Public Meetings - South San Francisco, California

Note: The agenda and transcript list the meeting date as January 26, 2022; the provided timestamp uses January 27, 2022. This summary follows the provided timestamp. The City Council held a teleconference regular meeting on January 27, 2022, at 6:00 PM, convening virtually via Zoom. The meeting included proclamations, a PG&E update, a redistricting public hearing, a lengthy public comment period on ARPA hazard pay, and several appointments. Consent calendar items were approved except for two pulled items, and three administrative items were postponed to a later meeting. Consent Calendar - Motion to approve minutes of December 8, 2021 and January 12, 2022 (item 4). - Item 5: Resolution amending Bigbelly Solar LLC agreement – additional $120,000 (total not to exceed $270,000) for 10 additional dual-stream trash/recycling receptacles in downtown; pulled for discussion and tabled pending a staff report on cost-effectiveness and long-term plan. - Item 9: Kaiser Permanente $5,000 grant for "Healthy Places for a Healthy City" virtual event; pulled for discussion; council expressed concerns about virtual format but approved. - All remaining consent items (6,7,8,10,11) approved unanimously: Firefighters donation acceptance ($20,000), West Orange Ave & Hillside Blvd Pedestrian Crossing Supplement Agreement ($204,800), Parks and Recreation grants/donations ($5,250 and in-kind), Smart Corridors South San Francisco Expansion contract award to Econolite Systems with $1.6M additional C/CAG grant and related agreements, and e-Builder Inc. consulting services amendment (+$373,352). Public Comments & Testimony - Over a dozen speakers, primarily AFSCME Local 829 members and representatives, urged the council to direct the city manager to begin negotiations immediately on ARPA-funded hazard/premium pay for essential city workers, separate from upcoming contract negotiations. - Speakers included dispatchers, preschool teachers, librarians, maintenance workers, parks employees, a tree trimmer, and the Teamsters union rep. They described working in-person throughout the pandemic, risking exposure, and noted that neighboring cities have already provided premium pay. - Rod Palmquist, AFSCME Local 829 business agent, stated that the union would file an unfair labor practice charge with PERB if the city continues to refuse separate negotiations. - Kimberly Morrison, child care assistant supervisor, requested that part-time hourly employees be included in any premium pay. - Benita Christman and others repeated these requests; no public comments opposed the request. Discussion Items - PG&E Update (Item 0): Bill Chiang (PG&E local government affairs) and colleagues answered questions about power outages in Westborough and reliability. Mayor Nagales cited specific outages affecting 541, 2,100, 970, and 1,100+ customers; PG&E said they found no consistent infrastructure pattern. Council members raised concerns about prioritizing outages affecting senior housing and businesses, and about PG&E's plan to use Irish Town Green as a staging area for a hydrotest. PG&E committed to seeking an alternative site. Councilmember Flores noted the need for better communication and community outreach. - Redistricting Public Hearing (Item 12): Kristen Parks of National Demographics Corporation presented four draft maps submitted by the public, with population deviations ranging from 1.44% to 5.19%. She recommended considering whether to readopt the current 2018 map or make minimal changes, noting the city meets federal population equality requirements. Councilmember Flores expressed concerns about dividing Westborough and the C Street housing community; he requested that NDC prepare revised maps considering his suggestions, particularly keeping Orange Park in District 3 and exploring the Hillside area as a community of interest. The council directed NDC to bring revised maps to the February 23rd hearing. - Postponements: Staff requested and council agreed to postpone items 13 (Automatic License Plate Readers) and 14 (SSF VOICES board establishment) to the February 9, 2022 meeting. Item 15 (City Hall Annex Replacement initial study funding, $800,000) was also postponed to a future meeting. Special Meeting – Appointments - Measure W Citizens Oversight Committee: Appointed Jamie Ray to a term expiring October 17, 2025, by a 5-0 roll call vote. - Parks and Recreation Commission: Appointed Brittany Burgo to a partial term expiring December 31, 2026, by a 3-2 roll call vote (Adiego, Nicolas, Coleman yes; Flores and Nagales no). The council encouraged other applicants, including Jennifer Garstang and Veronica Espinoza, to reapply for future vacancies. Key Outcomes - Approved consent calendar except tabled item 5; item 9 approved after discussion. - Postponed items 13 and 14 to February 9, 2022; item 15 to a future meeting. - Directed NDC to prepare revised redistricting maps based on council input for the February 23rd public hearing. - Appointed Jamie Ray to Measure W Committee and Brittany Burgo to Parks and Recreation Commission. - Council members announced upcoming events and requested a staff report on Bigbelly receptacle ROI and a long-term plan. Council Comments/Announcements - Adjourned in memory of several community members. - Noted upcoming events: volunteer registration for homeless count, scholarships, sister city contests, town halls, and a city council retreat. Closed Session - Council held a closed session on labor negotiations as listed in the agenda (Item 16).

