HomeMy WebLinkAboutGP2040 Steering Committee 2018-05-09 Agenda Packet (2)
AGENDA
SAN RAFAEL GENERAL PLAN 2040
STEERING COMMITTEE
REGULAR MEETING
WEDNESDAY, May 9, 2018, 6:00 P.M.
BIOMARIN SAN RAFAEL CONFERENCE FACILITY, 750 LINDARO STREET
SAN RAFAEL, CALIFORNIA
Sign interpreters and assistive listening devices may be requested by calling 415/485-3085 (voice) or 415/ 485-3198 (TDD) at least 72 hours in
advance. Copies of documents are available in accessible formats upon request.
Public transportation to BioMarin is available through Golden Gate Transit. Paratransit is available by callin g Whistlestop Wheels at 415/454-0964.
To allow individuals with environmental illness or multiple chemical sensitivity to attend the meeting/hearing, individuals are requested to refrain
from wearing scented products.
PURSUANT TO COMMITTEE BYLAWS ADOPTED BY THE SAN RAFAEL CITY COUNCIL ON DECEMBER 4, 2017, ALL GENERAL PLAN COMMITTEE MEETINGS
WILL END NO LATER THAN 9.00 PM.
1. WELCOME
2. RECORDING OF MEMBERS PRESENT AND ABSENT
3. ACCEPTANCE OF MEETING SUMMARY
Attachment 1: Summary of March 14, 2018 Meeting
4. PUBLIC COMMENT ON ITEMS NOT ON THE AGENDA. This portion of the meeting is reserved for
persons desiring to address the Committee on matters not on this agenda. The law does not permit
Committee action or extended discussion of any item not on the agenda except under special
circumstances. If Committee action is requested, the item may be placed on a future agenda.
5. PRESENTATION AND DISCUSSION ITEMS
A. Resilient by Design Update – Steering Committee member Jeff Rhoads will provide an update on
Resilient by Design, including the program’s objectives, timeline, and work completed to date. A
staff report for this item has not been prepared, but Committee members may visit the web link
below for additional information. Recommended time allowance: 20 minutes
http://www.resilientbayarea.org/
http://www.resilientbayarea.org/san-rafael
B. San Rafael Planning and Development Pipeline – Staff will provide an overview of currently
proposed development projects in the City, and plans that are currently underway. Questions and
comments from the Committee are encouraged. Recommended time allowance: 30 minutes
Attachment 2: General Plan 2040 Development Pipeline Report
C. Planning the Bus Tour - The Committee will be asked for feedback on sites/ issues to be covered
on the General Plan Field Trip / Bus Tour. Recommended time allowance: 10 minutes
Attachment 3: Staff Report on Bus Tour Ideas
D. Discussion of General Plan Organization and Outline - The Committee will discuss options for
organizing the General Plan. Recommended time allowance: 40 minutes
Attachment 4: Staff Report on Plan Organization
Sign interpreters and assistive listening devices may be requested by calling 415/485-3085 (voice) or 415/ 485-3198 (TDD) at least 72 hours in
advance. Copies of documents are available in accessible formats upon request.
Public transportation to BioMarin is available through Golden Gate Transit. Paratransit is available by calling Whistlestop Wheels at 415/454-0964.
To allow individuals with environmental illness or multiple chemical sensitivity to attend the meeting/hearing, individuals are requested to refrain
from wearing scented products.
PURSUANT TO COMMITTEE BYLAWS ADOPTED BY THE SAN RAFAEL CITY COUNCIL ON DECEMBER 4, 2017, ALL GENERAL PLAN COMMITTEE MEETINGS
WILL END NO LATER THAN 9.00 PM.
E. Development of Guiding Principles - The Committee will review and discuss the Draft Guiding
Principles for General Plan 2040. Recommended time allowance: 60 minutes
Attachment 5: Staff Report and Guiding Principles
6. COMMITTEE ALTERNATE COMMENTS – Any committee alternates who are present will have an
opportunity to share thoughts on the discussion items presented under Item 5. Recommended time
allowance: 10 minutes
7. GENERAL BUSINESS ITEMS
A. Next meeting
B. Staff Announcements
a. OBAG Grant for Downtown Precise Plan
C. Member Announcements
8. PUBLIC COMMENTS (1-3 minute time limit per speaker)
ADJOURNMENT
I, Anne Derrick, hereby certify that on Thursday, May 3, 2018, I posted a notice of the May 9 General Plan
2040 Steering Committee meeting on the City of San Rafael Agenda Board.
MEETING DATE: May 9, 2018
AGENDA ITEM: 3
ATTACHMENT: 1
Summary of San Rafael General Plan 2040 Steering Committee Meeting
Meeting #3 March 14, 2018
7:00-9:00 PM at 1111 Las Gallinas Avenue
Attendance
Members Present: DJ Allison, Jenny Broering, Bella Bromberg, Maribeth Bushey, Bill Carney,
Omar Carrera, Berenice Davidson, Richard Hall, Eric Holm, Linda Jackson, Margaret Johnston,
Bonnie Marmor, Stephanie Plante, Kate Powers, Pam Reaves, Jeff Rhoads, Jackie Schmidt, Roger
Smith, Sparkie Spaeth, Eric Spielman, Karen Strolia,
Members Absent: Maribeth Bushey (excused), Drew Norton (excused), Cecilia Zamora (excused)
Alternates Participating: Samantha Sargent, Jed Greene
Alternates Present in Audience: Alan Schaevitz, Amy Likover, Jeff Jones
Staff Present: Raffi Boloyan, Anne Derrick, Paul Jensen, Barry Miller
Note: Members of the public were also present at this meeting
Welcome/ Roll Call
Chair Plante called the meeting to order at 7:05 PM. Project manager Miller took roll call and reviewed
the agenda.
Public Comment on Items Not on the Agenda
A member of the Public (Bill Martino) spoke to the Committee about youth advocacy, the importance of
infusing conscience and soul into each Element of the General Plan, and the need to address infrastructure
and operational efficiency in the General Plan.
PRESENTATION AND DISCUSSION ITEMS
General Plan 2040 Work Program
Miller provided a PowerPoint presentation highlighting the major tasks in the General Plan Work
Program. Chair Plante asked for comments from the Steering Committee. The following Comments
were made (with staff comments noted in italicized text below).
Are we discussing the “Vision” prematurely? Perhaps we should give the group a chance to coalesce
first.
Response: This is intended as a preliminary discussion to flesh out ideas and revisit the 2004
Vision—we are not drafting a new vision at this meeting.
Perhaps the Committee should identify Guiding Principles before coming up with a “Vision.” How
was this handled in the last General Plan?
Response: The prior plan addressed “themes” as well a Vision—we can look at guiding principles.
Summary of General Plan 2040 Steering Committee Meeting * March 14, 2018 Page 2
The Work Program is extensive and thorough, but the climate change focus needs to shift from
mitigation to adaptation. Sea level rise, planning for the shoreline, and wildland management (fire
prevention) will be more critical in the future. With respect to transportation, we should not just look
at current conditions and travel modes, but also the future of mobility with autonomous and electric
vehicles. These new modes may change how people own and operate vehicles, which may impact
sales tax revenue, air quality, etc. Also, think about unanticipated consequences—for example, the
reduction of vehicle noise is positive, but there may be safety issues if pedestrians and bicyclists can’t
hear electric vehicles as they approach.
