Public Meetings - Redwood City, California

The Redwood City Planning Commission held a regular meeting on November 19, 2024, at 6:00 PM in the Council Chambers at 1017 Middlefield Road, with remote access via Zoom. The meeting was called to order by Chair Crnogorac and adjourned at 7:23 PM. All six commissioners were present. The main agenda items included a public hearing for a proposed 95-unit residential development at 590 Veterans Boulevard and 91 Winslow Street, and adoption of the 2025 regular meeting schedule. Consent Calendar - No items were on the consent calendar. Public Comments & Testimony - No in-person public comments were offered. Two written comments were submitted via email: - Kevin Guibara expressed support for the project, noting the need for housing and suggesting the site could accommodate a larger building. - James M. Lloyd of the California Housing Defense Fund (Cal HDF) submitted a letter reminding the commission of its legal obligations under the Housing Accountability Act, Density Bonus Law, and CEQA, urging approval of the project. Discussion Items - 5A. 590 Veterans Boulevard and 91 Winslow Street – Associate Planner Garcia presented staff's recommendation to approve the project. The applicant, Regan Cantanzaro of Wall Street Properties, presented the project details. The proposal is for a 6-story, 95-unit residential building (including 10 very low-income affordable units) with 150 parking spaces, a density bonus, and associated concessions. The project includes a class 4 protected cycle track on Winslow Street as a community benefit. The commission discussed affordable unit ownership/rental mechanisms, local preference requirements, bike lane design, loading zones, and architectural review by the Architectural Advisory Committee. No public hearing testimony was received in person. The commission voted unanimously (6-0) to approve the resolution, finding the project CEQA-exempt and approving all permits and the affordable housing plan subject to conditions. - 6A. Adoption of 2025 Regular Meeting Schedule – Principal Planner Francis presented the proposed 2025 meeting calendar, which mirrors the 2024 schedule with one meeting per month in July and August. No public comments were received. The commission voted unanimously (6-0) to adopt the resolution adopting the schedule. - Matters of Commission Interest – Staff provided updates on the Downtown Central Redwood City Plan (data gathering phase, outreach strategy to be presented to City Council on December 16), the Housing Element parking study (reviewing consultant report, expected to come to commission in early 2025), and two MTC grants the city is applying for related to parking reductions and housing policies. Commissioner Koch inquired about filling the vacant commission seat; staff indicated recruitments typically occur in late spring. Key Outcomes - Approved (6-0): Resolution for the 590 Veterans/91 Winslow project, including architectural permit, vesting tentative map, condominium permit, density bonus with concessions, and affordable housing plan, all subject to conditions. - Approved (6-0): Resolution adopting the Planning Commission 2025 Regular Meeting Schedule. - The meeting adjourned at 7:23 PM, with the next regular meeting scheduled for January 21, 2025.

No agenda, minutes, or transcript were provided for this meeting. Therefore, no detailed summary can be generated. The meeting was scheduled for 2024-11-05 at 14:00 UTC, but no substantive content is available.