The City Council of South San Francisco held a teleconference regular meeting on Wednesday, January 12, 2022, at 6:00 PM. Mayor Mark Nagales explained that the meeting was moved to Zoom for at least January due to rising COVID-19 cases. All votes were taken by roll call. The meeting included staff and public presentations, general public comments, a consent calendar, two public hearings, administrative business, and council appointments. Staff Announcements - Parks and Recreation's Greg Mediati invited artists to enter the Cultural Arts Commission photography show (submissions due January 28) and announced job openings in the department. Presentations - Mayor Nagales presented a certificate to City Clerk Rosa Govea Acosta for achieving the Master Municipal Clerk (MMC) designation from the International Institute of Municipal Clerks. Acosta thanked the Council, noting she is one of six clerks in San Mateo County with that designation. - San Mateo County Transportation Authority's Joe Hurley and consultant David Williams presented the San Mateo 101 Managed Lanes Project North of I-380. They described the environmental process, with a draft environmental document expected in summer 2023. The alternatives studied are no build, converting an existing lane, or adding a lane. Councilmembers expressed concerns about environmental justice, induced demand, and impacts on nearby neighborhoods. Several public commenters urged the Council to oppose lane widening and support lane conversion. Councilmember Coleman suggested the Council could consider a future resolution opposing any lane widening. Public Comments & Testimony - Esperanza Jacinto of HIP Housing thanked the Council for supporting the Home Share program and shared quotes from South San Francisco children featured in the program's 2022 calendar. - Rod Palmquist, business agent for AFSCME Local 829, urged the city to begin negotiations for ARPA premium pay for essential city workers outside of contract bargaining, citing Daly City's example. He noted the city has over $12 million in ARPA funds. Consent Calendar The Council unanimously approved the consent calendar, which included: - Approval of minutes from seven meetings in 2021. - Resolution authorizing an application for $16,899 in CalRecycle beverage container recycling funds (budget amendment 22.034). - Resolution accepting $135,100 from the Metropolitan Transportation Commission for Sign Hill Park conservation and fire mitigation (budget amendment 22.035). - Resolution accepting $4,345 from San Mateo County for a 30-Day Vote Center at the Main Library for the June 7, 2022 primary (budget amendment 22.036). - Resolution authorizing filing of a CDBG grant application through the City of Daly City to support Project Read. - Resolution accepting $25,000 from the Woodlawn Foundation for the Community Learning Center's after-school homework program (budget amendment 22.037). - Resolution continuing remote meetings due to health and safety concerns. - Ordinance amending the zoning map (RZ18-0003) to create a Planned Development District allowing 480 multi-family units at 124 Airport Boulevard and 100 Produce Avenue. Public Hearings - CDBG Annual Action Plan Amendment: Heather Ruiz presented a substantial amendment to the Program Year 2021-22 Annual Action Plan, reprogramming $110,000 in program income and rollover funds to the Downtown Breezeway Improvement Project at 365 Grand Avenue. Parks Manager Josh Richardson described the improvements, including an ADA-accessible pathway and opening the fenced area. The Council approved the resolution. - Sewer Service Rates: Brian Schumacher presented the proposed sewer service rates for fiscal years 2022-23 through 2027-28. The plan includes a 2% increase in the first year and up to 3% annually thereafter. South San Francisco's single-family residential rate is about $63 per month, among the lowest in San Mateo County. Six letters of opposition were received, which did not constitute a majority protest among roughly 14,000 notices sent. A public commenter asked about ratepayer counts. The Council discussed the low-income sewer rebate program. The Council approved the rates. Administrative Business - Impact Fee and Sewer Capacity Charge Report: Finance Director Janet Salisbury presented the annual report required under AB 1600 for fiscal year 2020-21. The report showed balances for 13 impact fees, including $22.5 million in the East of 101 traffic impact fee, $10.2 million commercial linkage for affordable housing, $6.9 million parks, and $6.8 million child care. Mayor Nagales stressed the funds must be spent and looked forward to budget discussions. The Council approved the resolution. - Sewer Pump Station No. 2 Upgrade: Brian Schumacher presented the completed upgrade project (Project No. ss1702) with a total construction cost of $4,982,829. The project added a third pump, grinders, newer controls, an emergency generator, and an architectural facade funded by ARE Properties. The project was roughly $1 million under budget. The Council accepted the project as complete. Items from Council – Committee Reports and Announcements - Mayor Nagales announced appointments: Vice Mayor Buenaflor Nicolas to the C/CAG Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee, and Sue Beckmeyer to the Resource Management and Climate Protection Committee. Both were approved unanimously. - Mayor Nagales also announced a mass COVID-19 testing site at 616 Linden Avenue beginning January 18, 2022, and a state mortgage relief program. Key Outcomes - All consent calendar items, resolutions, and ordinances were approved unanimously by roll call. - The CDBG Annual Action Plan amendment and sewer service rates were approved. - The impact fee report was accepted, and the pump station was accepted as complete. - Appointments to C/CAG committees were approved. - Councilmember Coleman requested a Thursday memo on Assembly Bill 854 (Ellis Act five-year ownership requirement) and a future discussion on opposing highway widening. - Councilmember Flores requested a report on Irish Town Green environmental safety; the City Manager agreed to provide a Thursday memo. - The meeting was adjourned in memory of residents Amalia Reyes, Leonora Reyes Devin, Barbara Avabon Brennan, Jose Guevara Sr., and former fire chief Frank Drago.

The South San Francisco City Council held a hybrid regular meeting on December 8, 2021, at 6:00 PM. The meeting included approval of a consent calendar, a presentation on the new Community Wellness and Crisis Response Team, a public hearing for a 480-unit residential development at 124 Airport Boulevard and 100 Produce Avenue, and approval of a contract amendment for the Harbor Master Spit Project. The council also heard public comments on multiple items and voted 4-1 to approve the major development project. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes from October 13, 19, and 26, 2021. - Approved acceptance of $8,800 from United Way Bay Area for the VITA program at Project Read (Budget Amendment 22.029). - Approved acceptance of $35,000 from Silicon Valley Community Foundation for Project Read’s VITA and financial literacy programs (Budget Amendment 22.030). - Approved renaming the Community Learning Center as the Gene Mullin Community Learning Center (Resolution adopted unanimously after discussion). - Approved amendment to the City salary schedule effective January 1, 2022. - Approved acceptance of $19,950 from San Mateo County for COVID-19 outreach (Budget Amendment 22.033). - Approved acceptance of $60,000 in federal LSTA grant from California State Library for "Community Connections" outreach (Budget Amendment 22.032). - Adopted the 2021 update to the San Mateo County Hazard Mitigation Plan and South San Francisco Annex. - Extended the Christmas Eve holiday (December 23, 2021) from a half-day to a full day. - Rejected all bids for the Irish Town Green Rehabilitation Project (PK1806). - Awarded a construction contract to Golden Bay Construction for the South Airport & Belle Aire Public Access Improvement Project (CIP ST2004) in an amount not to exceed $617,781, with total contract authority of $741,337. Public Comments & Testimony - Tom Carney (public comment on Item 10 – Irish Town Green) opposed the project, citing health concerns from 32 cell phone towers on the site and insufficient downtown parks. - Leslie Fong (public comment on Item 14 – Mental Health Clinician) asked whether the single clinician would be on call 24/7; she was assured that hours would be consistent and not 24-hour. - Public Hearing (Item 12): Seven speakers in person and five