HomeMy WebLinkAboutCM Goals & ObjectivesDraft Fiscal Year 2025-2028
City Council Goals and Objectives
**Goals are note in ranked/priority order**
Page 1 of 7
Priority Area A - Economic Development and Neighborhood Vitality
San Rafael has vibrant neighborhoods and a strong economy
Required by
law or Grants
New or
Ongoing
Year of
Plan Lead Support
A.1 Strengthen the local economy by supporting existing businesses and attracting new enterprises. CED
A.1.1 Reduce commercial vacancies through business expansion, attraction, and retention efforts and enhanced customer support via the San Rafael GO Program. No Ongoing 1 CED
A.1.2 Explore the creation of new revenue streams to fund economic growth and vitality through partnerships to identify mutually beneficial investments. No New 2 CED CM
A.1.3 Drive local economic activity through promotion of destination tourism, enhancing special events, and optimizing city-owned assets by leveraging targeted marketing
initiatives.
No Ongoing 1-3 CED CM
A.1.4 Evaluate the Cannabis Program and determine if changes are needed to support a well-regulated, transparent, and sustainable cannabis industry while balancing community
concerns and benefits.
No New 2 CED
A.1.5 Assess the existing tourism funding model to determine if alternative models would enhance tourism sector growth for San Rafael. No New 1-2 CED CM
A.2 Transform City gateways and public spaces to be more inviting and enhance civic pride. DPW CED, DS, CM
A.2.1 Create and implement a gateway beautification program with enhanced signage, landscaping, and public art that reflects the City’s identity and vibrancy. No New 1-2 CED DPW, LR
A.2.2 Develop and implement a program for enhancing and maintaining high visibility public spaces that signals thoughtful investment and care for the places people see and use
every day.
No New 1-2 DPW CM, CED
A.2.3 Implement a comprehensive, citywide illegal dumping program. No New 1-3 SUS DPW
A.3 Enhance neighborhoods to be the most resilient, diverse, and vibrant places to live, work, and visit. CED DPW
A.3.1 Deliver placemaking elements through funded public art projects in the Downtown San Rafael Art District. No Ongoing 1-3 CED,
LR
DPW
A.3.2 In partnership with the downtown business owners and stakeholders, continue evaluating the development of a community benefit district that would expand services
downtown.
No Ongoing 1 CED FIN, CM
A.3.3 Update the special event permit program to streamline the special events process and identity opportunities for partnerships with the City to facilitate more special events. No Ongoing 1 CED PD, LR, CM, FIN
A.3.4 Develop a Northgate Specific Plan. No New 1-2 CED
A.3.5 Develop an East San Rafael Specific Plan using the City’s inclusive resident engagement philosophy; collaborate with the community and Canal Alliance to ensure alignment
with their community vision plan (Nuestro Canal, Nuestro Futuro).
No Ongoing 1-2 CED CM, DS
A.4 Streamline and modernize the City's land use regulatory framework to facilitate development and growth. CED
A.4.1 Update the City’s Objective Design Standards. Yes New 1 CED CAO
A.4.2 Update the Citywide Zoning Ordinance to align with the General Plan 2040. Yes New 3 CED CAO
Draft Fiscal Year 2025-2028
City Council Goals and Objectives
**Goals are note in ranked/priority order**
Page 2 of 7
Priority Area B: Mobility and Infrastructure
Enhance and maintain the City’s infrastructure, streets and facilities through the Capital Improvement Program.
Required
by law or
Grants
New or
ongoing
Year
of
plan
Lead Support
B.1 Develop and maintain an integrated, multi-modal transportation network that serves users effectively and safely. DPW
B.1.1 Develop and adopt an updated Citywide Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan. No Ongoing 1-2 DPW CM
B.1.2 Design and construct the Canal Neighborhood Active Transportation Experience project. No Ongoing 1-3+ DPW CM
B.1.3 Conduct East San Rafael Canal Crossing feasibility study and pursue partnerships and funding sources for possible construction of the swing bridge. No New 1-3+ DPW CM, CED
B1.4 Design and construct Second Street and Fourth Street intersection improvements. No Ongoing 1-3 DPW CM
B.1.5 Revise the City’s current residential parking permit program to address neighborhood parking concerns in a cost-neutral and equitable manner. No Ongoing 1-2 CM DPW
B.1.6 Execute a comprehensive pavement management program to maintain road quality at a “Fair” Pavement Condition Index (PCI) rating across the City’s roadway network. No Ongoing 1-3+ DPW CM
B.2 Enhance transportation safety policies and traffic management systems. DPW
B.2.1 Develop and adopt a Vision Zero Action Plan, in alignment with the City adopted Marin County Local Roadway Safety Plan. No Ongoing 1-3 DPW CM, PD
B.2.2 Launch and evaluate pilot projects for traffic calming measures to improve neighborhood safety. No Ongoing 1-2 DPW CM
B.2.3 Implement projects as required due to recent legislation; AB413 (day lighting) and AB43 (speed limits). Yes Ongoing 1-3 DPW CM,
Parking
B.2.4 Modernize and upgrade traffic signal systems to enhance capabilities for managing traffic flow per the 2040 General Plan. No Ongoing 1-3+ DPW CM
B.3 Implement systems and programs that address deferred maintenance of public assets and infrastructure to improve services to the community. DPW
B.3.1 Develop a Citywide Buildings and Facilities Plan to assess, identify and track the condition of City assets, deferred maintenance, and unmet facility needs. No Ongoing 1-3 DPW CM
B.3.2 Assess and track the condition of the City’s assets through the asset management program. No Ongoing 1-3+ DPW CM
B.3.3 Enhance infrastructure quality through the development of design standards for work within the public right of way. No Ongoing 1-2 DPW CM
B.4 Assess and improve stormwater infrastructure and management program. DPW
B.4.1 Implement trash capture projects to reduce pollutants in local waterways to meet State mandated trash reduction requirements. Yes Ongoing 1-3+ DPW CM, SUS
B.4.2 Develop a comprehensive Citywide Storm Drain Plan to assess, identify and track storm drain system condition, deferred maintenance, and needed system improvements.
The plan will also clarify the City's standards for storm drain infrastructure, develop maintenance schedules, and evaluate sea level rise impacts to the system.
Yes Ongoing 1-3+ DPW CM, SUS
Draft Fiscal Year 2025-2028
City Council Goals and Objectives
**Goals are note in ranked/priority order**
Page 3 of 7
Priority Area C - Sustainability and Resilience
Foster a resilient community through climate adaptation, sustainability, hazard mitigation, and emergency preparedness efforts.
Required
by law or
Grants
New or
ongoing
Year
of
plan
Lead Support
C.1 Reduce greenhouse gas emissions from both community and municipal sources. SUS
C.1.1 Develop and begin implementing a plan to expand facility electric vehicle charging infrastructure and transition the City’s fleet to zero emission vehicles. Yes New 1-3 SUS DPW
C.1.2 Work with transportation partners to implement the Electric Vehicle Acceleration Strategy and reduce community vehicle miles traveled. No Ongoing 2 SUS DPW
C.1.3 Expand community composting, revise purchasing policies, and collaborate with Zero Waste Marin and Marin Sanitary Service to implement SB 1383, the Short-Lived
Climate Pollutant Law.
