Public Meetings - Walnut Creek, California

The Design Review Commission met on April 15, 2026, to review a proposal by Joybound (formerly Animal Rescue Foundation) for a new 12,577-square-foot animal daycare building with outdoor exercise yards, parking, landscaping, and signage. Commissioners provided design feedback and reached a consensus to recommend the project to the Planning Commission, subject to addressing several items. Consent Calendar - No items were on the consent calendar. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke. Discussion Items - Staff planner Simmer Kaur presented the project: a new 12,577 sq ft building with four outdoor exercise yards, 207 total parking stalls (197 required), removal of 13 trees (three pre-approved by city arborist), planting of 55 new trees, and 61 sq ft of signage within code limits. The project is under CEQA review pending traffic and noise studies. - Applicant team (architect Greg Bua, CEO Susan Lee Vick, CFO Cheryl McKenna, and others) answered questions. - Commissioners discussed: - Color scheme: Building will match the existing campus's recent cream/tan repaint (not gray as renderings suggest). - Visibility: Existing monument sign on Mitchell Drive; limited visibility from Oak Grove. Commissioners requested better visibility from Oak Grove. - Wayfinding: Applicant plans to add wayfinding signage; commission recommended making it part of the submission. - Pedestrian crossing: Located near handicap stalls; acceptable. - Fencing: CMU walls with cement plaster finish and decorative metal toppers matching existing site; black chain-link on side. - Landscaping: Coastal live oaks, native shrubs, and low-growing manzanita along Mitchell frontage to create a coherent streetscape. - Stormwater treatment: Bioretention swales with irrigation; still under development. - Noise mitigation: Walls, berms, and design to minimize dog noise; commission requested an acoustic analysis. - Exercise yards: Shade structures and cool artificial turf to manage heat; astroturf is dog-specific and kept cool with sub-base drainage and hosing. - Security gates: Will be open during day, closed at night; fire department access must be ensured. - Water conservation: Applicant mentioned an existing canal pump that needs repair; no rainwater harvesting planned but open to discussion. - Commissioners expressed strong support for Joybound and the project, but emphasized the need for improved wayfinding, acoustic study, cut-off lighting, and denser landscaping along the Oak Grove boundary (adjacent to a vacant lot zoned for senior housing). Key Outcomes - The commission reached a consensus to give a positive recommendation to the Planning Commission, subject to the following conditions: - Provide cut sheets for full cut-off shielded lighting for all pole lights. - Include a comprehensive wayfinding signage plan as part of the application. - Conduct an acoustic analysis to assess and mitigate noise from kennels and exercise yards, especially along the property line adjacent to the future senior housing lot. - Explore denser landscaping (taller, denser plantings) along the Oak Grove side of the property for additional sound mitigation. - No formal vote was recorded; the chair summarized the consensus and no commissioner objected. - Staff noted that future Design Review Commission agendas are currently empty.

The Walnut Creek Planning Commission met on April 9, 2026, to consider a special use permit for food truck operations at the Ignacio Center, located at 1990 North California Boulevard. The commission unanimously approved the permit, which allows up to four food trucks on site two days per week. The meeting also included updates on transportation funding and a recent City Council decision upholding the commission's approval of the Mitchell Town Homes project. Discussion Items - Ignacio Center Food Truck Special Use Permit (Item 4): Associate Planner Curtis Sawyer presented the application for a special use permit to allow food truck operations within an existing pedestrian courtyard at the Ignacio Center. The proposed operations are for Mondays and Thursdays, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., with a maximum of four food trucks. Alcohol sales are prohibited. The permit is based on Section 10-2.4.701 of the zoning ordinance, which allows the planning commission to approve uses not classified in the ordinance if they provide a necessary service to the community. Staff supported the application, finding it consistent with the general plan's goals of a vital and diverse economy. The applicant, Brandon Farrell of Hall Equities Group, stated that the program responds to tenant demand and aims to eventually lead to permanent food tenants. The property manager, Diane, noted that sandwich board signs and local promotion will be used to attract the public. Commissioners asked about potential expansion, indefinite permit duration, traffic circulation (trucks must back out the way they entered), and the use of a local food truck coordination service called 'the food truck mafia.' - Commission Considerations (Item 5): Vice Chair Klopp provided an update from TransPAC (Central Contra Costa group under the Contra Costa Transportation Authority), which is evaluating twice as many funding requests as available. The City of Walnut Creek, City of Concord, Choice in Aging, and Rossmore presented transportation projects aimed at improving access for people with limited access and disabilities. Staff Reports & Announcements - Staff announced that on April 7, 2026, the City Council upheld the planning commission's February 12, 2026 decision on the Mitchell Town Homes project, certifying the EIR and denying both appeals. - The April 23, 2026 planning commission meeting is canceled. The May 14, 2026 meeting will include items on short-term rentals, an appeal (Galpa Galpo Gacho), and Restoration Hardware. Key Outcomes - Motion to Approve Resolution for Ignacio Center Food Trucks (Special Use Permit Y25-094): The commission voted unanimously (8-0) to approve the resolution, as amended to correct the effective date from April 9, 2026 to April 19, 2026 (ten days after mailing of the decision).

