Public Meetings - Santa Rosa, California

The Santa Rosa Planning Commission and Housing Authority held a virtual joint study session on June 9, 2022, to review the Draft 2023-2031 Housing Element, followed by a regular Planning Commission meeting that included a public hearing on the Cherry Ranch Subdivision project. No final action was taken on the Housing Element; the Cherry Ranch project was approved unanimously. Study Session – Draft 2023-2031 Housing Element - Staff (Amy Lyle, Cynthia Walsh) presented an overview of the draft Housing Element, including state requirements, outreach efforts, site inventory, Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA), and proposed programs. The city must adopt a certified Housing Element by January 31, 2023. The current RHNA target is 4,600 units, with increased lower-income requirements. The city has existing capacity without rezoning and projects a buffer above RHNA targets (e.g., 200% for above-moderate, 43% for very low/low). - Staff discussed two policy questions for input: (1) whether to include vacant sites located within the Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) in the site inventory, and (2) the county of Sonoma’s request to transfer 1,800 RHNA units from the county to Santa Rosa. - Public Comments: - George McKinney (Oakmont resident) expressed concerns about wildfire evacuation risks for Oakmont (5,000 residents, median age 75) and asked that no approvals be given to developments that could worsen evacuation times. He cited Paradise fire parallels. - Iris Harrell (Oakmont board) presented a proposed amendment to the existing General Plan to address evacuation time requirements and ensure new WUI developments do not increase evacuation times. - Crystal Antoine (Oakmont GM) reiterated the need for evacuation studies and asked that the El NOCA project specifically be required to evaluate impacts on Oakmont evacuation. - Gregory Fearon praised the inclusion of acutely low-income categories but urged better outreach to the broader community. - Margaret DeMatteo (Legal Aid of Sonoma County) highlighted the lack of tenant-protection policies and the upcoming eviction cliff, asking for stronger anti-displacement measures. - Duane DeWitt (Sonoma County Housing Advocacy Group) criticized insufficient outreach (survey got <1% of population) and called for authentic community engagement, especially in Roseland. - Deborah McKay requested hard copies of the Housing Element and more public outreach. - Housing Authority Commissioner Comments: Commissioners supported increasing focus on neighborhood revitalization and dispersal of affordable housing throughout the city. Several expressed interest in the county’s RHNA transfer but wanted more information and noted the tight timeline. - Planning Commissioner Comments: Commissioners generally supported keeping WUI sites in the inventory (cannot remove development rights). They opposed the county RHNA transfer due to timing, risk of reducing buffers, and potential for future annexation obligations. Commissioner Okrepkie raised concerns about adding density on Dennis Lane due to poor infrastructure and evacuation routes. - Key Outcomes: No action taken; staff will incorporate input and present to City Council on June 21, 2022. The draft will be submitted to HCD after a 30-day public comment period ends July 3, 2022. Final adoption is expected in January 2023. Public Comments (Regular Meeting) - Duane DeWitt spoke about the need for better outreach and transparency in the Santa Rosa Forward process, especially for disadvantaged communities like Roseland, and asked commissioners to hold in-person meetings. Scheduled Item – Cherry Ranch Development (930 Fresno Ave) - Project Description: A 67-unit small-lot subdivision (62 attached duplexes, 5 detached single-family homes) on a 6.87-acre vacant parcel. Requires a Minor Conditional Use Permit for small lots, tentative map, and adoption of an EIR addendum. The project is within the Sebastopol Corridor Priority Development Area and complies with zoning. Staff recommended approval with an added condition for temporary fencing along the east boundary before removal of existing fencing. - Public Testimony: No public comments were made during the public hearing. - Commission Deliberation: Commissioners expressed support for the project, particularly the potential use of modular construction to speed delivery. They made all required findings for the EIR addendum, conditional use permit, and tentative map. - Key Outcomes: Three resolutions adopted unanimously (4-0, with Vice Chair Peterson and Commissioners Carter and Duggan absent): 1. Resolution PC2022-010 adopting the Addendum to the Southwest Area Projects Subsequent EIR. 2. Resolution PC2022-011 approving the Minor Conditional Use Permit, as amended to include a condition requiring temporary fencing along the east boundary. 3. Resolution PC2022-012 approving the Tentative Map for the 67-lot subdivision. The decision is final unless appealed within 10 calendar days.

