Public Meetings - South San Francisco, California

The South San Francisco City Council held a regular meeting on Wednesday, January 10, 2024, at the Library Parks & Recreation Building, Council Chambers, 901 Civic Campus Way. The meeting began at 6:30 PM. Key actions included approval of the consent calendar (with several items pulled for discussion), approval of an emergency rental assistance funding allocation, discussion of the draft Broadband Master Plan, authorization of an anti-displacement roadmap contract, and acquisition of a Below Market Rate (BMR) unit. Public comments focused on the preservation of the Municipal Services Building (MSB) for senior and community use. Consent Calendar - Minutes of December 13, 2023: Approved. - Reappointments to the Parking Place Commission and Traffic Safety Commission: Approved. - CDBG Curb Ramp Replacement Project (FY 2022-23): Accepted construction improvements. - Dell Marketing L.P. Agreement: Approved a professional services agreement for server hardware procurement and installation, not to exceed $253,394. - Remnant Parcels Purchase: Approved resolution authorizing the City Manager to purchase six remnant parcels with delinquent taxes (APNs 091022010, 091022020, 091022030, 091025010, 091034080, 015031090) subject to the County of San Mateo Chapter 8 tax sale. - Police Asset Forfeiture Funds: Approved $61,719.33 for less-lethal launchers and optics. - Caltrans Climate Adaptation Planning Grant: Approved application for $600,000 (not to exceed $1,000,000) for the SSF Shoreline Protection and Connectivity Project. - Project Read Grant Renewal: Approved filing for renewal of Community Development Block Grant funds through Daly City. - San Bruno Community Foundation Grant: Approved acceptance of $6,000 for Project Read's Learning Wheels Family Literacy Program. - Animal Licensing and Control Ordinance: Adopted on second reading, repealing and replacing Chapter 9.04 of the Municipal Code. - Sewer Improvements Agreement with Southline Building 1 Owner, LLC: Approved agreement for construction and reimbursement for sewer improvements on Tanforan Avenue (as part of Southline Development Project). Items 5, 7, and 12 were pulled for discussion but were ultimately approved as part of the consent calendar motion. Public Comments & Testimony - Wendy Sinclair Smith: Spoke in renewed support of reopening and repurposing the Municipal Services Building (MSB) for senior services and physical activities (e.g., pickleball), noting its historical use as a community hub. - Charlene Roosville: Longtime resident (45 years) expressed safety concerns about parking for the new Library Parks & Recreation Building, urged consideration of MSB as additional senior space, and mentioned using Project Read there. - Cynthia Markopoulos: Cited population statistics (60,655 total; 15,074 seniors; 6,434 on east side, 8,640 on west side) and stated that per-senior spending on services was only 44.61 cents per year in 2023, arguing that the MSB must be preserved as a senior multi-use community center. - Peggy DeRas: Questioned whether a developer (Swinnerton) had taken possession of the MSB. Council clarified Swinnerton is only using office space temporarily until repairs are complete. - Nanette Cole: Asked the council to "rezone and save the MSB building" for seniors, citing the importance of consistent community space and questioning the need for a new fire station when Station 61 has training space; she suggested extending the existing station into the empty police station. Discussion Items - Item 5 - Remnant Parcels Purchase (Discussion): Councilmember Addiego expressed support for purchasing the delinquent parcels along Westborough Boulevard to maintain them, noting they were previously controlled by a private entity and became overgrown. - Item 7 - Caltrans Climate Adaptation Grant (Discussion): Councilmember Addiego asked about the proposed I-380 to Oyster Point connection, noting past concern about a causeway (bay fill). Staff clarified this is a feasibility study that could double as sea level rise protection for Highway 101 and the water quality control plant. The councilmember stressed the need for private property owners to contribute to future efforts. - Item 12 - Sewer Improvements Agreement (Discussion): Vice Mayor Flores questioned the $599,000 authorization limit, which is 50% above the $397,000 base agreement. Staff explained the higher limit provides flexibility for unforeseen conditions (underground utilities, railroad area) and noted any spending above $599,000 would require council approval. The resolution gives the City Manager authority to execute amendments up to $599,000. - Item 11 - Broadband Master Plan (Study Session): Presented by IT Director Tony Barrera and consultant David Brevitz (Intrust). The plan aims to expand city-owned fiber network (currently 4.9 miles fiber, 19.2 miles conduit). Key recommendations: expand backbone, establish a technology enterprise fund, create a smart city steering committee, pursue public-private partnerships (P3), and promote the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) $30/month benefit. Councilmembers noted Westborough's poor internet, the need for competition, and the importance of free public Wi-Fi. No formal action; staff to incorporate feedback and return in February. - Item 13 - Anti-Displacement Roadmap: Staff recommended HR&A Advisors for a 2-year project to develop a roadmap addressing residential and commercial displacement. The contract amount is not to exceed $387,600 ($200,000 from FY 2023-24 general plan maintenance reserve; $187,600 from FY 2024-25 commercial linkage fees). Council discussed the need for inclusive community engagement, and Councilmember Nicholas requested the community advisory committee charter be reviewed by the full council rather than just the mayor. The resolution was approved unanimously. - Item 14 - Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP): The council approved a budget amendment appropriating $147,500 from the Low- and Moderate-Income Housing Fund (Fund 241) for FY 2023-24. The program has served 233 households to date (average rental assistance $3,300; maximum $4,500). 80% of clients are BIPOC, with 50% in District 5. The YMCA administers the program, and an increased administration fee (15% to 18%) was approved. - Item 15 - BMR Unit Acquisition: The council approved purchasing the BMR unit at 2230 Gellert Boulevard, Unit 3105 (listed at $122,234) using commercial linkage fee funds (Fund 823, balance $18.1 million) to prevent loss of the affordable unit. The resale price may be adjusted (e.g., to be affordable to 120% AMI or as rental) with staff to bring recommendations back. Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar: Approved unanimously (5-0) by roll call, including items 5, 7, and 12. - Emergency Rental Assistance Funding: Approved unanimously (5-0), including budget amendment 24.027 for $147,500. - Anti-Displacement Roadmap Agreement: Approved unanimously (5-0) to authorize the City Manager to execute an agreement with HR&A Advisors, Inc. for up to $387,600. - BMR Unit Acquisition: Approved unanimously (5-0) to acquire the unit at 2230 Gellert Blvd, Unit 3105. - Broadband Master Plan: No action required; staff to revise plan and return in February. Closed Session - The council moved to closed session to discuss real property negotiation for properties at 226-230, 232-238, and 240-246 Grand Ave with negotiating party Giffra Enterprises (price and terms). No reportable action was announced.