via Zoom commented. - Union representatives (Edward Evans, Juan Espinoza, William Cormier, Ryan Gabriel, David Mauro, Robert Woodle, James Ruy Gomez, Danny Campbell, Kyle Moregas) opposed the project as proposed, arguing that the developer (Hanover/PS Business Parks) refused to commit to using union carpenters, which would undermine local wages, benefits, and apprenticeship programs. They urged the council to reject or delay approval until a labor agreement was reached. - Carter Keller (CEO, GigaGen) supported the project, emphasizing the need for housing to attract and retain biotech workers and noting the project’s location near transit and downtown. - Leonora Ross (Housing Leadership Council) supported the project, citing the growing housing and affordability crisis in South San Francisco. Discussion Items - Item 4 – Renaming Community Learning Center: Councilmembers highlighted Gene Mullin’s contributions as a teacher, mayor, and state assemblymember who championed child care legislation. The resolution was approved unanimously. - Item 7 – Community Connections Grant: Councilmember Flores requested details on metrics and outreach. Assistant Library Director Adam Elsholtz explained that $60,000 would fund 750 hours of community canvassing by promotoras, a resource desk at the Grand Avenue library, and a private meeting space for community organizations. - Item 10 – Irish Town Green Bids Rejection: Councilmember Nicolas questioned the timeline for rebidding. Staff confirmed that a new bid in January would allow adequate time to meet CDBG deadlines and likely attract more competitive bids. - Item 14 – Mental Health Clinician and Community Wellness & Crisis Response Team: Amy Ferguson (Management Fellow), Lt. Adam Plank, and licensed clinician Mika Celli presented the two-year pilot program, a co-response model with police and mental health clinicians embedded to handle 911 calls involving behavioral health, substance use, or homelessness. The clinician, Mika Celli, is a South San Francisco native and a licensed clinical social worker with experience in various treatment settings. The program becomes operational on December 9, 2021. Councilmembers welcomed the program and discussed safety protocols, data sharing with the Gardner Center, and the need for periodic progress reports. - Item 12 – 480-Unit Development at 124 Airport Boulevard & 100 Produce Avenue: This was a continuation from a previous meeting. Senior Planner Tony Rossi recapped the site constraints and community benefits. The developer (Bradley Karvasic, PS Business Parks, and a representative from Hanover) reported on two action items from the prior meeting: 1. All-Electric Conversion: After consultation with Peninsula Clean Energy, the project shifted from gas boilers to all-electric heat pumps, making it a 100% electric building (budget-neutral trade-off from LEED certification to GreenPoint Rated). 2. Union Labor Negotiations: The developer met with the Carpenters Union but could not reach an agreement due to a $15–$20 million cost increase for requiring union carpentry subcontractors. The developer offered to maintain local hire commitments and use union concrete, but the union speakers urged rejection. - Councilmember Adiego expressed skepticism about all-electric policies until the grid is fully renewable, while Vice Mayor Nicolas and Mayor Nogales noted Peninsula Clean Energy’s progress toward 24/7 renewable energy. - Councilmember Coleman questioned the $15–$20 million differential, implying it reflected underpayment of non-union workers. He and others were frustrated that labor negotiations occurred late in the process. - City Attorney Sky Woodruff advised that state housing laws do not compel the council to rezone, but the Attorney General’s office might inquire. He noted the council had expressed a preferred land use scenario for this area. - After extensive debate, the council voted 4-1 on each of the three required resolutions (SCEA, zoning map amendment, and project approval), with Councilmember Coleman dissenting. Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar: Approved as presented (including all pulled items). - Item 12a – Sustainable Communities Environmental Assessment: Adopted 4-1 (Councilmember Coleman opposed). - Item 12b – Zoning Map Amendment to Planned Development District: Approved 4-1 (Councilmember Coleman opposed). - Item 12c – General Plan Amendment, Specific Plan Amendment, Design Review, TDM Plan, and Affordable Housing Agreement: Approved 4-1 (Councilmember Coleman opposed). The 480-unit development with 60 affordable units (15%) and $21.2 million in community benefits (including $14.2 million for affordable housing) was thus approved. - Item 13 – First Amendment to Consulting Services Agreement with Wilsey Ham: Approved unanimously, increasing the contract by $500,000 to $961,655 for design services for the Harbor Master Spit Project. - Closed Session: The council convened in closed session to discuss existing litigation, In re: National Prescription Opiate Litigation.

The meeting was held virtually via Zoom. The commission approved a major Safeway/Steelwave development at 180 El Camino Real, including a parking reduction and 24-hour operations, and reviewed the 2021 Genentech Master Plan Annual Report. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (November 4, 2021): Motion passed 6–0. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made on any agenda items. One attendee raised a hand but did not speak. Discussion Items - Item 2: Safeway Project at 180 El Camino Real - Staff (Billy Gross) presented a proposal for a 74,600-square-foot commercial development: a 60,000-square-foot Safeway grocery on the second floor above podium parking, plus 15,000 square feet of ground-floor retail. The project required a parking reduction from 298 spaces (code requirement) to 197 spaces (137 covered, 60 uncovered), a use permit for 24-hour operations, a design exception for frontage depth, and a tentative parcel map to split the site into a 3.29-acre development parcel and an 11.21-acre remainder parcel. The applicant (Ben Yu, Steelwave; Natalie Matte, Safeway) emphasized the iconic design, 180 new union jobs, and a Transportation Demand Management Plan (TDM) targeting 28% alternative mode share. Commissioners questioned the parking reduction, with concerns about adequacy given the site’s urban context and lack of on-street parking. Staff and Safeway responded that the reduction is justified by proximity to BART/SAMTrans, nearby residential neighborhoods, and TDM programs; Safeway noted similar successful podium stores in Millbrae and Los Altos. The 24-hour operation was supported for shift workers and delivery flexibility. The CEQA determination relied on the 2014 IS/MND and infill exemption (CEQA 15332, 15183). Two errata sheets corrected project area to 74,600 square feet and revised engineering conditions. Public hearing opened and closed with no speakers. Motion to approve the resolution and entitlements passed 6–0. - Item 3: 2021 Genentech Annual Report - Sophie Martin (Genentech) presented the first annual report under the updated Master Plan (approved December 2020). Key highlights: a net decrease of 95,000 square feet due to demolition of Building 4 (137,000 sq ft) and completion of the 40,000-sq-ft Clinical Supply Center (Building 50). Campus site improvements included pedestrian safety upgrades, two new traffic signals at East Grand/DNA Way and East Grand/Allerton, Bay Trail signage refresh, and ADA upgrades. During the pandemic, about 30% of staff (3,000 people) remained on-site; 84% drove alone, but overall trips were low. No cordon count was conducted. Genentech made its first Development Agreement payments: $3 million for commercial linkage fee (affordable housing) and $2 million for citywide transportation, plus a $100,000 community fund distributed to six local organizations. Commissioners commended the safety improvements, especially at the Allerton intersection, and took the report as informational. Key Outcomes - Approved entitlements for the Safeway project (Design Review, Transportation Demand Management Plan, Tentative Parcel Map, Use Permit for parking reduction and 24-hour operations) with conditions as modified by errata. Motion passed 6–0. - Accepted the 2021 Genentech Annual Report for informational purposes. - Cancelled the December 16, 2021 Planning Commission meeting. Vote on Safeway Project: - Commissioner Murphy: Yes - Commissioner Faria: Yes - Commissioner Zhang: Yes - Commissioner Funes: Yes - Vice Chair Shihadeh: Yes - Chair Evans: Yes - Motion carried 6–0.