PM Miller mentioned that minor changes can be made to the Work Program in response to Committee
input. If there are questions we want a consultant to address, we can include them as we develop RFPs.
References to “clean energy” should be changed to “low greenhouse gas or renewable” energy
because “clean energy” is a misnomer and could include natural gas (which isn’t that clean).
The Climate Action Plan Update is focusing on mitigation, and that Plan’s Steering Committee is
assuming that the General Plan will handle issues relating to adaptation. An adaption plan should be
embedded in the General Plan; the General Plan also should include “post’ disaster recovery plans (to
improve eligibility for federal post-disaster funds).
The Community Design Element scope should include landscaping.
Will the General Plan “Vision” address the public education system?
Response: Because the General Plan is a long-range physical plan, topics such as educational
quality and curriculum are not typically covered. However, the Plan may reference ways to improve
the education system as an equity and economic development strategy. It also covers physical plant
and school facilities.
The Work Program and the makeup of the Committee itself appear to be geared toward Central San
Rafael and do not reflect the unique issues of North San Rafael, which in some ways is like a separate
city. When we consider new amenities, we must also consider fiscal impacts and make fiscally
responsible decisions to ensure that our property taxes are reasonable. It is also essential to have
“data” to back up assertions and not have policies driven by speculation or theory alone.
Outlines should be provided in Spanish as well as English. With respect to the earlier question about
educational quality, the School District has an Annual Report with test scores that addresses these
issues that can be shared.
Will Work Program Task 7.3 (Options for Potential Change Areas) include notification to large
property owners regarding opportunities for potential General Plan changes? Also, with respect to
the Health Element, there are unique issues related to youth such as school hunger and mental health
(including issues related to elevated expectations of students).
The 2020 Plan included a Neighborhoods Element, but the current work program doesn’t reference
updating it. Is the Plan to eliminate that Element?
Response: Not necessarily. We may move it to the Land Use Element, retain it as is, or create a
separate section of the plan for Sub-areas. The content will be retained regardless.
The Rock Quarry is a large area with the potential for change. We should include policy direction in
the new General Plan.
Kids with special needs (disabilities) and issues relating to depression, suicide, etc. should be
acknowledged as we talk about public health.
There was a discussion of the earlier suggestion that large landowners be apprised of the General Plan
Update and invited to suggest potential changes to their land designation. A committee member
expressed concern that this could negatively impact residents, and urged Committee members to avoid
Summary of General Plan 2040 Steering Committee Meeting * March 14, 2018 Page 3
embedding project approvals in the General Plan. Another Committee member pointed out that apprising
a property owner that a Plan update was underway was not a guarantee of a changed land use designation.
CDD Director Jensen mentioned that the process of considering planning applications is fully transparent,
and the City seeks to maximize visibility of the Plan Update and public engagement—including
landowners. Further, applications for subsequent development referenced in the General Plan still go
through a very extensive public review process afterwards, with additional opportunities for input.
The discussion of work program issues continued:
The 2020 Census will be taken after the General Plan is completed—is this a problem?
Response: Demographic data is available annually through the American Community Survey. The
Housing Element is the part of the General Plan most influenced by the Census and it will be
amended in 2022 with data from the new Census.
By 2030, 1 in 5 residents will be 65 or older. The General Plan should address the needs of an aging
population.
There needs to be collaboration among all age groups.
Freitas Parkway should be sampled in the Noise Evaluation. General Plan Maps should be improved,
with overlays used to show creeks and waterways.
The Community Services and Facilities scope should include discussion/ evaluation of “green”
purchasing policies and green maintenance and integrated pest management programs.
Marijuana dispensaries should be discussed in the General Plan; they may affect our quality of life
Can the Committee members play a role in which technical consultants are selected?
Response: We will consider inviting a Committee member to sit on the interview panel for the
selection of specific consultants.
PM Miller remarked that if any Committee Member has a question/comment about the detailed Work
Program including the Community Engagement information presented this evening they should email
him by April 2.
B. Committee Feedback on “Eight Questions”
PM Miller provided a short briefing on responses to the “Homework Assignment” from the February
meeting including recurring themes and goals from the Committee’s responses.
C. Revisiting the General Plan Vision
PM Miller asked the Committee to break into four groups. Each group was given a poster-sized copy of
the General Plan 2020 Vision. Each group also was given the Committee’s responses to two of the eight
questions discussed at the last meeting. Each group was tasked with reviewing the vision, considering the
responses to the questions and their own thoughts about its continued relevance. What is missing, what is
still on point, and what still resonates today and in the future?
A Committee member reiterated an earlier request that the Committee develop Guiding Principles in lieu
of a Vision, since the Vision reads more like a wish list. Another Committee member expressed that we
do both a “Vision” and “Guiding Principles,” as the Vision speaks to the “heart”, while Guiding
Principles are more an expression of values. The two complement each other. Other Committee
members generally agreed. PM Miller indicated that a decision should be made by the next meeting as to
whether guiding principles would be included.
Summary of General Plan 2040 Steering Committee Meeting * March 14, 2018 Page 4
After a 20-minute breakout discussion, each group was asked to report out on their evaluation. The
summary of comments is as follows:
Group 1 (Questions 1 and 2)
Question 1 - What is precious here that we don’t want to lose?
Question 2 – What is almost good that we need to make better?
Speaker from Group 1 reported that the “old” Vision did not talk in depth about
Sustainability or Climate Change—those items should be added to the “new” Vision.
Also, do we still want to call ourselves a “Mission City” given the history of the
Missionaries in California (re indigenous populations). The group felt the framework of
the 2020 Vision (referencing economy, nature, mobility, neighborhoods, etc.) still had
merit.
Group 2 (Questions 3 and 4)
Question 3 – What is terrible and needs to change?
Question 4 – What is missing?
Speaker from Group 2 reported that “Climate Change” was left out of the “old” Vision.
Also, potentially delete “cause for celebration” from the verbiage since it is not reflective
of the experience of the entire population. In addition, the group stated creeks and
shoreline access were left out and should be included. The Vision does not acknowledge
that the retail sector is threatened by the Internet. Also, the housing aspect of the vision
needs work; although the vision speaks to being an arts-supportive community, artists
can’t afford to live here and there is a serious homeless problem that is not discussed
here. In addition, the Infrastructure references need work. Traffic Congestion remains a
huge issue. There should be more emphasis on encouraging all types of transit.
Group 3 (Questions 5 and 6)
Question 5 – What is happening nearby that we should take advantage of?
Question 6 – What is happening nearby that we should be worried about?
Speaker from Group 3 indicated their group had looked at the Vision through various
lenses. One lens is Equity—this is represented in various issues such as exposure to
hazards and economic opportunity. Another lens is Innovation; the City should learn
from elsewhere and employ best practices to respond to threats and challenges. This
could mean ADUs and tiny homes, and not necessarily solutions that involve big
changes. We also should be innovative in our approach to transportation, and be seen as
pioneers. Another lens is disaster preparedness, including fire, flooding and earthquakes.