The Cultural Heritage Board of Santa Rosa met virtually on June 1, 2022 at 4:30 PM. Chair Brian Meuser called the meeting to order at 4:32 PM. Five members were present (Meuser, Boren, Fennell, Huang, Praetzellis); Board Member Cappie Garrett was absent. The meeting included public comment, board member reports, department reports, and a study session on the Santa Rosa Forward General Plan 2050 Update. Public Comments & Testimony - Shelley Bean commented on the board's response to a concept item she and her husband presented on March 2, 2022. She argued that board members used words like "difficult," "awkward," "unfortunate," and "unusual" to describe the meeting, portraying the Beans as rebellious. She stated that they were told by the senior planner that brick steps and a skirt could be built as landscape features if not attached to the house or foundation, and they followed that guidance. She criticized Board Member Garrett for questioning the use of redwood siding while allegedly replacing her own garage door with aluminum without a landmark alteration permit. She called for board members to resign if they do not comply with the same standards they enforce. Board Member Reports - Board Member Laura Fennell raised concerns about numerous unpermitted alterations in historic districts (e.g., asbestos siding removal, window replacements, new siding, six-foot fences). She requested that this topic be added to a future agenda for discussion. Chair Meuser clarified that a motion and second were sufficient to place it on a future agenda. Fennell moved, and Board Member Boren seconded. The motion was approved without a full board vote. Department Reports - Staff Liaison Susie Murray reported on staffing. The department is onboarding three new city planners. Michelle Montoya, the meeting host, has been promoted to department admin secretary. Jessica Jones returned to the city as a supervising planner and has been promoted to deputy director. Murray noted the department has been short-staffed but is seeing positive changes. Scheduled Item: Study Session – Santa Rosa Forward Land Use and Circulation Alternatives - Amy Nicholson, Senior Planner, presented the draft alternatives for the General Plan 2050 Update. She explained that all three alternatives assume 36,000 new housing units by 2050. The alternatives are: (1) Central Corridors: growth focused downtown and along corridors connecting to SMART stations, with hub-and-spoke transit and bike improvements; (2) Neighborhood Main Streets: growth around neighborhood shopping centers, with improvements to sidewalk gaps and bikeways; (3) Distributed Housing: modest-intensity development (duplexes, triplexes) spread across the city, similar to current build-out. - Nicholson highlighted community outreach: nine pop-up events, five in-person workshops (in English and Spanish), a virtual open house, and listening sessions with groups including individuals with disabilities and farm workers. Community feedback favored a mix of alternatives 1 and 2, with strong opposition to growth in wildland-urban interface areas and emphasis on equity and preserving natural resources. Survey respondents slightly preferred Alternative 2. - Board members provided input. Chair Meuser expressed concern about potential conflicts between the Downtown Station Area Specific Plan and historic neighborhood protections, citing past difficulties with projects that met specific plan findings but not historic district criteria. He suggested clarity is needed to avoid collisions. Vice Chair Maria Praetzellis favored Alternative 1, hoping for collaboration to preserve historic neighborhoods and adding green space and amenities for livability. Board Member Fennell preferred Alternative 2, noting the value of neighborhood retail and caution about building too densely before transit ridership is proven. Board Member Huang expressed support for Alternative 1, noting it aligns with the downtown station area plan and helps reduce car dependency, but suggested a hybrid with some elements of Alternative 2 (e.g., commercial support along South Santa Rosa Avenue). Board Member Boren liked the idea of neighborhood centers, drawing on her experience in New York and San Francisco. - Nicholson confirmed the board will be consulted again on the historic preservation element during the preferred alternative phase and the draft general plan. She noted the plan will address all parcels, including the downtown station area site, but changes there are unlikely given the recent specific plan. Key Outcomes - Motion to place a future agenda item on unpermitted modifications in historic districts was made and seconded (Fennell, Boren) and approved without a vote. - The board provided feedback on the three alternatives; no formal vote was taken. Staff will incorporate comments into the preferred alternative, which will be developed and presented to the board and community in the coming months. - Meeting adjourned at 5:21 PM.

