Public Meetings - Redwood City, California

The meeting was a special city council meeting scheduled for August 26, 2023. The provided materials (agenda, minutes, and raw transcript) contain no substantive content. The agenda packet was referenced but not detailed; no minutes or transcript were available. Therefore, no specific agenda items, public comments, discussions, or outcomes can be summarized. Note - No decisions, votes, or testimony were recorded in the available data. - The meeting may have been cancelled, postponed, or the records are incomplete. - Discrepancy: The instruction specifies the meeting time as 17:00:00+00:00, while the agenda packet filename indicates 9:00 AM. Without further information, the exact time is uncertain.

This special meeting of the Redwood City Council focused on work plans from three boards, commissions, and committees (BCCs): the Housing and Human Concerns Committee (HHCC), the Parks, Recreation and Community Services Commission (PRCS), and the Port Commission. The council also received public comments on various topics and adjourned to closed session to discuss litigation related to the Docktown marina, where they approved two settlement agreements. Public Comments & Testimony - Jimmy Hedges inquired about an update on the Cordilleras Creek group formed in March to address issues with San Carlos Bridge and other agencies. - Isabel Pardo (Local 217) advocated for union apprenticeships, sharing her positive experience training a new apprentice. - Scott Rathjan (union veteran) emphasized the importance of unions for skills, benefits, and future generations, supporting union work. - Brian Shields (Carpenter's Local 217) requested an agendized item to study labor standards in Redwood City, citing Berkeley's Hard Hat Ordinance as a model. - Alison Madden called attention to the closed session item on Docktown litigation, previewed a book about YIMBY issues, and criticized attorney Ted Hannig's role in past lawsuits. - Laird Benin urged council to quick-build a two-way protected bikeway on northbound El Camino Real, citing safety concerns and the city's deadliest roadway. - Taylor Pope supported expediting bike lanes on El Camino Real, noting that Redwood City Council approved plans in 2017 but progress has stalled. Discussion Items 5A: Housing and Human Concerns Committee (HHCC) Work Plan - Chair Kate Heister presented the HHCC's approved work plan, which included committee-led items on data collection, extremely low-income housing, and a mental health/substance use needs assessment. She expressed dismay that staff unilaterally altered the plan in the agenda packet without consulting the committee, calling it a breach of process. She requested council either approve the original HHCC-approved version or return it for further discussion. - City Manager noted that the changes were made to highlight committee-led items for council consideration, acknowledging the committee's hard work but stating that some items require significant policy, legal, or operational staff support. - Council Vice Mayor Espinoza Garnica apologized for the miscommunication, supported exploring data collection models like a rental registry, and moved to return the work plan to HHCC for further review with staff. - Councilmember Sturkin echoed support for returning the work plan and requested staff analysis on the cost and time required to support the committee-led research. - Councilmember Howard emphasized the importance of focusing on the housing element priorities and suggested the committee phase in its work. - Mayor G noted the city's resource constraints and requested prioritization and sustainability in the work plan. - Vote: Motion to return the HHCC work plan to the committee for further review passed unanimously. 5B: Parks, Recreation and Community Services Commission (PRCS) Work Plan - Chair Jennifer Tipton presented the commission's two-year work plan, focusing on increasing community engagement, equitable distribution of park amenities, green sustainable parks, and programming for youth, teens, and seniors. The plan also addresses park safety as an overarching priority. - Vice Mayor Espinoza Garnica and Councilmember Aitken praised the work plan, asking about engagement strategies for diverse communities and equity in park amenities. - Councilmember Howard noted the importance of parks as community gathering places and supported the commission's volunteer-led initiatives. - Councilmember Getz highlighted the need to address inequities on the east side, including outreach to trailer parks and non-English speaking communities, and asked about scholarship programs for classes. - Councilmember Sturkin asked about mobile recreation program data and park safety, urging outreach beyond neighborhood associations. - Vote: Motion to accept the PRCS work plan for fiscal years 2023-24 and 2024-25 passed unanimously. 5C: Port Commission Annual Report - Chair Ralph Garcia and Executive Director Christine Zortman presented the port's FY23 year-end results and FY24 report, highlighting financial performance (over $500,000 subvention to city general fund), maritime trade, waterfront recreation, sustainability efforts (Green Marine program), and progress on a future public ferry terminal. - Vice Mayor Espinoza Garnica asked about community engagement and transportation barriers to the port. - Councilmember Getz praised the port's diversity of events and requested continued outreach in multiple languages. - Councilmember Howard commended the port's opening to the community and noted the Saturday concert series sponsored by a nonprofit. - Councilmember Aitken highlighted the environmental benefits of shipping by water vs. truck. - Councilmember Martinez Sabayos asked about sustainability and workforce development connections with local colleges. - Chair Garcia emphasized that port commissioners need business experience, not political appointments. - Vote: Motion to accept the port's annual report passed unanimously. Closed Session: Docktown Litigation - Council adjourned to closed session to discuss multiple lawsuits related to the Docktown marina. - Public comment: Ed Stancil and Alison Madden spoke against attorney Ted Hannig, criticizing past settlements and urging the council not to award him further taxpayer money. - Report out: City attorney announced that the council unanimously approved two written settlement agreements: one with the estate of William Fleming and a second with Tina and Jonathan Reed, resolving litigation claims related to the Docktown marina. Key Outcomes - HHCC work plan: Returned to the committee for further review with staff; council requested prioritization and cost analysis of committee-led items. - PRCS work plan: Accepted unanimously. - Port Commission annual report: Accepted unanimously. - Closed session: Two settlement agreements approved (Fleming estate and Reed family) regarding Docktown litigation.