Group 4 (Question 7 and 8)
Question 7 – What do we aspire to be?
Question 8 – How do we get started?
Speaker from Group 4 referred to “significant gaps” in the GP 2020 Vision relative to
diversity, equity, climate change, and technology. These factors will impact the city’s
economy and fiscal health. The vision has to strike a balance between the rapid changes
shaping our future and innate human qualities such as our passion for authenticity and pride
in history. The group discussion had focused on equity and equal access to opportunity,
Summary of General Plan 2040 Steering Committee Meeting * March 14, 2018 Page 5
including concerns about access to quality education. The group felt the 2020 Vision
statement was nostalgic in its tone, rather than forward looking and reflective of future
challenges. It reads like a time capsule. Issues like artificial intelligence and autonomous
vehicles mean that we’ll need to focus more on retaining our humanity to balance the effects
of new technology.
A Committee member commented that it is difficult to prepare a vision for 2040 given our limited ability
to predict the future and the rapid pace of change, and that what we really should be doing is expressing
how we as a city will react and respond to change.
Comments from Alternates
PM Milled called on the alternates in the audience for their comments.
Alternate Alan Schaevitz asked:
that a mechanism be found for Alternates to participate in the meetings so that they can be better
prepared when asked to participate as members
That the website be organized to highlight or pinpoint areas of significance that the public would be
interested in. The public needs to understand why the General Plan matters.
That General Plan 2040 address areas that are not in the City jurisdiction, but affect the Planning of
the City. He mentioned the Rock Quarry specifically.
Jeff Jones mentioned that San Rafael is a designated Tree City and that should be considered when
developing GP 2040.
Comments from Public
Paul Minault indicated he was pleased to see open space listed as a high priority by Steering Committee
members, and wished to see sustained interest in protecting open space in the future.
The meeting was adjourned at 9:10 PM.
May 2018 1
North San Rafael Area – Projects Under Review
1. 3833 Redwood Highway - Pre App for 44 residential townhomes on 3R school site
2. 3773 Redwood Highway - Approved 4 story, Senior assisted living facility w/89 units on former Bruener’s/Hudson Design site
3. 1650 Los Gamos Dr (Kaiser) – Application for reuse of existing 150,000 sq ft office building for medical offices and
construction of new multi level garage
4. 1005/1010/1020/1025 Northgate Dr (Northgate Walk) - Revised application for 136 residential condominium units
1
2
3
4
5
May 2018 2
5. Northgate Mall - New owners have purchased site and exploring options. No application
Lincoln Ave Corridor – Projects Under Review
1. Fair Drive/Chula Vista Vacant Lots – Development of 18 single family homes on 28 lots. Creation of new roadway from Chula
Vista to Fair Dr
1
May 2018 3
East San Rafael Area – Projects Under Review
1. Marin Square/Gary Place – Sale of former Sutter Health property
2. Rice Drive Relocation/Display Sales Expansion – Relocation of Rice Dr for SMART & reconfiguration of parcel and expansion
of display lot
3. 1075 Francisco Blvd – No applications - Car dealership/hotel
1
2
3
May 2018 4
Downtown – Projects Under Review
May 2018 5
West End Downtown Area – Projects Under Review
21 G St – 8 new residential townhomes (Time extension)
1628 5th Ave –8 new residential units (Pre application)
2
1
Overview of Development Pipeline * May 9, 2018 1
MEETING DATE: May 9, 2018
AGENDA ITEM: 5.B
ATTACHMENT: 2
REPORT TO GENERAL PLAN 2040 STEERING COMMITTEE
Subject: Planning and Development “Pipeline”
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The May 9 meeting will include a summary of San Rafael development projects that are under
construction, approved, or under consideration. This information provides a “baseline” for discussions
about land use, transportation, housing, open space, and other General Plan topics.
REPORT
One of the major purposes of the General Plan is to direct growth and development over the next 20
years. A substantial portion of the development that will occur during this time period consists of
projects described as being in the development “pipeline.” The pipeline includes projects that are under
construction or approved but not yet started. It also includes proposed projects that are under
consideration by local authorities. Beyond this list, there are other sites where development interest
has been expressed or development opportunities are being considered by land owners. These sites are
“in play” although no specific project has been proposed.
It is important to have an awareness of these projects and sites when developing long-range plans.
Projects that under construction or approved will become part of the “baseline” and may impact land
use decisions on adjoining properties. Projects that are still conceptual will be influenced by General
Plan policies and potential new requirements relating to land use, height, density, transportation,
parking, and so on.
At the meeting on May 9, Staff will provide an overview of projects in the development pipeline. This
covers a variety of building types, including single family and multi-family housing, mixed use
development, office development, industrial uses, retail uses, and public/institutional uses.
The following pages of this staff report provide information on specific sites and projects. These include:
(a) the “Downtown Watch List,” which is a map of potential future development activity in Central San
Rafael and (b) the “Active Projects List” maintained by the Planning Department. Active projects are
those currently under review by Planning staff.