The Santa Rosa Planning Commission held a study session on May 26, 2022, from 4:30 p.m. to 5:31 p.m., to review the 2021 General Plan, Inclusionary Housing, and Growth Management Annual Review Report. The meeting was conducted virtually due to COVID-19. The Commission received a presentation from Senior Planner Amy Nicholson, discussed various elements of the report, and voted unanimously to forward the report to the City Council as a consent item. Department Reports - Clare Hartman, Director of Planning and Economic Development, introduced herself as the new staff liaison and highlighted recent achievements: the Downtown Station Area Specific Plan won an Award of Excellence from the Northern Chapter of the American Planning Association; over 750 housing units have been approved or are in the pipeline in the last 18 months; the General Plan Update completed its alternative phase; and upcoming items include a draft Housing Element and a missing middle initiative. Discussion Items - Housing Element and Building Permits: 1,404 total units were permitted in 2021, including 1,052 multifamily units, 257 single-family units, and 95 ADUs. The city exceeded its above-moderate income RHNA allocation by 341 units but still has a remaining need of 1,504 units across lower-income categories. Commissioner Okrepkie questioned the low number of extremely low-income units permitted, noting they are difficult to build without significant subsidies. Staff explained that those units typically require layering of federal, state, and local funding, and that the 2021 success was due to one-time federal, state, and PG&E settlement funds. - Economic Vitality: Non-residential projects highlighted include Brookwood Medical Center (under review), Session Climbing and Fitness Center (began construction), and an office-warehouse project near the Corporate Center Business Park. Vacancy rates for industrial returned to pre-pandemic levels; retail and office remain high. - Transportation: Notable bike/pedestrian improvements include a bicycle and pedestrian overcrossing over Highway 101 (construction planned for 2023–2025), a Stony Point Road corridor study, and scooter/bike share pilot programs. Commissioner Okrepkie asked about extending the SMART path to Fulton Road; staff noted potential legal issues being investigated by SMART. - Water Conservation: City water use per capita dropped 11% from 2013 to 2020. The advanced metering infrastructure provides hourly tracking. Commissioner Holton asked about the Finley Aquatic Spray Center's water use; Colin Close from Water Department explained the water is recycled and filtered, and per-person usage is comparable to a soccer field. - Growth Management and Inclusionary Housing: The Growth Management System allocated 825 Reserve A units rolled over from previous years. The Inclusionary Housing Ordinance generated $1.58 million in fees in 2021 and has supported 1,870 affordable units since 1992. - Other Elements: The report covered parks, police/fire services, water/wastewater, creek stewardship (6,100 participants, 1,300 cubic yards of debris removed), noise/safety (PG&E settlement funds for wildfire resilience), historic preservation (evaluation of age-eligible properties downtown), and youth/family programs (Violence Prevention Partnership, child care grants, children's savings accounts). - Commissioner Inquiries: Vice Chair Peterson asked about SB 9 applications; staff reported several applications received but no unit count yet. Chair Weeks asked about the historic resource evaluation timeline; staff expects completion by fall 2022. Chair Weeks also requested a monthly pipeline list of housing projects from the Housing Authority. Key Outcomes - The Planning Commission voted 5-0 (Commissioners Carter and Duggan absent) to receive and forward the 2021 General Plan, Inclusionary Housing, and Growth Management Annual Review Report to the City Council. - The report is scheduled to be a consent item on the June 7, 2022 City Council agenda. - Staff will follow up on specific requests for data: extremely low-income unit sources, SMART path extension update, SB 9 application unit numbers, and a monthly pipeline of housing projects.

The Santa Rosa Cultural Heritage Board met virtually on May 18, 2022, at 4:30 PM to discuss several landmark alteration permits and concept reviews. The meeting was chaired by Brian Meuser, with members Bonnie Boren, Cappie Garrett, Henry Huang, and Maria Praetzellis present; Laura Fennell was absent. Notably, Board Member Huang recused himself from items 8.2 and 8.3 due to proximity to the properties. The board approved one landmark alteration and provided direction on several concept reviews. Consent Calendar - No consent items were on the agenda. Public Comments & Testimony - Carol Case (property owner at 807 Cherry Street) expressed concerns about the Living Roots project (8.2), including noise from church activities, construction hours, contractor licensing, the five-foot setback and fire access, privacy for her tenants, the