The Redwood City Planning Commission met on August 15, 2023, at 6:00 PM in Council Chambers and via Zoom. Commissioners Chu and Espinoza participated remotely under AB2449 (just cause). The meeting included a public hearing for an architectural permit at 636 Teredo Drive and adoption of the Planning Commission Work Plan for FY 2023-2024 and 2024-2025. The meeting adjourned at 8:40 PM. Consent Calendar - No items were on the consent calendar. Public Comments & Testimony - Item 6A – 636 Teredo Drive: One public speaker (Kris Johnson) opposed the project, arguing that the city's soft cap FAR ordinance does not limit home size and that this project would set a precedent for larger homes. The speaker urged the Commission to recommend a hard cap FAR to the City Council. - Item 6B – Work Plan: Two speakers (Brian Shields and Julio Blanco, Carpenters Local 217) supported including labor standards (apprenticeship, living wage, health care, local hire) in the Planning Commission’s mission statement, citing state bills AB 2011, SB 4, and SB 423. Discussion Items - 636 Teredo Drive – Architectural Permit AP2022-062: Staff presented a proposal to demolish an existing 1,320 sq ft (corrected to 1,790 sq ft) single-story home and construct a new 3,811 sq ft, two-story single-family residence with 4 bedrooms and 4.5 bathrooms. The project exceeds the 3,000 sq ft and 0.45 FAR thresholds, triggering a soft cap FAR review. The applicant, Alan Ting, described the home as a forever home for his multigenerational family, noting support from adjacent neighbors who were notified. Staff found the project met contextual setback, garage placement, and massing findings. The Commission debated whether the size (0.57 FAR, largest on the block) could be consistent with neighborhood character. Some commissioners emphasized the design’s compatibility, while Chair Hunter noted the house exceeds neighboring two-story homes by 16–28% in FAR. Motion to approve Resolution 23-19 passed 5-1 with Chair Hunter opposing. - Adoption of Planning Commission Work Plan for FY 2023-2024 and 2024-2025: Staff presented ongoing goals and new project-specific goals, including implementing the housing element, downtown precise plan gatekeeper projects, Central Redwood City Plan, Redwood Life Precise Plan, and historic preservation ordinance update. Two new items were proposed: (1) study biosafety levels (BSL) citywide and (2) revise the Planning Commission mission statement. After discussion, a motion to remove both new items passed 4-1 (Espinoza abstained on the BSL amendment). The final motion to approve the work plan without those items passed 6-0. Key Outcomes - Item 6A – 636 Teredo Drive: Approved (Resolution No. 23-19) by a 5-1 vote (Hunter no). The architectural permit allows demolition and construction subject to conditions of approval. - Item 6B – Work Plan: Approved by a 6-0 vote. The adopted work plan includes all previous goals but excludes the study of citywide biosafety levels and revision of the mission statement.