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Sites
1203 Lincoln Ave. (36 residential units; approved)
524 Mission Ave./1200 Irwin St. (15 residential units; completed and occupied)
930 Tamalpais Ave. (Whistlestop, 50 senior units & senior services, restaurant; on hold)
700 3rd St. (13,000 s.f. site/30 units no application to date)
San Rafael Corporate Center Lincoln Ave. Parking Garage (@ build out 1,558 parking spaces; completed and occupied)
San Rafael Corporate Center Lincoln Ave. Parking Garage (600 space parking garage expansion [Phase II]; approved)
San Rafael Corporate Center Lincoln Ave. (80,000 s.f. lab; constructed and occupied)
San Rafael Corporate Center Lindaro St. (72,000 s.f. office [Phase II]; approved)
Bio Marin @ PG&E - 999 3rd St. (200k office/lab [estimate by FAR], Whistlestop, 50 senior apartment units; pre-application completed)
1001 4th St. (no additional commercial sq. ft. anticipated; potential for 100+ units, no application to date)
809 B St. (41 residential units [2,000 s.f. retail]; approved)
638-640 4th St. – House of Bagels (mixed use); no application to date
703-723 3rd St. (138 residential units; pre-application and conceptual review completed)
1313 5th Ave. (Public Safety Center – 44K; approved; under construction)
1201 5th Ave. (5000K office addition, approved)
800 Tamalpais Ave. (Bettini Transit Center re-location; under review)
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San Rafael Downtown Development "Watch Area" List September 2017
Downtown Development "Watch Area"
City of San Rafael
4/2/2018
Active Projects for selected Planner (Sorted, Regardless of Dates)
Project Number
Status DateProject Name
Planner Site Address
Status
Applied DateApplicant Name
Applicant Phone Approved Date
1Page Planning Division
Raffi Boloyan
Alan Montes
Paul Jensen
Michele Ginn
485-3085
485-3095
485-3397
485-5064
485-3116
Zoning Info
Planning Fax
Caron Parker
Steve Stafford
Ali Guidice
485-3085
485-3184
485-3094
458-5048
485-3092
New street name- Loch Lomond Marina
Paul Jensen P14-017 12/10/2014
12/10/2014REFERRED
General Plan 2040
Raffi Boloyan GPA16-001 12/13/2016
3/14/2018SCHEDULED
MUP wetland seback reduction
Paul Jensen V17-009 11/10/2017
11/10/2017SCHEDULED
BCDC/ABAG Multi-Hazard Assessment
Paul Jensen P14-010 7/25/2014
7/25/2014REFERRED
Acc (2nd) Dwelling Unit Study Session
Raffi Boloyan P17-009 5/18/2017
5/24/2017SCHEDULED
Downtown Parking & Wayfinding Study
Paul Jensen P17-012 10/3/2017
10/3/2017SCHEDULED
Acc (2nd) Dwelling Unit Study Session
Raffi Boloyan ZO17-002 5/18/2017
6/12/2017SCHEDULED
New home on Lot 2
Alicia Giudice ED17-020 3/9/2017Don Henderson
(924) 254-0893 4/6/2017INCOMPLETE
Drainage channel offer of dedication
Paul Jensen P16-006 8/26/2016
8/26/2016REFERRED
New home on Lot 3
Alicia Giudice ED17-019 3/9/2017Don Henderson
(924) 254-0893 4/6/2017INCOMPLETE
New home on Lot 1
Alicia Giudice ED17-018 3/9/2017Don Henderson
(924) 254-0893 4/6/2017INCOMPLETE
New home on Lot 4
Alicia Giudice ED17-017 3/9/2017Don Henderson
(924) 254-0893 4/6/2017INCOMPLETE
New home on Lot 6
Alicia Giudice ED17-016 3/9/2017Don Henderson
(924) 254-0893 4/6/2017INCOMPLETE
New home on Lot 5
Alicia Giudice ED17-015 3/9/2017Don Henderson
(924) 254-0893 4/6/2017INCOMPLETE
Replace nonconforming fence on wall
Alicia Giudice INF17-068 10 ELDA DR 10/30/2017
3/1/2018ON HOLD
new multi-family residential bldgs
Steve Stafford LLA16-003 1010 NORTHGATE DR 4/14/2016Peter Stackpole
(925) 944-1626 5/19/2016INCOMPLETE
new multi-family residential bldgs
Steve Stafford IS16-002 1010 NORTHGATE DR 4/14/2016Peter Stackpole
(925) 944-1626 5/19/2016INCOMPLETE
new multi-family residential bldgs
Steve Stafford UP16-018 1010 NORTHGATE DR 4/14/2016Peter Stackpole
(925) 944-1626 5/19/2016INCOMPLETE
New multi-family residential bldgs
Steve Stafford ED16-038 1010 NORTHGATE DR 4/14/2016Peter Stackpole
(925) 944-1626 5/19/2016INCOMPLETE
new multi-family residential bldgs
Steve Stafford S16-001 1010 NORTHGATE DR 4/14/2016Peter Stackpole
(925) 944-1626 5/19/2016INCOMPLETE
replace and add antennas
Caron Parker ED18-019 1050 NORTHGATE DR 3/23/2018Pamela Nobel - Synergy (T-Mobile)
(707) 486-7252 3/28/2018INCOMPLETE
City of San Rafael
4/2/2018
Active Projects for selected Planner (Sorted, Regardless of Dates)
Project Number
Status DateProject Name
Planner Site Address
Status
Applied DateApplicant Name
Applicant Phone Approved Date
2Page Planning Division
Raffi Boloyan
Alan Montes
Paul Jensen
Michele Ginn
485-3085
485-3095
485-3397
485-5064
485-3116
Zoning Info
Planning Fax
Caron Parker
Steve Stafford
Ali Guidice
485-3085
485-3184
485-3094
458-5048
485-3092
Home Depot expand garden cntr
Caron Parker UP17-008 111 SHORELINE PKWY 3/10/2017Scott Mommer
(559) 978-1000 12/27/2017CONTINUED
Home Depot expand garden cntr
Caron Parker ED17-021 111 SHORELINE PKWY 3/10/2017
3/14/2018SCHEDULED
changes to ED
Steve Stafford ED17-073 1200 IRWIN ST 9/5/2017
9/13/2017SCHEDULED
large residential care facility
Steve Stafford UP17-030 1203 LINCOLN AVE 10/19/2017Geoff Forner
(415) 456-0600 3/7/2018REFERRED
Large residential care facility
Steve Stafford ED17-090 1203 LINCOLN AVE 12/21/2017Geoff Forner
(415) 456-0600 12/21/2017INCOMPLETE
Senior Assisted Living
Steve Stafford PA17-002 1203 LINCOLN AVE 6/2/2017
6/8/2017REFERRED
pool replacement
Caron Parker ED17-025 137 CANAL ST 3/30/2017Frede Usher
(415) 336-4478 7/21/2017INCOMPLETE
GPA 2040 Draft Plan
Raffi Boloyan P17-007 1400 4TH ST 4/20/2017
8/14/2017SCHEDULED
PG&E Safe Digging Month
Paul Jensen P14-004 1400 5TH AVE 3/19/2014
3/19/2014SCHEDULED
2010 Annual Progress Report GP 2020
Paul Jensen P11-004 1400 5TH AVE 2/12/2011
ON HOLD
CU Permit-motor vehicle detailing/office
Steve Stafford UP05-067 1475 2nd Street 12/8/2005Michael Trimble
(415) 596-1753 4/16/2014ON HOLD
use permit for live/work
Caron Parker UP16-050 1551 4TH ST 9/20/2016Laura Kehrlein
(415) 457-0220 12/8/2016INCOMPLETE
Upper story addition for ADU 930 sq ft
ALAN MONTES ED18-007 16 NOVA ALBION WAY 1/31/2018
3/1/2018INCOMPLETE
8-unit Residential project
Alicia Giudice CDR18-001 1628 5TH AVE 3/22/2018Scott Meyer
3/29/2018SCHEDULED
Variance for addition/remodel setbacks
Alicia Giudice V17-004 163 TERRACE AVE 4/25/2017
5/18/2017INCOMPLETE