health of an oak tree, and whether the steeple would contain bells. - John DeLillo spoke in support of the Living Roots project, calling it an enhancement and an asset to the community. - Alison Dykstra and Andrew Schulman (owners at 703 7th Street, Cherry Street Historic District) submitted an email in strong support of the Living Roots application, urging approval and noting the need for restoration. - Moses Geller (722-726 Cherry Street) spoke in support, citing the long wait (12-14 years) for the burned structure to be restored. Discussion Items 8.1 Fremont Park - Scope for Future Discussion (844 4th Street) - Staff Liaison Susie Murray presented a three-step process for considering landmark designation. Chair Meuser explained the process, noting that a board resolution would only be a recommendation to City Council. - Deputy Director of Parks Jen Santos confirmed that no historical evaluation has started yet and the park project is on hold pending board direction. - Chair Meuser made a motion to consider landmark designation of Fremont Park or its historically significant elements at a future meeting. Board Member Garrett seconded. Vice Chair Praetzellis raised the need for a full historic evaluation prior to any designation. The motion carried 5-0. 8.2 Public Hearing: Living Roots Fire Rehab and Church Restoration (610 Orchard St) - LMA20-008 - Staff Liaison Susie Murray presented on behalf of Project Planner Monet Sheikhali. The project includes rehabilitating a fire-damaged two-story parsonage and restoring the steeple on the church, with an increase in height. - Public comments: Carol Case (above) raised concerns; John DeLillo and Moses Geller spoke in support; Alison Dykstra and Andrew Schulman emailed support. - Applicant representatives, including Architect Micah Andrecich and historic consultant Mark Perry, addressed concerns: no heavy bell planned; digital bell possible; insulation for soundproofing; existing stair and setback encroachment; contractor oversight. - Board members praised the project. A friendly amendment allowed the applicant to fully enclose the upper railing if desired. - Vote: Resolution CHB-2022-002 approved 4-0 (Huang recused). 8.3 Public Hearing: Front Yard Landscape and Hardscape (1122 McDonald Ave) - LMA21-018 - Project Planner Kristinae Toomians presented the proposal, which includes brick steps, walkways, a brick skirt, driveway replacement, a fountain, and a new fence. - The applicant, Dr. Bean, confirmed that some work (brick hardscape) was already done; shutters were added without approval. Staff recommended either approving with conditions to remove shutters or continuing the item. - Board Member Garrett expressed concerns about unpermitted work and historic guidelines. She voted no. Chair Meuser voted yes, noting the work is already done. - Vote: Resolution CHB-2022-003 approved 3-1 (Garrett no, Huang recused). 8.4 Williams Residential Garage and ADU - Concept Review (212 Benton St) - LMA22-003 - Presented by Conor McKay (on behalf of Monet Sheikhali). The proposal includes a 400 sq ft garage with ADU above at the front of the property. - Board comments included: use differentiated siding to distinguish from the historic house, consider a single-story design to better fit the predominantly single-story neighborhood, possibly relocate the structure closer to the existing house to reduce street presence, and ensure architectural details (garage door, windows, roof pitch) complement bungalow style. - The applicant, Ben Williams, acknowledged the comments and expressed desire to fit in with the neighborhood. - No formal vote was taken; comments will be provided to the zoning administrator. 8.5 Campbell Roof Replacement - Concept Review (408 Benton St) - LMA22-005 - Staff Liaison Susie Murray presented two options: asphalt shingles or metal standing seam, both with the existing roof pitch. - Board members unanimously preferred asphalt shingles over metal, noting metal would be out of character for the historic district. They recommended a color similar to the existing tar-and-gravel roof, and advised regarding underlayment and flashing details. - The applicant, Lacey Campbell, appreciated the guidance and confirmed the roofer said the existing gutters and downspouts could be preserved. - No formal vote; staff will use the board's direction in processing the permit. Key Outcomes - Fremont Park: Motion approved 5-0 to prepare a study session on landmark designation. - Living Roots (LMA20-008): Resolution CHB-2022-002 approved 4-0 (Huang recused), with a friendly amendment to allow full enclosure of the upper railing. - McDonald Ave (LMA21-018): Resolution CHB-2022-003 approved 3-1 (Garrett no, Huang recused). Chair Meuser advised the applicant to remove unapproved shutters. - Williams (LMA22-003): No formal action; comments summarized for zoning administrator. - Campbell (LMA22-005): No formal action; board recommended asphalt shingles and provided technical advice. All actions are final unless appealed within 10 calendar days.