Yes Ongoing 1 SUS CM
C.1.4 Reduce community building energy use through incentive programs, community education, and engagement tools as outlined in the County Building Electrification Roadmap. No New 2 SUS DS
C.2 Strengthen community preparedness and resiliency for earthquakes, wildfires, flooding, and sea level rise through comprehensive hazard mitigation, risk mitigation, and
climate adaptation efforts.
SUS/FD
C.2.1 Identify funding for Local Hazard Mitigation Plan projects and begin implementation of the highest priority projects. Yes Ongoing 1-3 FD CM, DPW
C.2.2 Continue implementing the Wildfire Action Plan and evaluate the need for revisions including placing an emphasis on zone zero (0-5 feet from homes and structures). Yes Ongoing 1 FD CM
C.2.3 Implement existing policy and program commitments in the General Plan 2040, and implement building code policies to support community resiliency, specifically to
address the potential hazards listed in Goal C.2.
Yes Ongoing 1 SUS/CE
D/FD
C.2.4 Develop a Sea Level Rise Adaptation Plan that complies with SB 272. Yes New 2 SUS
C.2.5 Explore governance models and a formal collaborative public-private-philanthropic partnership as a foundation for climate adaptation work. No Ongoing 3 SUS CM
C.3 Enhance the community's capacity to prepare for and respond to emergencies and natural disasters. FD
C.3.1 Improve citywide readiness and resilience for disasters and evacuations through outreach and training. No Ongoing 1-3 FD CM,
DEPTS
C.3.2 Coordinate and support Community Emergency Response Teams (CERT), Neighborhood Resources Groups (NRG), Firewise, and similar grassroot groups with training, drills,
and resources.
No Ongoing 1-3 FD
C.4 Enhance staff capacity to prepare for and respond to emergencies and natural disasters. FD
C.4.1 Develop and implement a multi-year training and exercise plan for Disaster Service Workers and Emergency Operations Center staff in collaboration with other agencies
in the County.
No New 2-3 FD
C.4.2 Review, update and provide continued training for staff on the City’s Emergency Operations Plan. Yes Ongoing 2-3 FD
C.4.3 Develop and train employees on a Continuity of Government Plan. Yes New 1-2 FD
C.4.4 Research and invest in technology to support staff’s ability to respond to an emergency or natural disaster. No New 2-3 FD DS
Draft Fiscal Year 2025-2028
City Council Goals and Objectives
**Goals are note in ranked/priority order**
Page 4 of 7
Priority Area D- Housing and Homelessness
Facilitate new housing development, assist in ensuring housing stability, support a “Housing First” model, and implement strategies that reduce homelessness
Required by
law
New or
ongoing
Year of
plan
Lead Support
D.1 Collaborate with the County of Marin and other community partners to implement comprehensive strategies that prevent and reduce homelessness. CM
D.1.1 In collaboration with the County of Marin, explore the implementation of a housing-focused interim shelter program, supported by robust case management services to assist
in transitioning unhoused community members into permanent supportive housing, or other permanent housing solutions.
No Ongoing 1-2 CM CAO
D.1.2 Develop a Homelessness Strategic Action Plan, including community engagement and communications strategies, to guide future work relating to solving homelessness. No New 1 CM
D.1.3 Evaluate the City’s camping ordinance as the legal framework changes and make revisions as needed that align with the City’s goals to reduce homelessness. Yes Ongoing 1-3 CM CAO
D.1.4 Strategically increase and secure additional funding sources by leveraging key partnerships that will support additional programs that reduce homelessness. No Ongoing 1-3 CM FIN
D.2 Advance the development of new housing across all affordability levels to meet the state's Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA) requirements as outlined in the City's
Housing Element, ensuring diverse, sustainable, and equitable housing opportunities for all residents.
CED
D.2.1 Analyze state housing laws and relevant case law to streamline policies, remove barriers, and support the development of new housing in alignment with legal requirements
and community needs.
Yes Ongoing 1-3 CED CM
D.2.2 Evaluate the Below Market Rate program model and identify opportunities to better leverage affordable housing assets and increase impact. No New 1 CED FIN
D.2.3 Explore policy options regarding fee waivers or deferrals that would support the development of affordable housing projects. No New 2 CED FIN
D.3 Evaluate and consider implementation of specific housing policies and programs that promote fair housing practices, ensure housing habitability, and foster diverse
housing communities that accommodate all income levels.
CED
D.3.1 Evaluate the effectiveness of existing tenant protection policies and consider revisions as needed. No Ongoing 1 CED CAO
D.3.2 Explore policies that protect renters and low-income earners from rising housing costs and economic instability and prevent displacement and preserve housing while
ensuring fair returns and sustainability for property owners
No Ongoing 1-2 CED CAO
D.3.3 Analyze data from the Housing Inspection Program and residential complaints to identify properties with sub-standard housing conditions and develop a systematic approach
that improves the quality of existing housing stock.
No New 3 CED
Draft Fiscal Year 2025-2028
City Council Goals and Objectives
**Goals are note in ranked/priority order**
Page 5 of 7
Priority Area E: Quality of Life: Safety and Wellbeing
Foster a safe, healthy, and thriving community.
Required by
law or
grants
New or
ongoing
Year of
plan
Lead Support
E.1 Ensure police, fire and emergency medical services meet evolving community needs through increased engagement, innovation, training, and operational excellence. PD, FD CM
E.1.1 Develop strategies to ensure public safety response times and services can meet the needs of future development and increased population growth. Yes Ongoing 1-3 PD, FD DS
E.1.2 Implement data-driven deployment models to enhance emergency medical services and improve Fire Department response times. No Ongoing 1-3 FD
E.1.3 Implement an enhanced fire code compliance program, emphasizing education before enforcement. Yes Ongoing 1-3 FD
E.1.4 Identify and implement strategies to foster more community involvement to increase trust between law enforcement and the community. No Ongoing 1-3 PD CM
E.2 Enhance community safety through innovative programs that strengthen neighborhood security and public safety. PD, FD
E.2.1 Reduce emergency response times of Priority 1 police calls. No Ongoing 1-3 PD, FD
E.2.2 Identify funding to ensure sustainability and expansion of the Specialized Assistance for Everyone (SAFE) program. No New 1 CM, PD FD, FIN
E.2.3 Integrate safety and crime prevention through environmental design (CPTED) elements in all infrastructure development and improvement plans/projects. No Ongoing 1-3 CED PD
E.2.4 Reduce dangerous driving behavior and the number of collisions resulting in injury through education and enforcement efforts. No Ongoing 1-3 PD
E.2.5 Assess and utilize technology solutions to improve public safety systems and response times. No New 2-3 PD
E.3 Develop and implement a community engagement, design, and planning process for Measure P implementation that will result in a new Library and Community Center at
Albert Park and will meet the needs of San Rafael residents now and into the future and will identify adaptive reuse options for the historic Carnegie Library.