The Zoning Administrator Special Meeting scheduled for April 8, 2026 at 4:00 p.m. in the Second Floor Conference Room at City Hall was cancelled. Both agenda items will be re-noticed and rescheduled for a date uncertain. The raw transcript provided with this summary does not correspond to this meeting and appears to be from a separate public meeting (likely a Parks and Recreation Commission or similar body) discussing mountain biking trails and a parks/open space presentation. Agenda Items (Cancelled) - 490 La Vista Project (Application Y25-091): A Minor Use Permit and Design Review to allow an existing 6-foot front yard fence (where 3 feet is typical) and to demolish an existing home and construct a new two-story home (approx. 3,890 sq ft), a detached office building (280 sq ft), and a detached ADU (950 sq ft, not subject to Design Review). CEQA: Categorically Exempt per Section 15303(a and e). Staff contact: Jessica Gonzalez. - Imai Variance Project (Application Y25-110): A Variance request to allow construction of a 324-square-foot pergola (approx. 9 feet tall) with a barbecue, countertop, and hanging lights, with a reduced side yard setback of 5 feet (10 feet required). CEQA: Categorically Exempt per Section 15303. Staff contact: Steven Cook. Key Outcomes - The meeting was cancelled; no decisions or votes were taken on the above items. They will be re-noticed for a future date uncertain. Discrepancy Note - The raw transcript provided alongside the agenda and minutes appears to be unrelated to this cancelled Zoning Administrator meeting. It contains public comments about trail access in Lime Ridge and a presentation on parks and open space by Mike Vickers, Assistant Public Works Director. This transcript likely originates from a different city meeting (e.g., Parks and Recreation Commission) held on or around the same date.

The Walnut Creek City Council met on April 7, 2026, starting with a special closed session at 4:00 p.m. to discuss anticipated and existing litigation, followed by a regular meeting at 6:00 p.m. that adjourned at 11:33 p.m. The main item was a public hearing on two appeals of the Planning Commission's approval of the Mitchell Townhomes project, a 422-unit townhome development under the Builder's Remedy provision of the Housing Accountability Act. The Council voted 4-1 to deny both appeals and affirm the Planning Commission's decision, with Mayor Wilk dissenting. The Council added two conditions: an 8-foot green screen fence along Shadelands Drive and a notification requirement for demolition/construction activities to property owners within 300 feet. Proclamations and Presentations - Proclamation for Joan Lucchese for her service as Executive Director of Gardens at Heather Farm. - Proclamation for Clean Contra Costa Month (April 2026), presented by Stacey Martin Bonaduce of Sustainable Contra Costa, noting over 949 Walnut Creek households saved $85,000 and 180 tons of CO2. - Proclamation for National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week (April 12-18, 2026), accepted by dispatcher Zachary Rekal. - Presentation by Marin Clean Energy (MCE) by Chiara Donato, highlighting MCE's services, 90% customer enrollment in Walnut Creek, $386,000 in EV rebates, 112 charging stations, and $1.7 million in energy efficiency programs. Consent Calendar - Items 2a, 2b, 2d, 2e approved unanimously: approval of March 17, 2026 minutes; acceptance of warrant registers; authorization to increase Kimley-Horn contract to $500,000 for traffic engineering