On November 4, 2024, the Redwood City Council held a regular meeting that included an update from the Police Advisory Committee, approval of two Mills Act historic preservation contracts, a discussion on the PACE youth program, and a study session on sea level rise vulnerability. The meeting opened with modified public comment procedures (suspending Zoom comments) due to regional disruptions, and concluded with a closed session on labor negotiations. Consent Calendar - Items 6A-6G (except 6D): Approved unanimously. Items included amendments to agreements with Cherry Road Technologies (Oracle ERP support), authorization for transit-oriented community grant applications, approval of October 28 minutes, and approval of claims and checks through November 25, 2024. Public Comments & Testimony - Alondra Piri Fuentes (10th grader, Sequoia High School) spoke in support of the Dream Club’s annual event on November 22 to raise awareness for undocumented students, inviting council to attend. - Ed Stancil submitted a written comment (video not played); will be part of the record. - Mark Bartholomew (resident, former city planner) urged the council to initiate a General Plan amendment to change the urban reserve designation on Cargill salt ponds to preservation, citing sea level rise risks. - Chris McIntosh (Audubon Society) submitted a written comment supporting nature-based solutions and referencing BCDC’s draft regional plan. - Nina Goodale submitted a written comment emphasizing groundwater rise, compound extremes, and the need to update the vulnerability assessment with 2024 state guidance. Discussion Items - Police Advisory Committee (PAC) Work Plan Update: Chief Christina Bell and Vice Chair Roxana Enriquez presented. The PAC, created in response to 2020 racial justice protests, advises the police chief. It has 11 seats (7 appointed by councilmembers, 4 by full council). The committee’s second work plan covers trust, workforce, technology/policing, and youth interactions. Two ad hoc committees are updating the police data dashboard (publishing June 2025) and planning a youth town hall on November 13 at Sequoia High School. Council expressed gratitude and requested a follow-up report on the town hall outcomes. - Item 6D – PACE Program (Purposeful Action Create Engage Program): Councilmember Sterkin pulled this consent item to discuss funding and partnership with the Police Activities League (PAL). Staff reported that PAL has sufficient funding through June 2025; the proposed amendment extends the grant agreement. Sterkin expressed concern about the city’s reliance on nonprofit partners and urged that future funding align with council priorities. Councilmember Howard noted the city already provides in-kind support (rent, building maintenance). Vice Mayor Espinosa Garnica noted recent positive fundraising by PAL and requested financial reports. The item was approved unanimously after discussion. - Historic Landmark Designation & Mills Act – 1337 Hopkins Avenue: The property (1924 Spanish revival, associated with Dr. George Franklin Shields and builder Charles Miller) received unanimous approval from HRAC and Planning Commission. Applicant Emmanuel Robinson presented a 10-year improvement plan including window replacement, porch restoration, and roof maintenance. Council approved the designation and contract (the 36th Mills Act in the city) unanimously. - Historic Preservation Agreement (Mills Act) – 1200 Arguello Street: The property (1867 Greek revival, contributor to Mezesville Historic District) also received unanimous recommendations. Applicants Chandra Skara and Tapika Sridhar presented a plan for exterior paint, structural study, heating system upgrade, and roof replacement. Council approved the contract (the 37th Mills Act) unanimously. - Sea Level Rise Vulnerability Assessment & Adaptation Planning (Study Session): Public Works Services Director Terrence Straw and consultant Matt Brennan presented the study, which divides the shoreline into four reaches. Key vulnerabilities include coastal flooding, groundwater rise, and stormwater drainage. Adaptation costs are estimated at $31-40M per reach (total $590M). Existing projects (e.g., Bayfront Canal improvements) have reduced flooding. Council discussed the need for regional cooperation, nature-based solutions, and funding strategies. No formal action was taken; staff will return for further discussion. Key Outcomes - Police Advisory Committee: Council will receive a follow-up report on the November 13 youth town hall. - PACE Program (Item 6D): Amendment approved unanimously; staff to provide PAL financial reports and evaluate future funding for 2025. - Mills Act Contracts: Both 1337 Hopkins Avenue and 1200 Arguello Street were unanimously approved as historic landmarks, with 10-year preservation agreements. - Sea Level Rise: Council directed staff to explore regional partnerships (e.g., One Shoreline), update land use policies, and consider a shoreline tour for council members. The Climate Action Subcommittee will continue to review.

