacuation route definitions, and suggested enhancing demographic analysis in vulnerability assessments. - Commissioner Stuckenbroker sought assurance that future land use policy changes stemming from the update would return for commission review, which staff confirmed. Key Outcomes - No formal votes or decisions were made; the meeting was informational and for gathering commissioner feedback. - Next steps include preparing a draft safety element for public review in September and a city council study session in early September. - The commission will review draft policies before final approval.