services; authorization of $176,000 contract for Highway Safety Improvement Project design. - Item 2c (Clean Water Program agreements) pulled by Councilmember DeVinney for comment, then adopted unanimously via separate motion (Resolutions 26-14 and 26-15). Public Comments & Testimony - Public Communications (non-agenda): Speakers included Jan Warren (discussed SB 913 and SB 1117 on ADUs), Kitty Cole and Dorothy Abeyta (UC Master Gardeners promoting programs and tomato plant sale), and Dongmei. - Public Hearing on Mitchell Townhomes Appeals: Over 20 speakers. In support: Brianna Morales (Housing Action Coalition), Matt Regan (Bay Area Council), Susan Lee Vick, Wendy Taylor-Tanielian, Alyssa Stone, Lisa Moore (Joybound People and Pets), Jan Warren, Donna Colombo, Mark Orcutt (East Bay Leadership Council), Jason Lester (UA Local 159), and Stephen Black. In opposition or requesting conditions: Steve Rothman, Susanne Rheingruber, Ann Meyer, Dongmei, Howard Gruber, Bob Asfour (all Via Monte residents), and Steve Elster (Friends of Walnut Creek). Discussion Items - Appeal 1 (Steve Elster/Friends of Walnut Creek): Argued Builder's Remedy does not apply because the city's housing element was substantially compliant before the application; EIR lacked adequate analysis of a senior living alternative; traffic study used incorrect ITE code; and inadequate public noticing. - Appeal 2 (Mike Heller/Via Monte residents): Requested additional conditions: 8-foot solid dust barrier, redwood tree replacement, continuous air quality monitoring, right-in/right-out at eastern driveway, and advanced notice of construction schedules. - Staff and Consultant Responses: Staff affirmed Builder's Remedy applies per state law (HCD certification date). Senior living alternative was analyzed and found infeasible. Traffic study used correct ITE code (general office, not office park) and was peer-reviewed. CEQA analysis found all impacts mitigable to less than significant. Added condition of approval for notification (errata sheet). - Council Deliberation: Councilmembers discussed the legal constraints of Builder's Remedy, the need for housing, and the project's merits. The applicant agreed to an 8-foot green screen fence (non-porous barrier) and to maintain communication with Via Monte. The city attorney noted the legal standard for denial under Builder's Remedy is high and not met. Key Outcomes - Vote on Mitchell Townhomes Appeals: Motion by Mayor Pro Tem Francois, seconded by Councilmember Silva, to deny both appeals and affirm the Planning Commission's decision, with added conditions: (1) 8-foot green screen fence along Shadelands Drive, and (2) Condition of Approval No. 102 as revised in errata (notification to property owners within 300 feet). Passed 4-1 (Darling, DeVinney, Silva, Francois in favor; Wilk opposed). - Resolutions 26-18 and 26-19 adopted certifying the EIR and approving entitlements for the Mitchell Townhomes project. - Public Hearing 5a (Business Improvement Districts): Unanimously adopted Resolutions 26-16 and 26-17 levying annual assessments for the Downtown Walnut Creek BID and Downtown Walnut Creek South BID for FY 2027. No protests received. - City Manager Report: Outdoor Dining Incentive Program extended to June 30, 2026; seven restaurants have built outdoor dining with $10,000 grants; three grants remain available. - Councilmember Reports: Included updates on MCE board, Recycle Smart, Sister Cities exchange with Noceto and Siofok, and a delegation to Kita City, Japan.