The Redwood City City Council held a regular meeting on October 28, 2024, starting at 6:00 PM. The meeting included roll call (Councilmember Howard absent), recusals from Mayor G and Councilmember Aiken on certain items, and concluded with a closed session. The council approved a consent calendar, held two public hearings for major development projects, and received council reports and city manager updates. Consent Calendar - Items 6A through 6H were approved unanimously (6-0): - 6A: Amendment to sanitary sewage agreement with Town of Woodside. - 6B: Final acceptance of emergency veterans sanitary sewer repairs. - 6C: LAFCO application for water/sanitary services to 890 Upland Road. - 6D: LAFCO application for sanitary service to 2835 Brewster Avenue. - 6E: Parcel map for 557 East Bay Shore development. - 6F: Agreement with Brain Fuse LLC for online homework help. - 6G: Approval of October 14, 2024 minutes. - 6H: Approval of claims and checks through November 4, 2024. Public Comments & Testimony (General) - Pamela Estes (Redwood City Parks and Arts Foundation) announced the fifth call for art at the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative community space; applications open through November 25 for San Mateo County residents. - One emailed comment from Chris Robell urged the council to oppose Proposition 5, arguing it would lower the tax approval threshold and increase property taxes. Public Hearing 8A: 847 Woodside Road Affordable Housing Project Overview: - A 72-unit affordable housing development (71 affordable units + 1 manager's unit) proposed by Eden Housing on land donated by Lane Partners. - Unit mix: 25 studios, 5 one-bedroom, 22 two-bedroom, 20 three-bedroom. - Affordability: 40 low-income, 31 very low-income, 1 manager unit. - 57 parking spaces (79% ratio), 90 bike spaces, 54 feet tall. - Designed to reduce bulk near single-family homes; includes a central courtyard, playground, and community room. - Staff and Planning Commission recommended approval. Public Comments: - 5 in-person speakers and 22 emailed comments (27 total). - Some speakers expressed concerns: traffic safety, parking, loading zone blocking bike lane, pedestrian safety on Woodside Road. - Many speakers (including youth, housing advocates, and a former planning commissioner) strongly supported the project, citing the housing crisis, the need for affordable homes, and the developer's responsiveness to neighborhood feedback. Council Discussion: - Councilmember Martinez Samayos asked about loading zone (staff clarified it is for Recology trash pickup, not general deliveries; deliveries can use garage). - She also questioned the no-net-loss analysis; staff confirmed the city has a 150% RHNA buffer and is on track for pro-housing designation. - Councilmember Aguirre and Sterkin praised the project's responsiveness, the inclusion of deeply affordable units, and the financial feasibility after reducing from 86 to 72 units. Key Outcomes: - CEQA resolution adopted (4-0; Mayor G and Councilmember Aiken recused, Councilmember Howard absent). - Project resolution approving architectural permit, vesting tentative map, density bonus, affordable housing plan, and land donation agreement adopted (4-0). Public Hearing 8B: 1900 Broadway Development Project Overview: - A 256,205 sq ft mixed-use project: 238,300 sq ft office, 10,060 sq ft retail, 1,000 sq ft community room, 715 sq ft storage, and a 12,085 sq ft public plaza. - Located at Broadway and Main Street, 7 stories, neoclassical design by Lane Partners. - Includes acquisition of Spring Street (city-owned) and a portion of the parklet. - Affordable housing contribution: land donation to Eden Housing for 847 Woodside (71 units) valued at $9M, exceeding the $5.7M fee requirement by $3.6M. - Additional community benefits: public plaza (with ice rink potential), community room for city use, 250 public parking spaces on nights/weekends, $500,000 to nonprofits, $100,000 to job training, 28 replacement trees, and use of prevailing wage/union labor. - Staff and Planning Commission recommended approval. Public Comments: - 16 in-person speakers and 3 emailed comments (19 total). - Speakers included union representatives (sheet metal, sprinkler fitters, plumbers), nonprofit leaders (Peninsula College Fund, Redwood City Education Foundation, Job Train), residents, and business owners—all in strong support. - Supporters highlighted good-paying union jobs, affordable housing, new public plaza, retail activation, community benefits, and the developer's collaboration with local nonprofits. - No opposition was voiced during the public hearing. Council Discussion: - Councilmembers expressed strong support for the project, praising its design, community benefits, and the linkage to affordable housing. - Councilmember Martinez Samayos asked about local vendor preference for retail; applicant indicated intent to seek local businesses. - Confirmed the community room and storage are for city use (Parks and Rec) for 25 years, rent-free, and available to nonprofits. - Councilmember Sterkin noted the union labor commitment and the importance of linking the two projects. Key Outcomes: - CEQA resolution adopted (4-0, same recusals/absence). - All remaining resolutions (general plan amendment, downtown precise plan amendment, project resolution including permits, map, affordable housing documents, and development agreement ordinance) adopted (4-0). Council Reports and City Manager Updates - Council Reports: - Councilmember Aiken reported on the Cal Cities conference, highlighting communication challenges. - Councilmember Sterkin also attended, noting interest in community land trusts for homeownership. - Mayor G attended Cal Cities sessions on AI and IRA funding; recognized staff for a climate resilience award. - Vice Mayor Espinoza Garnica attended Palestine Day celebration with 10,000 attendees. - Governance Subcommittee Report: Met October 21 to discuss legislative update and boards/commissions handbook; next meeting November 18. - City Manager Updates: - Second Harvest food bank needs donations; meat and turkey supplies are low. - Dia de los Muertos exhibit at library through November 2. - Sequoia Station/Caltrain area improvements: increased cleaning, CCTV, and Life Moves outreach. Key Outcomes - Approved consent calendar (6-0). - Approved 847 Woodside Road affordable housing project (4-0 after recusals). - Approved 1900 Broadway development with development agreement (4-0 after recusals). - Council adjourned to closed session with no reportable actions.