The South San Francisco Planning Commission met on December 21, 2023, at 7:00 PM to consider two public hearings: a use permit for an indoor padel facility and a recommendation to the City Council for a digital billboard project. The Commission also approved the consent calendar. All votes were unanimous (5-0), with Commissioners Evans and Pamukcu absent. The next regular meeting was announced for January 18, 2024. Consent Calendar - The draft minutes from the November 2, 2023 Planning Commission meeting were approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were received on any agenda item. Discussion Items - Item 2 – Use Permit for Indoor Padel Facility at 550 Eccles Avenue - Staff (Associate Planner Victoria Kim) presented the proposal to convert an existing warehouse into a six-court indoor padel facility with retail, office, and bathrooms. The project includes 20 on-site parking spaces plus an agreement for 12 additional spaces from a neighboring business after 5 PM and on weekends. Business hours are 7 AM to 9 PM daily, with a maximum occupancy of 26 (plus two employees). The project is categorically exempt from CEQA under Class 1, Section 15301. - The applicant, representing Park Padel, stated the sport originated in Mexico and is new to the U.S. They described the business model: $40 per person per hour or a $100 monthly membership with a reduced rate of $28 per hour. Free community hours (2–4 PM Monday–Thursday) and senior discounts are offered. The facility provides rental equipment. - Commissioners asked about parking reliability, restroom sizes, evacuation routes, and accessibility. Staff clarified that a professional parking analysis and a signed agreement with the neighboring tenant support the parking plan. - The Commission expressed support for bringing indoor recreational options to the east side of the city and noted cultural significance. - Motion to approve the use permit (UP 2305) and the CEQA exemption carried 5-0. - Item 3 – Digital Billboard at 140 Beacon Avenue (Recommendation to City Council) - Staff (Senior Planner Christy Usher) reported on a request for a zoning text amendment, development agreement, design review, and sign permit for a 65-foot tall, double-faced digital billboard (approximately 1,300 sq ft) along US 101 and I-280. The project requires amending the zoning code to allow a fourth digital billboard (current limit is three). Three existing digital billboards in the city are taller and larger. The proposed billboard would be located in a PG&E easement under high-voltage transmission lines, with primary visibility from the freeway. The Design Review Board (DRB) did not support digital billboards generally but recommended minimized height and brightness if allowed. - The applicant (Outfront Media) stated the financial benefits to the city over the 30-year development agreement include: - Upfront fee: $140,000 - In-lieu fee: $1.1 million - Annual payment: $102,000, increasing at 3% per year (adjustment requested by a Councilmember) - Total projected revenue: $6.1 million over 30 years - City use of one ad spot per eight weeks for community promotion. - Applicant addressed driver safety (citing FHWA studies showing no difference from static signs) and lighting (capped at 0.3 foot-candle over ambient; daytime max 7,500 nits, nighttime 300 nits; louvers direct light downward). A CEQA addendum found no new significant impacts. - Commissioners discussed the site’s visibility, height, proximity to transmission lines, and consistency with existing billboards. Commissioner Faria expressed support for this fourth sign but cautioned against future expansions beyond that. Commissioner Tzang noted the zoning text amendment feels case-by-case but found no adverse planning impacts. Commissioner Shihadeh supported the project but noted the date in the development agreement should be December 21, not December 13. - Three separate resolutions were considered and passed unanimously (5-0): 1. 3a – Resolution recommending that the City Council adopt the CEQA addendum (finding the project within the scope of the 2015 Mitigated Negative Declaration). 2. 3b – Resolution recommending approval of the Development Agreement, Design Review, and Sign Permit (with conditions). 3. 3c – Resolution recommending adoption of the Zoning Text Amendment to allow a fourth digital billboard along US 101. Key Outcomes - Item 2 – Use Permit approved (5-0). - Item 3a – CEQA determination recommended to City Council (5-0). - Item 3b – Development Agreement, Design Review, and Sign Permit recommended to City Council (5-0). - Item 3c – Zoning Text Amendment recommended to City Council (5-0). - The Commission directed staff to correct the date in the development agreement from December 13 to December 21, 2023. - The January 4, 2024 Planning Commission meeting was cancelled; the next regular meeting is January 18, 2024.