The Park, Recreation and Open Space (PROS) Commission held a regular meeting on April 6, 2026, in the City Council Chamber. The meeting included the election of officers for the 2026-2027 term, approval of prior minutes, presentations from two community nonprofit partners, and a partial update on city parks and open space (continued to the June meeting). Public comments addressed native plant gardens, mountain bike trail access, lake maintenance, tennis court lighting, wildfire risks, and park lighting. Consent Calendar - Approval of February 2, 2026 Minutes – Motion by Commissioner Garland, second by Commissioner Oller, carried unanimously (5 yeas: Brockhaus, Garland, Oller, Sasser, Pinkstaff; Commissioner Konson absent). No public comments. Public Comments & Testimony - Jill Dresser (Walnut Creek) – Invited commissioners to the "Bringing Back the Natives" garden tour on May 3, 2026, at Sugar Loaf Open Space Native Plant Garden. Thanked the city for sponsorship. - Richard McChesney (Concord) – Expressed full support for expanding mountain bike use at Lime Ridge Open Space, citing health benefits and the need for youth riding opportunities. He noted membership in the Contra Costa Composite MTB Club and emphasized courteous trail use. - Matthew Tarlach (Mount Diablo Bird Alliance) – Expressed concern about algae and tule overgrowth at Heather Farm’s natural lake. Asked about the status of a skimmer and potential dredging. Staff indicated algae harvesting would begin soon and more details would follow. - Glenn McBee (Walnut Creek Racket Club) – Requested replacement of original lighting on courts 1–7 at the Heather Farm Tennis Center, noting frequent failures and lack of parts. Staff reported exploring an LED retrofit kit. - Barbara Ginos (Walnut Creek) – Opposed converting social trails to multi-use trails in Lime Ridge due to wildfire risk, citing a record dry March and low snowpack. She argued increased human activity raises fire danger. - Jerott King (Walnut Creek resident since 1989) – Urged creation of a pilot project for dedicated mountain bike trails at Lime Ridge, arguing that exclusion leads to illegal trail building. Referenced the Briones pilot project as a successful model. - Miguel Perez (Concord) – Supported new mountain bike trails at Lime Ridge, noting it is a key training location for the Contra Costa Composite team and expressing willingness to volunteer for trail building. - Jim Harrison (Model Railroad Club) – Requested improved parking lot lighting at Larkey Park, citing safety concerns for elderly visitors. Staff acknowledged the issue and committed to addressing it. Discussion Items - Election of PROS Commission Chair (2026-2027) – Commissioner Sasser nominated Vice Chair Sharon Pinkstaff. Second by Commissioner Garland. Motion carried unanimously (5 yeas). Commissioner Konson absent; no preferential vote. - Election of PROS Commission Vice Chair (2026-2027) – Chair Pinkstaff nominated Commissioner Gloriann Sasser. Second by Commissioner Oller. Motion carried unanimously (5 yeas). - Presentations of Non-Profits/City Partners – - Walnut Creek Senior Club: President Fred Rentschler provided an overview of club activities (1,000 members, $20 annual dues, no city funding). He highlighted a need for parking at Civic Drive and expressed interest in relocating to Heather Farm when the new community center opens in 2027. No formal action taken. - Walnut Creek Model Railroad Society: Woody Hodge presented on the society’s history (founded 1948) and operations, including 44,460 visitors in 2025. He noted planned ADA upgrades (bathroom conversions) that will be coordinated with city hardscape improvements at Larkey Park. No formal action taken. - Park and Open Space Summary – Assistant Public Works Director Mike Vickers began an overview of city parks, amenities, budget, and the 10-year park plan. After covering several parks (Alma, Arbolato, Civic, etc.), the commission agreed to continue the open space portion at the June 2026 meeting to allow fuller discussion, including history and community feedback. Key Outcomes - Chair and Vice Chair elected – Sharon Pinkstaff as Chair, Gloriann Sasser as Vice Chair for the 2026-2027 term. - Consent Calendar approved – Minutes of February 2, 2026. - Park and Open Space presentation continued – The open space overview will be rescheduled for the June 2026 PROS meeting. - Staff committed to follow-up – On Larkey Park parking lot lighting (Jim Harrison’s request) and potential LED lighting for tennis courts. - Field visits proposed – Staff will poll commissioners on dates for park site visits.