The Santa Rosa Planning Commission held a virtual regular meeting on March 24, 2022, at 4:30 p.m. (adjourned at 6:09 p.m.). Commissioners unanimously approved three conditional use permits: a Total Wine & More for alcohol sales with tasting and wine classes, an AT&T telecommunication facility, and a Flora Terra cannabis retail dispensary. No public comments were received on non-agenda items. Commissioner Reports - Commissioner Duggan reported attending the League of California Cities Planning Commissioners Academy in San Ramon, highlighting sessions on recent housing legislation and a speaker on social justice and inclusivity. Department Reports - Staff Liaison Jones announced that effective April 1, Claire Hartman will become the new staff liaison to the Planning Commission. The April 14 meeting is canceled, and the April 24 meeting likely canceled due to technology upgrades. A joint meeting with the City Council on the General Plan update is scheduled for May 24. Discussion Items Item 8.1: Total Wine & More – Conditional Use Permit (CUP21-076) - Proposed use: Sale of beer, wine, and distilled spirits for off-site consumption with on-site tasting and wine classes (capacity 20–30 people). Hours: 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily. Location: 2705 Santa Rosa Ave, B. - Staff presentation (Planner Conor McKay): The project qualifies for CEQA Class 1 (existing facilities) and Class 32 (infill) exemptions. Staff recommended removing an erroneous Class 3 exemption (conversion of small structures) from the resolution. - Public comments: None. - Commissioner action: Motion to approve as modified (removal of Class 3 exemption) carried 7-0 (Resolution PC-2022-007). Item 8.2: AT&T Telecommunication Facility – Conditional Use Permit (CUP21-064) - Proposed use: Installation of a new 60-foot-tall monopole with supporting equipment shelter and backup diesel generator at 2400 Bluebell Dr. - Staff presentation (Planner Kristinae Toomians): The site is in an industrial area with residential to the west across the SMART rail. The tower would fill a coverage gap. CEQA exempt under Class 3. The electromagnetic energy report concluded compliance with FCC limits (15% of the threshold at ground level). - Public comments: - Sidnee Cox (Safe Tech for Santa Rosa) strongly opposed, citing health concerns from radio frequency radiation (RFR), outdated FCC guidelines, and a federal court ruling on FCC standards. She argued the tower should be placed away from homes, apartments, and a nearby gymnastics center. - Applicant response (Tom Johnson): Health issues are preempted by federal law; the Planning Commission can only consider aesthetics. The tower meets FCC limits. Alternative sites were considered but were too close to existing towers or insufficient for coverage. - City Attorney Jeff Burke confirmed that FCC regulations preempt local health concerns; the commission may rely on the engineer's certification. - Commissioner Holton asked about microwatts per meter; the report used microwatts per square centimeter (FCC standard). Staff and applicant referred to the report's compliance statement. - Commissioner Carter clarified the finding on public health, safety, and nuisance; Attorney Burke stated that if the engineer's report is valid, the health issue is resolved. - Commissioner action: Motion to approve carried 7-0 (Resolution PC-2022-008). Several commissioners noted their decision was based on the record and FCC standards, not personal endorsement of the tower. Item 8.3: Flora Terra – Cannabis Retail Conditional Use Permit (CUP21-061) - Proposed use: Operation of a 1,140-square-foot cannabis dispensary (medical and adult-use) at 1226 4th St (former Bruno's restaurant). No on-site consumption or delivery. Hours: 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. - Staff presentation (Planner Susie Murray): The building requires only minor exterior updates. An odor mitigation plan (charcoal filtration) is included. A traffic study found one additional AM peak trip and 16 PM peak trips. The closest schools are 1,500 feet away; parks 1,600 feet away. The applicant's existing dispensary has a good record with police. The required parking is five spaces; the site has four on-site plus street parking. - Applicant presentation (Alicia Wingard, co-owner): The business is locally owned and operated. Security measures include ID scanning, security guards during all business hours, high-definition cameras (90-day retention), and a professional alarm system. The applicant employs 15 people at the existing location and expects to hire 6–10 for the new store. Starting wage $18/hour after 90 days. Tax revenue: 3% on recreational cannabis goes to the city. Demographics show 63.5% of customers are over 30. - Public comments: - Daniel Garcia (Santa Rosa resident and insurance broker) supported the project, citing community benefit, increased property value, and the applicant's excellent reputation. - Richard Brantley (neighbor on Fair Oaks) expressed concern about parking overflow into the residential neighborhood, noting heavy use by Goodwill customers and children playing on the street. - Staff response to parking: The city's parking standard for cannabis retail is one space per 250 sq ft (five required); the existing four spaces plus on-street parking were deemed adequate in the traffic study. A change of use to a similar commercial use could occur without additional parking review. - Commissioner O'Krepke noted that a different commercial use could occupy the space without any parking review, emphasizing that the dispensary's parking demand is comparable to other uses. - Vice Chair Peterson addressed written public comments, noting the city's cannabis ordinance aims to distribute dispensaries evenly to avoid traffic concentration, and that the use is analogous to alcohol sales (previously Bruno's). - Commissioner action: Motion to approve carried 7-0 (Resolution PC-2022-009). Key Outcomes - All three conditional use permits were approved unanimously (7-0). - Resolution PC-2022-007 (Total Wine & More) approved with a modification to remove the Class 3 CEQA exemption. - Resolution PC-2022-008 (AT&T facility) approved, with commissioners acknowledging health concerns are preempted by federal law. - Resolution PC-2022-009 (Flora Terra) approved, with conditions including the odor mitigation plan and security measures. - No consent calendar items, no abstentions, and no public comments on non-agenda items.