December 13, 2023 The South San Francisco City Council held a regular meeting at 6:30 PM in the Council Chambers. The meeting included proclamations honoring Dr. John Skerry, Krystina Ruiz, and the South San Francisco High School football team, as well as a certificate for outgoing Housing Authority Commissioner Steven Pitocchi. The council approved a consent calendar of routine items, conducted public hearings on the Orange Memorial Park Aquatic Center and the Vantage Healthpeak Life Sciences Campus (with a compromise on the Transportation Demand Management plan), and advanced funding for the Rotary Gardens affordable housing project. Several administrative items were also approved. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes from November 8, November 21, and December 5, 2023 (Item 4). - Accepted a report on the Community Development Block Grant program (Item 5). - Renewed a purchasing agreement with Dell Marketing LP for Microsoft licenses for three years, not to exceed $752,215 (Item 6). - Approved the Third Amendment to the 2023–2024 Wage and Salary Schedule, adjusting salaries and hourly rates per the Local Minimum Wage Ordinance, and budget amendment 24‑022 (Item 7). - Accepted a $7,500 grant from Pacific Library Partnership for a computer‑building program series (Item 8). - Accepted up to $15,000 from the Peninsula Library System for the 2024 Young Adult Novelists Convention (YANovCon 2024) (Item 9). - Accepted a donation of computers from Genentech, Inc. valued at $7,600 for digital literacy classes (Item 10). - Accepted a $10,000 grant from Genentech for the Tech Talks: Discover the Future of STEM project (Item 11). - Approved a purchase agreement with L.N. Curtis & Sons for 58 Globe turnout coats and pants for the Fire Department, not to exceed $249,811.80 (Item 12). - Accepted a $75,000 Urban Area Security Initiative grant for security upgrades at Fire Station 64 (Item 13). - Authorized a Power Purchase Agreement with Peninsula Clean Energy Authority for a solar photovoltaic system at City facilities (Item 14). - Approved the First Amendment to a consulting services agreement with ELS Architecture + Urban Design for the Orange Memorial Park Aquatic Center project, increasing the amount by $328,770 and extending the contract to December 31, 2025 (Item 15). Public Comments & Testimony - Norm Torello spoke about the Medical Equipment Loan Program (MELP), an all‑volunteer nonprofit that loans durable medical equipment at no cost. He announced a donation drive on January 20, 2024, in Belmont and encouraged support. - Brian Shields, field representative for Carpenters Local 217, urged the adoption of labor standards (apprenticeship, healthcare, prevailing wage) on public and private projects, citing his own experience with union membership. - Alison Harper (Bon Appetit Management Company) spoke in support of the Vantage campus, noting that over 50% of their employees are South San Francisco residents and that parking is needed for workers and restaurant patrons. - Kyle Salolo (local resident and construction worker) spoke in support of the Vantage campus, highlighting local employment benefits. Discussion Items Orange Memorial Park Aquatic Center (Item 16) - The council held a public hearing on the Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration (ND23‑0005) and Design Review permit for a new aquatic center at Orange Memorial Park. The project includes a seven‑lane indoor pool and a 10‑lane outdoor pool, activity rooms, locker rooms, a veteran’s memorial, and an all‑electric facility. Public review period ran September 8 to October 9, 2023, with only two general comments received. Mitigation measures address biology, cultural resources, geology, hazards, noise, and tribal cultural resources. The project will replace the existing orange pool; construction is expected to begin in early 2024. Council members expressed excitement and noted the long community engagement process. The public hearing was closed and both resolutions (16A for CEQA findings and 16B for design review) were adopted unanimously (5‑0). Vantage Healthpeak Life Sciences Campus (Item 17) - The council considered a master plan, precise plan, design review, use permit, development agreement, and vesting tentative map to redevelop a 19‑acre commercial site into a 1.65 million square foot life science R&D campus at Forbes Boulevard and Allerton Avenue. Phase I (buildings A and B and an amenity building) is under construction. Phase II (buildings C and D) totals about 700,000 square feet; Phase III is future. The project includes a conditional use permit to exceed maximum parking (3,701 spaces requested vs. a maximum of 2,422 under the new code). The project will dedicate one acre to the city for a potential fire station and includes a 15‑year development agreement. The Planning Commission recommended approval 4‑2, with both dissenting votes based on parking. Council discussion centered on the Transportation Demand Management (TDM) requirement (currently 50% reduction in single‑occupancy vehicle trips) and parking levels. Councilmember Nicolas expressed concern that the requested parking exceeds the new maximums. After negotiations, a compromise was reached: if only two of the three parking structures are built, the TDM remains at 50%; if all three are built, the TDM increases to 55%. The project is estimated to support up to 6,000 employees. Council voted on three items: - 17A (CEQA findings): Approved 5‑0. - 17B (entitlements including parking and TDM compromise): Approved 4‑1 (Councilmember Adiego dissenting). - 17C (Development Agreement ordinance): Approved 4‑1 (Councilmember Adiego dissenting). Rotary Gardens Affordable Housing (Item 18) - The council considered a request from Rotary Plaza, Inc. for $1,633,172 in funding for a two‑phase affordable housing project at 500 and 522 Linden Avenue (former Liberty Bank site). Phase I would provide 83 senior units; Phase II, 65 family units. The city’s commitment includes $1,076,383 from Low/Mod‑Income Housing Asset Funds and $556,789 from Permanent Local Housing Allocation funds. The funding will support pre‑development costs. Council members praised Rotary’s work but expressed concerns about concentrating affordable housing in District 5 (Old Town) and impacts on local businesses and parking. Staff noted that the two phases could be built sequentially to minimize disruption. The funding resolutions (18A and 18B) were approved unanimously (5‑0). Hotel Development at 367 Marina Boulevard (Item 19) - The council authorized a second amendment to the purchase and sale agreement with Ensemble Investments, LLC, extending the timeline for a hotel development on city‑owned property. The market for hotels has been slow due to the pandemic, high interest rates, and construction costs. The amendment allows additional time for market recovery; the city may revisit if conditions do not improve. Councilmember Flores expressed willingness to pause but emphasized the need for a decision by 2025. The resolution was approved 5‑0. HSIP Curb Ramp Replacement Project (Item 20) - The council awarded a construction contract to RK Engineering, Inc. for the Highway Safety Improvement Program curb ramp replacement at five unsignalized intersections in the Old Town neighborhood. The contract is not to exceed $676,580, with a total project budget of $811,896 funded by grant and other sources (no General Fund). Staff noted competitive bids due to the rainy season. Councilmember Nicholas requested careful traffic management and notification to residents. Approved 5‑0. Animal Licensing and Control Ordinance Update (Item 21) - The council conducted a first reading and introduced an ordinance repealing and replacing Chapter 9.04 of the Municipal Code to align with the county’s updated animal control ordinance. Notable changes include lowering the rabies vaccination age to match state law, raising the threshold for declaring an animal vicious, and allowing owners to apply for removal of a “dangerous” designation after three years of safe maintenance. Approved 5‑0. Bat Country Public Art Sculpture (Item 22) - The council considered acceptance of a donated sculpture titled “Bat Country” by artists Gwen Fisher and Paul Brown, made from baseball bats and softballs. The piece was originally designed for Burning Man as a climbable structure but has been modified to sit atop an 11‑foot pole, making it non‑climbable. Initial concerns about location and safety were addressed by moving it to a less prominent site near Coloma Creek in Orange Memorial Park, though some council members preferred the original location near the sports fields. Councilmember Adiego expressed reservations about the artwork itself and abstained. The resolution to accept the donation was approved 4‑0‑1 (Councilmember Adiego abstaining). Key Outcomes - All consent calendar items (4‑15) approved unanimously. - Aquatic Center CEQA and Design Review (Items 16A/16B): Approved 5‑0. - Vantage Campus entitlements (Item 17B) and Development Agreement (Item 17C): Approved 4‑1 (Councilmember Adiego dissenting); CEQA finding (17A) approved 5‑0. TDM compromise: 50% for two parking structures; 55% if third parking structure built. - Rotary Gardens funding (Items 18A/18B): Approved 5‑0. - Hotel agreement extension (Item 19): Approved 5‑0. - Curb ramp contract (Item 20): Approved 5‑0. - Animal control ordinance (Item 21): First reading approved 5‑0. - Bat Country sculpture donation (Item 22): Approved 4‑0‑1 (Adiego abstained). - Council appointments: Mayor Coleman will represent the city at Council of Cities; Councilmember Nicolas was nominated as alternate for the Domestic Violence Council for a three‑year term starting January 1, 2024. - Closed session: Conference with real property negotiators regarding properties at 226‑246 Grand Avenue; no reportable action.