The Walnut Creek Planning Commission held a hearing on March 26, 2026, addressing three items: a Safety Element update to the General Plan, an appeal of a building permit for a solar energy system at Diablo Hills Golf Course, and a design review application for a new restaurant, Oceana, at 1555 Bonanza Street. All items were approved unanimously by the commission. Consent Calendar - No items were placed on the consent calendar. Public Comments & Testimony - Safety Element: No public comments were made on this item. - Solar Appeal: The appellant, Jerry Chow, along with Michael Royums, presented concerns about glare from the solar panels, stating it caused vertigo and nausea, and argued that the project required a discretionary review rather than a ministerial permit. Public comments included Ryan Iberg (supporter of solar energy, urged denial of appeal) and David Peterson (suggested planting trees to mitigate glare). - Oceana Design Review: No public comments were received. Discussion Items 1. Safety Element Update (General Plan Amendment) Staff (Crystal DeCastro, Principal Planner) presented the update, which addresses hazards such as wildfire, flood, drought, earthquake, and climate change. Community outreach identified top concerns as wildfire, extreme heat, and drought. The environmental review (initial study/negative declaration) found no significant impacts. Five comment letters were received, including from the California Geological Survey, which recommended updates on slope instability and earthquake hazard maps; these were incorporated. The commission discussed the relationship to the housing element, state incentives, and emergency radio interoperability. The commission voted unanimously to recommend City Council adoption of the negative declaration and the safety element update. 2. Solar Energy System at Diablo Hills Golf Course (Appeal of Building Permit S25188) Staff (Frank Khan, Building Official) explained that the Solar Rights Act requires ministerial approval for qualified solar systems. The building permit was issued November 24, 2025, and construction began. An appeal was filed February 13, 2026, claiming glare constitutes a public health and safety issue. Staff found no objective standard violated and no significant adverse impact, thus recommending denial of the appeal. The appellant showed videos and photos of glare, described health impacts (vertigo, nausea), and argued the city should have required discretionary review. The applicant (Peter Lizak, consultant) presented a time-lapse video showing no glare, noted the panels have anti-reflective coating, and emphasized the financial impact of delay. The commission deliberated, noting the ministerial process was properly followed, and voted unanimously to deny the appeal, upholding the building permit. 3. Oceana Design Review (1555 Bonanza Street) Staff (Jessica Gonzalez, Senior Planner) presented the proposal for a fish bar restaurant (Oceana) in the former Yacht Club building. The project includes a first- and second-floor addition, facade remodeling, new patio, and trash enclosure. The Design Review Committee recommended adding details for metal scrim, rooftop equipment screening, and window screening. The applicant (Mike Gabin and family) shared their family history in Walnut Creek restaurants (Hubcaps, Mel's, Broderick, Lita). The commission praised the design and its homage to the Yacht Club. The commission voted unanimously to approve the design review application subject to conditions. Key Outcomes - Safety Element: Motion to approve the resolution recommending City Council adoption of the negative declaration and safety element update passed 7-0. - Solar Appeal: Motion to deny the appeal and uphold the building permit passed 7-0. - Oceana Design Review: Motion to approve the design review application (Y25-099) subject to conditions passed 7-0.

Note: The provided agenda and minutes indicate the meeting was originally scheduled for February 18, 2026 at 10:00 AM, but the user instruction specifies the meeting took place on March 25, 2026 at 6:15 PM UTC. This summary uses the content from the February 18 agenda and minutes as no other transcript was provided, and notes the discrepancy in dates and times. Opening / Roll Call / Selection of Chair and Vice Chair - Administrative Services Director Kirsten LaCasse opened the meeting and facilitated the election of officers. A motion by Councilmember Craig DeVinney, second by Councilmember Matt Francois, carried unanimously (2–0) to elect Matt Francois as Chair and Craig DeVinney as Vice Chair of the Finance Committee. Approval of Minutes of December 9, 2025 - The minutes from the previous meeting on December 9, 2025 were approved unanimously (2–0) on a motion by Craig DeVinney, second by Matt Francois. Discussion Items - FY26 2nd Quarter Budget Update: Staff presented the second quarter budget report for fiscal year 2026. The committee accepted the report via a unanimous motion (2–0) by Craig DeVinney and Matt Francois. No specific financial statistics or projections were included in the available minutes. - FY27 Budget Balancing Recommendations: Staff presented recommendations for balancing the FY27 budget. The committee voted unanimously (2–0) to refer the report to the City Council for further consideration. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made during the meeting. Under California law, public comment at special meetings is limited to agenda items and is taken during consideration of each item. Key Outcomes - Matt Francois elected Chair, Craig DeVinney elected Vice Chair. - Minutes of December 9, 2025 approved. - FY26 2nd Quarter Budget Update accepted. - FY27 Budget Balancing Recommendations referred to City Council for consideration. - All votes were 2–0 in favor. No other actions or referrals were made.