The Redwood City Planning Commission held a regular meeting on October 15, 2024, from 6:00 PM to 7:03 PM in Council Chambers at 1017 Middlefield Road, with remote participation via Zoom. Commissioners present: Vice Chair Chu (joined at 6:05 PM), Commissioners Cornejo, Finch, Koch, Chair Crnogorac, and Commissioner Hunter. No commissioners absent. The meeting included two public hearings on historic preservation agreements (Mills Act contracts) and associated landmark designations. Both items received unanimous support from the commission, which recommended approval to the City Council. Consent Calendar - No items on the consent calendar. Public Comments & Testimony - Item 5A (1200 Arguello St): Glenn Babbitt, a member of the Historic Resources Committee speaking personally, expressed strong support for the Mills Act contract. He noted the property's significance within the Mezesville Historic District and urged the commission to approve the resolution. - Item 5B (1337 Hopkins Ave): No public comments were received. Discussion Items - 5A. 1200 Arguello St – Mills Act Contract: Assistant Planner Jonathan Turner presented the proposal. The property, built in 1867, is a contributing resource in the Mezesville Historic District and features Greek Revival architecture. The 10-year improvement plan includes exterior paint, masonry repair, structural assessment, window repairs, HVAC upgrades, and ongoing maintenance. The Mills Act would provide a 40–60% reduction in property tax valuation in exchange for preservation. Staff noted that since 1990, only 34 Mills Act contracts have been approved in Redwood City. The applicant, Satyanaraynan Chandrasekar, described prior improvements ($150,000–$275,000 invested) and outlined the planned work. The Historic Resources Advisory Committee (HRAC) had previously recommended approval. Commissioners expressed support, noting the property's prominence and the program's benefits. - 5B. 1337 Hopkins Ave – Historic Landmark Designation and Mills Act Contract: Senior Planner Ryan Kuchenig presented. The 1924 Spanish Revival home, located in the Mount Carmel (Dinghy Park) neighborhood, is eligible under criteria A, B, and C. The property is associated with notable figures Dr. George Franklin Shields (a Congressional Medal of Honor recipient) and builder Charles Miller (who also built the Redwood City Women's Club). The 10-year plan includes window replacement with wood-clad, paint, porch pony wall removal, roof evaluation, and ongoing maintenance. HRAC unanimously recommended approval on September 12, 2024. Applicant Emanuel Robinson provided a detailed history and improvement plan. Commissioners praised the thoroughness and commitment to preservation. - Matters of Commission Interest: Staff announced cancellation of the November 5, 2024 meeting (Election Day). The next regular meeting is scheduled for November 19, 2024, at 6:00 PM. Key Outcomes - Motion to approve minutes of September 17, 2024: Passed 5-0 (Vice Chair Chu not yet present). - Item 5A (1200 Arguello St): Motion (Hunter/Koch) to adopt Resolution 2408 recommending City Council approval of the Historic Preservation Agreement (Mills Act Contract). Passed 6-0. - Item 5B (1337 Hopkins Ave): Motion (Cornejo/Hunter) to adopt Resolution 2409 recommending City Council designation of the property as a local historic landmark and approval of the Historic Preservation Agreement (Mills Act Contract). Passed 6-0.

