HomeMy WebLinkAboutDRB 2021-10-19 Agenda Packet
Design Review Board
Regular Meeting
Tuesday, October 19, 2021, 7:00 P.M.
AGENDA (REVISED)
Virtual Meeting
Watch on Webinar: https://tinyurl.com/drb-2021-10-19
Telephone: (669) 900-9128
Meeting ID: 835-3174-3214#
CORONAVIRUS (COVID-19) ADVISORY NOTICE
In response to Executive Order N-29-20, the City of San Rafael will no longer offer an
in-person meeting location for the public to attend. This meeting will be held virtually
using Zoom.
How to participate in the meeting:
• Submit public comments in writing. Correspondence received by 5:00 p.m. the
Wednesday before this public hearing will be provided with the agenda materials
provided to the Board. Correspondence received after this deadline but by 5:00
p.m. the day of the hearing will be conveyed to the Board as a supplement. Send
correspondence to the project planner and city.clerk@cityofsanrafael.org
• Join the Zoom webinar and use the 'raise hand' feature to provide verbal public
comment.
• Dial-in to Zoom's telephone number using the meeting ID and provide verbal
public comment.
Any member of the public who needs accommodations should contact the City Clerk
(email city.clerk@cityofsanrafael.org or phone at 415-485-3066) who will use their best
efforts to provide reasonable accommodations to provide as much accessibility as
possible while also maintaining public safety in accordance with the City procedure for
resolving reasonable accommodation requests.
Members of the public may speak on Agenda items.
CALL TO ORDER
RECORDING OF MEMBERS PRESENT AND ABSENT
APPROVAL OR REVISION OF ORDER OF AGENDA ITEMS
PUBLIC NOTIFICATION OF MEETING PROCEDURES
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE PUBLIC
Remarks are limited to three minutes per person and may be on anything within the subject
matter jurisdiction of the body. Remarks on non-agenda items will be heard first, remarks on
agenda items will be heard at the time the item is discussed.
CONSENT CALENDAR
The Consent Calendar allows the Board to take action, without discussion, on Agenda items
for which there are no persons present who wish to speak, and no Board members who wish
to discuss.
1. Approval of the Design Review Board Meeting Minutes of October 5, 2021
Recommended Action – Approve minutes as submitted
ACTION ITEMS
2. 1580 Lincoln Avenue (San Rafael Inn)
ED21-008; EX21-011; SE21-004; UP21-003; V21-002 for demolition of a non-
operational garden center and construction of a new, four-story, 46-room boutique hotel
with 38 parking spaces, and guest amenities including a café located at the intersection
of Lincoln Ave/Grand Ave. The project is requesting Variances to reduce the minimum
front and street side setbacks, reduce the minimum landscaping requirements, and
reduce parking stall dimensions. In addition, the project requests an Exception to
exceed the maximum lot coverage, and a Sign Exception to exceed the maximum
allowable sign area; APN: 011-075-13; Multi-Family Residential (HR1) Zone; Robert
Sauvageau of RYS Architects, Inc., Applicant; 1580 Lincoln, LLC, Owner; Lincoln/San
Rafael Hill Neighborhood.
Project Planner: Krystle Rizzi, Consulting Planner Krystle Rizzi,
Krystle.Rizzi@cityofsanrafael.org
Recommended Action – Review and recommend approval of site and building design
DIRECTOR’S REPORT
COMMISSION COMMUNICATION
ADJOURNMENT
Any records relating to an agenda item, received by a majority or more of the Commission
less than 72 hours before the meeting, shall be available for inspection online. Sign Language
interpreters may be requested by calling (415) 485-3066 (voice), emailing
city.clerk@cityofsanrafael.org or using the California Telecommunications Relay Service by
dialing “711”, at least 72 hours in advance of the meeting. Copies of documents are available
in accessible formats upon request.
The Planning Commission will take up no new business after 11:00 p.m. at regularly
scheduled meetings. This shall be interpreted to mean that no agenda item or other business
will be discussed or acted upon after the agenda item under consideration at 11:00 p.m. The
Commission may suspend this rule to discuss and/or act upon any additional agenda item(s)
deemed appropriate by a unanimous vote of the members present. Appeal rights: any person
may file an appeal of the Planning Commission's action on agenda items within five business
days (normally 5:00 p.m. on the following Tuesday) and within 10 calendar days of an action
on a subdivision. An appeal letter shall be filed with the City Clerk, along with an appeal fee
of $350 (for non-applicants) or a $4,476 deposit (for applicants) made payable to the City of
San Rafael, and shall set forth the basis for appeal. There is a $50.00 additional charge for
request for continuation of an appeal by appellant.