CM DPW, LR,
CED
E.3.1 Establish a project team, including specialists in building and landscape architecture, design, engineering, environmental, c ommunity engagement, project management,
construction management, and regulatory compliance, to ensure the City has the capacity and expertise to successfully complete the Albert Park Library and Community
Center project.
Yes New 1 CM LR
E.3.2 Based on robust community engagement, develop a preferred site plan for the Albert Park Library and Community Center that includes the proposed building location,
surrounding site layout, recommended programmatic elements, and a preliminary cost estimate.
Yes New 1-2 CM DPW,
LR, CED
E.3.3 Develop and select final conceptual design/architectural rendering, building floor plan, and cost estimate the Albert Park Library and Community Center, and begin the
creation of detailed design and construction documents, due diligence, and permit applications.
Yes New 3+ CM DPW,
LR, CED
E.3.4 Initiate a public planning process related to the preservation of the historic Carnegie Library for ongoing civic, community, or community-serving commercial uses. Yes New 2 CM LR
E.4 Maintain and improve parks, libraries, recreation facilities, and outdoor spaces to ensure they are clean, safe, and accessible for all community members. LR
E.4.1 Complete the Pickleweed Library and Pickleweed Preschool renovation Yes Ongoing 1-2 LR DPW
E.4.2 Utilize the Terra Linda Park and Community Center Enhancement Plan to guide future site improvements and enhance the park and community center’s role as a community
resource.
No Ongoing 3+ LR DPW
E.4.3 Initiate the planning process to renovate the play area and make pathway improvements at Gerstle Park. No New 3 LR DPW
E.5 Deliver diverse recreational, cultural, and literary programs and services that engage residents and respond to evolving community interests. LR
E.5.1 Evaluate library and recreation programs to identify opportunities for improvements in service delivery and enhanced program offerings. No New 2 LR CM, FIN
E.5.2 Evaluate options for providing enhanced library services in North San Rafael. No New 1-2 LR
E.6 Improve neighborhood safety and reduce nuisances by developing new policies and strengthening the code enforcement program. CED
E.6.1 Revise the Street Food Vending Ordinance and develop an implementation and communications plan. No Ongoing 1 CED PD
E.6.2 Pursue regulation changes and increase public education and enforcement efforts to curb illegal fireworks, illegal food vending, and illegal massage establishments. No New 3 CED CAO, PD
E.6.3 Collaborate with state agencies to ensure ongoing enforcement of illegal hemp/cannabis products. No Ongoing 1 CED CAO, PD
E.6.4 Evaluate policies and enforcement mechanisms to address businesses that are not in compliance with the City’s municipal code. No New 3 CED FIN, CM,
CAO
Draft Fiscal Year 2025-2028
City Council Goals and Objectives
**Goals are note in ranked/priority order**
Page 6 of 7
Priority Area F: High Performing Government – Innovative, Inclusive, Efficient and Accessible
Innovate by implementing forward-thinking solutions, delivering exceptional services that meet community needs equitably, transparently and efficiently.
Required by
law or grants
New or
ongoing
Year of
plan
Lead Support
F.1 Establish metrics for data-driven decision making across departments and implement process improvements using human centered design to improve service delivery and
program outcomes.
CM
F.1.1 Create annual work plans for each City Council Priority Area to track progress and revise as necessary when reprioritization is needed. No Ongoing 1-3 DS CM
F.1.2 Enhance the performance management system that supports tracking progress towards City Council Goals and Objectives. No New 1 CM DS
F.1.3 Implement a citywide community relationship management (CRM) solution to improve tracking and responsiveness to community questions, code enforcement complaints,
and requests for service.
No New 2-3 CM DS
F.2 Innovate City systems and operations to improve service delivery, customer experience, responsiveness and transparency. CM
F.2.1 Evaluate, identify, and implement technology solutions, including artificial intelligence, which streamline and improve internal and external processes (i.e., enterprise resource
planning, virtual permitting systems, records and information management, website).
No Ongoing 1-3 DS ALL
F.2.2 Create and implement a citywide strategic communications plan that improves public messaging, combats misinformation, enhance s two-way engagement, and establishes
consistent communication practices both within the organization and with the community.
No Ongoing 1 CM DS
F.2.3 Update the City’s website to enhance content, functionality, accessibility and customer experience. No New 1 DS ALL
F.2.4 Update and implement city-wide records retention schedules and Public Records Act related policies. Yes New 1-2 CC CAO
F 2.5 Support and explore regional partnerships to seek efficiencies in service delivery. No Ongoing 1-3 CM HR, FD, CED
F.2.6 Analyze and identify revisions to the municipal code and City Charter to make them more accessible, understandable, and gender inclusive. No Ongoing 2 CC CAO
F.2.7 Evaluate placing the City Charter on the ballot to facilitate revisions identified in Objective G.2.8. No New 3 CC CM, CAO
F.3 Implement comprehensive financial strategies and plans that ensure fiscal sustainability through balanced budgets; explore new revenue streams and renew existing tax
measures.
CM, FIN
F.3.1 Develop timeline and take steps to renew existing tax measures requiring voter approval. No New 1 CM FIN, CC,
CAO
F.3.2 Explore strategies and initiatives aimed at increasing overall sales tax revenues by attracting new sales tax generating entities, diversifying the City’s current sales tax base and
capturing sales tax “leakage” in targeted sectors.
No Ongoing 1-3 FIN/CED CM
F.3.3 Identify and secure new revenue sources to address the insufficient funding available to address deferred maintenance of the city's infrastructure, ensuring long-term
sustainability, safety, reduction of flood risk, and reliability of public assets, including storm water system, park and facility enhancement plans, etc.
No New 1-3 FIN CM &
DEPTS
F.3.4 Update the master fee schedule and development impact fees to ensure full cost recovery and address increased demand for public services and facilities. Yes New 1 FIN CM &
DEPTS
F.4 Develop and implement programs to enhance the diversity of the workforce; and improve employee engagement, professional development, retention, and succession
planning.
CM, HR
F.4.1 Dedicate resources toward continuous culture building through enhanced employee recognition, comprehensive onboarding, and mentorship programs. No Ongoing 1 HR CM
F.4.2 Develop and implement innovative recruitment and retention strategies that address recruitment, retention, and advancement of a diverse workforce and which keeps the
City competitive and recognized as a top local government workplace.
No Ongoing 1-3 HR CM
F.4.3 Develop and implement an enhanced professional development and training program that includes learning management, innovation, and skill building. No New 2-3 HR CM
F.4.4 Promote holistic employee wellbeing through work-life balance initiatives and supportive workplace policies. No New 1 HR CM
Draft Fiscal Year 2025-2028
City Council Goals and Objectives
**Goals are note in ranked/priority order**
Page 7 of 7
Priority Area G - Equity, Access, Belonging and Opportunity for All
Our City strives to create equitable outcomes and address systemic injustices
Required by
law
New or
Ongoing
Year
of Plan
Lead Support
G.1 Develop accessibility standards and inclusive practices across all City operations to enhance digital, physical, and programmatic access for community members of all
abilities and identities.