The Redwood City Council met on July 24, 2023, starting at 6:00 PM and extending past midnight, to consider a range of items including the initiation of environmental review for the proposed Redwood Life redevelopment project, adoption of new firearm and ammunition retail regulations, approval of a retiree health benefit restructuring for police supervisors, and appointment of an interim community development director. The meeting featured extensive public testimony on the two major public hearings, with 51 speakers on the Redwood Life project and several on the firearms ordinance. Consent Calendar - Approved items 8A through 8T, including rejection of a liability claim, legal services agreement for the ferry terminal, on-call building services, Roosevelt Avenue quick-build traffic calming contract, multimodal grant application for U.S. 101/Woodside Road interchange, parcel map for 690 Veterans Boulevard, affordable housing preservation program, grant from Get Healthy San Mateo County, CDBG/HOME technical assistance, farmer's market license agreement, crossing guard services, Shape Inc. pump maintenance agreement, housing element implementation ordinances (zoning code amendments), rezone of 505 East Bay Shore Road, June 26, 2023 minutes, and claims/checks. - Items 8K and 8R (Councilmember Aiken recused) were approved separately. - Items 8O and 8S required five-sevenths votes: 8O (Arts Commission grants) passed 5-0 with Councilmember Aiken and Mayor G recused; 8S (grant to Casa Circulo Cultural) passed 6-0 with Mayor G recused. Public Comments & Testimony - General Public Comment (Item 7): Nine in-person speakers and one Zoom speaker addressed non-agenda matters. Topics included National Night Out celebration at Mezes Park, concerns about Docktown safety (Ted Hannock, Elmer Guerrero, Kathy Harris, Stacey Talamantes alleged city negligence regarding an 11-year-old girl's death), support for City Trees (Philip Kernia-Gorak reported planting 255 trees and over 200 hours of pruning), and complaints about abandoned bird scooters in Bear Island (Jim Crampton). - Public Hearing on Redwood Life (Item 9A): 51 speakers (18 in-person, 33 via Zoom) provided comments. Supporters (including union representatives, residents, Chamber of Commerce, Build Up San Mateo County, Biocom California) emphasized job creation, affordable housing funds ($85 million), child care investment ($2 million), sea level rise mitigation, and community amenities. Opponents (Redwood Shores residents, Sierra Club, Sequoia Audubon, Citizens Committee to Complete the Refuge) raised concerns about project scale (3.31 million sq. ft.), traffic, biosafety levels, unlined landfill contamination, impacts on wetlands and wildlife, construction duration, and inequitable distribution of benefits. Several urged the council to require a scaled-back alternative before CEQA. - Public Hearing on Firearms Retail Ordinance (Item 9B): One in-person speaker (Katie Getz) and two Zoom speakers (Elizabeth Molina, Clara Jackal) supported strong restrictions, with some advocating for a 1,000-foot distance from sensitive facilities. Discussion Items - Redwood Life Project (Item 9A): Staff presented the proposal to initiate proceedings to repeal the Westport Specific Plan and replace it with a new Precise Plan for a 3.31 million sq. ft. research and development/life sciences campus, including a 104-room hotel, 29 acres of public open space, levee improvements, and community benefits ($85 million for affordable housing, $2 million for child care). The applicant (Longfellow) committed to compromise and a community process. Council discussion focused on the need for city-led community engagement, independent data from CEQA, and addressing equity concerns. The council directed staff to initiate the environmental review process with a city-led third-party engagement plan, periodic reports (six-month updates), and a timeline of approximately 18 months. The motion passed unanimously (7-0). - Firearms and Ammunition Retail Ordinance (Item 9B): Staff recommended two ordinances: a law enforcement permit (annual renewal, security requirements, operating hours 8 AM–8 PM, no unaccompanied minors, signage) and zoning regulations (conditional use permit, prohibitions within 600 feet of schools, child care centers, youth centers, parks, libraries, places of worship, and within 1,000 feet of another gun store). The Planning Commission had recommended a hybrid approach (1,000 feet from schools, 600 feet from others). Council debated equity impacts, with data showing that stricter distances would disproportionately affect low-HPI neighborhoods. Councilmember Howard supported the Planning Commission version, but the majority favored the staff recommendation with amendments: (1) all posted warnings must be translated into the city's top three languages (English, Spanish, Chinese) and (2) annual reporting to council on ordinance enforcement. The motion passed 6-1 (Councilmember Howard dissenting). - Retiree Health Benefits Restructuring (Item 10A): The council reviewed an actuarial report on proposed changes to post-employment health benefits for the Police Supervisors Association (PSA), which would reduce the city's unfunded liability by limiting family coverage for new hires. The matter was informational; adoption will occur at a future meeting. - Interim Community Development Director Appointment (Item 10B): The council unanimously approved appointing CalPERS retiree Jeffrey Schwab as interim community development and transportation director from July 25, 2023, to February 5, 2024. Key Outcomes - Vote on Item 9A (Initiate CEQA for Redwood Life): 7-0 in favor, with direction for city-led community engagement, six-month progress reports, and a goal to develop an alternative project through data-informed compromise. - Vote on Item 9B (Firearms Retail Ordinances): 6-1 (Councilmember Howard opposed) to adopt the staff recommendation with amendments requiring translation of signs into top three languages and annual reporting to council. - Vote on Item 10A (Actuarial Report): Unanimous approval of staff recommendation (informational). - Vote on Item 10B (Interim Director Appointment): Unanimous approval. - Other: Council adjourned in memory of Keith Blackie, a longtime resident and international scout advocate.