The Redwood City City Council met on October 14, 2024, at 6:00 PM to discuss the Port of Redwood City annual update, recognize Indigenous People's Day, hear public comments on traffic safety, and consider a phased approach to allowing digital billboards. The meeting adjourned before 8:30 PM. Port of Redwood City Annual Update Port Commission Chair Stan Maupin and Executive Director Christine Zortman presented the annual report for Fiscal Year 2024. Key points included: the port contributes over $500,000 annually to the city's general fund through subvention payments; the port is enrolled in the Green Marine environmental program; the port has secured grants for stormwater infrastructure and port security; and the port is working with WETA on a future public ferry terminal, with a pilot ferry program returning in spring 2025. The port also hosts community events such as free concerts and a drone show. Council members praised the port's outreach, including "Lunch and Learn" tours averaging 20-40 attendees, and expressed support for future recreational development. Indigenous People's Day Proclamation The council read a proclamation recognizing October 14, 2024, as Indigenous People's Day in Redwood City, honoring the Ohlone people and supporting the San Mateo County Native and Indigenous Peoples Initiative. Gloria Gutierrez, co-chair of the initiative, accepted the proclamation and thanked the city for its ongoing recognition. Consent Calendar The consent calendar (items 6A-6G) was approved unanimously by electronic vote. Items included: agreement with GFOA for ERP system assessment; contract with Kimley-Horn for Roosevelt Avenue traffic calming; final acceptance of Belmont Slough levee repair; ordinance amendments to subdivision and housing codes; agreement with OverDrive for electronic materials; approval of September 23, 2024 minutes; and approval of claims and checks through October 28, 2024. Public Comments & Testimony Public comment was taken on consent calendar items and matters of council interest. Four comments were received: two in person and two via email. - Judith Kirk and Jean Yang (in person) described dangerous speeding and accidents on Nevada Street, Brewster Avenue, and near Laurie Duncan Park in the Eagle Hill neighborhood. They requested traffic calming measures and increased police enforcement, noting that since COVID, traffic violations have increased dramatically. Yang mentioned a recent crash that destroyed her fence. - Jana Jacobs (email) echoed concerns about the Brewster corridor, noting cars traveling 35-40 mph, ignored stop signs, and zero traffic calming measures. She implored the city to support future traffic calming. - Mason and Shelley (video) submitted a comment about a positive experience at an Airbnb boat rental at the port (not related to agenda items). Discussion Items: Digital Billboards (Item 8A) Economic Development Manager Amanda Anthony presented a staff report on a phased approach to allowing digital billboards in Redwood City. The report outlined significant obstacles: existing city ordinance prohibiting billboards (since 2007), Caltrans regulations restricting placement on landscaped freeways, federal laws, and underground infrastructure. Only limited areas along Highway 101 are potentially eligible. Staff recommended a phased approach: authorize a solicitation for one digital billboard, evaluate proposals, and return to council with an ordinance change and environmental review (CEQA) before any approval. Council members debated the proposal. Councilmember Aiken opposed, citing the 2007 ordinance's rationale (public health, safety, aesthetics, property values), state and federal obstacles, environmental concerns for Bear Island and Redwood Creek, driver distraction, and the risk of wasting staff time and business goodwill. Vice Mayor Espinoza Garnica supported moving forward, emphasizing the need to explore revenue options, the potential for CEQA to mitigate light pollution, and the importance of equity (avoiding concentration in disadvantaged areas). Councilmember Sturken supported, noting the potential for revenue to address the structural deficit, the ability to require mitigation (e.g., dimming at night), and the opportunity to replace static billboards with fewer digital ones. Councilmember Ghett supported, stating the council agreed in April to study the issue and that revenue diversification is important. Councilmember Howard supported, expressing optimism about replacing unsightly static billboards, learning from other cities' mitigations, and the potential for business advertising. Councilmember Martinez Saballos supported, highlighting the value of replacing aging billboards, the ability to use billboards for city messaging, and the need for flexibility. Mayor G supported, noting the potential revenue ($100,000+ per year for 20 years) and the importance of seeing market interest. The council voted 6-1 to approve the staff recommendation (Councilmember Aiken opposed). The motion directs staff to proceed with a phased approach, starting with a solicitation for one digital billboard, and to return with ordinance changes and environmental review. Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar approved unanimously. - Digital Billboards motion passed (6-1) to authorize staff to proceed with Phase 1: solicit proposals for one digital billboard, with environmental review and ordinance changes to follow. - Port Update received and appreciated. - Indigenous People's Day Proclamation adopted. - Committee Reports given by various council members. - Next Meeting scheduled for October 28, 2024.