CED CAO, DPW,
& DEPTS
G.1.1 Evaluate and revise the Americans with Disabilities Act program and policies as necessary. Yes New 1-3 CED CAO, DPW,
& DEPTS
G.2 Increase the involvement of the community in local governance and policymaking by fostering inclusive engagement, removing barriers to participation, building capacity,
and amplifying diverse voices.
CM
G.2.1 Develop an inclusive, resident led community engagement program to bring all members of the community into decision-making for major projects and initiatives. No Ongoing 1 CM DS
G.2.2 Establish a citywide stipend policy to ensure that all community members can participate in civic life and are compensated for providing their expertise, lived experience,
and valuable feedback to the City.
No New 1 CM DS
G.2.3 Implement the City’s Language Resource Access Plan to improve multilingual engagement practices. No New 1-2 CM DS, DEPTS
G.2.4 Evaluate new programs which comprehensively address the needs of San Rafael’s vulnerable populations (immigrant, disabled, homeless, older adults, etc.) through
collaboration with community-based partners.
No New 3 CM
G.3 Integrate equity into all planning efforts and public investments to ensure equitable distribution of resources and to address historical disparities and injustices. CM
G.3.1 Develop and implement a strategic roadmap to guide the City’s Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging initiatives. No New 1-2 CM DEPTS
G.3.2 Develop and implement a data driven approach by using benchmarks and indicators such as census tract data, public health indices, and past City investments to inform
decisions about the location of future public improvements.
No Ongoing 1-3 DS CM, DPW
G.3.3 Expand on the City’s strategic approach to ensure diversity of candidate pools when recruiting for boards, commissions, and committees. No Ongoing 1-3 CC CM, HR
G.3.4 Expand diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging training for staff and elected officials. No New 2-3 CM HR
G.3.5 Develop guidance and train staff on methods for incorporating an equity and climate justice lens into the development of programs, policies, and projects to ensure no
unintended harm is done by them and to ensure historical injustices are not repeated.
No New 2-3 CM SUS
Outlook
Public Comment - 5/5/2025 Special City Council Meeting - Goals and Objectives
From Mark Fairman < >
Date Fri 5/2/2025 3:51 PM
To Distrib- City Clerk <city.clerk@cityofsanrafael.org>
Hi there,
I want to thank you for your prioritization of cycling and pedestrian safety/improvement projects in
our city!
I hope that the upcoming Goals and Objectives meeting will include those efforts that make San Rafael
a safer and more enjoyable place for my family and I.
Focusing on intersection improvements, traffic calming, and connecting our community with more
efficient cycling and pedestrian infrastructure goes a long way in making our town one that I am
proud to call home.
Thank you!
Mark
5/2/25, 4:36 PM Mail - Lindsay Lara - Outlook
https://outlook.office365.com/mail/inbox/id/AAMkAGE4NDc2ZDVlLWQxMTYtNDBiOC04NTI0LTRjYTQzNTJlMTJkMQBGAAAAAAAyY1qsYIBjQ6ajfUyz…1/1
From: Hillside Neighbors < >
Sent: Thursday, May 1, 2025 10:32 PM
To: Distrib- City Clerk <city.clerk@cityofsanrafael.org>
Subject: Council Special Meeting May 5 at 4:00 pm - City Goals and Objectives -
Please include the following comments for the City Council Special Meeting on May 5 at 4:00
pm - City Goals and Objectives:
Comments re B1.4 Design and construct Second Street and Fourth Street intersection
improvements:
Redesign intersection improvements to include the westbound left-turn lane on Second Street to
Marquard/West End, in response to:
-the strong objection from neighborhood residents to the elimination of this left-turn lane and the
large number of vehicles, 300+, using this left turn lane on a daily basis.
-recognizing that there is no reasonable alternatives to rerouting of 300 vehicles to other
intersections, whose rerouting will lower compliance rates and increase safety risks.
-to include and respect the needs of all the various modes of transportation that use this
intersection, including vehicles, pedestrians and bicyclists
-to maintain reasonable access for those living on Marquard in addition to those living higher uphill
on Fremont, Upper Fremont and Trost, whose only access is from Marquard
-to not compromise on safety for any mode of transportation, including vehicular
-to eliminate the diversion/increase of vehicular traffic thru the intersection of Marquard and
Fremont, whether uphill or downhill, due to the known impossible ability of most vehicles to
successfully navigate this intersection given it's narrow, steep and backward angle, resulting in an
unsafe and unreasonable burden on the inadequate infrastructure of this intersection to
accommodate additional traffic.
-to recognize that emergency vehicles need unencumbered access to Marquard and by
unencumbered access, it is understood that other vehicles will easily be able to use the
unencumbered access, as well.
-to respect the professional opinion of the City's prior seasoned traffic engineer, Rafat Raie, who
clearly stated in 2022 that he didn't want to "land lock Marquard" and "because of the location, this
intersection needs to accommodate all vehicles, pedestrians and bicycles" and so, based on his
professional opinion, the left turn lane on Second Street was added back into the plan for this
intersection, at that time, and the left turn lane on Second Street should remain in any redesign of
this intersection.
Please see my attached letter to the City Council from April 21, 2025.
-Victoria
April 21, 2025
Mayor Kate Colin and City Council Members
City of San Rafael
1400 Fifth Ave
San Rafael, CA via: city.clerk@cityofsanrafael.org
RE: Agenda item #6b. Second and Fourth Street Interseciton Improvements Project
Closing off the westbound left turn lane from Second to Marquard blocks the main access to our
neighborhood creating unnecessary hardship for residents. Alternate routes are less safe and prone to
more congestion with more difficult access. I strongly oppose the closing of the westbound left turn
lane from Second St to Marquard, for the following reasons:
1. Access, Access, Access…….
It’s all about access! Kimley Horn (KH) is looking at traffic volumes and not access issues, compiling
data from the city’s camera footage, not indicating whether they made an “on-site” inspection. With an
“on-site” inspection you gain insight not obtained from crunching numbers alone. For example, you
will see that the house at 11 Marquard cannot be accessed from West Street because their driveway is
angled toward the other direction and can only be accessed from the opposite approach.
In addition, KH does not address access issues for residents living above Marquard where homes on
Fremont, Upper Fremont and Trost have only one access, from Marquard. Rerouting traffic to West
Street makes it more difficult to access homes on Fremont and above because of the sharp steep turn
from West to Marquard and the extremely sharp turn from Marquard to Fremont Road, where
Marquard is only ~12’ wide, and Fremont is only ~8.5” wide (see attached photos). Smaller vehicles
can barely make this turn, with most vehicles requiring a 3-pt turn and larger vehicles, like delivery
trucks and construction vehicles, unable to make the turn at all. Note that the minimum width
requirement for a public street today is 25’ (SRMC 15.07.030).