The South San Francisco City Council held a hybrid in-person/virtual regular meeting on Wednesday, November 10, 2021, at 6:00 PM. The meeting featured a proclamation honoring Ruby Bridges Day, a consent calendar with eight items (one pulled for discussion), and three administrative business items concerning fire inspections, the Grand Boulevard Initiative Phase III, and the sale of city-owned property at 201 Baden Avenue for affordable housing and commercial use. Presentations - Proclamation Honoring Ruby Bridges Day (November 14, 2021): Students from Martin Elementary School, led by Ms. Carlino, read the proclamation. They highlighted their statewide Ruby Bridges Walk to School Day campaign, which has grown to 25,000 participants across nine states. The proclamation was presented to the students. Consent Calendar - Items 2–9 were read by the City Clerk. Councilmember Flores requested removal of Item 8 (Guaranteed Income Pilot Program grants) for additional discussion. All other consent items were approved unanimously via roll call. - Item 8 (Guaranteed Income Pilot Program): Interim Director Nell Selander provided an update: 113 of 160 targeted households have been fully enrolled; their first $500 payment will be made November 15. The remaining 47 households will receive a double payment on December 15. Councilmember Flores requested a detailed demographic breakdown, to be provided in a later memo. The council then approved the item unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were received in person, via eComment, or via Zoom. Council Comments/Requests - Councilmember Nicolas requested volunteers for holiday food drives (November 22 and December 20), noted the city’s finance team received an excellence award, and asked the city manager to explore installing two life-saving stations at Oyster Point Marina. She also requested the meeting be adjourned in memory of Lucy Barrera (mother of IT Director Tony Barrera). - Councilmember Flores reminded the public of the Ruby Bridges Walk to School Day on November 17 at 7:45 AM (departing from Liberty Bank on Linden Avenue), promoted a housing authority meet-and-greet, and noted a $10,000 small-business grant round from San Mateo County Strong (deadline Nov. 12). He requested adjournment in memory of former Alameda County Supervisor Wilma Chan. - Vice Mayor Nagales welcomed the Thanksgiving Fun Run (Nov. 13) and thanked colleagues for recognizing notable women in the community. - Councilmember Coleman asked staff to pursue an education campaign on electric vehicle retrofits and sustainable appliances. - Mayor Addiego acknowledged Veterans Day (Nov. 11), noting free swim for veterans at Orange Park and free donuts at Royal Pin Donuts from 7–10 AM. He also honored his uncle (WWII veteran) and father (Korean War veteran). Discussion Items - Item 10: Fire Department Annual Inspections Performance. Fire Marshal Ian Hardage reported that, under SB 1205, the department completed 18 of 19 school inspections and 481 of 503 multifamily residential inspections (96% overall). The remaining 23 inspections were completed within 60 days after the reporting period. New development inspections increased by about 1,700 compared to the prior year. The resolution approving the annual inspection performance was approved unanimously. - Item 11: Grand Boulevard Initiative Phase III (GBI 3). Associate Engineer Jeffrey Chow presented the project from Arroyo Drive to Kaiser Way. Funding includes a $2,120,000 grant from the MTC Safe and Seamless Mobility Quick Strike Program. Staff recommended amending the Mark Thomas & Company design contract by $66,777 (total not to exceed $246,532) and awarding a construction management and inspection contract to TRC Engineers, Inc. for up to $432,959.67. Councilmember Flores noted a bus shelter lacking pedestrian connectivity near Kaiser and asked staff to inspect the area. Councilmember Nicolas pointed out a median nose at the Kaiser intersection that is frequently hit by turning cars and requested a vertical sign. The resolution was approved unanimously. - Item 12: Sale of 201 Baden Avenue. Acting Deputy Director Julie Barnard (on vacation; presented by Nell Selander) explained the city owned site at 201 Baden Avenue. Two purchase and sale agreements were presented: - 12A – Firehouse Work LLC (201A Baden): Sale price $1,025,000. Firehouse Work (architectural firm group four) will restore the historic firehouse for commercial use, with local business Group 4 as tenant. The building will be listed on the California Historic Register. - 12B – Eden Housing (201B Baden): Sale for $1.00 plus a city loan of up to $4.5 million. Eden Housing will acquire the adjacent KFC/Taco Bell property and construct 82 affordable senior rental units (deeply affordable, averaging 55% of area median income). To secure the KFC/Taco Bell owner’s cooperation, a drive-through will be included in the new ground-floor commercial condominium. Staff noted proceeds from the Firehouse sale may be directed to housing programs. Councilmembers expressed strong support, especially for senior affordable housing. Two separate resolutions were approved unanimously via roll call. Key Outcomes - Consent calendar approved (items 2–9), including the Guaranteed Income Pilot Program grants after discussion. - Resolution approving Fire Department annual inspection performance (Item 10) passed unanimously. - Resolution accepting $2,120,000 grant and authorizing contracts for Grand Boulevard Initiative Phase III (Item 11) passed unanimously. - Resolution approving sale to Firehouse Work LLC (Item 12A) passed unanimously. - Resolution approving sale to Eden Housing (Item 12B) passed unanimously. - Meeting adjourned at approximately 7:15 PM in memory of Lucy Barrera and Wilma Chan.