The Walnut Creek Transportation Commission held its regular meeting on Thursday, March 19, 2026, from 6:01 PM to 7:47 PM in the Council Chamber at City Hall. The meeting included approval of prior minutes, election of officers, a detailed presentation on multiple transportation capital improvement projects, and committee appointments. No public comments were made. Note: The printed agenda listed a different commission roster (Chair Kevin Wilk, Chris Hansel, Danny Milks, Thomas O'Toole, Melissa Ward), but the actual roll call and minutes identified Charles Kreling as Chair, Laura Patch as Vice Chair, and Commissioners Jared Asch, Edward Guerrero, Ryan McMahon, and Student Commissioner Diego Kirsch. This discrepancy is recorded but not resolved. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (January 15, 2026): Motion by Commissioner Asch, seconded by Commissioner Guerrero, carried unanimously (5-0) to approve the minutes. Commissioners Patch and Student Kirsch arrived late. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public addressed the Commission during the public comment periods. Discussion Items - Election of Chair and Vice Chair: Commissioner Asch nominated Charles Kreling for Chair and Laura Patch for Vice Chair. Motion seconded by Commissioner Guerrero, carried unanimously (6-0) to elect Kreling as Chair and Patch as Vice Chair. - Transportation Capital Project Update: Senior Engineer Alex Wong and five CIP engineers presented an update on transportation projects in the Capital Improvement Program. Key projects included: - Ignacio Valley Road Rehabilitation: Repaving from Oak Grove to city limits with safety improvements (speed feedback signs, rumble strips, optical speed bars, reduced lane widths, slip lane modifications, and speed humps 15-20 feet before crosswalks). Federally funded, awaiting federal approval; construction scheduled spring 2027. - Unsignalized Pedestrian and Trail Crossing Improvements: Adding rapid flashing beacons at 13 pedestrian crossings (Civic Drive, Tice Valley Boulevard, Bancroft Road, North Main Street, Mount Diablo) and trail crossings (Contra Costa Canal Trail at Jones Road, Briones to Mount Diablo Trail at Larkey, Buena Vista, San Luis Road). Currently in construction. - 2026 Slurry Project: Slurry sealing approximately 43 streets in Tampico, Diablo Shadows, and Valavista areas; adding buffer-separated bike lanes on Montego Road and flashing stop signs at Oak Grove intersections with Deer Park and Vela Vista. Funded by Measure J and gas tax; construction spring/summer 2026. - Walker Avenue Pedestrian Improvement Project: Sidewalk extensions, curb cuts, raised crosswalk, reflective paint, upgraded striping, and an additional streetlight east of the Iron Horse Trail crossing. Awarded contract March 17; construction late spring/early summer 2026. Funded by Measure J Transportation for Livable Communities Grant. - Safe Routes to School Project (OBAG3): Closing sidewalk gaps on Walnut Boulevard (1,500 ft), Cedro Lane (200 ft), and Parkside Drive (170 ft); installing bulb-outs, streetlight at Bellows Court, and rectangular rapid flashing beacon at Fraser Drive. Awaiting Caltrans federal approval; construction summer 2027. A second phase at Newell Avenue and South Broadway will add a pedestrian scramble (diagonal crossing) for the Iron Horse Trail, concrete bulb-outs, and raised bike lanes on Newell Avenue to California; construction estimated spring/summer 2028. - Highway Safety Improvement Project: Installing protected left-turn phasing at Ignacio Valley Road and Walnut Boulevard, Wimbledon Road, Wiggett Lane, and Villamonte intersections; ADA curb ramp upgrades. Construction summer/fall 2027. - Ignacio Valley Road Intersection Safety Project: Constructing a roundabout at Marchbanks Drive and Kinross (primary goal), protected left turns at three other intersections (pending funding). Construction summer/fall 2027. - San Miguel Drive Pedestrian Path Project: Joint project with Contra Costa County to close sidewalk gap from San Miguel to Norris Road (5-ft sidewalk, 8-ft parking, 10-ft travel lanes). Funded by traffic impact