Minutes subject to approval at the meeting of October 19, 2021
Design Review Board
Regular Meeting
Tuesday, October 5, 2021, 7:00 P.M.
MINUTES
Virtual Meeting
Watch on Webinar: https://tinyurl.com/drb-2021-10-05
Telephone: (669) 900-9128
Meeting ID: 814-0483-9089#
CORONAVIRUS (COVID-19) ADVISORY NOTICE
In response to Executive Order N-29-20, the City of San Rafael will no longer offer an
in-person meeting location for the public to attend. This meeting will be held virtually
using Zoom.
How to participate in the meeting:
• Submit public comments in writing before 4:00 p.m. the day of the meeting to
Leslie.Mendez@cityofsanrafael.org.
• Join the Zoom webinar and use the 'raise hand' feature to provide verbal public
comment.
• Dial-in to Zoom's telephone number using the meeting ID and provide verbal
public comment.
Any member of the public who needs accommodations should contact the City Clerk
(email city.clerk@cityofsanrafael.org or phone at 415-485-3066) who will use their best
efforts to provide reasonable accommodations to provide as much accessibility as
possible while also maintaining public safety in accordance with the City procedure for
resolving reasonable accommodation requests.
Present: Chair Paul
Board Member Blayney (absent at roll call, joined at 7:09 p.m.)
Board Member Kent
Board Member Kovalsky
Board Member Summers
Absent: Vice Chair Rege
Also Present: Leslie Mendez, Planning Manager
Jeff Hamilton, Contract Planner
Jayni Allsep, Contract Planner
CALL TO ORDER
Chair Paul called the meeting to order at 7:01 p.m. He then invited Planning Manager Leslie
Mendez to call the roll. All board members were present, except for Member Blayney and
Vice Chair Rege. Member Blayney joined the meeting at 7:09 p.m.
PUBLIC NOTIFICATION OF MEETING PROCEDURES
Chair Paul invited Planning Manager Leslie Mendez who informed the community that
members of the public would provide public comment either on the telephone or through
Zoom. She explained the process for community participation on the telephone and Zoom.
Chair Paul reviewed the procedures for the meeting.
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS FROM THE PUBLIC
None
CONSENT CALENDAR
Chair Paul invited public comment; however, there was none.
Member Kent moved and Member Summers seconded to approve the Minutes as submitted.
1. Approval of the Planning Commission Meeting Minutes of August 3, 2021
Approved minutes as submitted
AYES: Members: Kent, Kovalsky, Summers & Chair Paul
NOES: Members: None
ABSENT: Members: Blayney & Rege
ABSTAIN: Members: None
Motion carried 4-0
ACTION ITEMS
2. The Neighborhood at Los Gamos
General Plan Amendment GPA 20-001 (from Hillside Resource Residential to
Neighborhood Commercial Mixed Use); Zone Change ZC 20-002 (from Planned District
– Hillside Development Overlay District (PD-H) and Residential – Hillside Development
Overlay District (R2a-H) to Planned Development District (PD); Vesting Tentative Parcel
Map (to combine and adjust the boundaries of the existing parcels); and Environmental
and Design Review ED 20-058; for a mixed-use project with 192 multi-family residential
units; an approximately 5,600-square-foot market; a 5,000-square-foot community
center; and 225 at-grade and semi-subterranean parking spaces; on a 10.24 acre site
located on Los Gamos Road north of Oleander Drive; on APN 165-220-06 and 165-220-
07; Christopher Hart, Applicant and Property Owner; Mont Marin/San Rafael Park
Neighborhood.
Project Planner: Jeff Hamilton, Contract Planner
Planning Manager Leslie Mendez announced that Member Blayney joined the meeting at
7:09 p.m.
Planning Manager Leslie Mendez introduced Jeff Hamilton, Contract Planner presented the
Staff Report.
Applicant gave a presentation.
Applicant responded to questions from the Members.
Chair Paul invited public comment.