The South San Francisco Planning Commission held a regular meeting on Thursday, November 4, 2021, at 7:00 PM via teleconference. The meeting covered a consent calendar, two public hearings on development projects, and a study session on a draft environmental impact report. Commissioners heard public testimony and approved recommendations to the City Council on three agenda items. Consent Calendar - Approval of October 21, 2021, Meeting Minutes: Unanimously approved by roll call vote (7-0). Public Comments & Testimony - Item 2 (434 N. Canal Street parking reduction): Four speakers addressed the commission. Eric Webbostead (Chief of Staff, Leveritas Biosciences) expressed support, stating that his company's current parking demand is low and that the applicant's space is critical for startups. Leslie Fong asked the applicant whether future in-office requirements could exceed parking supply; the applicant clarified that the space physically limits occupancy to seven to nine people. Tom Rodriguez (Community Bank of the Bay) supported the reduction, citing the environmental benefits of reusing underutilized space. Julie Charrington (biotech executive and entrepreneur) voiced strong support, noting the extreme shortage of affordable lab space for early-stage companies in South San Francisco. - Item 3 (124 Airport Boulevard / 100 Produce Avenue): One public commenter, Leslie Fong, asked for clarification on how the affordable housing percentage was calculated and requested details on the tunnel design and slip lane removal. No other written or email comments were received for this item during the meeting. - Item 4 (Southline Specific Plan Draft EIR): No public comments were offered during the study session; staff noted that two written comments had been received prior to the meeting and were posted online. Discussion Items Item 2 – Conditional Use Permit for Parking Reduction (3 spaces) at 434 N. Canal Street, Suite 7 Senior Planner Christy Usher presented the application. The site is a 3,500-square-foot industrial condominium in the Mixed Industrial district. A parking study by Hexagon estimated demand of five spaces for the proposed R&D use, below the seven spaces to be provided. No exterior changes are proposed. The applicant, Santosh Jairam, described his business model of providing affordable space for early-stage biotech startups. He noted that many potential employees are millennials and Gen Z who do not own cars, and that he would offer bike racks, BART/Caltrain passes, a Zipcar program, and encourage remote work. Commissioners asked about the risk of future parking overflow; the applicant explained that all parking spaces are deeded and strictly enforced, limiting use to seven spaces. Commissioner Funes highlighted broader generational trends toward lower car ownership. The item was approved unanimously on a motion by Commissioner Faria, seconded by Commissioner Zhang (Vice Chair Shihadeh recused himself due to a conflict of interest). Item 3 – 480-Unit Multi-Family Development at 124 Airport Boulevard and 100 Produce Avenue This item included two resolutions: Resolution 3a recommending City Council adoption of a Sustainable Communities Environmental Assessment (SCEA) consistent with Plan Bay Area 2040, and Resolution 3b recommending approval of a General Plan Amendment, Downtown Station Area Specific Plan Amendment, Rezoning to a Planned Development District, Design Review, Transportation Demand Management Plan, and Affordable Housing Agreement. Senior Planner Christopher Espiritu and Chief Planner Tony Rozzi presented the project details. The project would demolish existing commercial buildings and construct two seven-story buildings (294 units at 124 Airport Blvd, 186 units at 100 Produce Ave) for a total of 480 units. The applicant, Hanover Company, proposed 15% affordable units (40 low-income, 20 moderate-income) as a community benefit, exceeding the city’s inclusionary ordinance that took effect after application submission. The project also includes substantial off-site improvements: removal of slip lanes at the Airport/San Mateo intersection, pedestrian tunnel lighting and paint upgrades, new bike parking, and participation in a proposed Community Facilities District. The Design Review Board had reviewed the project twice and recommended approval with minor landscape and lighting conditions. The SCEA relied on the regional Plan Bay Area EIR and identified potentially significant impacts but determined mitigation measures would reduce them. Public commenter Leslie Fong asked about the calculation of affordable units and the specifics of the slip lane removal. Commissioners expressed support for the housing but raised concerns about traffic congestion during construction, long-term transportation impacts, approval before the General Plan update, and the definition of affordability. Despite these concerns, the commission voted unanimously to recommend both resolutions to the City Council (7-0). Item 4 – Study Session on Draft EIR for Southline Specific Plan Principal Planner Adena Friedman presented an overview of the draft Environmental Impact Report (EIR) for the proposed Southline Specific Plan, which would redevelop a 26.5-acre industrial site in the Lindenville sub-area with up to 2.8 million square feet of office/R&D uses, near the San Bruno BART station. The draft EIR identified three potentially significant and unavoidable impacts: air quality, noise (during construction), and transportation (an intersection in San Bruno would meet a signal warrant). Three alternatives were analyzed, including a reduced project alternative of 1.4 million square feet, which was identified as the environmentally superior alternative. No action was required; the purpose was to receive public and commission comments to inform the final EIR. The applicant, Lane Partners, gave a presentation highlighting site cleanup, transit-oriented design, and community benefits such as improved pedestrian/bike connections to BART and a new parklet. Commissioners commented that while the project is architecturally attractive and would clean up contaminated land, the significant CEQA impacts were alarming and required more definite mitigation before they could fully support it. Commissioner Zhang specifically noted the impacts on neighboring San Bruno residents. Commissioner Murphy asked whether the site could accommodate housing in the future; staff replied that housing is not currently permitted under the existing or future General Plan due to environmental constraints. Key Outcomes - Item 2: Approved the Conditional Use Permit (CUP) and CEQA exemption for a parking reduction of three spaces at 434 N. Canal Street, Suite 7, on a roll call vote (6-0, with Vice Chair Shihadeh recused). - Item 3: Adopted Resolution 3a (recommending City Council approve the SCEA) and Resolution 3b (recommending approval of all entitlements for the 480-unit development) on unanimous roll call votes (7-0 for both). The matter will advance to the City Council for final decision. - Item 4: No formal action taken; the commission provided oral comments on the Draft EIR. The public comment period closes November 12, 2021. A final EIR and full entitlement request will return to the commission for a recommendation in a future meeting. - Administrative: The next regular meeting on November 18, 2021, was canceled.