The Redwood City Planning Commission held a regular meeting on July 18, 2023, at 6:00 PM in the City Council Chambers and via Zoom. Commissioners present: Alvarez, Chu, Espinoza, Koch, and Vice Chair Crnogorac. Commissioners absent: Lazarus and Chair Hunter. The meeting covered three public hearings: a hotel project at 1690 Broadway, a restaurant addition at 1100 El Camino Real, and the adoption of the commission's work plan for fiscal years 2023-2024 and 2024-2025. All three items were approved unanimously, with the work plan motion directing staff to incorporate commissioner feedback and a mission statement review. Public Comments & Testimony - Dylan Finch (in-person, non-agenda item): Urged the commission to encourage developers to place main building entrances on side streets rather than arterial roads like El Camino Real, citing safety and pedestrian experience. He noted that a previous development on El Camino had an unpleasant entrance while the quieter side street behind it offered better opportunities for pedestrian amenities. - Brian Shields (in-person, on 1690 Broadway): Representative from Carpenter's Local 217 spoke in support of labor standards for the project. He argued that labor standards attract responsible contractors, help maintain bonds, and provide local workforce opportunities. He noted that he had reached out to the applicant but had not received a response. Discussion Items - 1690 Broadway – Hyatt Place Hotel (Resolution 23-17): The applicant requested a Planned Development Permit, Use Permit, and Architectural Permit to demolish an existing 17-room motel and construct a 112-room hotel with 91 on-site parking spaces (a reduction from the standard 112 spaces). The five-story building (53 feet 10 inches, with a 64-foot-9-inch tower element) includes subterranean parking, widened sidewalks, 10 new street trees, bioretention areas, and underground utilities. A parking study by Hexagon indicated a 0.77 parking ratio would be sufficient, supported by a Transportation Demand Management (TDM) plan including transit subsidies for employees. The project is within half a mile of the downtown and Caltrain. Commissioners discussed the parking ratio, TDM measures, potential demand, and the importance of local labor. Commissioner Chu supported reduced parking minimums, citing climate goals and national trends. Commissioner Espinoza and Koch encouraged the applicant to engage with local unions. The project was approved 5-0. - 1100 El Camino Real – Grand Hot Pot Restaurant (Resolution 23-18): The applicant sought a Downtown Planned Community Permit and Use Permit for exterior modifications and a second-story addition to a historic dry-cleaning building (built 1941). The ground floor will become a restaurant seating up to 127 occupants, with a second-floor deck and private rooms. The historic facade on El Camino Real will be preserved, and the existing projecting sign retained. No parking is required due to AB 2097 (within half mile of public transit). A subsurface soil evaluation found no remediation needed for the change from dry cleaner to restaurant. The Historic Resources Advisory Commission recommended approval on June 8, 2023. Commissioners praised the design, noted the proximity to Whole Foods and Sequoia Station, and encouraged the applicant to explore planting trees on the Harrison Avenue side and adjacent parking lot. The project was approved 5-0. - Planning Commission Work Plan for FY 2023-2024 and 2024-2025: Principal Planner Francis presented a review of past work plans and proposed new goals, including implementation of the Housing Element, downtown precise plan gatekeeper projects, the Central Redwood City Plan, the Redwood Life Precise Plan, and an update to the Historic Preservation Ordinance (unchanged since 1980). Commissioners discussed the need to align the work plan with city strategic priorities (equity, housing, transportation, children/youth) and to revise the commission's mission statement (last updated 2005). Commissioner Espinoza proposed reframing the work plan around priorities such as reducing car-centric land use, streamlining approvals, and ensuring public benefit for affordable housing. Commissioner Chu emphasized abolishing parking minimums and transportation equity. Commissioner Koch noted the importance of senior mobility and green space. The commission voted unanimously to direct staff to bring back a revised work plan that incorporates the discussion and includes consideration of a mission statement revision. Key Outcomes - Approved Resolution 23-17 for 1690 Broadway (Use Permit 2022-003, Planned Development Permit 2022-003, Architectural Permit 2022-013) – Motion by Espinoza, second by Koch. Vote: 5-0. - Approved Resolution 23-18 for 1100 El Camino Real (Downtown Planned Community Permit DPC2022-001, Use Permit UP2022-002) – Motion by Espinoza, second by Chu. Vote: 5-0. - Approved motion directing staff to revise the work plan for FY 2023-2024 and 2024-2025 based on commissioner feedback, including reframing around priorities (e.g., land use for public health, reducing car dependency, affordable housing) and adding a review of the commission's mission statement. The revised work plan will be brought back at a later meeting (tentatively August 15, 2023). Vote: 5-0. - Meeting adjourned at 8:35 PM. The next regular meeting is scheduled for August 15, 2023, at 6:00 PM.