Addition/remodel to hillside 1-story
Alicia Giudice ED17-029 163 TERRACE AVE 4/25/2017
5/18/2017INCOMPLETE
Kaiser Medical Office Conversion
Sean Kennings CDR17-006 1650 LOS GAMOS DR 8/1/2017
8/1/2017SCHEDULED
DEIR - Kaiser Medical Office Building
Sean Kennings IS17-001 1650 LOS GAMOS DR 2/21/2017
5/24/2017SCHEDULED
Pool removal/Re-landscaping
Caron Parker ED17-048 17 MERRYDALE RD 6/20/2017Michelle Davis
(415) 860-1550 7/21/2017INCOMPLETE
Rebuild Nonconforming detached rear gar
Alicia Giudice V18-001 18 BILLOU ST 1/9/2018Theodore Sorom
3/20/2018SCHEDULED
Replace (E) Canopy in Setback
Steve Stafford V18-004 1821 5TH AVE 2/15/2018Stewart Summers
153821656 3/13/2018SCHEDULED
City of San Rafael
4/2/2018
Active Projects for selected Planner (Sorted, Regardless of Dates)
Project Number
Status DateProject Name
Planner Site Address
Status
Applied DateApplicant Name
Applicant Phone Approved Date
3Page Planning Division
Raffi Boloyan
Alan Montes
Paul Jensen
Michele Ginn
485-3085
485-3095
485-3397
485-5064
485-3116
Zoning Info
Planning Fax
Caron Parker
Steve Stafford
Ali Guidice
485-3085
485-3184
485-3094
458-5048
485-3092
Replace (E) canopy in setback
Steve Stafford ED18-010 1821 5TH AVE 2/15/2018Stewart Summers
153821656 3/13/2018SCHEDULED
Tear Down and Rebuild Existing Gas Stati
ALAN MONTES ED17-054 1833 4TH ST 7/11/2017
10/12/2017INCOMPLETE
Brewery and Taproom Pond Farm Brewing
Alicia Giudice OL17-004 1848 4TH ST 7/20/2017Martens Brewing LLC
(707) 217-7539 10/17/2017ON HOLD
Large Family Daycare
Alicia Giudice UP17-032 201 LAS GALLINAS AVE 11/7/2017Claudia K. Rauda
(415) 261-7445 12/4/2017INCOMPLETE
side setback exception
Steve Stafford EX18-001 2425 5TH AVE 1/26/2018
3/7/2018INCOMPLETE
Replace retaining wall/expand garage
Caron Parker V16-003 248 LAUREL PL 5/31/2016
7/21/2017ON HOLD
Replace retaining wall/expand garage
Caron Parker ED16-059 248 LAUREL PL 5/31/2016
1/2/2018ON HOLD
front yard setback for enclosing carport
Steve Stafford V14-009 249 JEWELL ST 11/12/2014LEVINE ROBERT B
(415) 606-2350 1/16/2015SCHEDULED
Parking lot Modification
Steve Stafford ED18-022 2550 KERNER BLVD 3/28/2018Ken Hooten
(415) 282-1400 3/29/2018REFERRED
Addition of 2 units and carport
Caron Parker ED17-036 258 WOODLAND AVE 5/22/2017Jeff Greenberg
(408) 316-1015 5/24/2017INCOMPLETE
Landscape with turf
Caron Parker ED17-056 260 CANAL ST 7/12/2017Robert Gibson
(415) 310-1751 7/21/2017INCOMPLETE
340 Third Whole Foods parking mod
ALAN MONTES ED13-060 340 3RD ST 9/13/2013Christen Soares
(415) 788-6606 10/12/2016INCOMPLETE
Whole Foods Sign Program
ALAN MONTES SP13-003 340 3RD ST 9/13/2013Christen Soares
(415) 788-6606 2/27/2014INCOMPLETE
Whole Foodparking lot changes
ALAN MONTES UP13-037 340 3RD ST 9/13/2013Christen Soares
(415) 788-6606 4/8/2014INCOMPLETE
Whole Foods parking lot changes
ALAN MONTES IS13-001 340 3RD ST 9/13/2013Christen Soares
(415) 788-6606 4/15/2014ON HOLD
FAR increase and Outdoor Storage
Caron Parker ED17-033 36 MEDWAY RD 5/15/2017matt kennedy
(707) 655-0411 5/22/2017INCOMPLETE
(N) Sign Program @ Chevron
Steve Stafford SP13-001 440 3RD ST 1/10/2013Nooshin Salkhi
(415) 710-4002 4/16/2014ON HOLD
Infiniti of Marin re-design landscape
Caron Parker ED18-006 511 FRANCISCO BLVD E 1/26/2018Tracy Mitchell
(707) 689-0107 2/1/2018INCOMPLETE
New Signs for Infinity
Caron Parker SR18-005 511 FRANCISCO BLVD E 3/13/2018Steve Peterson
(650) 255-9187 3/14/2018INCOMPLETE
New 4500 SF home w/pool, 499 sf garage
Caron Parker ED17-065 61 GOLD HILL GRADE 8/3/2017Brad Hubbell
(415) 383-4311 3/23/2018SCHEDULED
(N) residential apartment building
Steve Stafford ED18-018 703 3RD ST 3/22/2018Rick Williams
(415) 974-5352 3/29/2018REFERRED
City of San Rafael
4/2/2018
Active Projects for selected Planner (Sorted, Regardless of Dates)
Project Number
Status DateProject Name
Planner Site Address
Status
Applied DateApplicant Name
Applicant Phone Approved Date
4Page Planning Division
Raffi Boloyan
Alan Montes
Paul Jensen
Michele Ginn
485-3085
485-3095
485-3397
485-5064
485-3116
Zoning Info
Planning Fax
Caron Parker
Steve Stafford
Ali Guidice
485-3085
485-3184
485-3094
458-5048
485-3092
(N) residential apartment building
Steve Stafford UP18-008 703 3RD ST 3/22/2018Rick Williams
(415) 974-5352 3/29/2018REFERRED
Time Ext. (ED17-091 & UP12-029)
Steve Stafford UP18-010 809 B ST 3/27/2018Geoff Forner
(415) 456-0600 3/29/2018SCHEDULED
Time Ext. (ED17-091 & UP12-029)
Steve Stafford ED18-020 809 B ST 3/27/2018Geoff Forner
(415) 456-0600 3/29/2018SCHEDULED
rebrand service station signs
Caron Parker SP11-007 831 FRANCISCO BLVD E 10/6/2011Bryan Dover
(818) 993-5406 10/13/2017CONTINUED
Convert office building to residential
Steve Stafford ED16-028 874 4TH ST 3/18/2016Jay Yinger
(415) 258-4550 4/14/2016INCOMPLETE
Convert office building to residential
Steve Stafford UP16-009 874 4TH ST 3/18/2016Jay Yinger
(415) 258-4550 4/14/2016INCOMPLETE
930 Tamalpais Eden/Whistlestop Project E
Raffi Boloyan IS15-001 930 TAMALPAIS AVE 3/17/2015
10/20/2015ON HOLD
930 Tamalpais Eden Housing/Whistlestop
Raffi Boloyan ED15-059 930 TAMALPAIS AVE 7/9/2015
2/22/2016ON HOLD
New 2 story house (Tent 2 Capri Ct)
ALAN MONTES ED16-082 Capri Ct 7/21/2016Xie Guan
(415) 652-3047 3/26/2018SCHEDULED
Land Development & Development Review
Raffi Boloyan P11-014 Citwide 9/8/2011
9/8/2011REFERRED
New house on a vacant lot
Alicia Giudice ED18-017 Fair Dr 3/20/2018Jared West
(925) 528-1582 3/22/2018REFERRED
GP land use map change
Paul Jensen GPA16-002 Greenwood Ave 12/14/2016
12/14/2016INCOMPLETE
Self storage warehouse
Steve Stafford UP14-004 KERNER BLVD 2/20/2014
8/5/2014INCOMPLETE
Self storage warehouse
Steve Stafford ED14-014 KERNER BLVD 2/20/2014
11/25/2015ON HOLD
Self storage warehouse
Steve Stafford IS14-001 KERNER BLVD 2/20/2014
3/23/2014INCOMPLETE
Bus Tour Planning * May 9, 2018 1
MEETING DATE: May 9, 2018
AGENDA ITEM: 5.C
ATTACHMENT: 3
REPORT TO GENERAL PLAN 2040 STEERING COMMITTEE
Subject: Bus Tour Ideas
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
A Steering Committee bus tour is being planned to visit specific locations and neighborhoods in San
Rafael that illustrate the importance of General Plan 2040. We will cover a number of logistical issues
related to the tour at the May 9 meeting. The tour itself will be in June.