The South San Francisco City Council held its regular meeting on November 8, 2023, at 6:30 PM in the new Library Parks & Recreation Building Council Chambers. The meeting included proclamations, presentations, a consent calendar, and two administrative business items. The council approved routine items, discussed the Training Tower Maintenance Project, and approved amendments for the Smart Corridor project and the Eden Housing senior affordable housing development at 201 Baden Avenue. Presentations - Ruby Bridges Day Proclamation: The council proclaimed November 14, 2023, as Ruby Bridges Walk to School Day. Students from Martin Elementary School read the proclamation. - Native American Heritage Month Proclamation: Recognized November as Native American Heritage Month. Amanda, a city employee and descendant of the Iroquois Confederacy, accepted the proclamation and spoke about cultural acceptance and the importance of acknowledging indigenous history. - Small Business Saturday Proclamation: Celebrated Small Business Saturday (November 25, 2023). Carlos Reyes Jr. from Renaissance Entrepreneurship Center accepted the proclamation. - Medal of Valor Presentation: Sergeant Chris Devan and Officer Matt Zander received the Medal of Valor for rescuing two passengers from a vehicle fire. Officer Zander dragged a semi-conscious victim away and both officers freed a trapped victim despite intense heat and flames. Public Comments & Testimony - Frank McCauley, President of the South San Francisco Sister Cities Association, reported on a recent trip to the sister city Kishiwara, Japan, and presented a gift from the mayor of Kishiwara to Mayor Nicolas. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes from October 23, 25, and November 1, 2023. - Adopted resolution amending the City Council Procedures and Protocols Handbook. - Accepted $9,465.62 in DOJ grant funding for soft armor vests for the Police Department (Budget Amendment 24.017). - Approved Program Guidelines for the Small Business Post-Pandemic Recovery Grant Program. - Awarded construction contracts for the Training Tower Maintenance Project to Burke Construction ($397,489) and Draeger, Inc. ($507,433) with a 20% contingency, total budget $1,085,906 (Item 9 was pulled for discussion but later approved). - Awarded a construction contract to Raposo Engineering Inc. for the Karyl Matsumoto Plaza Project ($540,523.10, total budget $621,601.57, Budget Amendment 24.018). - Awarded an emergency storm drain repair contract to EPS Inc. dba Express Plumbing ($250,000). Discussion Items - Item 9 – Training Tower Maintenance Project: Councilmember Addiego questioned why the contract was awarded without competitive bidding. Staff and Fire Chief Magayanes explained that the tower has specialized components and that Burke Construction is the certified installer for Fire Facilities, the original provider. The council discussed the unique nature of the burn tower and confirmed that the facility generates revenue through cellular site leases and training contracts. A motion to approve was made and seconded; approved unanimously. - Item 12 – Smart Corridor South San Francisco Expansion Project: CCAG representatives presented the project, which installs fiber, cameras, dynamic message signs, and a traffic management center. City staff requested contract amendments: $80,000 for Kimley-Horn, $180,000 for Zoon Engineering, and $500,000 contingency increase for Econolite Systems, all within the existing $8.5 million budget funded by CCAG. Councilmembers questioned Caltrans control of signals during incidents, data privacy (no personal identifiable information collected), and lessons learned from recent Redwood City freeway closures. The project is expected to be completed by May 2024. Approved unanimously. - Item 13 – Second Amendment to Purchase and Sale Agreement with Eden Housing for 201 Baden Avenue: Nell Selander, Economic & Community Development Director, explained that Eden Housing was unable to acquire the adjacent KFC/Taco Bell site and will instead build a 68-unit all-affordable senior housing project on the former city-owned parcel. The project targets 30%–50% Area Median Income (AMI). The city will convert the sale to a ground lease, negotiated in good faith as per an errata sheet. Councilmembers highlighted the high cost of affordable housing (total development cost $48 million) and the value of keeping public land in public hands. Approved unanimously. Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar items approved with one motion (unanimous). - Item 9 (Training Tower Maintenance) approved unanimously after discussion. - Item 12 (Smart Corridor contract amendments) approved unanimously. - Item 13 (Eden Housing Second Amendment) approved unanimously, including direction to negotiate a ground lease. - The council adjourned in memory of Larry Casey Jr. and Andrés Bonia Codal.