The Planning Commission Regular Meeting scheduled for October 1, 2024 at 6:00 PM was cancelled. No agenda items were discussed and no actions were taken. Notice - The meeting cancellation was posted on the official agenda for the October 1, 2024 meeting. - No minutes or transcript are available because the meeting did not occur.

The Redwood City Council met on Monday, September 23, 2024, at 6:00 p.m. The meeting included presentations on long COVID and community awards, public comments, a consent calendar with multiple routine approvals, a discussion on updating municipal codes (stormwater, subdivisions, and improvements), and a study session on tobacco retailer regulations and smoking in public rights-of-way. The council voted 6-1 (Mayor G opposed) to adopt the municipal code updates (excluding a later study on Chapter 27A). No final action was taken on tobacco regulations; staff will conduct further outreach and research. Proclamations and Presentations - National Service Dog Month (September) was proclaimed; a proclamation was presented to Canine Companions. - Fire Prevention Week (October 6-12) was recognized with the theme "Smoke Alarms: Make Them Work for You." - Long COVID Update: Dr. Kismet Baldwin Santana, San Mateo County Health Officer, presented data: an estimated 10–15% of people who had COVID develop post-COVID conditions; a 2022 CDC study found 7% of adults had ever experienced long COVID and 3.4% currently had it. Higher prevalence was noted among women, adults aged 35–49, Hispanic individuals, and those with lower household incomes. Urban residents had lower rates than rural. Vaccination reduces risk. The fall 2024–2025 COVID-19 vaccine is recommended for everyone aged 6 months and older. Dr. Santana answered questions about symptoms, vaccine timing, and the county's role in future guidance. - Welcoming Star Awards: Presented by Redwood City Together to José Luis Aguirre (outreach program manager at Garon) and the Sequoia YMCA Safety Around Water Program (taught 160 low-income children/parents free water safety skills; 50% had never been to a pool before). - Career Online High School Graduation: Three graduates were honored (Janelle Medina, Heidi Casadas Pinto, and Shayla Melendez – absent). The program has now produced 17 graduates. Graduates spoke about perseverance and future goals. Consent Calendar All items on the consent calendar were approved unanimously by a 7-0 vote. Highlights include: - Tentative agreement with IAFF Local 2400 firefighters. - $2 million grant application for Bay Trail Gap Closure. - All-way stop signs at Harrison Avenue and Dwayne Street. - Ardell de Niños Park Expansion contract to McNabb Construction/Park Planet. - Final acceptance of Hayes Park Synthetic Turf Replacement Project. - Extension of the fee waiver deadline for outdoor businesses. - Extended Day Learning Services partnership with Redwood City School District (serves over 600 children, no general fund cost). - Various services agreements (disposal, locksmith, traffic signs) and claims approval. Public Comments & Testimony - Tony Gapistone (BraveMaker founder) requested community support and sponsorships for the nonprofit film festival; noted funding challenges. - Kath Trindle (emailed) opposed the 847 Woodside Road project, citing parking, health, and safety concerns; insufficient open space; poor transit access. - Ed Stancil (emailed) offered to settle litigation with the city regarding docktown housing for approximately $366,000; claimed city harassment and invalid contracts. - Anu Pom Batia (emailed) complained about a recurring food truck vending without proper permits on Broadway and Winslow. - Susan Hinton (emailed) criticized replacement of natural grass with artificial turf, citing heat islands, plastic pollution, and chemical use. Discussion Items - Item 8A: Municipal Code Updates (Chapters 18, 27A, 30) – Staff presented updates to streamline subdivision approvals, align with state law (e.g., SB 9), update stormwater green infrastructure standards, and repeal/repalce Chapter 30 (last updated 1979). Key changes include: raising the commercial remodel trigger for stormwater treatment from 10,000 sq ft to 25,000 sq ft to reduce burden; adding hardship exemptions for undergrounding utilities; removing the subdivision committee; and allowing city engineer/city manager to approve certain maps. Councilmember Howard suggested using the Board of Building Review for periodic updates. Mayor G expressed concerns about the cost impact on tenant