Marquard widens from ~17’ at Second Street to ~27’ as you drive uphill then narrows to ~12’ wide
before ending at West Street (measurements exclude street parking). In contrast, West Street is steeper
and narrower, at ~20’ wide, with only ~11’ available for 2-way traffic, after subtacting 9’ for street
parking on one side (SRMC 14.18.100). West Street cannot accommodate 2-way traffic as well as
Marquard. This can be particularly problematic at the intersection of Second and West Street where
cars traveling in opposite directions can form a bottleneck, causing traffic to back up into the pedestrian
crosswalk and bike path.
Larger vehicles, such as construction or tree trimming equipment, need the wide swing of the left turn
lane on Second St to access Marquard which is only 17’ wide at the intersection. Driving up Marquard
from Second Street is also the best option for accessing homes up the hill, with a more gradual incline,
better capacity to maneuver 2-way traffic and an easier connection to Fremont Road for those needing
to access homes higher up on the hill.
In the KH Memorandum dated February 21, 2025, they weigh the pros and cons of closing the
westbound left turn lane at Second Street and conclude that delay is reduced for all peak travel time, by
about 5-8 seconds. This small number is not perfect and probably has a mathematical variance
associated with the calculation, rendering it insignificant. The report goes on to say “Some delay at the
2nd Street and West Street intersection and the 4th Street and Greenfield Avenue intersection may be
experienced…”. However, they don’t calculate those delays or address congestion on these alternate
routes or consider access to homes above Marquard, except to say “the changes to travel time due to
these reroutes are minimal” and “will take an additional one to two minutes.”
They also don’t address whether some vehicles may not be able to access Marquard from West End
Avenue or vice versa, saying only that “Cons” include delays at the two rerouted intersections which
“may” increase along with “reduced access to Marquard”. If vehicles, such as larger construction
equipment, are not able to make the 90 degree turn from West End Ave to Marquard, which is only 17’
wide where it intersects Second, then what other option do they have?
KH has not designed the traffic signal plan yet so we don’t know whether the new signalization on
Marquard at Second/West End will cause delays, forcing smaller vehicles to opt to drive down West
Street instead, resulting in an increased volume of traffic traveling down West St and with only 11’
width to accommodate 2-way traffic, could block traffic trying to come up West Street.
To drive past Marquard to the intersection at Greenfield and Fourth Street and then backtrack to
Marquard adds ~1/2 mile to the trip with no calculation from KH about real delays caused by increased
waiting for the left turn signal to change and increased congestion at Greenfield/Fourth and
Greenfield/West End Ave caused by diverting an additional 200 vehicles to this intersection on a daily
basis, many of which will probably be large delivery vehicles. No analysis by KH about how many of
these vehicles will decide to drive over the “mountable curb” as a better option to reach their
destination.
By rerouting 100 vehicles to the 2nd/West St intersection, you are creating less safe and more difficult
access for residents living uphill as well as increasing possibility of damage to adjacent properties.
When 2 or more vehicles going in opposite directions meet, someone must back-up on a steep narrow
street until enough room can be had for vehicles to pass. I’ve had to replace my handrail twice due to
vehicles backing up/maneuvering at this intersection. But no road improvements are being made to
accommodate the additional traffic to make it safer.
I agree with Rafat Raie, the City’s prior traffic engineer, who said at a BPAC meeting in December
2022, that “because of the location, this intersection needs to accommodate all vehicles, pedestrians,
and bicycles.” After Rafat’s assessment, the westbound left turn lane on Second Street was restored on
the plans, until now.
I know the City has a vision to create a modern intersection design but I’m concerned that, in the
process, the City is turning it’s back on the importance of neighborhood access. The Marquard/Second
Street intersection is the most important access point for our neighborhood and should be maintained.
2. Accident History
As part of the OBAG 3 grant application, April Miller completed the “Complete Streets Checklist”
which includes accident history for this intersection. She reported 13 collisions in the last 5 years
including two that involved motor vehicles and bicyclists. Neither collision involved a vehicle turning
left from Second St. There were no accidents involving pedestrians.
The westbound left turn lane from Second Street provides wide and clear visibility of surrounding
movements with adequate stopping distance to avoid collisions. I am aware of accidents along this
stretch of roadway but mostly caused by vehicles traveling too fast along the Miracle Mile.
3. Mountable Curb:
Do you anticipate allowing exceptions for vehicles other than emergency vehicles from driving over
the “mountable curb” that cannot navigate access any other way, such as PGE equipment, tree
trimming equipment, COMCAST, etc? How do you plan to manage that? Do you plan to “charge” for
a permit to access Marquard via the “mountable curb” whose cost will ultimately be passed onto
residents needing to provide access for services?
I predict non-emergency vehicles will continue to drive over the “mountable curb” regardless of
signage and create an unsafe condition.
4. Lack of Traffic Signal at 2nd/West St:
According to your staff report, dated April 21, 2025, Kimley Horn will provide detailed traffic signal
designs for two intersection locations: 1) 4th and 2nd Street, and 2) 4th and West Crescent Dr. There is
no mention in your report of assessing or designing the traffic signalization of the 2nd and West Street
intersection where you plan to reroute 100 cars from crossing the bike path and pedestrian crossing at a
“signalized” intersection (2nd/Marquard) to an “unsignalized” intersection (2nd/West St).
In the FAQs, in answer to the question about additional signaling at 2nd and West Street, staff answers
that this is separate from the project. I received a similar answer from staff that this was outside the
project boundaries but looking at the original application filed by Public Works for the OBAG 3 grant,
the 2nd and West Street intersection is clearly within the “project limit” as shown on the attached
diagram. So, signaling at this intersection should be included in project design and costs. In addition,
the City has $4.7 million in Gas Tax Funds that can be used for this project, per staff report.
5. Utility Box blocking visibility:
The tall utility box on the northwest corner of Marquard/2nd Street blocks visibility of oncoming
cyclists traveling east on West End Ave and should be moved. Bicyclists do not stop at the stop sign on
West End Avenue unless they turn to cross the intersection to Fourth Street. Moving the bicycle
crossing to the east side of the intersection forces bicycles across Marquard with greater risk of
bicycle/vehicle contact. The tall utility box at this corners adds to that risk.
Public Works staff mentioned it would be very expensive to move the box and they may be able to have
it shortened. Shortening the box would not be enough. I drive a subcompact sedan and my line of
sight is at ~45”. The height of the box is ~82”. Lowering the height of the box would not improve
visibility from my viewpoint unless it was lowered by greater than half it’s current height. But it’s not
only the height of the box but also the width, being too close to the intersection, that blocks visibility. I
have previously met with Public Works Staff on-site as well as recently communicated via email about
this issue.
6. Pedestrian Safety:
I have lived on Fremont Road for 40+ years and one thing I like about living in this neighborhood is
how walkable it is. However, as a pedestrian, I avoid crossing this large intersection, from Marquard to
Fourth Street because I feel unsafe standing on the median between fast moving traffic. Moving the
median to the other side of the street doesn’t make me feel any safer because I would still be standing
in the middle of the same fast moving traffic. All that’s needed is for one vehicle to slam into the
median and jump the curb. There needs to be a better design for pedestrian safety.