The South San Francisco City Council held a hybrid in-person/virtual regular meeting on Wednesday, October 27, 2021, beginning at 6:00 PM. The meeting included presentations, legislative business, and administrative actions. Key agenda items were the receipt of the Helen Putnam Award for environmental conservation at Sign Hill Park, a presentation on the Reimagine SamTrans project, an ordinance to implement SB 1383 organic waste reduction, and the approval of a purchase and sale agreement for a city-owned property at 367 Marina Boulevard for hotel development. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approval: Approved minutes from September 8, 2021, and September 14, 2021 (Item 3). - Traffic Safety Grant: Approved resolution accepting $125,000 from the State of California Office of Traffic Safety for the Selective Traffic Enforcement Program (STEP) and amending the Police Department budget (Item 4). - Library Grant: Approved resolution accepting $5,200 from Pacific Library Partnership for activity kits for adults with special needs and developmental disabilities, with a budget amendment (Item 5). - Remote Meetings Extension: Approved resolution to continue conducting City Council and advisory body meetings remotely due to health and safety concerns (Item 8). - Items 6 and 7 were pulled for separate discussion (see below). Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public provided oral testimony during the meeting. Written public comments were noted as submitted and included in the meeting record. Discussion Items - Presentation of Helen Putnam Award: Seth Miller (Peninsula Division Regional Manager, League of California Cities) presented the Helen Putnam Award for Excellence in Planning and Environmental Quality to the City of South San Francisco Parks and Recreation Department for environmental conservation programs at Sign Hill Park. The award was given at the League's annual conference in Sacramento. - Reimagine SamTrans Project: SamTrans staff (Jessica Epstein and Jonathan Stecky) presented the recommended network for bus service changes affecting South San Francisco. Key proposals included extending Route 292 to Millbrae Transit Station, streamlining Route 130 to Oyster Point with increased weekend frequency, shortening Route 141, and consolidating school routes 37 and 39. Councilmembers expressed concerns about equity, service reductions to Old Town (Routes 130 and 141), and the omission of a direct Route 126 from BART to Oyster Point. Council directed staff to prepare a comment letter to SamTrans recommending a direct route to Oyster Point (possibly via Route 126), improved connections to Caltrain, and preservation of service frequency in dense neighborhoods. The public comment period closes November 8, 2021, and the SamTrans Board meeting is November 3, 2021. - Sign Hill Diamond Fire Emergency Repairs (Item 6): Greg Mediati (Deputy Director of Parks and Recreation) confirmed this is the last resolution for continued emergency repairs. Approximately 1,500 fire-killed trees were removed, and soil stability measures were implemented. The hill performed well during the recent storm. - Response to Civil Grand Jury Report (Item 7): Councilmember Nicholas suggested including the city's Community Safety and Equity Advisory Board (established by the Commission on Social and Racial Equity) in the response letter to the San Mateo County Civil Grand Jury report on racial and identity profiling. Staff agreed to amend the letter. - SB 1383 Organic Waste Reduction (Item 9): Marissa Garren (Management Analyst I) presented the ordinance to amend Municipal Code chapters 8.16 and 8.28, adding Chapter 8.27 for mandatory organic waste disposal reduction. The city will adopt a Memorandum of Understanding with San Mateo County for an Edible Food Recovery Program and a Recovered Organic Waste Product Procurement Policy. South San Francisco Scavengers' anaerobic digester provides renewable natural gas, helping meet the 75% organic waste reduction target. The city has 156 tier one and 24 tier two edible food generators. Enforcement begins January 1, 2024, with penalties of $100-$500. Councilmembers emphasized outreach to schools and local businesses. - Hotel Development at 367 Marina Boulevard (Item 10): Ernesto Lucero (Economic Development Coordinator) presented a resolution authorizing the City Manager to execute a Purchase and Sale Agreement with Ensemble Investments, LLC for the disposition of 4.7 acres at 367 Marina Boulevard for $1,000,000. The site, a former landfill, will be developed into a 340-room hotel with 12 stories, including public amenities (restaurant, roof access, bay trail connection). The city will provide a 50% Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) rebate for 15 years, capped at $44,530,000, with a “home run” clause for shared success. Estimated total economic benefit to the city over 25 years is $157,593,000 (including property tax, CFD tax, impact fees, and TOT). The hotel is expected to open in 2027. Key Outcomes - Item 6 and 7 (Consent Calendar Pulled): Approved unanimously after discussion. Direction to include Community Safety and Equity Advisory Board in the grand jury response letter. - Item 9 (Ordinance and Resolutions): - Ordinance amending Chapters 8.16 and 8.28 and adding Chapter 8.27 (Mandatory Organic Waste Disposal Reduction) – Passed unanimously. - Resolution approving Memorandum of Understanding with San Mateo County for Edible Food Recovery Program – Passed unanimously. - Resolution approving Recovered Organic Waste Product Procurement Policy – Passed unanimously. - Item 10 (Hotel Development): Resolution authorizing the City Manager to execute the Purchase and Sale Agreement with Ensemble Investments, LLC – Passed unanimously (5-0). - Direction to Staff: Prepare and send a comment letter to SamTrans regarding the Reimagine project, focusing on restoring a direct route to Oyster Point (Route 126 or similar), maintaining service frequency in Old Town, and improving connections to Caltrain and BART.