improvements for stormwater requirements and requested more data and outreach before adopting Chapter 27A amendments. The council voted 6-1 (Mayor G opposed) to adopt the ordinance as presented but also directed staff to bring back additional information on other cities’ approaches and case studies. - Study Session: Tobacco Retailer Regulations and Smoking in Public Rights-of-Way – Staff presented two options: adopt San Mateo County’s stricter ordinance (county handles permitting/enforcement; fee $672/year per retailer; prohibits all flavored tobacco including hookah; location restrictions) or create a city-run program (estimated $110,000–$175,000 annually; fee $2,000 per retailer). The county option would affect three grandfathered hookah lounges (Pasha's, Rock & Wraps, Sandwich Spot). Councilmembers expressed a range of views. Several emphasized public health concerns (Councilmember Howard, Martinez Saballos, Aiken) and a desire to reduce youth access to flavored tobacco. Others (Vice Mayor Espinosa-Garnica, Councilmember Sturkin) stressed the cultural/economic value of hookah lounges and the need to avoid harming existing businesses. Councilmember Aiken proposed exploring a carve-out for the three lounges; county declined. Councilmember Howard suggested converting lounges to private clubs. Mayor G raised the possibility of shared services with other cities (e.g., South San Francisco) to lower enforcement costs. On smoking in public rights-of-way, many supported restrictions on the pedestrian mall and commercial corridors but cautioned against a total ban because residents in multi-unit housing already face limited options. No formal action was taken; staff will conduct outreach to hookah businesses, research state law exceptions, explore shared enforcement models, and return with findings. Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar: Approved unanimously 7-0. - Municipal Code Updates (Chapters 18, 27A, 30) – Motion passed 6-1 (Mayor G opposed). The ordinance was introduced with a first reading (Chapters 18 and 30 adopted; Chapter 27A amendments and resolution adopting updated green infrastructure standards were approved but council directed staff to return with additional research comparing other cities' approaches and case studies). - Tobacco Regulations Study Session: No voting occurred. Council provided guidance to staff to: - Engage the three grandfathered hookah businesses and surrounding community. - Research state law exceptions for enclosed hookah lounges. - Explore shared enforcement agreements with neighboring cities (e.g., South San Francisco, San Bruno). - Investigate the feasibility of a carve-out for existing lounges under a county-enforced program. - Study public right-of-way smoking restrictions for commercial corridors and pedestrian malls. - Report back in late 2024 / early 2025.

The Redwood City Planning Commission met on September 17, 2024, at 6:00 PM in the Council Chambers at 1017 Middlefield Road. The meeting included two major public hearings: a 72-unit 100% affordable housing development at 847 Woodside Road (linked to the 1900 Broadway office project) and a 256,205 sq. ft. office development at 1900 Broadway with a land donation to fund the affordable housing. Commissioners present: Alvarez, Chu, Cornejo, Finch, Koch, Vice Chair Crnogorac, and Chair Hunter. Commissioner Koch recused herself from both public hearings due to proximity to her residence. The meeting adjourned at 10:10 PM. Consent Calendar - No items were on the consent calendar. Public Comments & Testimony - General Public Comment (Item 2): Jean Yang spoke about traffic safety concerns at Brewster and Nevada intersection near Laurie Duncan Park, requesting crosswalks and traffic calming measures. Staff said they would follow up. - Public Hearing – 847 Woodside Road: 12 in-person speakers and 17 emails were read into the record. Speakers expressed both support and opposition. Supporters (e.g., Shishir Bhat, Jordan Grimes from Greenbelt Alliance, Ken Doran) emphasized the severe housing shortage, the need for affordable family units, and the project's climate benefits. Opponents (e.g., Cath Trindle, Paul Morgan, Dennis Symanski, Jill Clardy, Anthony Lazarus, Ken Tehaney via email, businesses at 801 Woodside Road) raised concerns about insufficient parking (57 spaces for 72 units), spillover parking on neighborhood streets, safety of the loading zone crossing the bike lane, loss of a community-focused organization (Casa Circular Cultural), and