fees; construction summer 2027. - North Broadway Improvements: Redesign of North Broadway from Civic to Central with new sidewalks, bulb-outs, class IV bikeways, and reduced travel lanes. Funded by Affordable Housing and Sustainability Grant; construction spring/summer 2028. - South Main Bridge Replacement: Two-phase Caltrans bridge program project – phase one (spring 2027) building a pedestrian/utility bridge; phase two (summer 2028) demolishing and replacing the main bridge over Las Trampas Creek. Construction constrained by seasonal creek restrictions (October–May). - Bus Stop Improvement and Shelter Project: Installing shelters, real-time digital signage, and ADA improvements at six locations (Ignacio Valley Road/Marchbanks, Civic/Ignacio, Locust Street/Mount Diablo, South Main/Lilac, North Main/Civic, and a mini-plaza at North Main/Bonanza). Funded by Measure J and AHSC grants; construction spring 2027. - Parkside Drive Multimodal Improvements: Providing east-west bike/pedestrian connection from Iron Horse Trail to BART station by converting one lane on Parkside Drive (North Main to Civic Drive) to multimodal use. Beyond 2028, still in analysis. - Oakland Boulevard Multimodal Improvements: Improving multimodal access from west downtown to transit; design challenges include grade differences. Funded by state transportation funds; beyond 2028. Commissioners asked questions about project details, traffic counts, timing, and design choices (e.g., speed humps vs. raised crosswalks, passive detection, landscaping, bus stop benches). Several commissioners expressed support for the projects but raised concerns about cumulative traffic impacts on downtown and potential economic consequences. Chair Kreling recommended a holistic traffic impact analysis across all projects. Commissioner Asch noted the risk of cars jumping the curb at Oakland Boulevard/Ignacio and requested interim safety measures. Commissioner Patch requested tree planting at Newell/Broadway. Commissioner McMahon supported passive detection. Commissioner Guerrero inquired about hydrant relocation. - Commission Committee Appointments: - CCTA Citizens Advisory Committee: Commissioner Asch had served for 5-6 years and originally offered to step down but then agreed to continue after encouragement. Motion by Chair Kreling, seconded by Vice Chair Patch, carried unanimously to reappoint Commissioner Asch. - Vision Zero Working Group: Vice Chair Patch expressed interest in continuing; Commissioner McMahon volunteered. Motion by Chair Kreling, seconded by Commissioner McMahon, carried unanimously to appoint Vice Chair Patch and Commissioner McMahon. Student Commissioner Kirsch declined due to graduation uncertainty. Staff noted the group will meet about twice in 2026. Key Outcomes - Elected Officers: Charles Kreling as Chair and Laura Patch as Vice Chair for the upcoming term. - Consent Calendar Approved: Minutes of January 15, 2026, approved unanimously (5-0). - Committee Appointments: - Commissioner Jared Asch reappointed to Contra Costa Transit Authority Citizens Advisory Committee (unanimous). - Vice Chair Laura Patch and Commissioner Ryan McMahon appointed to the Vision Zero Working Group (unanimous). - Directives to Staff: - Chair Kreling requested a cumulative holistic traffic impact analysis of all capital projects to assess potential economic impacts on downtown. - Commissioner Asch requested interim pedestrian safety measures at Oakland Boulevard/Ignacio Valley Road (curb protection). - Several commissioners requested inclusion of total project costs and Streetlight data in future presentations. - Staff Announcements: - Measure J compliance checklist approved by CCTA board. - Traffic Engineering addressed approximately 280 public inquiries in both 2024 and 2025. - County Connection Route 4 (downtown shuttle) will have a streamlined Sunday schedule. - General Plan Update has officially kicked off. - Bike to Wherever Day activities planned for May 14, 2026, including a tabling event at Newell and Broadway and a bike rodeo at Civic Park. - Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned at 7:47 PM.