The Planning Commission met on Thursday, November 2, 2023, at 7:00 PM in the Council Chambers at 901 Civic Campus Way. The meeting included approval of the consent calendar and a public hearing on a proposed new Aquatic Center at Orange Memorial Park. The commission unanimously recommended that the City Council adopt the Mitigated Negative Declaration and approve the Design Review permit for the project. Consent Calendar - Item 1: Draft minutes from the October 19, 2023 Planning Commission meeting were approved. - Item 2: A Master Sign Program and Design Review for Gateway Campus at 901 Gateway Boulevard (BTP-H and ETC Zoning Districts) was approved as categorically exempt from CEQA. - The consent calendar passed 6–0 (Commissioner Pamukcu absent). Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made on non-agenda items or on the consent calendar. - During the public hearing for the Aquatic Center, no members of the public spoke; the hearing was closed after commissioner questions. Discussion Items Orange Memorial Park Aquatic Center (Public Hearing, Item 3) - Presentation: Deputy Director Philip Vitale and architect Clarence Mamayuk presented plans for a new state-of-the-art aquatic center. The facility will replace the existing 1970 pool and includes: - An indoor 7-lane, 25-yard pool with zero-beach entry and water features (heated to 85°F). - An outdoor 10-lane pool (25 yards by 25 meters) for competition and fitness (heated to 78–79°F). - A flexible activity room (capacity 50+ people), locker rooms, family changing rooms, and a veterans memorial with flagpole. - All-electric building with solar panels (via Peninsula Clean Energy), LED lighting, and drought-tolerant landscaping (20+ new trees). - A 15-foot windscreen (first 10 feet solid, top 5 feet 50% perforated) designed based on wind tunnel studies to reduce wind speeds from 24 mph to under 10 mph in the pool area. - Parking: 9 stalls at the Orange/Tennis Drive corner (reduced from 22) with EV charging and accessible spaces, plus refreshed parking on Tennis Drive and shared use of existing lots. Staff cited a parking study from the Park Master Plan. - CEQA Review: Chief Planner Adena Friedman reported that an Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration (ISMND) was prepared and circulated for 30-day public review (Sept 8–Oct 9, 2023). Two comments were received but did not require recirculation. Mitigation measures were identified for biology, cultural resources, geology, hazardous materials, noise, and tribal cultural resources. A Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program (MMRP) will be implemented. - Commissioner Questions: Topics included windscreen design, accessibility (no stairs, pool lift), parking adequacy, transit access (existing bus route on West Orange, shuttle suggestion), security cameras (coordinated with PD), temperature management, activity room uses, and construction safety while keeping the old pool operational. Staff and architect addressed these, citing similar projects at Stanford and USC. - Commissioner Comments: All commissioners expressed strong support for the project, praising the design, community engagement, and expanded programming (e.g., learn-to-swim, water polo, swim therapy). Some noted increased park usage but found parking sufficient. Concerns about wind and security were resolved by the design features. Key Outcomes - Resolution 3a (CEQA): The commission voted 6–0 to adopt a resolution recommending that the City Council adopt the Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration (ND23-0005) for the Aquatic Center, in accordance with CEQA guidelines. - Resolution 3b (Design Review): The commission voted 6–0 to adopt a resolution recommending that the City Council approve the Design Review permit (DR23-0037) for the new Aquatic Center at Orange Memorial Park, subject to the attached Conditions of Approval. - The project schedule targets bid by end of 2023, construction start early 2024, new pool opening summer 2025, and demolition of the old pool and completion of parking/veterans memorial later in summer 2025. - Administrative Business: Staff announced the likely cancellation of the November 16, 2023 Planning Commission meeting. Note: Commissioner Pamukcu was absent for all votes.

The South San Francisco City Council held a regular meeting on Wednesday, October 25, 2023, at 6:30 PM in the Council Chambers at the Municipal Services Building. The meeting included presentations, public comments, approval of the consent calendar, and several administrative business items. Key topics included the adoption of the Sign Hill Open Space Master Plan, approval of a first addendum to the Housing Element, a legal services agreement for PCB litigation, and a presentation from the Commission on Equity and Public Safety advocating for the Community Wellness and Crisis Response Team. Presentations - Fire Prevention Poster Contest Winners: Fire Marshall Ian Hardage recognized winners from eight local schools, including Martin, All Souls, Sunshine, Saint Veronica, Mills, Monteverde, Los Cerritos, and Hillside Christian. The contest aims to raise awareness about home fire safety. - CORA and Speak-up Program: Karen Ferguson, CEO of Community Overcoming Relationship Abuse (CORA), presented on the Speak-up campaign during Domestic Violence Prevention Month. She noted that South San Francisco was the first city to join the campaign, followed by eight other cities (San Mateo, Pacifica, Daly City, Foster City, East Palo Alto, Belmont, and Hillsborough). The campaign will map out eight cities over the next year, starting November 1, 2023, with a 15-minute training for businesses. The goal is to recognize red flags of intimate partner abuse and provide resources. - Thrive Alliance 2023 Regional Nonprofit Landscape Report: Georgia Farooq, Executive Director of Thrive, presented the report covering San Mateo and Santa Clara Counties. Key statistics: 10,000 tax-exempt organizations, $33 billion in revenue, 2,000 core nonprofits (revenues $100,000). In the northern region of San Mateo County, there is one core nonprofit per 5,000 residents, compared to one per 836 in the central region. Councilmember Flores highlighted that South San Francisco has had to step up to provide services, and Councilmember Nagales suggested using city-owned space to co-locate nonprofits. - Extra Mile Day Proclamation: Mayor Nicolas declared November 1, 2023, as Extra Mile Day, recognizing Dan and Ruth Dinardi for their community contributions. - Commission on Equity and Public Safety – Community Wellness and Crisis Response Team: Chair Krystle Cansino and Commissioner Salvador Delgadillo presented on the program, which has been piloted since January 2022 in partnership with San Mateo County. Benefits include freeing up police time for crime prevention, reducing jail bookings, and decreasing use of force. South San Francisco PD has nearly 100% of officers trained in Crisis Intervention Training (CIT). Council members expressed support and noted the need for sustainable funding. Public Comments & Testimony - Denise, a resident of Alita Manor, spoke about a dangerous speeding problem on Alita Way, particularly near crosswalks used by children from Ponderosa School, Saint Veronica, and South San Francisco. She submitted a petition requesting speed bumps and referred the matter to the Traffic Safety Commission. Consent Calendar - Item 6: Approved minutes of October 11, 2023. - Items 7 & 7a: Accepted donations valued at $7,286 for the August 26, 