The South San Francisco Planning Commission held a remote regular meeting on Thursday, October 21, 2021, at 7:00 PM via Zoom. The meeting included approval of minutes, two public hearings on development projects, and an administrative review of a use permit for a bowling alley. All votes were unanimous. Consent Calendar - Approval of September 16, 2021 Planning Commission Hearing Minutes: Approved unanimously on a roll call vote (7-0). Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were received on any agenda item during the meeting. No emails or voicemails were read into the record. Discussion Items Item 2 – Design Review Permit for a 4-Unit Live-Work Building at El Camino Real and Hickey Boulevard - Project: Construction of a three-story live-work building with four units, seven parking spaces (including one ADA space), four bicycle spaces, and landscaping on a vacant lot in the Community Commercial (CC) Zoning District. The project is categorically exempt from CEQA (Class 32, infill development). - Staff Report: Christopher Espiritu presented. The project complies with all development standards, including live-work unit requirements (55% work area, 176 sq ft open space per unit, 1.5 parking spaces per unit). The Design Review Board (DRB) recommended approval on July 29, 2021, after a redesign. Staff proposed two additional conditions: (1) restrict parking to on-site spaces with signage, (2) engage with adjacent property owners regarding access easement. - Applicant Presentation: Representative Cava Massey described the design, including permeable paving, bio-treatment planters, and a stepped building form. The property owner and landscape architect were available for questions. - Commission Discussion: Commissioners asked about ADA parking (only one spot due to site constraints), EV charging (applicant committed to at least one charger, and conditions of approval require compliance with climate action plan), sustainability (permeable paving, bio-treatment, Title 24 compliance), vehicular circulation (tight turns, but design approved by Caltrans and city traffic engineer), parking adequacy (concerns about overflow, but applicant noted code minimum is met; staff explained future business license review can control uses), and construction impacts (shoring and drainage). Commissioner Funes supported the project for non-drivers. Commissioner Faria noted height will be mitigated by the slope. Commissioner Zhang suggested color differentiation for units and careful signage. No public testimony. - Outcome: Motion to approve the Design Review Permit (DR20-0015) and CEQA exemption was made and passed unanimously (7-0). The motion included the two additional staff-recommended conditions. Item 3 – State Density Bonus Law Concession for Affordable Housing Project - Project: An 8-unit infill project in the downtown RM-30 zone (approved in 2019) with two affordable units at moderate income (120% AMI). Due to COVID-19 cost increases (18% construction cost increase, $678,000 shortfall), the applicant requested a single concession: reduce minimum parking from 1.5 to 1.25 spaces per unit (net loss of two spaces) and convert the corresponding garage area into a bedroom and bathroom in two market-rate units. The project originally had three waivers (garage depth, setback, side entry) and a fence variance. - Staff Report: Tony Rozzi presented. The concession is mandated under State Density Bonus Law (Government Code §65915-65918) if the developer demonstrates financial necessity to provide affordable units. Staff and City Attorney reviewed the financial pro forma and recommend approval. - Applicant Presentation: Architect Hayes Chair detailed the design changes: eliminating tandem parking in two units, flipping a unit entry, and installing EV chargers and all-electric systems. The project is already under construction (site grading). - Commission Discussion: Commissioners acknowledged the state mandate but expressed concerns about parking impacts in a congested neighborhood and the definition of affordability (120% AMI is high for many). Commissioner Ferrier noted 120% AMI equates to $146,000 for a single person; staff clarified that state law defines this as moderate income. Commissioner Murphy confirmed the parking loss affects only the affordable designated units. Commissioner Shihadeh opposed the parking reduction but conceded due to state law. City Attorney reiterated that the city cannot deny the request if the developer shows feasibility need. No public testimony. - Outcome: Motion to approve the density bonus concession and related resolution passed unanimously (7-0). Item 4 – Four-Month Review of Hometown Bowl Use Permit - Background: A use permit was approved in June 2020 for extended hours, live entertainment, and private events at Hometown Bowl (formerly Brentwood Bowl) at 237 El Camino Real. Conditions required four-, eight-, and twelve-month reviews. The business was closed due to COVID until June 2021; October 2021 constitutes the four-month review. - Staff Report: Stephanie Skangos detailed outstanding conditions: (1) noise attenuation curtains not installed (fire department restriction), (2) parking spillover into neighborhood despite signage directing to Smart & Final lot, (3) debris cleanup within 500 feet (some complaints), (4) dedicated complaint line not maintained, (5) exterior facade repainting incomplete (financial constraints), (6) removal of old wooden sign and installation of alley fencing pending building permits. Safety concerns were noted by police, with calls for service concentrated at closing times (10 PM to 1:30 AM). Staff recommended scheduling an eight-month review as a public hearing to allow condition modifications or further action. - Applicant Response: Owner Trung spoke, stating he is working on all items: sign removal application submitted, alley fencing permit in progress, debris issues partly due to neighbors, and sound mitigation addressed via speaker adjustments and sound engineer. He requested a fair chance, noting investments in the game room and community outreach. - Commission Discussion: Commissioners acknowledged COVID-related delays but expressed concerns about the number of unfulfilled conditions. Commissioner Faria requested monthly written updates from the owner to track progress. Commissioner Funes emphasized that Hometown Bowl is a bowling alley, not a nightclub, and warned that serious changes to the permit could be considered if conditions are not met. Commissioner Shihadeh supported a public hearing for the eight-month review. No public comments. - Outcome: No vote required. The commission directed staff to schedule the eight-month review as a public hearing in approximately four months. The owner agreed to provide monthly written updates on condition compliance. Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar: Approved unanimously (7-0). - Item 2 (Design Review Permit): Approved unanimously (7-0) with two additional conditions regarding on-site parking and easement engagement. - Item 3 (Density Bonus Concession): Approved unanimously (7-0) with a resolution. - Item 4 (Hometown Bowl Review): Eight-month review scheduled as a public hearing; owner to provide monthly written updates. - Staff Announcements: Tony Rozzi noted staff changes (Gaspar Anabale departed; new hire for Michelle Clary's position) and upcoming training on SB 9. Meetings will remain remote through end of 2021; hybrid format possible in January 2022.