The Walnut Creek Design Review Commission held a study session on March 18, 2026, to review the design of a proposed 12,577-square-foot animal daycare building at 2890 Mitchell Drive, part of the Joy Bound (formerly Animal Rescue Foundation) campus. The project includes outdoor training areas, four exercise yards, new parking, landscaping, and signage. Commissioners provided feedback and reached consensus to recommend the project move forward to the Planning Commission, with specific design suggestions. Consent Calendar - No items on the consent calendar. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke during the public comment period. Discussion Items - Project Overview: Senior Planner Simmer Gill introduced the proposal, noting the site is a 10-acre business park zone. The new building will support existing animal rescue and shelter operations, including 11 programs such as training, pet adoptions, and service animal placement for veterans. The project requires removal of 13 trees (3 already approved by the city arborist due to poor health) and will plant 55 new trees. The building design features cement stucco in a cream/light color with beige and brown accents, metal panels, and dark-framed windows. Two wall signs (one illuminated, one non-illuminated) total 61 square feet, within city allowances. Parking exceeds requirements (207 stalls vs. 197 required). CEQA environmental review is ongoing. Staff recommended the commission review and comment on design topics and provide a positive recommendation to the Planning Commission. - Commissioner Questions and Feedback: - Commissioner Newsom asked about campus color consistency (existing colors appeared yellow/orange but applicant noted they were updated to match the proposed cream/beige), visibility from Oak Grove Road (no signage there; commissioner suggested adding sign on that side), arrival hierarchy (whether the new building should be the primary entrance), pedestrian crossing placement (near handicap stalls), fencing design (CMU walls with metal grille to match existing site), lighting (25-foot poles with cutoff shields), and landscaping along Mitchell Drive (coastal live oaks and native shrubs for screening and identity). - Commissioner Pros inquired about wayfinding signage (applicant confirmed it will be added, calling it "long awaited"), planting around kennel walls (vegetated beds planned), drainage connections (wash-down drains and roof runoff will go to bioretention facilities), and new vehicle gates (for security, open during day; fire department access will be ensured via Knox boxes). - Commissioner Riley asked about the building sign content (placeholder "Pet Care Center" will be replaced with "Liberty Center" after a donor naming), noise mitigation (walls, berms, and planned exercise yards; applicant noted they will have more dogs outside than currently, but aim to remain a quiet neighbor), surface material (artificial turf designed to stay cool, combined with shade structures and tree canopy), and rainwater collection (none planned, but applicant mentioned existing pump from canal that needs funding for repair; commissioner suggested considering rainwater harvesting). - Commissioner Comments and Consensus: All three present commissioners (Newsom, Pros, Riley) expressed support for the institution and the project. Key areas for refinement included: - Improving wayfinding and building identification (especially from Oak Grove Road and upon entry). - Evaluating acoustics and ensuring walls adequately mitigate noise from kennels, particularly along the property line adjacent to a future senior housing development. - Providing cut sheets for fully shielded, cutoff lighting. - Enhancing planting density along the Oak Grove edge for additional sound mitigation. Commissioner Newsom noted the project's identity is currently weak and welcomed the Liberty Center naming. Commissioner Riley added that wayfinding could be integrated into marketing materials. All agreed on the need for signage and acoustic review. No formal vote was taken, but the chair confirmed consensus to support the project and recommend it to Planning Commission. Key Outcomes - The Commission reached consensus to provide a positive recommendation to the Planning Commission, subject to addressing the following design comments: - Develop comprehensive wayfinding and building identification signage for the campus, including visibility from Oak Grove Road. - Provide acoustic analysis and ensure kennel walls offer adequate noise mitigation, especially near adjacent residential zoning. - Submit cut sheets for fully shielded, cutoff light fixtures for site lighting. - Consider denser planting along the Oak Grove frontage to further buffer sound. - The project will proceed to the Planning Commission with the feedback from this study session.