the building's height and massing. Several neighbors acknowledged the developer's compromise in reducing units from 86 to 72 and improving design. - Public Hearing – 1900 Broadway: 9 in-person speakers and 26 emails (including 16 form letters) were read. All speakers expressed strong support. Speakers included Larry Moody (JobTrain), Beth Mostovoy (arts advocate), Veronica Escamez (Casa Circular Cultural), Erendida Cerrillo, Amy Buckmaster (Chamber San Mateo County), Ali Anyna (business owner), Florence Ortiz, Christine Mireles (Peninsula College Fund), and others. They highlighted the $47 million in community benefits, 72 affordable housing units donated to Eden Housing, the public plaza, ice rink potential, retail activation, and the revitalization of a long-vacant site. No opposition was voiced. Discussion Items - 847 Woodside Road – 72-Unit Affordable Housing Development: Staff (Associate Planner Sam Hughes) presented the project, noting the 25% density bonus, 57 parking spaces, 90 bicycle spaces, and a robust TDM program including free transit passes. The project is off-site affordable housing for the 1900 Broadway office development. The applicant (Eden Housing) and architect (Kate Conley) described design changes after AAC and neighbor feedback: reduced unit count from 86 to 72, improved parking ratio from 58% to 79%, preserved redwood trees, added privacy screening, and used lighter materials. Commissioners discussed parking, bike lane safety on Woodside Road (a Caltrans-controlled highway), transit frequency (bus every 30 minutes peak), and the possibility of neighborhood parking permits. Commissioners Chu and Finch noted the need for affordable housing and the viability of car-free living. Commissioner Alvarez asked about the driveway and parking allocation. The public hearing was opened and closed, and the commission voted 6-0 to recommend approval to City Council. - 1900 Broadway – Office Development with Land Donation: Staff (Contract Principal Planner Darryl Boyd) presented the project: 256,205 sq. ft., seven stories (92 ft), ground-floor retail, public plaza (12,000 sq. ft.), community room, and 538 parking spaces (478 office, 25 retail, 35 for Sequoia Hotel). The project requires a General Plan amendment and Downtown Precise Plan amendment to increase the office cap. The affordable housing requirement (25 units or $5.7 million fee) is satisfied by donating land at 847 Woodside Road (valued at $9.3 million, net community benefit $3.6 million). A Development Agreement (DA) was negotiated, including community benefits such as $500,000 to nonprofit partnerships, public access to the plaza, and public parking on nights/weekends. The applicant (Lane Partners) and architect (DES Architects) emphasized placemaking, activation of the Broadway-Main Street corner, and design refinements per AAC feedback. Commissioners discussed the change from on-site to off-site affordable housing, tree removal (28 new trees planted, plus 28 mitigation trees), public safety, and the ice rink possibility. Commissioner Cornejo asked about nonprofit funding timing and relocation assistance for Casa Circular Cultural. The public hearing was held, and the commission voted 6-0 to recommend approval to City Council. - Appointment of Chair and Vice Chair: The commission appointed Vice Chair Filip Crnogorac as Chair (motion by Koch, second by Hunter; passed 6-1, Crnogorac abstained) and Commissioner Isabella Chu as Vice Chair (motion by Koch, second by Crnogorac; passed 6-0, Chu abstained). Key Outcomes - 847 Woodside Road (Resolution 24-06): Approved 6-0 (Commissioner Koch recused) to recommend City Council approve the CEQA checklist, architectural permit, vesting tentative parcel map, density bonus with concessions/waivers, affordable housing plan, and land donation agreement. - 1900 Broadway (Resolution 24-07): Approved 6-0 (Commissioner Koch recused) to recommend City Council approve the CEQA checklist, General Plan and Downtown Precise Plan amendments, Downtown Planned Community Permit, Use Permit, Vesting Tentative Parcel Map, Affordable Housing Plan with off-site land donation, and Development Agreement with community benefits. - Minutes of June 4, 2024: Approved 7-0. - Chair and Vice Chair Appointments: Filip Crnogorac elected Chair (6-1, abstained); Isabella Chu elected Vice Chair (6-0, abstained). - Other: Commissioner Finch requested that future agenda include discussion on reinstating Zoom public comment, which was noted for potential future agenda item.