REPORT
As noted in the General Plan 2040 Work Program and discussed at our first meeting, we are planning a
bus tour to highlight General Plan related issues and provide context for General Plan policies and
actions. Staff is currently planning a tour route and itinerary, but we would like the Committee to offer
their thoughts about particular places to see or issues to highlight on the tour. We’ve set aside some
time on the May 9 agenda for this purpose. If you are unable to attend the May 9 meeting, or are a
Committee alternate, we encourage you to provide ideas via email.
Below are some parameters for the discussion:
1. We know that not all 23 Steering Committee members are available on the same date. Thus, we are
likely to have the “primary” tour on a Saturday morning from 9 AM to 1 PM and a “make up” tour
on a Wednesday from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM. If you have not yet completed the doodle poll to
indicate when you’re available, please do so as soon as possible.
2. The tour is “in lieu of” our June meeting—we will not be having a regular meeting on June 13.
3. The tour is intended to be San Rafael based. In other words, this is not a tour to showcase “best
practices” projects around the Bay Area. We will focus on sites in the city and adjacent
unincorporated Planning Area.
4. The intent of this tour is more than just visiting sites where development may be proposed in the
next 20 years. The General Plan covers a wide range of issues, and one of the tour goals is to
highlight other topics such as sea level rise, historic preservation, wildfire hazards, neighborhood
improvements, noise, parks, open space management, and transportation.
5. Prior to the tour, we will prepare a workbook (or the digital equivalent) so that those on the tour
can provide personalized feedback, in addition to discussing issues as we travel.
6. We may incorporate a few (short) walking segments as well as bus segments on the tour.
We encourage Committee members to share their ideas for potential places to include on our route!
5/10/2018
1
SAN RAFAEL
GENERAL PLAN 2040
PLAN STRUCTURE
Steering Committee Presentation
May 9, 2018
Mandatory Elements
•Land Use
•Circulation
•Housing
•Open Space
•Conservation
•Safety
•Noise
•Environmental Justice (1/1/18)
5/10/2018
2
Optional Elements (San Rafael)
•Parks and Recreation
•Culture and Arts
•Air and Water Quality
•Economic Vitality
•Neighborhoods
•Community Design
•Sustainability
•Infrastructure
•Governance
Elements Grouped By Theme
Our Use of Land
Land Use
Housing
Neighborhoods
Community Design
Our Foundation
Economic Vitality
Circulation
Infrastructure
Governance
Sustainability
Our Quality of Life
Culture and Arts
Parks and Recreation
Safety
Noise
Our Natural Resources
Open Space
Conservation
Air and Water Quality
5/10/2018
3
Merge Similar Topics?
•Open Space
•Parks and Recreation
•Safety
•Noise
•Conservation
•Air and Water Quality
Elements vs “Threads”
•Sustainability
Land Use
Circulation
Housing
Community Design
Conservation
Housing
Economic Vitality
•Health
Land Use
Circulation
Housing
Conservation
Safety
Community Design
Infrastructure
•Environmental
Justice
Land Use
Circulation
Housing
Conservation
Safety
Noise
Community Design
Economic Vitality
Infrastructure
5/10/2018
4
Which Bucket?
•Energy
•Arts and Culture
•Community Design •Historic Preservation
•Sustainability
•Conservation
•Parking •Circulation
•Neighborhoods
•Downtown •Land Use
•Neighborhoods
Neighborhoods Element
•Key part of the General Plan – keep the content!
•Potential changes?
•Move citywide policies to Land Use, Circulation, Community Design,
and Economic Development?
•Retain remainder as “Neighborhoods Element” or Community Plans
•What about Downtown?
•Create “template” to help Neighborhoods shape their own
plans?
•Consistency with citywide elements
5/10/2018
5
Governance Element
•Diversity
•Community Participation
•Educational Excellence
•Support for Care Providers
•Funding for City Services
Potentially transition into an Equity Element?
State Guidance
Required by Statute
Related Topics
5/10/2018
6
Best Practices
Questions to Think About
•Any overall reactions or thoughts about Plan structure?
•Merge elements with similar topics?
•Can the Neighborhoods Element be limited to sub-area (place-
based) policies?
•Transition the “Governance Element” into an Equity Element?
•Are there elements missing? (Community Services?)
•How should the plan address cross-cutting topics?
Sustainability
Health
Environmental Justice
Technology
Education
5/10/2018
7
THANK YOU!
SAN RAFAEL GENERAL PLAN 2040
PLAN STRUCTURE
May 9, 2018
General Plan Organization Options * May 9, 2018 1
MEETING DATE: May 9, 2018
AGENDA ITEM: 5.D
ATTACHMENT: 4
REPORT TO GENERAL PLAN 2040 STEERING COMMITTEE
Subject: General Plan Organization
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
There are many different options for organizing the General Plan document, but all involve a series of
topical chapters (or “elements”) containing goals, policies, actions on issues relating to the city’s future.
General Plan 2020 (adopted 2004) included 16 separate “elements.” The simplest option would be to
carry the 16 elements forward, revising each one to ensure compliance with current state laws. Other
options should be considered, including combining some of the elements and/or adding new elements
addressing emerging priorities. This memo addresses the factors to be considered in this discussion.
REPORT
General Plan 2020 includes 16 elements, organized into four broad categories as follows:1
Our Use of Land
Land Use
Housing
Neighborhoods
Community Design
Our Foundation
Economic Vitality
Circulation
Infrastructure
Governance
Sustainability
Our Quality of Life
Culture and Arts
Parks and Recreation
Safety
Noise
1 Elements mandated by State law are in bold.
General Plan Organization Options * May 9, 2018 2
Our Natural Resources
Open Space
Conservation
Air and Water Quality
Seven of the 16 elements are considered “mandatory” under state law and nine are considered
“optional.” Once adopted, the optional elements have the same legal weight as the mandatory
elements. Many of the topics covered by the optional elements are legally required under the
Government Code but are covered in other elements in most cities (for example, air and water quality is
usually covered in the Conservation or Safety Element and parks are typically covered in the Open Space
Element).
As of January 1, 2018, cities are also required to include an Environmental Justice Element in their
general plans. This can be a freestanding chapter (like the 16 listed above), or a “thread” of policies that
appears throughout the document (on topics such as housing, transportation, and safety).
The table on the following page (excerpted from the 2017 General Plan Guidelines) shows the
relationship between different topics and the mandatory elements. The table includes topics that are
statutorily required under the Government Code and topics that are commonly included because they
are of general interest to residents and decision-makers.