Speaker: Bill Carney, Sustainable San Rafael
Applicant responded to further questions from the Members.
Staff responded to questions from the Members.
Members provided comments.
Member Summers moved to recommend approval of this project subject to applicant
working with staff on consensus items prior to Planning Commission and return to the
Design Review Board upon submitting for a building permit for the Board to review the
consensus items as detailed by staff.
Discussion regarding consensus items.
Planning Manager Leslie Mendez summarized the Members’ consensus items:
• Nice project
• Buildings are tall, but can be mitigated with darker tones and horizontal materials
• Trees should be not uniform but clustered, and more natural spacing
• Concern over shading of common area
• Concern of height over ridgeway
• Step back or vegetation for grading
Chair Paul asks Board for further discussion on consensus items.
Member Kent seconded motion.
Further discussion regarding consensus items.
The Board agrees on the following consensus items:
• Mitigate the appearance of building height with darker color palette consistent with Hillside
Design Guidelines and horizontal elements to break of visual appearance of massing
• Trees should be not planted in a uniform row but clustered with more natural spacing
to the extent practicable for available planting area
• Mitigate impact the 10’ – 16’ tall retaining walls with step backs or other applications
such as texture/colors/materials/or vegetation
AYES: Members: Blayney, Kent, Kovalsky, Summers & Chair Paul
NOES: Members: None
ABSENT: Members: Rege
ABSTAIN: Members: None
Motion carried 5-0
3. 326 and 308 Mission Avenue (Aldersly Retirement Community)
Request for Environmental and Design Review for a phased redevelopment of the
Aldersly Retirement Community, including demolition and renovation of existing
buildings and construction of new buildings; APN: 014-054-31 and -32; Planned
Development (PD-1775) Zoning District; Peter Schakow, Owner; Peter Lin,
Greenbriar Development, Applicant; File No(s).: ED 20-051, ZC20-001 and UP20-
022.
Project Planner: Jayni Allsep, Contract Planner
Member Summers recused himself from this item, as Aldersly is a former client of his. He
left the meeting at approximately 9:00 p.m.
Planning Manager Leslie Mendez introduced Jayni Allsep, Contract Planner who presented
the Staff Report.
Staff responded to questions from the Members.
Applicant Team gave a presentation.
Applicant Team responded to questions from the Members.
Chair Paul invited public comment; however, there was none.
Members provided comments.
Consensus items:
• Find ways to reduce imposing façade of building along Mission Street through
architectural step backs, other features or an increased setback.
• Make an effort to reduce bioswales along Mission to allow increased tree screening of
buildings and parking.
Member Kent moved and Member Kovalsky seconded to continue this project to allow the
Applicant to address the consensus items as outlined by staff.
AYES: Members: Blayney, Kent, Kovalsky, & Chair Paul
NOES: Members: None
ABSENT: Members: Rege & Summers
ABSTAIN: Members: None
Motion carried 4-0
DIRECTOR’S REPORT
Planning Manager reported on the following items:
• City Council accepted comments on the San Rafael Transit Center Draft Environmental
Impact Report (DEIR).
• Caltrans closure of the San Rafael off-ramp as part of the Grand Avenue bridge project
from Friday, October 22 at 10 p.m. through Monday, October 25 at 5 a.m.
• Housing Element Community Meeting is expected to be held on Wednesday, October 27.
Notices to go out soon.
PLANNING MANAGER’S REPORT
Planning Manager reported on the following item:
• Marin Water Ordinance 453 - Adopted on July 20, 2021 and states new water service
connections are prohibited from using potable water for the installation of any new
landscaping until after the termination of the current water shortage emergency.
Landscaping shall include fountains and ponds. Staff to email the DRB members the
PowerPoint from Marin Water.
COMMISSION COMMUNICATION
Chair Paul had questions regarding hefty elevation rise for 326 and 308 Mission Avenue.
Staff to look into this matter further.
ADJOURNMENT
Chair Paul adjourned the meeting at 10:13 p.m.