This summary is based on the agenda, minutes, and raw transcription provided. The agenda refers to a City Council Special Meeting on June 20, 2023, but the user specifies the meeting occurred on June 27, 2023. No minutes or transcript were available for either date. Therefore, no substantive discussions, decisions, or public comments can be documented. Note on Data Discrepancy - The only available document is an agenda packet for a meeting dated June 20, 2023, with no additional details. - The raw transcription field is empty. - Due to conflicting dates and absence of meeting content, all standard sections (Consent Calendar, Public Comments, Discussion Items, Key Outcomes) are omitted. For accurate information about the June 27, 2023 meeting, please consult official city records.

The Redwood City City Council met on June 26, 2023, at 6:00 PM. The meeting covered a wide range of items, including recognition of the retiring City Clerk, consent calendar approvals, significant housing element implementation amendments, downtown precise plan updates, a specific residential development project, the fiscal year 2023-24 budget, and various other administrative matters. The meeting extended past 11 PM and was adjourned after approving all key items. Consent Calendar - Approved the consent calendar (items 7A-7P) with a unanimous vote, except for items 7I (Redwood Shores assessments), 7J (Pavement Management Program), 7L (Casa Circulo), and 7N (Military Equipment Policy) which were pulled for separate discussion. - Councilmember Gee recused from item 7I (adjacent property) and 7L (board member of grantee). - Item 7J (Fiscal Year 2023-24 Pavement Management Program) was approved unanimously after discussion on equity considerations; staff noted that 28% of the project budget is located within equity priority communities. - Item 7N (Military Equipment Policy) was originally pulled, but after a motion to revisit failed (no majority), it remained as previously approved. - Item 7M (End to Stage 2 Water Shortage Emergency) was approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - General Public Comment (23 speakers total): Comments included recognition of retiring City Clerk Pamela Aguilar, updates on the Bear Island homeless meeting (over 100 attendees), support for PACE program funding (multiple speakers), testimonies from tenants requesting an anti-harassment ordinance (detailed stories of mistreatment), a request for a resolution regarding farm animal protection, and a request to pull the Pavement Management Program item due to equity concerns. - Housing Element and Downtown Amendments: Speakers included representatives from MidPen Housing, Tishman Speyer, Housing Leadership Council, and community members. They expressed support for the amendments, with specific requests for clarity on land donation timing and reverter terms. One speaker (Jeff Shibowski) raised concerns about infrastructure capacity and office vacancy rates. - 505 East Bayshore Project: Multiple speakers (Bay Area Council, Bear Island neighborhood co-chairs, San Mateo County Association of Realtors, Housing Leadership Council) spoke in strong support of the project, citing homeownership opportunities, affordable units, and community benefits. - Budget: Claire Jackal and Bill Newell requested equitable revenue measures and adequate park maintenance funding. Discussion Items - Housing Element Implementation Package (Item 8A): Staff presented comprehensive zoning code, municipal code, and general plan amendments to implement the state-certified housing element. Key components included allowing “missing middle” housing, increasing heights in mixed-use districts (from 50 to 60 feet in mixed-use neighborhood), implementing SB 9, zoning map amendments, and updating the affordable housing ordinance. Council discussed land donation criteria (half-mile from transit), reverter terms (5 years), and the need for clarity to encourage partnerships with affordable housing developers. The item was approved 6-0 (Councilmember Aiken recused). - Downtown Precise Plan Amendments (Item 8B): Approved amendments to add 80,000 square feet of office capacity, allow RD laboratory uses as conditional in downtown general and transit districts, and update various development standards. A subsequent EIR was certified with a statement of overriding considerations. The three resolutions (certify EIR, adopt GPA, adopt DTPP amendments) were each approved 6-0 (Mayor Gee recused). - 505 East