The South San Francisco City Council held a hybrid regular meeting on Wednesday, October 13, 2021, beginning at 6:00 PM. The meeting featured presentations on the 2020 Census data and the County’s supervisorial redistricting process, as well as a number of consent calendar items and two major administrative business items: the Orange Memorial Park Sports Field renovation construction management contract and the Baden Avenue affordable housing project. The Council also unanimously approved a letter requesting that the city be placed entirely within a single supervisorial district. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approval: The Council unanimously approved the minutes from July 27, July 28, and August 25, 2021 meetings. - Third Amendment to Raimi + Associates Agreement: Approved a $20,000 increase for a comprehensive benchmarking analysis of city-owned buildings’ energy, water usage, and greenhouse gas emissions. - Milk Tea Lab Lease Extension: Authorized a five-year sublease extension (with an additional five-year option) for the commercial space at 630 El Camino Real. - California State Library Grant: Accepted $30,250 from the California State Library to support Project Read through the Family Literacy Services program, with a corresponding budget amendment (22.020). - MARA Plan Administrator Change: Approved changing the Medical After Retirement Account plan administrator to Educators Benefit Consultants, LLC d/b/a Aviben. - Peninsula Traffic Congestion Relief Alliance: Approved the Second Amendment and Restatement of the Joint Powers Agreement. - Sign Hill Diamond Fire Emergency Repairs: Determined the continued existence of an emergency and authorized procurement for remediation work. - Greenridge and Willow Gardens Recapitalization: Approved MidPen Housing Corporation’s recapitalization and renovation plans for these affordable housing communities, allowing residual receipt payments to be reinvested. - Grand Jury Sea Level Rise Response: Authorized the City Manager to sign a response to the San Mateo County Grand Jury report titled “San Mateo County: California’s Ground Zero for Sea Level Rise.” - Tenant Improvements at 366 Grand Avenue: Awarded a construction contract to O K Construction for tenant improvements in an amount not to exceed $210,550, with a total budget of $260,550. Public Comments & Testimony - During the public comment period for item 16 (Baden Avenue project), several speakers expressed strong support for the affordable housing development, particularly the 18 units set aside for individuals with developmental disabilities. Speakers included Jan Stokely (Executive Director of Housing Choices), Sean Strebbel (South San Francisco resident and Housing Choices board member), Benjamin McMahon (Center for Independent Individuals with Disabilities), Ken Chan (Housing Leadership Council of San Mateo County), Edith Arias (parent of a child with developmental disabilities and former commissioner on the city’s Racial and Social Equity Commission), and Sheridan Nicolau (Bay Area Regional Manager, California State Council on Developmental Disabilities). All urged approval. Discussion Items - Presentation on 2020 Final Census Data: Shali Tilton of National Demographics Corporation (NDC) presented the official 2020 census data for South San Francisco, which showed a total population of 66,184. The ideal district population is 13,236, and the existing districts have a deviation of only 4.89%, well within the 10% threshold. The data breakdown by race and voting age population was provided. NDC will provide mapping tools including a new paintbrush tool called District R for public participation. The redistricting timeline includes mandated hearings on December 22, 2021, January 26, 2022, and February 23, 2022, with a final adoption deadline in April 2022. - San Mateo County Supervisorial Redistricting Presentation: Justin Mates, Deputy County Manager, and Commissioner Hermes Monzon of the 2021 Supervisorial District Lines Advisory Commission presented the county’s redistricting process. The county must adopt final maps by December 15, 2021, due to the June 2022 election. The county’s ideal district population is about 153,000. South San Francisco is currently split between District 1 (Supervisor Pine) and District 5 (Supervisor Canepa). The commission has held outreach meetings and will consider maps in October. Public participation is encouraged via the website smcdistrictlines.org, surveys, social media (SMCDistrictLines), and public comment at meetings. - Council Comments/Requests: Vice Mayor Nagales reported that the South San Francisco Caltrain station project is 95% complete, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony anticipated in November. He also proposed exploring an increase to the city’s inclusionary housing requirement from 15% to 20% using a “carrot and stick” approach to encourage more affordable housing. Councilmember Nicolas announced that a flu vaccine clinic administered 200 shots and highlighted the Peninsula Clean Energy home upgrade program. Councilmember Coleman requested staff investigate why the local CalWater district does not participate in Flows to Bay’s rain barrel rebate supplemental program, potentially causing inequity for South San Francisco residents. - Item 15 – Orange Memorial Park Sports Field Renovation Construction Management Contract: Philip Vitale, Deputy Director of Capital Projects, presented the staff recommendation to award a $377,690 construction management services contract to Swinerton Management & Consulting. The sports field project is at 95% design, with construction to begin after the adjacent stormwater project completes in spring 2022. The field is expected to open spring 2023. Council expressed support, with Vice Mayor Nagales emphasizing the need to honor the legacy of Bob Bryant by naming a field after him. The resolution was approved unanimously. - Item 16 – Baden Avenue Affordable Housing Project: Julie Barnard, Acting Deputy Director of Economic Development and Housing, presented two related resolutions. The project involves 428 and 432 Baden Avenue and will create 36 units of 100% affordable housing, with 18 units designated for individuals with developmental disabilities. The first resolution (16A) approved a Third Amendment to the Purchase and Sale Agreement, changing the developer from Baden Development LLC to For the Future Housing, Inc. The second resolution (16B) approved a $4,050,000 loan from Commercial Linkage Fee Funds to For the Future Housing for acquisition. The loan is structured as a $2,000,000 short-term component (24 months, extendable to 48 months) and a $2,050,000 long-term component (55-year term with residual receipts). Council unanimously approved both resolutions. Key Outcomes - Census Redistricting: The Council received the 2020 census data and discussed the redistricting timeline. No vote was taken; the matter will return for further hearings in December. - County Redistricting Request: The Council discussed and then unanimously approved sending a letter to the San Mateo County District Lines Advisory Commission requesting that South San Francisco be kept whole within a single supervisorial district. (This item was numbered 18 on the agenda and was considered after public comments.) The Council directed that the video of this deliberation also be submitted as public comment. - Orange Memorial Park Contract: Approved unanimously (5-0) the resolution authorizing the City Manager to execute a construction management services agreement with Swinerton Management & Consulting for $377,690. - Baden Avenue Affordable Housing: Both resolutions (16A and 16B) were approved unanimously (5-0 each), authorizing the assignment of the purchase and sale agreement to For the Future Housing and the $4,050,000 acquisition loan. - Consent Calendar: All 10 items were approved en bloc unanimously. - Council Comments: Staff was directed to look into the rain barrel rebate disparity and to explore adjusting the inclusionary housing policy to encourage higher affordable housing percentages. Adjournment The meeting was adjourned at approximately 8:49 PM (inferred from the transcript's closing remarks) in memory of Giuseppina and Lando Baldocchi, Brendan Rios, Doug Butler, and Omar Ivan Carreño Rayon.