7. Future Community Meeting:
Exhibit A-2, Task 2 says Kimley-Horn will attend two (2) community meetings to answer questions.
The first meeting was 2/27/25 and the second meeting is yet to be scheduled. When do you expect this
second meeting to take place? Can you provide better notification for this meeting to include all
residents affected by this project, including property owners and occupants living on West Street,
Marquard, Fremont, Upper Fremont, Trost, West End Ave and Sentinel Court. Residents I spoke with
on West End Ave and Sentinel Court don’t seem to have been notified about the first meeting. Also,
please use larger font for the notification. The small postcard mailed for the 2/27/25 meeting contained
some very small print.
Thank you for consideration of my comments.
Sincerely,
Victoria DeWitt
San Rafael, CA
att: Drawing of 2nd & Marquard
Diagram of OBAG-3 Project Limit
photos: Marquard at Second
West at Second
Marquard / Fremont Road intersection
Car making 3-pt turn from Marquard to Fremont
West End Avenue
From: Marley Brezzo < >
Sent: Monday, May 5, 2025 1:25 PM
To: Distrib- City Clerk <city.clerk@cityofsanrafael.org>
Subject: 2nd and 4th Intersection comments from Marley Brezzo
Hello,
I have provided some alternative designs for this intersection that make improvements to
Safety And Access when compared to the current proposed design from the city.
My main concern is the intent to trap pedestrians and bicyclists in the middle of 2nd St in
the effort of West to East 2nd St Traffic. Requiring pedestrians to be stranded there makes
no improvement for safety and comfort from the current intersection and in 20 years time
the engineers and city government will view this intersection with the same concern and
confusion as to why such and investment was made here while making no improvement in
keeping people from being stuck in the middle of the road.
I have a lot to say about my personal experience with traffic safety involving bicycles. When
I was in 5th grade in the early '90's my sister was driving me home and we came across an
accident on Camden Ave in San Jose, newly installed bicycle lanes. I remember the scene
vividly, I asked my sister, "Why is there a big yellow bag on the ground?" She told me that
someone was killed, and we noticed a mangled bike stuck under the car involved. That
night we found out that the individual killed was a close family friend, Trish Buckstin, who
had been out on a family ride and was just a few hundred yards from her house. She was
riding with her husband, a good friend of my fathers, and her son, a long time friend of
mine, when an older driver experienced a medical emergency and lost control of his car.
When I was a freshman in highschool I was struck by a car while riding my bicycle to
school. I had been riding along a frontage road that was protected from the main
thoroughfare, Almaden Expressway, a road with a 45 mph speed limit. The driver was a 3rd
grade teacher on her way to work at Greystone Elementary, she was mortified that she had
struck a child. Her car catapulted me from my bike into the large post supporting the traffic
signal. Had I not hit that pole I would have been in the lanes of traffic she was attempting to
merge into and likely killed. My knee was severely injured, an injury I still deal with over 30
years later.
At the last city council meeting the Mayor made a very poor attempt at summarizing the
concerns of my community along Marquard and Fremont streets and our thoughts on this
intersection. Her words misrepresented us when she said this was an issue of
"convenience versus safety".
No other representative of this city has presented these issues as goals that are against
each other. No one has tried to wedge an issue with their dialogue to put bicycle safety
against the goals of access of my neighborhood. In order to access downtown as a
pedestrian I am required to cross 2nd street. I want this intersection to be as safe as
possible. Please revise this opinion of our concerns to reflect reality, we residents want an
intersection that provides "Safety AND Access".
My children are 6 and 9 years old. In a few years they will be using these crosswalks as they
access the world on their own. If this city requires they be stuck in the middle of second
street in favor of the efficiency of out of town traffic headed to the freeway. Or if they
choose to ride their bike along West End they will be sharing a road with drivers looking to
cut around traffic on Second St.
I will tell them, "This intersection is still unsafe, please do not cross here, or ride your bike
along this path." Much the same as my mother asked me to not ride along the frontage
roads of Almaden Expressway where I was struck by a car. Will my children also not listen
to me because it's easier or quicker to put themselves in an unsafe situation? And if
something happens, who is to blame? The minor who was using the crosswalks as
designed? When I was struck, we inquired with the city engineers about improving the
safety and visibility of the location it occured. We were told to put in a yield sign, someone
would have to die there. Is that what it will take to not strand pedestrians in the middle of
2nd St?
Almaden is now a 50mph road, will this intersection and pedestrian island be improved
some day long in the future? Or will a future city government deem that in the efforts of
vehicle efficiency and the improvements on self-driving cars allows for 2nd St to have an
increase in its speed limit to 45 mph?
This left turn is not being removed for safety, it is being removed for vehicle efficiency. And
by making it a pedestrian island with the intent to separate the crossing signals, this city is
literally leaving its citizens stuck in the middle of the road. Please revise this design.
I have provided iterations on the city's designs that I believe greatly improve the safety of
the crossings and bicycle paths. West End should be a Community Access Road only. It
should not connect to Second St in the West or East bound directions. My neighborhood
can retain access to our roads with larger vehicles for maintaining our properties as I have
brought up in past communications. These are tentable solutions I am presenting. New
signals are not being added, costs to develop should be relatively the same.
Just two years ago a light was added to East St and 2nd. The crossing there was not
deemed inefficient when it was developed. That crossing is possible in a single light cycle,
as should be the foundation of the updates to this design. If it was suitable 2 years ago, and
just 2 blocks away along the same road, what makes this intersection's function any
different?
Please consider these modifications to the design, and do not misrepresent the members
of my community and our share interest in the safety of this intersection.
Thank you,
Marley Brezzo
Below you will find my changes to the proposed design-
Ma y 5, 2025
San Rafael City Council
1400 5th Avenue
San Rafael, CA 94901
RE: City Council 2026-28 Goals & Objectives
Honorable Mayor and Council Members,
Sustainable San Rafael heartily endorses the comprehensive
greenhouse gas reduction programs included in the
Sustainability and Resilience section of your 3-year Goals and
Objectives matrix: D.1.3 Electric Vehicle Acceleration
Strategy; D.1.5 Building Electrification Roadmap; and D.1.4 SB
1383 implementation. Pursued robustly, these three
programs together could reduce San Rafael's GHG emissions
by 85%, enroute to net zero emissions in the next 20 years.
By sequestering atmospheric carbon, trees are vital to
address the remaining 15% needed to reach net zero. The
current matrix is remiss in not mentioning trees and their role
in sequestering carbon, beautifying the city, making walking
more comfortable, cleaning air, and cooling neighborhoods
from rapidly intensifying heat. We recommend that you add
the following language to your Goals and Objectives:
“Item E.3.5: Finish revision of the City’s Tree Ordinance
(Municipal Code Chapter 11.12) in accordance with General
Plan 2040 policies CDP 3.5 (Street Trees), C -1.16 (Urban
Forestry), and C-1.17 (Tree Management), and initiate work
on program CDP-3.5A (Tree Master Plan).”
The recently completed LIDAR inventory of street trees and
other public assets provides the information needed to
complete the long-overdue revision of the Tree Ordinance, as
promised by the Director of Public Works two years ago after
over a year of careful community review. It's now time to
move forward.