2023 Women's Leadership Conference. - Items 8 & 8a: Approved a professional services agreement with Du-All Safety for safety consulting services, not to exceed $360,000 from October 1, 2023 through September 30, 2026. Discussion Items - Item 9 – Orege North America Agreement: Brian Schumacker, Water Quality Control Plant Superintendent, presented a try-and-buy contract for an SLG process to increase biosolids dewatering efficiency. The agreement is not to exceed $700,000, with a 90-day trial period. If the equipment does not meet performance guarantees, the vendor removes it at no cost to the city. The council approved the resolution unanimously. - Item 10 – Sign Hill Open Space Master Plan: Parks and Recreation Director Greg Mediati and consultants presented the draft plan for the 65-acre Sign Hill. Technical studies included cultural resource, biological, trail condition, and trail use surveys. Three trail options were presented; Option 3 (most preferred) includes new trails like the Liberty Trail and Supert Iris extension, as well as habitat restoration. Six priority recommendations include protocol-level species surveys, soil stabilization around the historic letters, trail erosion repair, and invasive species removal. The council adopted the resolution unanimously. - Item 11 – First Addendum to Housing Element: Tony Rozzi, Deputy Economic and Community Development Director, presented minor edits to the 2023-2031 Housing Element to incorporate comments from HCD. The city received a letter confirming full statutory compliance. Public comment from Matthew Beeston (Carpenter's Union, Local 217) requested inclusion of language encouraging area standard wages, apprenticeship programs, and local hire. The council directed staff to administratively incorporate such language, subject to review by the city attorney, and approved the addendum. - Item 12 – Legal Services Agreement for PCB Litigation: City Attorney Sky Woodruff proposed joining a lawsuit against Monsanto and other defendants regarding PCB contamination. The city would retain Sher Edling LLP, the same firm representing San Mateo County and other cities. The council approved authorization for the city manager to execute the agreement. Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar approved unanimously. - Resolution for Orege North America agreement approved (5-0). - Resolution adopting Sign Hill Open Space Master Plan approved (5-0). - Resolution approving Housing Element addendum approved with direction to add labor standards language (5-0). - Resolution for PCB litigation agreement approved (5-0). - Public comment on speeding referred to Traffic Safety Commission. - Council announcements included upcoming events: Grand opening of Library Parks and Recreation Center (LPR) on Saturday, October 28, 11 AM – 5 PM; Taste of South San Francisco (sold out) on November 2; Sana Sana health forum on November 4 at South San Francisco High School; State of the City address on November 1 at 6:30 PM in the new council chambers. - Meeting adjourned in memory of Mauricio Fandinho, Ruben Lewanag, Stephen Tarumpy, Don Jacoburger, Ricardo Palomino, and Bertan Conrad. Closed Session - The council entered closed session to discuss real property negotiations for properties on Sylvester Road and 201 Baden Avenue.

The South San Francisco Planning Commission held a hybrid regular meeting on Thursday, October 19, 2023, at 7:00 PM in the Municipal Services Building Council Chambers. The meeting was called to order at 7:01 PM. Commissioners present: Alex Tzang (Chair), Norman Faria (Vice Chair), Michele Evans, Sam Shihadeh, Sarah Funes, John Baker. Commissioner Aysha Pamukcu was absent. The meeting included a consent calendar, two public hearings, and administrative business. Consent Calendar - The Commission unanimously approved the draft minutes from the September 21, 2023 Planning Commission meeting (motion passed 6-0). Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made on any agenda item during the meeting. The City limited public comment to in-person attendance only. Discussion Items Item 2 – 573 Forbes Boulevard (8-Story Office/R&D Building) - Staff Report (Stephanie Skangos, Associate Planner): Proposed demolition of an existing warehouse and construction of an 8-story office/R&D building (137 ft, rooftop elements to 171 ft) with a detached 8-story parking garage (85 ft, 470 stalls) on a 2.83-acre parcel at 573 Forbes Boulevard in the BTP-H Zoning District. The project seeks a 2.0 FAR, a Transportation Demand Management (TDM) Plan achieving 40 points, and a CEQA determination that the project is within the scope of the 2040 General Plan EIR. The parking garage is designed with solar panels on the top level. The site includes a rails-to-trails connection. - Applicant Presentation (Mike Sanford, Vigilant Holdings/Smart Labs; Niall Malcolmsen, DGA Architects; Gary Levis, DGA; Rich Sharp, Studio 5 Design): The project accommodates life science tenants, features balconies, a wind-protected courtyard, and ground-level amenity space. The parking garage is nestled into a 40-ft hill to minimize visibility. The design emphasizes a classic base-middle-top articulation, with curtain wall and metal panels. Landscape includes a “front porch,” central plaza, and connection to the rails-to-trails. - Commission Questions: Addressed bike parking (24 short-term + 24 long-term), retractable bollards (flush for ADA/fire), fire access (26-ft drive aisle), excavation volume (off-haul planned), flood mitigation (site 9 ft above mean high tide), left-turn lane traffic study (condition of approval), and TDM monitoring (annual surveys). - Commissioner Comments: Commissioner Shihadeh praised the design and circulation. Commissioner Evans liked the balcony features and the use of the odd-shaped site. Commissioner Baker expressed concern about four stories visible to the north and recommended outreach to the USDA neighbor; also noted the east side air pollution burden (95th percentile statewide) and supported less parking. No public testimony was heard. - Votes: Two resolutions were adopted unanimously (6-0): - Resolution 2a: CEQA determination (project consistent with 2040 GP EIR). - Resolution 2b: Approval of Design Review and TDM Plan. Item 3 – Vantage Healthpeak Life Sciences Campus (420-490 Forbes Boulevard) - Staff Report (Christy Usher, Senior Planner): The applicant seeks entitlements for a master plan and precise plan to redevelop an existing 19-acre commercial site into a 1.65 million square foot life science research campus (six buildings, three parking garages) in the BTP-H Zoning District. The project includes previously approved Buildings A and B (under construction) and an amenity building. Phase two (precise plan) includes two new lab buildings and two parking structures. A conditional use permit is requested to exceed the maximum allowable parking (requesting 3,701 spaces vs. code maximum of 2,422 – a 1,279-space increase). Public benefits include dedication of a one-acre parcel for a potential future fire station, an estimated $25 million in community benefits, and circulation improvements. The project is subject to a TDM plan requiring a 50% reduction in single-occupancy vehicle trips and a trip cap. - Applicant Presentation (Scott Bowen, Healthpeak; Philip Rom, Flad Architects; David Fletcher, Fletcher Studio Landscape Architecture): Healthpeak has owned and developed in South San Francisco for 30 years. The campus design creates a pedestrian-friendly street edge along Forbes