Bayshore Road Townhouse Project (Item 8C): The Council approved a general plan amendment, zoning map amendment, vesting tentative map, condominium permit, architectural permit, and affordable housing plan for a 56-unit townhome project, including 8 below-market-rate units. The developer noted the project would be all-electric, include solar, and provide public access to the bay trail. The EIR was certified with findings and a statement of overriding considerations. Each of the four staff recommendations was approved 6-0 (Mayor Gee recused). - Fiscal Year 2023-24 Budget (Item 8D): The Council approved the operating budget, five-year capital improvement program, and successor agency budget. Councilmember Sturken requested consideration of PACE program funding, but City Manager recommended waiting for a mid-year assessment; the budget was approved unanimously. - Police Advisory Committee Appointments (Item 9A): Council members each appointed one candidate to fill seven two-year seats. Appointees: John McMullen, Clara Jackal, Daniel Tirunian, Max Disher, Christy Chang, Austin Bick, and Makassini Broussard. - Labor Agreements (Item 9B): Approved tentative agreements with Police Supervisors Association and International Association of Firefighters Local 2400, plus changes to executive management benefits and classifications. The mayor read the oral summary of executive compensation changes as required by state law. The three recommendations were approved unanimously. Key Outcomes - Retirement Recognition: Honored outgoing City Clerk Pamela Aguilar, who served Redwood City since 2017. - Housing Element Implementation: Approved a package of amendments to implement the housing element, aiming to reach 150% of the RHNA target (over 7,000 units). - Downtown Precise Plan: Added 80,000 square feet of office capacity and permitted RD laboratory uses with safety restrictions (biosafety levels 1-2 only, not on same floor as sensitive uses). - 505 East Bayshore: Approved project with 56 for-sale townhomes, including 8 BMR units, public access trail, and sea level rise adaptation. - Budget: Adopted $523.7 million operating budget for FY 2023-24, along with Capital Improvement Program. - PACE Program: No additional funding was allocated in this budget; staff will report on the program's finances and performance in late July/August. - Police Advisory Committee: Appointed seven new members with terms expiring May 31, 2025. - Labor Agreements: Ratified contracts with police supervisors and firefighters, including salary increases and benefit changes.

The Redwood City Planning Commission held a regular meeting on June 20, 2023, starting at 6:00 PM and adjourning at 9:20 PM. The main focus was a public hearing on the Redwood Life Evolve project, a proposed life science campus at 800-3400 Bridge Parkway. Commissioners voted 6-0 to recommend that the City Council initiate proceedings to repeal the Westport Specific Plan and adopt a new Precise Plan, with a request for further community outreach by the applicant. Consent Calendar - No items. Public Comments & Testimony - No speakers on general public comments (item 3) or minutes/consent. - On item 6B, numerous in-person and virtual speakers testified. Supporters included union representatives (carpenters, building trades) who highlighted union jobs, career pathways, and economic benefits. Supporters also included housing advocates (Housing Action Coalition, Eden Housing, Build Up San Mateo County) who emphasized the $85 million affordable housing contribution and $2 million for child care. Environmental organizations (Greenbelt Alliance) supported moving to CEQA study to assess benefits like sea level rise funding. - Opponents, primarily Redwood Shores residents, raised concerns about building height (up to 100 feet), scale (3.31 million sq ft), traffic, construction duration (25 years), environmental impacts on wetlands and wildlife, adequacy of community benefits, biosafety level 3 risks, and disruption to the community. Many urged rejecting the plan or requiring a scaled-back alternative. Discussion Items Item 6A: 1125 Arguello - The commission unanimously (6-0) continued this item to a date uncertain after no public speakers. Item 6B: 800-3400 Bridge Parkway – Redwood Life Evolve - Staff presented the request for initiation of a Precise Plan to replace the Westport Specific Plan. Applicant detailed the project: phased demolition and construction of 3.31 million sq ft of life science space, 104-room hotel, 46,000 sq ft amenity center, 29 acres of public open space, all-electric buildings targeting LEED Gold minimum. Community benefits: $85 million for affordable housing (estimated 850 units), $2 million for child care, $50 million for sea level rise mitigation, $8 million annual general fund revenue, union labor commitments, and transportation improvements including shuttle to Caltrain and formation of a Transportation Management