Thank you for your thoughtful guidance to a better future .
Sincerely,
Ben Snyder,
Co-President
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Annika Osborn, Co-President
Ben Snyder, Co-President
William Carney, Vice President
Miles Smith, Secretary
Greg Brockbank
Kay Karchevski
Kiki La Porta
Rina Lopez
Phil Muller
Marisa Nordstrom
Stuart Siegel
415.302.0110
San Rafael, CA 94901
May 5, 2025
Dear Councilmembers, Mayor Colin,
Re: Study Session on proposed 2026-2028 goals and objectives
Cc to Public Works Director April Miller, Deputy Director Jonathan Schellin;
City Manager Cristine Alilovich, San Rafael Tree Committee Members
Thank you for your thoughtful consideration of the city’s proposed 2026-2028 goals and
objectives during today’s Study Session. I look forward to being in attendance.
There is one unstated goal that is germane to four of the five goals listed: “Economic and
Neighborhood Vitality” (A), Equity, Access and Opportunity for All” (B) “Sustainability and
Resilience” (D) and “Mobility and Infrastructure” (E), and that is a comprehensive revision of
the city’s tree ordinance that would apply to street trees, urban forestry, tree management along
with the initiation of a tree master plan as recommended in the forward-thinking San General
Plan 2040.
We recommend the inclusion of:
“Item E.3.5: Complete revision of the City’s Tree Ordinance (Municipal Code Chapter 11.12) in
accordance with General Plan 2040 policies CDP 3.5 (Street Trees), C-1.16 (Urban Forestry),
and C-1.17 (Tree Management), and initiate work on program CDP-3.5A (Tree Master Plan).”
The San Rafael Tree Group, a citizens’ collaboration of environmentalists and neighborhood
leaders worked faithfully with the Director and staff of the DPW to produce mutually acceptable
revisions of the City’s tree ordinance. This was truly an engaged collaborative effort, and we ask
you to revive the proposed ordinance, honoring our status as a Tree City USA and joining the
ranks of many innovative municipalities who have overcome obstacles, creating coherent tree
policies and practices. The recently completed LIDAR inventory of street trees and other public
assets provides the information needed to complete the long-promised Tree Ordinance, as
promised by the Director of Public Works two years ago after over a year of careful community
review.
It's now time to move forward!
With great appreciation for your consideration,
Amy Likover
San Rafael Tree Group Chair
From: Amy Powers < >
Sent: Sunday, May 4, 2025 11:47 AM
To: Distrib- City Clerk <city.clerk@cityofsanrafael.org>
Subject: City Council Special meeting on Monday, 5/4, at 4:00 pm for Goals and Objectives, item B1.4
Design and construct Second Street and Fourth Street Intersection Improvements.
To the San Rafael City Council:
I am a Marquard Avenue owner and resident of 49 years. I support the preserving of the left turn lane from
Second Street to Marquard Avenue.
I am in opposition of the closing of this vital intersection. Closing this intersection will impede the many
families on Marquard Avenue, Fremont Road, Upper Fremont Drive, and Trost Road. It would be a
inconvenience for all of us residents of the area.
I don't see this as an improvement and it certainly isn't taking in to account the residents that will be
affected negatively by this so called "improvement.
Thank you,
Amy Powers
From: Chuck < >
Sent: Sunday, May 4, 2025 10:18 AM
To: Distrib- City Clerk <city.clerk@cityofsanrafael.org>
Subject: Item B1.4 Design and Construct Second Street and Fourth Street Intersection Improvements:
Regarding; Item B1.4 Design and Construct Second Street and Fourth Street
Intersection Improvements:
To the San Rafael City Council:
I am a Marquard Avenue owner and resident of 49 years who has used the left turn lane
from Second Street to Marquard Avenue / West End Avenue all my life to come and go
from our home at #24 Marquard Avenue.
I am in full opposition of the closing of this vital intersection which would impede the
many families on Marquard Avenue, Fremont Road, Upper Fremont Drive, Trost
Road and above along with the West End Avenue families who value this westbound
left-turn lane on Second Street to Marquard Avenue and West End vicinity's.
I do not look at this traffic altering idea as an improvement but as a big mistake in
analyzing what this area has and is justified as needed into the future for access to this
vital San Rafael area and community of Families.
Thank You,
Charles F. Powers lll
( , San Rafael )
From: LR < >
Sent: Sunday, May 4, 2025 6:29 PM
To: Distrib- City Clerk <city.clerk@cityofsanrafael.org>
Subject: Public Comment on Second Street and Fourth Street Intersection
Please add my public comment for the City Council Special meeting on Monday, 5/4, at
4:00 pm for Goals and Objectives, item B1.4 Design and construct Second Street and
Fourth Street Intersection Improvements.
Intersection improvements must maintain the left-turn lane on Second Street to Marquard/West
End, to allow citizens, including parents of young children and elderly people, who cannot use
bicycles for transport, to access their homes, workplaces and child care. There are 300 cars using
this left turn lane daily. IT IS POSSIBLE to make improvements for bicycle and pedestrian users
WITHOUT DESTROYING ACCESS for people trying to drive home.
Rerouting all 300 vehicles to other intersections will cause more traffic issues, accidents, and
safety risks for pedestrians at those locations. The city needs to include and respect the needs of
all the users of this intersection, including vehicles, pedestrians and bicyclists. This includes the
need to maintain reasonable access for those living on Marquard AVENUE (not Street as the new
sign says), and higher uphill on Fremont, Upper Fremont and Trost, whose only access is from
Marquard.
The proposed reroute includes a narrow one-lane road over a steep hill that is impossible to
navigate in large trucks, and would create an unsafe and unreasonable burden on the inadequate
infrastructure of this intersection to accommodate additional traffic.
The City's prior expert traffic engineer, Rafat Raie stated in 2022 that he didn't want to "land lock
Marquard" and "because of the location, this intersection needs to accommodate all vehicles,
pedestrians and bicycles". Please respect this professional opinion and the pleas of the neighbors
and keep the left turn lane off Second Street in any redesign of this intersection.
Thanks,
Elizabeth Ryan
From: Jana Zanetto < >
Sent: Sunday, May 4, 2025 11:54 AM
To: Distrib- City Clerk <city.clerk@cityofsanrafael.org>
Subject: Public Comment - 5/5/2025 Special City Council Meeting - Goals and Objectives
Dear city council members,
I would like to express my support for several projects related to the Goals and Objectives
for San Rafael transportation and safety.
With the recent passage of AB 413, I hope that the council will prioritize certain
intersections downtown for daylighting, by using red paint to keep vehicles from parking
within 20 feet of the intersection. Last year I was crossing 4th Street at C in the intersection
on a green light when I was almost sideswiped by a car.
I hope that some practices of traffic calming in the Spinnaker Point pilot, such as curb
extensions, will be replicated in other areas of the city.
I urge the council to prioritize a Vision Zero action plan to plan concrete steps to assure
safety for all residents as the move around our city.