The Santa Rosa Planning Commission held a virtual regular meeting on February 24, 2022, at 4:30 PM via Zoom. Chair Karen Weeks presided over the meeting with a quorum present (Commissioners Carter, Cisco, Duggan, Peterson, and Chair Weeks). Commissioners Holton and Okrepkie were absent. The meeting lasted approximately 29 minutes, adjourning at 4:59 PM. Consent Calendar - None. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public provided comments during the general public comment period or during the public hearing. Discussion Items - Commissioner Reports: Commissioner Carter reported on the Waterways Advisory Committee’s review of a Hyatt landscaping and fence proposal. Chair Weeks reappointed Commissioner Carter to the Waterways Advisory Committee. Commissioner Cisco noted an upcoming charter review report to the City Council on May 1, 2022. - Department Reports: Supervising Planner Jessica Jones reported on several items: - The City Council approved decoupling the assistant city manager positions from the Planning and Economic Development Director and Transportation and Public Works Director roles, allowing dedicated directors in the future. - The department is recruiting for three city planner positions: one permanent full-time, one three-year limited term (backfilling for a planner working on the cannabis program), and one two-year limited term (funded by PG&E settlement funds, focused on housing development streamlining). An informational meeting was held, and the recording is posted on the city website. - The General Plan update alternatives are out for review, with six public workshops scheduled in March (five in-person, one virtual on March 10, 2022). - A Housing Element update survey will be released on March 10, 2022, along with a webinar. - Public Hearing – CUP21-081 (UMMA2 LLC): The commission held a public hearing for a Major Conditional Use Permit to allow cannabis cultivation (Type 2A) within an existing 19,428-square-foot industrial building at 3055 Wiljan Court. The project is CEQA exempt (categorical exemptions). - Staff Planner Monet Sheikhali presented the project details: hours of operation 8 AM to 5 PM, seven days a week; the site is zoned light industrial; 34 parking spaces provided (19 required); security measures include lighting, cameras, alarm system, and secure loading bay; odor control includes activated carbon filters, sealed doors, and negative air pressure in flowering rooms. - Staff received one late comment about a vision triangle issue; staff responded that the property owner must maintain landscaping to three feet within the vision triangle. - Applicant representative Ilaura Babini (Wayfinder LLC) presented on security and odor control measures. - No public speakers testified. The public hearing was opened and closed at 4:52 PM. Key Outcomes - The commission adopted Resolution No. PC-2022-005 approving Conditional Use Permit CUP21-081 for commercial cannabis cultivation at 3055 Wiljan Court. The motion was made by Commissioner Duggan, seconded by Commissioner Cisco, and passed by a vote of 5-0-2 (Commissioners Holton and Okrepkie absent). - Chair Weeks adjourned the meeting at 4:59 PM. Next Steps - The approved minutes will be presented for approval at the March 10, 2022 meeting.

The Santa Rosa Planning Commission met virtually on January 27, 2022, at 4:30 p.m. The primary action was the unanimous approval (6-0-1) of the Penstemon Place subdivision, a 59-lot small lot subdivision with accessory dwelling units (ADUs), after a public hearing. The commission also re-elected Vice Chair Julian Peterson and approved the minutes from December 9, 2021. Consent Calendar - None. Public Comments & Testimony - Kim Roberts (spoke on urban forest): Expressed concern about the loss of oak trees, noting that 75% of heritage trees on the site would be removed and the proposed replacement trees are in narrow planting strips that may not sustain valley oaks. Requested the commission consider retaining more existing trees and requiring a more sustainable landscape plan. - Chris Roberts (spoke on fire danger): Cited the 2021 Sonoma County Wildfire Risk Index rating the area as Level 3 (moderate) and noted the project lacks an evacuation plan. He raised concerns about 130 cars during an evacuation potentially impairing emergency response. - Judy Kalbfell (spoke on pedestrian safety): Requested a marked pedestrian crossing with flashing lights on Linwood Avenue, a reduced speed limit, and noted the traffic bottleneck at Brookwood and Linwood. - Renata Breth (spoke on park development): Uh, she said the density is higher than surrounding areas and suggested preserving two heritage trees as a pocket park. She also stated that the development is not as described 25 years ago. - Steve Osborne (spoke on trees and traffic): Criticized the staff response to 300 pages of public comments, stating the response to tree preservation was inadequate. He called for a new traffic study that includes the Brookwood extension and modifications to the project. Discussion Items - Vice Chair Election: Commissioner Cisco nominated Vice Chair Peterson for another term; seconded by Commissioner Holton. Motion carried unanimously (7-0). - Commissioner Reports: Commissioner Carter reported on the Waterways Advisory Committee meeting regarding the Hyatt Regency's fencing proposal near Prince Memorial Greenway. - Department Reports: Jessica Jones, Staff Liaison, announced the February 10, 2022 meeting is canceled, and reminded commissioners about