Association. - Commissioner discussion centered on project size, height, community opposition, adequacy of community benefits, biosafety levels, and the need for further community engagement. Chair Hunter expressed concerns about insufficient community outreach and benefits. Vice Chair Crnogorac noted the project is in a location far from transit and questioned the scale. Commissioner Lazarus suggested a friendly amendment to request additional community outreach, which was accepted. Key Outcomes - Item 6A: Continued to date uncertain (6-0). - Item 6B: Motion by Commissioner Espinoza, seconded by Vice Chair Crnogorac, to adopt Resolution 23-16 recommending the City Council initiate proceedings to consider repeal of the Westport Specific Plan and adoption of a new Precise Plan for the Redwood Life Evolve project. An amendment by Commissioner Lazarus to include a recommendation for the applicant to conduct further community outreach was accepted. The motion passed 6-0. - The meeting adjourned at 9:20 PM. The next regular meeting is scheduled for July 18, 2023.

The Redwood City Council met on June 12, 2023, at 6:00 PM in a hybrid format (in-person and virtual). The meeting included a closed session with no reportable action, the swearing-in of new commission members, a consent calendar, public comments, a public hearing on sewer service charges, a study session on the Fire Department’s Standards of Cover and Community Risk Assessment, a budget study session, and matters of council interest. The council approved the consent calendar, adopted a resolution on sewer charges, received the fire study, and adopted the FY 2023-24 budget resolution. Consent Calendar - Approved consent items except for item 8D (pulled for a future meeting) and item 8F (second item) where Councilmember Martinez Sabayos recused. The first motion (items other than 8D and 8F) passed 5-0 with one abstention and one absent. The second motion (item 8F) passed 5-0 with one recusal and one absent. - Approved items included: amendment to Cherry Road Technologies agreement, annual appropriations limit for FY 2324, resolution consenting to Burlingame’s tourism marketing district, pilot program for temporary closure of 2000 block of Broadway, award of Redwood Shores library fancoil retrofitting project, purchase of fitness court, disposal of surplus property, final acceptance of Fair Oaks Community Center Library remodel, ordinance approving third amendment to development agreement for 1548 Maple Street, approval of May 22, 2023 minutes, and approval of claims and checks. Public Comments & Testimony - Hoover Community School mothers (Liz Bethrada and Guadalupe Guzmán): Expressed gratitude for city beautification and Hoover Park renovations, but raised concerns about three incidents at the school and requested increased police presence during student entry/exit and at the adjacent park, citing drug paraphernalia and harassment. They urged the city not to wait for bullets to enter the school. - Shaw Sun: Supported the 2000 block of Broadway closure pilot but noted a lack of convenient passenger drop-off/pick-up spots for seniors, suggesting adding a designated loading zone. - Luna (call-in): Expressed concern about the planned full closure of Highway 101 for bridge replacement (June 23-26, July 14-17, etc.) and the resulting traffic diversion through her neighborhood. She requested city support for safety, noise, and air quality impacts, and noted she had not received a response from transportation staff. - Amanda Rothengast (landlord, call-in): Opposed the addition of sewer service charges to property tax bills, stating it creates a financial burden for landlords and that tenants may not be aware of the fee. She asked for the fee to remain a service fee tied to the property. - Chris Robel (budget comment): Questioned why Redwood City faces financial deficits when neighboring cities do not, given the city’s significant commercial development and the passage of Measure RR (half-cent sales tax). He asked if residents are paying for the impacts of commercial development. - Clara Jackal (budget comment): Urged the council to invest general fund resources in housing and neighborhood infrastructure, noting that current housing staff is insufficient to carry out anti-displacement programs. She advocated for upstream investments to address root causes of community issues. Discussion Items - Public Hearing on Sewer Service Charges (Item 9A): Staff presented a proposal to continue collecting sewer service charges for single-family residential parcels via the San Mateo County property tax roll for FY 2023-24, as part of a five-year pilot program. No rate increase was proposed; the current rate remains $89.28 per month. Staff noted that over $13 million (90% of billed charges) had been received from the county, improving revenue reliability. The city has two assistance programs (Utility Rate Assistance Program and Sewer Assistance