Alternatives to the Current Organization
Although we are “updating” General Plan 2020 (as opposed to developing a brand new Plan), we can
still consider changes to the document’s organization. The goal of such changes should be to make the
plan easier to use and more relevant to the challenges facing the city today. In general, it is unusual to
have 16 separate elements in a General Plan; possible consolidation of some of these elements should
be considered to avoid redundancy and recognize the integration of topic areas. As an example, the City
of Sunnyvale recently consolidated its 22-element General Plan into five elements.
The present organization of General Plan 2020 results in a number of topics being addressed in more
than one place. For example, historic preservation is covered in the Community Design Element and
again in the Culture and Arts Element. Air quality is addressed in the Sustainability Element and again
in the Air and Water Quality Element. Sustainability itself is both its own Element and a guiding
principle that underpins other elements, such as Conservation and Land Use.
Table 2 provides an overview of Element headings for 10 other cities in the Bay Area that have
completed General Plan Updates in the last five years. Looking beyond the Bay Area, there are even
more “outside the box” ideas for organizing the General Plan that could be considered.
General Plan Organization Options * May 9, 2018 3
Table 1:
Relationship Between Mandatory Plan Elements and Plan Issues
Source: 2017 General Plan Guidelines
General Plan Organization Options * May 9, 2018 4
Table 2: Element Headings for Recently Completed General Plans in Bay Area Cities
NOVATO (2017)
1. Great Places (Community Character, Land Use, and
Housing)
2. Environmental Legacy (Natural Communities, Open
Space, Air and Water Quality, Climate)
3. Living Well (Parks/Rec, Noise, Health)
4. Economic Vitality
5. A City That Works (Mobility, Safety, Services,
Governance)
MILL VALLEY (2013)
1. Land Use
2. Mobility
3. Community Vitality
4. Natural Environment
5. Climate Action
6. Hazards and Public Safety
7. Noise
8. Housing
WINDSOR (2015)
1. Community Development (Design, Development
Pattern, Economic Development, Transportation,
Community Services and Facilities)
2. Housing
3. Environmental Resources (Open Space,
Conservation, Air and Water, Energy, Cultural
Resources, Scenic Resources)
4. Public Health and Safety
EAST PALO ALTO (2016)
1. Land Use and Urban Design
2. Economic Development
3. Transportation
4. Health and Equity
5. Parks, Open Space, and Conservation
6. Infrastructure, Services, and Facilities
7. Safety and Noise
8. Area Plan(s)
SAN LEANDRO (2016)
1. Land Use
2. Transportation
3. Economic Development
4. Open Space, Conservation, and Parks
5. Environmental Hazards
6. Historic Preservation and Community Design
7. Community Services and Facilities
8. Housing
HAYWARD (2014)
1. Land Use and Community Character
2. Mobility
3. Economic Development
4. Community Safety
5. Natural Resources (incl Air and Water)
6. Hazards
7. Lifelong Learning
8. Community Health and Quality of Life
9. Public Facilities and Services
10. Housing
PALO ALTO (2017)
1. Land Use and Community Design
2. Transportation
3. Housing
4. Natural Environment
5. Safety
6. Community Services and Facilities
7. Business and Economics
8. Governance
VALLEJO (2017)
1. Community and People (Health, Equity, Parks,
Governance)
2. Nature and Built Environment (Natural Resources,
Open Space, Land Use, Hazards, Waterfront)
3. Economy, Education, and Training
4. Mobility, Transportation, and Connectivity
5. Arts and Culture
FREMONT (2012)
1. Sustainability
2. Land Use
3. Mobility
4. Community Character
5. Housing
6. Economic Development
7. Conservation
8. Parks and Recreation
9. Public Facilities
10. Safety
11. Community Plans
VACAVILLE (2015)
1. Land Use
2. Transportation
3. Conservation and Open Space
4. Parks and Recreation
5. Public Facilities and Services
6. Safety
7. Noise
8. Housing
General Plan Organization Options * May 9, 2018 5
Ideas for Consideration
Below is a list of questions for consideration/ discussion by the Steering Committee:
General
1. Are there any overall issues with the current General Plan structure that Committee members feel
need to be addressed? Is there interest in moving toward more thematic headings? Does one of
the alternatives shown in Table 2 resonate more than the others?
2. Should we rethink the four overarching categories (Our Use of Land, Our Foundation, Our Quality of
Life, our Natural Resources) or do they still work?
3. How “outside the box” should we go?
Specific
1. Should we retain a separate General Plan Element for “Neighborhoods” (the alternative would be to
move the citywide content of this chapter into the Land Use Element, but still retain policies for
individual neighborhoods in a separate section of the Plan)
2. Should Sustainability continue to be a free-standing Element of the Plan, or can its policies be
distributed throughout the Plan, with sustainability serving as an overarching theme that informs
land use, transportation, conservation, and other topic areas?
3. Can the Air and Water Quality Element be combined with Safety or Conservation?
4. Can the Parks and Recreation Element be combined with Open Space? (e.g.., “Parks, Recreation, and
Open Space Element”)
5. Should we add a new Element on Environmental Justice or can we re-work the “Governance”
Element so that its principal focus is on equity and access to opportunity for all residents? (In this
instance, Governance would likely be replaced by a new “Health, Justice, and Equity Element”)
6. Can the Noise Element be combined with the Safety Element? (which would more broadly address
all environmental hazards, and include a shift in focus toward Resilience and Adaptation?)
7. How (where) should public health and education issues be addressed, if at all?
8. Can historic preservation policies be consolidated in one section of the Plan, instead of split
between Arts/Culture and Community Design?
9. Should we replace the Infrastructure Element with a “Community Services and Facilities” Element
that also addresses police, fire, schools, libraries, senior services, child care, etc.?
10. Is there a preferred way to address technology and its impacts on life in San Rafael in the future?
San Rafael 2040 General Plan Guiding Principles * May 9, 2018 1
MEETING DATE: May 9, 2018
AGENDA ITEM: 5.E
ATTACHMENT: 5
REPORT TO GENERAL PLAN 2040 STEERING COMMITTEE
Subject: Guiding Principles
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
At the March meeting, a request was made to consider “Guiding Principles” for General Plan 2040.
These would either replace or supplement the General Plan “Vision.” A set of guiding principles has
been drafted and was provided to Committee members on April 9. Additional Committee input is
requested.
REPORT
On March 8, 2018 the General Plan 2040 Steering Committee was asked to revisit the Vision Statement
in San Rafael General Plan 2020, with consideration given to how that statement might be updated. We
divided into four breakout groups, and reported out at the end. The breakout groups came to similar
conclusions about the prior Vision Statement, namely:
It should acknowledge issues associated with climate change and resilience
It should reflect the way technology is transforming the way we live, travel, shop, and work
It should more proactively address equity and income inequality
Each breakout group formed additional conclusions. One felt the Vision should focus more on
innovation, fiscal responsibility, and preparedness. Another felt it should be less nostalgic and more
focused on striking a balance technology and humanity.