I am grateful for your work and appreciate your consideration of my views.
Sincerely,
Jana Zanetto
Lincoln Hill
-----Original Message-----
From: Susan Nawbary < >
Sent: Saturday, May 3, 2025 5:41 PM
To: Distrib- City Clerk <city.clerk@cityofsanrafael.org>
Subject: Public Comment - 5/5/2025 Special City Council Meeting - Goals and Objectives
Dear San Rafael City Council,
Pedestrian foot traffic is critical for priority area A: Economic Development. Please compare the business
livelihood around 7pm in downtown San Rafael to Santana Row, where vehicles cannot drive all the way
through but can access either end, vehicles drivers directed more readily to parking garages, sidewalks
are wide, and most importantly the prevailing sound isn’t vehicle noise. I would argue that the worst
thing about living in San Rafael is all the vehicle noise. Additionally, too many drivers speed through 4th
Street and the cross-streets because the design and the timing of the lights allow it. You won’t be able to
slow 4th street without slowing the ingress and egress to/from 3rd street.
People hate being pedestrians in downtown San Rafael. It’s noisy, narrow, and it just feels like a drag.
That’s why people are constantly fighting for curbside parking at their destinations. The sidewalks are
too narrow for a downtown corridor, and tables and chairs pinch the path of travel to 3’, which is pretty
uncomfortable when passing a group of people.
If you want to rejuvenate downtown, you need to widen the sidewalks and daylight intersections. And
yes, you can retain the trees. In 2011, the sidewalks were widened an additional 6’ on Valencia Street in
San Francisco, and the trees are mid-sidewalk, but there is 6’ path of travel on either side of the trees. As
the trees die naturally, the alignment shifts to the curb. It is a successful design that retained canopy and
improved walkability, because trees are also traffic calming features.
You cannot science priority area A, without implementing Priority area B. If people cannot move around
safely, they will not visit.
The city of San Rafael is constantly catering to the boomers who like to drive everywhere because they
grew up in a time when traffic was low and the automobile lobby was king, but they will be gone
someday. Millennials are about to become the wealthiest generation in history due to the “great wealth
transfer” but your policies keep catering to the noisy boomers, who are retired and attend all the
meetings in person because they don’t have to work during the day. This is all to say that millennials
want walkable, bikeable cities, where their kids can play outside without worrying about speeding cars.
They don’t want to sit in traffic and fight for a parking spot, and GenZ even less so; they’re content to
order doordash and stare at their phones.
You need to make changes that appeal to the youth or suffer the same fate as the Democratic Party:
lose.
Thank you for reading my comments,
Susan Nawbary
PS: consider a vacant storefront tax on landlords who’d rather write off the rent loss than rent at a lower
price. Consider a special tax on doordash orders to disincentivize ordering out. Work with Damon
Connolly to bring a proposal to the legislature to waive or reduce the 7.25% eat-in tax.
From: Teal Collins < >
Sent: Saturday, May 3, 2025 10:56 AM
To: Distrib- City Clerk <city.clerk@cityofsanrafael.org>
Subject: Please Preserve Left Turn Lane from Second Street to Marquard/West End
Dear City Council Members,
I’m writing as a concerned resident to urge you to preserve the left turn lane from Second
Street onto Marquard Avenue, which provides essential access to the West End
neighborhood. I live on Sentinel Court and use this turn every day—it is a quick, safe, and
direct route home for me and many others in the area.
Removing this left turn would significantly increase travel time and frustration for local
residents. The proposed alternative—turning left at Greenfield Avenue—is not a viable
substitute. That intersection is already congested, the light cycle is long, and it only
accommodates about three cars in the dedicated turn lane. Overflow quickly spills into the
fast-moving traffic lane, increasing the risk of rear-end collisions and further backups.
Additionally, turning left at Greenfield forces drivers to navigate oncoming traffic while
trying to reach Miracle Mile, creating more conflict points and potential hazards. The
current Marquard turn, by contrast, has a sensor that efficiently triggers the light when a
vehicle is waiting, minimizing delays and keeping traffic flowing.
Please take these on-the-ground realities into account. Preserving the Marquard left turn is
a small action that has a big impact on daily life for local residents.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Teal Collins
, West End area, San Rafael
From: Vanessa Powers < >
Sent: Sunday, May 4, 2025 10:20 PM
To: Distrib- City Clerk <city.clerk@cityofsanrafael.org>
Subject: Item B1.4 Design and Construct Second Street and Fourth Street Intersection Improvements
To the San Rafael City Council:
I am opposed to closing this intersection because it is and has always been vital to my
daily life. I am 36 year old with a 3 year old daughter and we live in 24 Marquard unit A. I
have been a resident of Marquard Avenue since 2012 and have used this intersection
multiples times every single one of those days over the last 13 years to get home. Without it
things would be a lot more difficult. Marquard is already a tough road to navigate for people
as it is primarily one way and people need to pull over for other cars. I feel as though
closing this access to our street will make it much more difficult for people trying to make
their way home every day.
Please consider the people and families who live on these streets and realize that this
might not be an improvement at all.
Vanessa Powers
X.;
SAN RAFAEL
susiAiNAu ESanRafael.org
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Annika Osborn, Co -President
Ben Snyder, Co -President
William Carney, Vice President
Miles Smith, Secretary
Greg Brockbank
Kay Karchevski
Kiki La Porta
Rina Lopez
Phil Muller
Marisa Nordstrom
Stuart Siegel
415.302.0110
May 5, 2025
San Rafael City Council
1400 5th Avenue
San Rafael, CA 94901
RE: City Council 2026-28 Goals & Objectives
Honorable Mayor and Council Members,
Sustainable San Rafael heartily endorses the comprehensive
greenhouse gas reduction programs included in the
Sustainability and Resilience section of your 3 -year Goals and
Objectives matrix: C1.2 Electric Vehicle Acceleration Strategy;
C.1.4 Building Electrification Roadmap; and C.1.3 SB 1383
implementation. Pursued robustly, these three programs
together could reduce San Rafael's GHG emissions by 85%,
enroute to net zero emissions in the next 20 years.
By sequestering atmospheric carbon, trees are vital to
address the remaining 15% needed to reach net zero. The
current matrix is remiss in not mentioning trees and their role
in sequestering carbon, beautifying the city, making walking
more comfortable, cleaning air, and cooling neighborhoods
from rapidly intensifying heat. We recommend that you add
the following language to your Goals and Objectives:
"B.3.4: Finish revision of the City's Tree Ordinance (Municipal
Code Chapter 11.12) in accordance with General Plan 2040
policies CDP 3.5 (Street Trees), C-1.16 (Urban Forestry), and
C-1.17 (Tree Management), and initiate work on program
CDP -3.5A (Tree Master Plan)."
The recently completed LIDAR inventory of street trees and
other public assets provides the information needed to
complete the long -overdue revision of the Tree Ordinance, as
promised by the Director of Public Works two years ago after
over a year of careful community review. It's now time to
move forward.
Thank you for your thoughtful guidance to a better future.
Sincerely,
Ben Snyder,
Co -President