Boulevard, with buildings rising from east to west (Building C at 12 stories). The amenity building (open to public) includes food and beverage, conference space, and an amphitheater. Landscape features a promenade, sunken garden, windscreens, and connections to the rails-to-trails. The parking structures are designed with facades that mimic the buildings to reduce visual impact. - Commission Questions: Addressed parking justification (market demand, speculative building, TDM compliance), design articulation of buildings D, E, F (pedestrian-scaled base, upper terraces), parking structure massing (staggered, different facade treatments), and the interim use of the fire station parcel (construction staging, not a functioning parking lot). - Commissioner Comments: - Commissioner Funes supported the project but noted the extra parking as a concern and requested EV parking proportionality. - Commissioner Evans praised the shuttle-to-ferry concept and the overall design. - Commissioner Shihadeh commended the applicant and supported the project. - Commissioner Baker strongly opposed the parking exception, citing environmental concerns (east side air pollution, emissions from extra spaces) and stated it would set a bad precedent. - Commissioner Zhang noted the parking exception is a negotiation for City Council and supported the project with a recommendation for EV parking proportionality. - Votes: Two resolutions were adopted 4-2 (Commissioners Funes and Baker dissenting): - Resolution 3a: CEQA determination (project within scope of 2040 GP EIR). - Resolution 3b: Recommendation to City Council to approve the planning entitlements (Master Plan, Precise Plan, Design Review, Use Permit, Development Agreement, TDM Plan, Vesting Tentative Map). Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar: Approved unanimously. - 573 Forbes Boulevard: Both resolutions approved 6-0; project moves forward with Design Review and TDM Plan. - Vantage Healthpeak Campus: Both resolutions approved 4-2; recommendation will go to City Council. The Council will consider the conditional use permit for extra parking and the Development Agreement, including the fire station land dedication. - Administrative Business: The Commission announced that future meetings will be held at 901 Civic Campus Drive (the new LPR building) starting November 2, 2023.

The City Council of South San Francisco held a regular meeting on Wednesday, October 11, 2023, at 6:30 PM in the Council Chambers at 33 Arroyo Drive. Mayor Flor Nicolas presided, with all council members present. The meeting featured four proclamations, one public comment, unanimous approval of the consent calendar, and discussion and approval of four capital projects. Proclamations and Presentations - Italian American Heritage Month: Councilmember Mark Addiego presented a proclamation to Jeanette Acosta, recognizing October as National Italian American Heritage Month, highlighting contributions of Italian Americans. - Breast Cancer Awareness Month: Mayor Nicolas presented a proclamation to City Manager Sharon Ranals, a breast cancer survivor, recognizing October as Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Statistics: one in eight women will be diagnosed; black women are 40% more likely to die from breast cancer. - Code Enforcement Officer Appreciation Week: Councilmember Mark Addiego presented a proclamation to Don Lovell. The unit has three full-time officers who responded to over 1,300 citizen complaints this year. - Fire Prevention Week: Councilmember Eddie Flores presented a proclamation to Ian Harditic. The department will deliver fire safety materials to approximately 3,200 students and provide direct presentations to about 1,400 pre-K through 4th graders. Public Comments - John Baker addressed the council regarding the proposed expansion of managed lanes on Highway 101. He noted that the east side of South San Francisco has a 95th percentile pollution burden on CalEnviroScreen. He argued that adding lanes induces demand and does not reduce congestion. He requested Mayor Nicolas, as the city's representative on C/CAG, to pull the item for discussion and vote against studying lane expansion. He expressed support for converting existing lanes to HOV lanes but opposed new lanes. Consent Calendar The council approved the consent calendar unanimously (5-0), which included: - Approval of minutes from September 27, 2023. - Second reading and adoption of ordinances for the Lindenville Specific Plan, Height Incentive Overlay, Colma Creek Greenbelt Overlay, Arts and Makers Overlay, and Active Ground Floor Use Overlay districts, and zoning map amendments. - Adoption of an ordinance establishing rules of conduct for city property. - Adoption of an ordinance changing meeting locations for various commissions. - Resolution approving the second amendment to the 2023-2024 Wage and Salary Schedule and budget amendment. Discussion Items - Item 10: Linden Avenue Park Project – Award of consulting services agreement to MIG, Inc. for $526,920 with a $52,692 contingency. The project will create a one-acre park in the Old Town neighborhood, funded by a state grant and park fees. Councilmembers emphasized the need for community engagement and sensitivity to the area's history. Approved unanimously. - Item 11: Centennial Way Trail Park Improvements – Award of construction contract to A & B Construction for $4,505,417 with a $4,955,959 total budget. The project includes an outdoor classroom, picnic area, skate plaza, bike pump track, fitness area, and nature play area. Funded by a $2.4 million Clean California grant and other sources. Construction must be completed by June 2024. Council discussed lighting, safety, and accessibility. Approved unanimously. - Item 12: Oyster Point Phase IIC Improvement Project – Award of construction contract to Giron Construction for $3,716,501.51 with a total budget of $4,273,976.74. Work includes asphalt overlay, new dog park, picnic area, and lighting. Funded entirely by redevelopment agency funds. Council noted the project had been deferred for over a decade. Approved unanimously. - Item 13: HSIP 10 Curb Ramp Replacement Intersection Improvement Project – Resolution approving updated state-aid master agreement and program supplemental agreement for $249,800. The project will install 17 new ADA-compliant curb ramps and repave intersections. Councilmember Flores highlighted lessons learned from previous ramp projects. Approved unanimously. Council Member Reports and Announcements - Mayor Nicolas reported on recent events including a bike ride, sister city visit, and facility tours. She also requested a moment of silence for victims of the Hamas attack in Israel. - Councilmember Addiego reported on airport noise committee meeting: SFO operations at 80% of pre-COVID levels, passenger numbers at 89%, international travel at 97%. He also noted deaths of community members. - Vice Mayor Nagales requested a safe routes to school audit at Westborough Middle School and suggested a legislative fix for speed reduction laws. - Councilmember Flores highlighted the climate summit, domestic violence awareness event, and upcoming community conversation. - Councilmember Coleman reported on his trip to study housing policy in Asia and upcoming housing leadership day. Key Outcomes - All four resolutions (Items 10-13) were approved unanimously (5-0). - The consent calendar was approved unanimously. - The meeting was adjourned in memory of Fernando Pascual, Ollie Mae Welsh, Beverly Franzella, and Gloria Gill.