A number of Committee members expressed that it would also be useful to have a set of guiding
principles for the General Plan. Guiding Principles are used in some General Plans to express the
overarching values and commitments that underpin the Plan as a whole. Whereas a Vision statement
paints an aspirational picture of what we hope the city will be like in 20 years, guiding principles are
foundational statements that express how we as a community will respond to change. In effect, they
provide a “compass” to guide the goals, policies, and actions at the heart of the General Plan.
The discussion at the prior two meetings, coupled with the written responses to the “eight questions”
about the City’s future provided a starting point for guiding principles. The Draft principles are included
on the next few pages. Committee members are asked to review this document and be prepared to
discuss it at the next meeting. To date, two Committee members have provided written comments.
Other Committee members are encouraged to do the same, either before the May 9 meeting, at the
meeting, or shortly afterwards.
W O R K I N G D R A F T F O R C O M M I T T E E R E V I E W
San Rafael 2040 General Plan Guiding Principles * May 9, 2018 2
Guiding Principles for Shaping San Rafael’s Future
1. Managed Growth. San Rafael’s role as the civic, cultural, economic, and transportation
hub of Marin County will be sustained through 2040 and beyond. Future growth will be
carefully managed and directed to protect the quality of life and fiscal health of the city.
Development should reflect the limitations of the built and natural environments,
including traffic, utilities, water supply, public services, sensitive habitats, and
susceptibility to natural hazards. Growth should occur where it will be least impactful and
disruptive, leverage available infrastructure, and provide the greatest benefit to
surrounding communities.
2. Neighborhood Conservation. Our neighborhoods are the building blocks of our city—
they create a “hometown” feel and a sense of belonging and pride that makes San Rafael
a great place to live. Reinvestment in our existing housing stock and neighborhood
commercial centers will be strongly supported. New development in our neighborhoods
should be sensitive to its surroundings and occur without compromising the services and
amenities we enjoy today. Downtown is a neighborhood too—and it should be enhanced
and strengthened as a place to live, work, shop, dine, and connect.
3. Equity. San Rafael is a diverse, inclusive city. We will work toward a future in which all
residents have access to quality housing, employment, and education. We aspire to
bridge cultural and language divides, reduce economic disparities, give voice to under-
represented populations, recognize the growing needs of our aging population, and
increase the prosperity and well-being of all households. All residents should share in the
responsibility of making San Rafael a more just and prosperous city.
4. Health and Wellness. We aspire to live well in San Rafael. We recognize the link between
land use decisions and the health and well-being of our community. San Rafael will be a
healthy city, where residents can walk and bicycle safely, enjoy beautiful parks and active
open spaces, experience a sense of security and stability, find accessible health care and
medical services, and thrive in a safe environment free of toxins and pollution.
5. Sustainability. We will tread lightly on our planet, reducing our collective carbon
footprint and respecting the limits of our natural environment. Greenhouse gas emissions
will be reduced through energy and water conservation and a continued shift towar d
renewable energy, greener buildings and businesses, alternative fuels and transportation
modes, and zero waste.
6. Resilience. San Rafael will respond to the challenges of a warming planet, including rising
sea level, increased fire hazards, and greater environmental stress. The City will become
more resilient to climate change through its land use and transportation decisions, as well
as its capital improvement and resource management strategies.
W O R K I N G D R A F T F O R C O M M I T T E E R E V I E W
San Rafael 2040 General Plan Guiding Principles * May 9, 2018 3
7. Environmental Stewardship. Open space provides a frame for our city. It is a defining
and treasured feature that must be protected and carefully managed to sustain
environmental health, reduce natural hazards, and maintain the beauty of our
community. We will work to restore and care for wetlands, creeks, and forests, recognize
the role of natural systems as green infrastructure, and protect the intrinsic value of
nature.
8. Economic Vitality. San Rafael will continue to be the economic center of Marin County.
Planning policies should sustain and support lo cal businesses, maintain a healthy and
fiscally sound tax base, and enable San Rafael residents to find most of the goods and
services they need without traveling to other cities. Economic well-being will be
improved through job training, job creation, and move-up opportunities for local
residents.
9. Innovation. We are a city of innovators, entrepreneurs, and pioneers. While technology
is transforming the way we live, and creates uncertainty about the future, we rise to the
challenge. We anticipate, adapt, and evolve as the world around us changes. We use
technology to our benefit, investing in infrastructure that makes us a “smarter city” with
more efficient, cost-effective services.
10. Design Excellence. Development should contribute to the sense of place and identity in
each San Rafael neighborhood, and elevate our reputation as a place of thoughtful, high-
quality architecture and design. Landscaping, street trees, gardens, and public space
should enhance the built environment and community aesth etics. Our design standards
should result in great buildings and places of lasting value, while enhancing the views and
natural features that define our city.
11. Education. Our education and library systems should respond to the diverse needs of the
community. Children of all ages and backgrounds should be provided with access to high -
quality public educational facilities, outstanding academic resources, and a safe,
supportive school environment. We are committed to lifelong learning and opportunit ies
for continued self-improvement and personal growth for all San Rafael residents.
12. Mobility. San Rafael will develop cost-effective, environmentally-conscious approaches to
addressing traffic congestion, traffic safety, speeding, and mobility issues. Residents
should feel safe and comfortable walking from their homes to a bus stop, school, store, or
park nearby. The City will balance the needs of cars, bicycles, pedestrians, and transit
users in the design of its transportation system, and will recognize the different mobility
needs of San Rafael residents and workers. It will embrace the potential for technology to
make traveling through the city easier, faster, more affordable, and less impactful on the
environment.
W O R K I N G D R A F T F O R C O M M I T T E E R E V I E W
San Rafael 2040 General Plan Guiding Principles * May 9, 2018 4
13. Housing Opportunity. San Rafael will create a range of housing opportunities for its
residents. Housing construction should be responsive to local needs, including the needs
of low and moderate income households, seniors, and persons with disabilities.
Affordable housing should be added in new and creative ways, including accessory
dwellings, modular units, co-housing, small multi-unit buildings, and renovation of older
apartments, as well as new multi-family construction. The City will strive to house its
unsheltered residents, and provide the supportive services needed to create housing
stability for all. Housing solutions should come from the “bottom up,” rather from the
State down, with the City determining its own destiny.
14. Legacy. San Rafael’s historic legacy will be honored and preserved. This includes greater
awareness of local Native American heritage, as well as the preservation and sensitive
restoration of historic buildings and cultural landmarks. San Rafael’s legacy as a
waterfront city also will be improved, with stronger connections to the shoreline, and
recognition of the Canal as one of the city’s most important and iconic physical features.
15. Creativity. We will celebrate and nurture the creative spirit of our community, recognizing
the power of creative thinking, art, music, performance, film, special events, and
community festivals to bring people together and create common ground.
16. Governance and Leadership. San Rafael will be a model of good government and
authentic, meaningful civic engagement. Policies and programs will be grounded in data
and reflective of fiscal realities and constraints. City staff and elected officials will be
accessible and responsive, and will act with integrity and transparency. The community
will be actively engaged in decision-making, with greater involvement of under-
represented groups, and outcomes that reflect the public’s voice.