Program) with $100,000 allocated; $38,000 had been disbursed to 71 applicants. No protest notifications were received. Councilmember Howard clarified that the change is a bundling for efficiency, not a rate increase. Council directed staff to consider phasing in multifamily, commercial, and industrial customers over time, with community outreach. - Fire Department Standards of Cover and Community Risk Assessment Study (Item 10A): Consultant Stuart Gary from City Gate Associates presented findings from a study initiated in April 2022. Key findings: Redwood City’s travel times are about 2 minutes longer than best practices (5 minutes 51 seconds vs. 4 minutes), primarily due to traffic congestion, topography, and road network design. The department faces high EMS demand (75% of calls), with low-acuity patients straining resources. Two units (especially in District 9) are approaching saturation. Recommendations: adopt performance measures (1.5 min call processing, 2 min turnout, 5 min travel for first unit, 8 min for multi-unit), fund alternative care programs for non-acute patients, improve traffic-calming coordination with fire response routes, and consider adding a second ladder truck and additional EMS unit in San Carlos. Chief Iverson reported proactive steps already taken (reinstating training captain, updating strategic plan, engaging with traffic engineering). Council discussion focused on prioritization, alternative response models (e.g., mobile clinics, civilian outreach), and traffic-calming impacts. Councilmember Martinez Sabayos asked about mutual aid integration and best practices for EMS squads. Councilmember Sterkin raised language access in dispatch. The council received the study and directed staff to develop an implementation plan by November 1, 2023. - Fiscal Year 2023-24 Budget Study Session (Item 10B): City Manager Melissa Diaz and Assistant City Manager Michelle Pochet Flarity presented the recommended budget. The city faces an operating deficit for the next eight years due to pandemic revenue losses ($82 million), economic slowdown, rising pension costs, and high commercial vacancy rates. The structural deficit is projected at $14.5 million for FY 2024-25, reduced to $6.6 million with one-time reserves. The capital improvement program faces a $327 million shortfall over five years. Staff recommended unfreezing remaining vacant positions (adding 4.5 positions in FY 2023-24) and adding a few new positions (street sweepers, senior center staff, technology/HR/finance support). The city has maintained a 15% reserve and continued pension liability payments. Council discussion: Councilmember Aiken praised the budget document and noted the city’s low crime rate and staff challenges. Councilmember Howard emphasized the need for community outreach on revenue options and thanked staff for hard work. Councilmember Giday highlighted the impact of COVID and the importance of reinvesting in staff. Councilmember Martinez Sabayos supported studying other departments for efficiencies and urged permanent funding for the PACE youth program. Councilmember Sterkin supported increasing sidewalk repair funding and civilianizing certain police responses, and suggested exploring a property transfer tax. Staff noted ongoing studies of community development and support services. The council adopted the resolution to receive and provide feedback on the budget. Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar: Approved as described, with item 8D pulled and item 8F voted separately (5-0, one recusal). - Sewer Service Charges (Resolution): Adopted unanimously (6-0, one absent). The resolution authorizes continued collection of sewer charges on the county tax roll for single-family residential parcels for FY 2023-24, with no rate increase. Council directed staff to consider phasing in other customer types and to continue community outreach. - Fire Department Study: Council received the study and directed staff to develop an implementation plan by November 1, 2023, including recommendations on alternative care programs, traffic-calming coordination, and potential unit additions. No vote was required; the motion to receive the report and allow staff to proceed passed 6-0. - FY 2023-24 Budget: Council adopted the resolution to receive the recommended budget and provide feedback, with a date for public hearing and adoption set for a future meeting (not specified in transcript). The motion passed 6-0. - Matters of Council Interest: Councilmember Aiken reported on the San Francisco Airport Community Roundtable meeting. The Finance and Audit Subcommittee met on May 24 and will next meet August 30. The Equity and Social Justice Subcommittee met on June 2 and will next meet August 25. City Manager announced upcoming community engagement on El Camino Real bike facilities (June 21 virtual meeting), anti-displacement strategy survey, and organizational review of community development.