This meeting covered proclamations, a public hearing on the Lindenville Specific Plan, and several administrative items including acceptance of state funds for the Utah Avenue Overcrossing, a contract for preschool design services, adoption of the Public Art Master Plan, and authorization for police equipment purchases. Councilmember Coleman was absent. Presentations - Proclamation condemning antisemitism: Vice Mayor Nagales presented a proclamation condemning antisemitism and hate speech, following hateful comments at a prior meeting. Karen Stiller (Senior Director of Jewish Affairs, JCRC) accepted and thanked the council for their stand. - Proclamation recognizing October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month: Presented by Mayor Nicolas; accepted by representatives of ALICE (Alliance for Community Empowerment), including Jen Jimenez Wong, Betina Yap, Edna Murray, and Lydia Pomposa. - Proclamation celebrating Filipino American History Month: Presented by Mayor Nicolas; accepted by Nika Mariano, a youth commissioner, who spoke about the Filipino American community's contributions. - Proclamation recognizing September as Prostate Cancer Awareness Month: Presented by Councilmember Addiego; accepted by Dr. Barry Chaucer of Seton Hospital, who urged men to get PSA screenings. - Proclamation celebrating the Every Kid Deserves a Bike Program: Presented by Councilmember Flores; to be presented to Assemblywoman Diane Papan on September 29, 2023. The program has delivered bikes to over 500 students. Consent Calendar - Item 6: Minutes of September 13, 2023 approved with clarification that Councilmember Addiego's vote against holiday decorations was due to cost concerns, not opposition to holidays. - Item 7: Removal of Commissioner Jose Zelaya from Cultural Arts Commission due to unexcused absences approved. - Item 8: Resolution approving response to San Mateo County Grand Jury Report on Bike Safety approved. - Items 9-10: Acceptance of state library grants for literacy programs ($24,502 for Family Literacy, $59,720 for Adult Literacy) approved. - Item 11: Lease agreement with Bandwidth IG, LLC for fiber optic cable in submerged Bay lands approved after discussion on environmental review (CEQA mitigated negative declaration, $1.5M project). - Item 12: Resolution amending Master Fee Schedule for fire inspection and permit fees approved. Public Comments & Testimony - General Public Comments: None. - Public Hearing Item 13 (CDBG CAPER): Alec Raffin (COO, Samaritan House) thanked the city for supporting Safe Harbor shelter. - Public Hearing Item 14 (Lindenville Specific Plan): No public speakers. Discussion Items - Item 13: CDBG CAPER (Consolidated Annual Performance and Evaluation Report) for FY 2022-23. Housing Manager Danielle Thoe presented expenditures ($426,000 CDBG funds, $90,000 COVID relief) and challenges (staff turnover, contractor availability). Vice Mayor Nagales recused himself due to former employer Project Sentinel. Approved. - Item 14: Lindenville Specific Plan adoption. Principal Planner Billy Gross and Eric Yerkovich reviewed the plan, community engagement (35+ meetings, 460+ touchpoints), and key changes from public draft (e.g., reverted land designations, added 5% affordable housing requirement for height incentive, strengthened non-conforming use substitution). Council discussed flood control, contamination remediation, bicycle/pedestrian connectivity, and transition buffers. Three resolutions (14a, 14b, 14c) all approved. - Item 17: Utah Avenue Overcrossing project. Senior Civil Engineer Lawrence Henriquez presented the $5M STIP award (total project cost $130M). Councilmember Flores emphasized community engagement, VMT study, and protected bike lanes. Vice Mayor Nagales questioned financial feasibility. Council approved the resolution accepting funds. - Item 15: Architectural services for 840 West Orange Avenue and Westborough Preschool projects. Director of Capital Projects Jacob Gilchrist recommended Dorman Associates ($1.666M). Vice Mayor Nagales moved to reject the bid and reissue RFP as separate projects, citing concerns about the selection process. Motion passed 4-0. - Item 16: Public Art Master Plan adoption. Deputy Director Angela Duldulao presented the plan, developed from April 2022 to August 2023, with 14 recommendations. Council expressed strong support. Approved. - Item 18: Ordinance changing meeting locations to Library and Parks and Recreation Center; approved. - Item 19: Ordinance establishing rules of conduct for city property (Chapter 10.76); approved. - Item 20: Resolution authorizing use of $227,606.07 in Police Asset Forfeiture Funds to purchase 75 patrol rifles, suppressors, and accessories. Chief Campbell explained need for updated equipment. Approved. Key Outcomes - Approved: Consent Calendar items 6-12, CDBG CAPER (item 13), Lindenville Specific Plan (items 14a-c), Utah Avenue Overcrossing funding (item 17), Public Art Master Plan (item 16), meeting location change (item 18), rules of conduct (item 19), police equipment purchase (item 20). - Rejected/Reworked: Item 15 (Dorman contract) – council directed staff to reissue RFP for separate projects, with a 4-month delay anticipated. - Proclamations: Five proclamations accepted and presented. - Joint Special Meeting: A brief special meeting of the City Council and Successor Agency was held to approve a consent calendar item regarding transfer of redevelopment agency property for the Civic Campus Library Parks Recreation project.