___________________________
LINDSAY LARA, City Clerk
APPROVED THIS _____DAY OF____________, 2021
_____________________________________
LARRY PAUL, Chair
Community Development Department – Planning Division
Meeting Date: October 19, 2021
Case Numbers: ED21-008; EX21-011; SE21-004;
UP21-003; V21-002
Project Planner: Krystle Rizzi, Consulting Planner
Agenda Item: 2
REPORT TO DESIGN REVIEW BOARD
SUBJECT: 1580 Lincoln Avenue (San Rafael Inn) – ED21-008; EX21-011; SE21-004; UP21-003;
V21-002 for demolition of a non-operational garden center and construction of a new, four-
story, 46-room boutique hotel with 38 parking spaces, and guest amenities including a
café located at the intersection of Lincoln Ave/Grand Ave. The project is requesting
Variances to reduce the minimum front and street side setbacks, reduce the minimum
landscaping requirements, and reduce parking stall dimensions. In addition, the project
requests an Exception to exceed the maximum lot coverage, and a Sign Exception to
exceed the maximum allowable sign area; APN: 011-075-13; Multi-Family Residential
(HR1) Zone; Robert Sauvageau of RYS Architects, Inc., Applicant; 1580 Lincoln, LLC,
Owner; Lincoln/San Rafael Hill Neighborhood.
SUMMARY
The project is being referred to the Design Review Board as it proposes demolition of an existing garden
center and construction of a new hotel, which is defined as a major physical improvement under San
Rafael Municipal Code (SRMC) Section 14.25.040. As provided therein, major physical improvements
require Board recommendation to the Planning Commission, who is the ultimate decision-making body
for the project. Based on the project’s consistency with applicable design criteria, development standards,
and findings, which are discussed in detail below, staff believes that the project is consistent with
applicable design guidelines and requests that the Board review this report and provide a
recommendation on the project’s compliance to the Planning Commission. Specifically, the Board should
consider whether the comments provided to the applicant during the Conceptual Design Review meeting
on November 17, 2020, have been adequately addressed to ensure the project design is appropriate
given the proposed use and setting. In providing a recommendation, the Board should consider whether
to impose conditions on the project to further ensure consistency with the adopted design standards.
REQUESTED ENTITLEMENTS
The proposed project is subject to review and approval of the entitlements described below. In
considering the proposed project, the Design Review Board (DRB) should focus on providing design-
related comments and recommendations to the Planning Commission, and in particular should provide
recommendations on the requested Environmental and Design Review Permit, Exception to exceed the
maximum allowable lot coverage, Major Sign Exception, and the requested Variances for a reduction in
the front and street side setbacks as well as the reduction to the required landscaping. Consistent with
Section 14.02.020(J), where a single development project seeks multiple approvals, the highest decision-
making body, in this case the Planning Commission, shall review and approve, conditionally approve, or
deny the requested entitlements.
• Environmental and Design Review (ED21-008). Chapter 14.25 (Environmental and Design
Review Permits) of the San Rafael Municipal Code (SRMC) sets forth regulations for types of
development activities subject to environmental and design review within the City of San Rafael.
As specified in Section 14.25.040, new construction is classified as a Major Physical
Improvement, which is subject to review and approval by the City’s Planning Commission. As
detailed in Section 14.25.070, the Design Review Board (DRB) is responsible for reviewing and
providing recommendations to the Planning Commission on all major physical improvements. The
project proposes new construction and as such is defined as a major physical improvement
subject to review by the DRB and approval by the Planning Commission.
• Exception (EX21-011). As specified in Section 14.24.020(C) of the SRMC, an exception to the
maximum allowable lot coverage may be granted by the Planning Director for projects where such
increases are necessary for significantly improved site planning or architectural design, creation
or maintenance of views, or where such increase will facilitate highly desirable features or
amenities and will not unreasonably affect abutting sites. This section applies to properties located
within any residential district and allows an increase in lot coverage up to ten percent. As
proposed, the project exceeds the maximum allowable lot coverage by two percent and is
therefore subject to review and approval of an exception. As stated previously, since other project
entitlements require Planning Commission approval, the request for an exception is also subject
to review by the Planning Commission.
• Major Sign Exception (SE21-004). Section 14.19.045 of the SRMC provides for exceptions to
the established sign size, placement, type, number, design, and illumination set forth in Chapter
14.19 (Signs). As further detailed therein, a major exception applies to requests which deviate
from the standard or provisions for sign size and height by more than twenty percent. The project
proposes deviations from the allowed number of signs in excess of 20% and as such is requesting
approval of a Major Sign Exception. As noted in Section 14.19.043, the Planning Commission has
the authority to approve, conditionally approve, or deny applications for a major sign exception,
with the Design Review Board serving as an advisory body.