abstention notifications and checking city emails. Public Hearing: Penstemon Place (Item 8.1) - Project Overview: This project is a 59-lot single-family detached subdivision on 9.73 acres at 2574, 2842, and 2862 Linwood Avenue. It includes two ADUs to be constructed and four optional ADUs, a Mitigated Negative Declaration (MND), a Hillside Development Permit, a Conditional Use Permit, and a Tentative Map. The site has slopes over 10%, requiring a Hillside Development Permit. - Staff Presentation (Susie Murray): Highlighted the project's history, compliance with the General Plan (2-8 units per acre), the MND circulation in June 2020, and mitigation measures. She noted that the project retains four oak trees, proposes to retain four more (with uncertainty), and mitigation exceeds requirements. She also explained the project will be all-electric with photovoltaic panels and will include street improvements, including a new all-way stop at Linwood Avenue and an extension of Poinsettia Lane. - Applicant Presentation (Kurt Nichols, Carlisle Macy): Emphasized the design goals of fitting into the neighborhood, preserving trees, and integrating with the future Farmers Lane extension. He described the tree management plan, the auto court lots, and the landscape plan that now proposes planting 71 valley oaks and 20 coast live oaks. He also mentioned that the project would not need sound walls due to grading. - Commissioner Questions: Questions addressed fire risk, pedestrian crossings, tree preservation, and architectural variety. Fire Marshal Paul Lowenthal clarified the city's risk assessment and noted that the county's draft CWPP is still under review)Skip Key Outcomes - Vice Chair Election: Julian Peterson re-elected unanimously (7-0) for another term. - Resolution PC-2022-001: Adopted the Mitigated Negative Declaration and Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program for Penstemon Place. Motion by Vice Chair Peterson, seconded by Commissioner Carter. Passed 6-0 (Commissioner Okrepkie abstained). - Resolution PC-2022-002: Approved the Hillside Development Permit for Penstemon Place, allowing development on slopes greater than 10% and securing architecture for specific lots. Motion by Vice Chair Peterson, seconded by Commissioner Holton. Passed 6-0 (Commissioner Okrepkie abstained). - Resolution PC-2022-003: Approved the Conditional Use Permit for Penstemon Place. Motion by Vice Chair Peterson, seconded by Commissioner Carter. Passed 6-0 (Commissioner Okrepkie abstained). - Resolution PC-2022-004: Approved the Tentative Map for Penstemon Place. Motion by Vice Chair Peterson, seconded by Commissioner Holton. Passed 6-0 (Commissioner Okrepkie abstained). Note: Commissioner Okrepkie abstained from all Penstemon Place items due to a financial association with the project and left the meeting at 4:40 p.m. The meeting adjourned at 6:28 p.m., and the minutes were approved on February 24, 2022.

The City of Santa Rosa Cultural Heritage Board held a virtual regular meeting on January 5, 2022, at 4:30 PM, adjourning at 5:01 PM. The meeting focused on a single scheduled public hearing for a landmark alteration permit at 1220 McDonald Avenue, along with department reports and administrative updates. Board Members Garrett and Huang recused themselves from the hearing due to properties owned within proximity to the project, leaving four voting members. Department Reports - Susie Murray, CHB Liaison, reminded board members of upcoming agendas: no meeting on January 19th; the next meeting on February 2nd will include a vote for Vice Chair (re-election or new election). She also encouraged completion of SB 1343 workplace harassment training and regular email checking for quorum inquiries. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke during the public comment period or the public hearing for the scheduled item. Discussion Items - Item 8.1: Public Hearing – Daniels Addition and Repair (Landmark Alteration Permit LMA21-015) at 1220 McDonald Avenue - Project Planner Mike Maloney presented the proposal: exterior additions include expanding the backyard cabana to add a bathroom with matching siding, constructing two brick pilasters at the entry walkway, extending the front porch, and replacing the Park Street fence. Second-floor modifications involve adding a safety guardrail to the existing deck and converting windows into French doors for deck access. - The property is non-contributing within the McDonald Avenue Preservation District (designated 1998, period of significance 1878–1940). Staff recommended approval, noting the project is CEQA exempt (Section 15301) and complies with historic guidelines. - Chair Meuser and Vice Chair Fennell disclosed they had viewed the property; no ex parte communications were reported. - Applicant architect explained that the pilasters were designed to create a sense of entry and a focal point from the public way. Chair Meuser commented that the pilasters appeared like "obelisks" but expressed no opposition. - Board members expressed support: Chair Meuser noted the non-contributing status and prior modifications as factors, and Vice Chair Fennell, who had been inside the home, stated the changes made sense and corrected previous design issues. Key Outcomes - Vote on Resolution CHB-2022-001: Approved by a vote of 4-0-2 (Yes: Chair Meuser, Board Members Praetzellis, Fennell, Boren; Abstain: Garrett and Huang). The resolution granted a landmark alteration permit for the additions and repairs at 1220 McDonald Avenue.

The Santa Rosa Planning Commission held a virtual regular meeting on December 9, 2021, starting at 4:00 PM and adjourning at 8:57 PM. The meeting included the approval of minutes, department reports, and two public hearings: the Hearn Veterans Village Tentative Parcel Map and the Dutton Meadows Subdivision. Key decisions involved approval of both projects with conditions. Consent Calendar - The minutes from October 14, 2021, and November 19, 2021, were approved as submitted. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made on items not on the agenda during the public comment period. Discussion Items - Hearn Veterans Village (MIN21-001): The commission considered a tentative parcel map to subdivide a 2.01-acre parcel into four lots (ranging from 20,000 to 25,000 sq ft) for permanent supportive housing for 32 veterans. The project also included an addendum to the Roseland Area/Sebastopol Road Specific Plan EIR. Public testimony was mixed: several neighbors (Laurina Radich McKrell, Rebecca Davis, Christina Cramer, Susan Kirk, Ann Hopkin, Paul Moosman, Sal Flores) opposed the project citing concerns over density, two-story design not matching neighborhood character, lack of community engagement, environmental impacts (biological resources), emergency access, and storm drainage. Supporters (Cal Weeks, Scott Kincaid, Shirlee Zane, Ross Liscum) highlighted the need to address veteran homelessness, infill development within urban growth boundaries, and the project’s consistency with zoning. The applicant team noted they held a required neighborhood meeting and modified design elements (e.g., window placement, added walkway, more parking). Commissioners discussed the limited scope of review (only the tentative map, not future land uses) and found the project met all findings. Motions to adopt the EIR addendum and approve the tentative map passed 5-0-1 (Commissioner Okrepkie abstained due to a financial relationship with the applicant; Commissioner Holton absent). - Dutton Meadows Subdivision (PRJ18-039): The commission reviewed a revised project for 137 market-rate, single-family homes (small-lot subdivision) with a 12% parking reduction, a conditional use permit, and a tentative map on an 19-acre site. Public improvements include the Northpoint Parkway extension and a new signalized intersection. The project is CEQA-exempt under Sections 15182 and 15183. Public testimony (Arthur Deicke) expressed support with concerns about traffic impacts on Hearn Avenue, the safety of the Sally Ann/Hearn intersection, construction vehicle use of Aloise Avenue, the timeline for building a 4-acre park, and incomplete disclosure forms. Staff and the applicant responded, noting traffic studies showed acceptable level of service and that additional conditions could be added. After extensive discussion, the commission amended the DAC report to require a median (instead of a two-way turn lane) and added two new conditions: (1) an emergency vehicle access gate at the end of Aloise Avenue during construction, and (2) a prohibition of construction staging or parking on existing Aloise sections. The conditional use permit resolution (No. 12080) passed 6-1 (Commissioner Carter dissenting, citing insufficient emergency access until the future Dutton Avenue extension). The tentative map resolution (No. 12081) passed 7-0. Key Outcomes - Item 9.1 – Hearn Veterans Village: Adopted Resolution 12078 (EIR addendum) and Resolution 12079 (tentative parcel map) with votes of 5-0-1 (Okrepkie abstaining, Holton absent). - Item 9.2 – Dutton Meadows Subdivision: Approved Conditional Use Permit (Resolution 12080) 6-1 (Carter opposed) and Tentative Map (Resolution 12081) 7-0. Conditions were amended to require a median on Northpoint Parkway/Dutton Meadow (removing right-turn lane language) and to install an EVA gate and restrict construction staging on Aloise Avenue. - Department Reports: Staff noted upcoming City Council items (appeal of old school cannabis project, 38 Degrees general plan amendment), the Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan adoption, the general plan update alternative workbook release, a new cannabis dispensary map, and efforts to move toward hybrid meetings for boards and commissions. - Commissioner Reports: Chair Weeks reported on the city’s redistricting process and Charter Review Committee (chaired by Commissioner Cisco).