• Use Permit (UP 21-003). Section 14.04.020 of the SRMC sets forth land use regulations for the
City’s residentially zoned districts, including the HR1 district in which the site is located. As shown
in Table 14.04.020, hotels and motels are listed as “C”, which indicates the requirement for a
conditional use permit. As detailed in section 14.22.020, the Planning Commission shall approve,
conditionally approve, or deny applications for conditional use permits identified in the Land Use
Tables as C use permits. The project proposes construction of a new hotel and as such requires
approval of a conditional use permit.
• Variance (V21-002). Chapter 14.23 (Variances) of the SRMC provides for flexibility from the strict
application of development standards when special circumstances pertaining to the land such as
size, shape, topography, or location deprives such property of privileges enjoyed by other
properties in the vicinity and in the same zoning district. The project requires granting of Variances
as the project proposes to encroach into the minimum required front (Grand Avenue) and street
side (Lincoln Avenue) yard setbacks, reduce the minimum landscaping requirement, and reduce
parking stall dimensions. As noted in Section 14.23.020, when a project is subject to approval at
a higher level than the Zoning Administrator, the Variance application is also subject to approval
by the Planning Commission.
PROPERTY FACTS
The following tables provide an overview of General Plan and Zoning designations for the project site
and immediately surrounding area as well as existing developed land uses. In addition, this section
provides an overview of the project’s compliance with applicable development standards set forth in Table
14.04.040 of the San Rafael Municipal Code.
Table 1: Designations and Existing Uses
Location General Plan Designation Zoning Designation Existing Land-Use
Project Site: HDR HR1 Garden Center (Closed)
North: HDR HR1 Villa Inn (Motel)
South: HDR /MDR HR1 / DR Fourplex Apartment
East: HDR / MDR HR1 / DR Offices/Single-Family Residence
West: HDR HR1 Condominiums
HDR = High Density Residential; MDR = Medium Density Residential; HR1 = Multifamily Residential Districts: High-Density; DR = Duplex
Residential
Table 2: Development Standards Summary
Development Standard Required/Permitted Proposed Consistent
Lot Requirements
Minimum lot area 6,000 s.f. 17,768 s.f. (no change) Yes
Minimum lot width 60 feet 45 – 100 feet (no change) Yes
Minimum Yards
Front 15 feet 2-feet 8 ¼-inches Variance Requested
Side 3 feet (min)
5 feet (max)
4-feet Yes
Side (Street) 10 feet 3-feet Variance Requested
Rear 5 feet 5-feet 1 ⅝-inches Yes
Maximum Height 54 feet 44-feet 9-inches
54-feet 9-inches to tower
Yes*
Maximum Lot Coverage 60%
(11,035 s.f.)
62%
(13,343 s.f.)
Exception Requested
Minimum Landscaping 50% of front/street side
(2,027 s.f.)
48% of front/street side
(1,944 s.f.)
Variance Requested
Parking (Vehicular) 1/sleeping room (46)
1/hotel manager (01)
1/2 employees (03)
38 Yes**
Parking (Bicycle) 5% of required auto parking 2 short-term
4 long-term
Yes**
Signs 2 signs/site
25 square feet
4 signs
91.5 square feet
Sign Exception Requested
* Architectural features such as towers may exceed the height limit pursuant to SRMC Section 14.16.120. Building height is
measured from an established exterior finished grade elevation to top of roof deck of a flat roof building.
** Pursuant to SRMC Section 14.18.040, a parking study is required for hotel uses with an on-site restaurant, meeting, or banquet
facility, and the required amount of parking for the project is determined through the parking study.
BACKGROUND
Site Description & Setting:
The project site is located between
Highway 101 to the east and
Lincoln Avenue to the west at the
southeast corner of Lincoln
Avenue/Grand Avenue on a
reverse flag lot (Figure 1). The lot
also has approximately 45-feet of
frontage on Brookdale Avenue and
is approximately 17,768 square
feet, featuring a generally flat
topography with an average
northwest to southeast cross slope
of eight percent. The site is
currently developed with an
approximately 930-square-foot
commercial retail building and
outdoor product sales area,
formerly the Sloat Garden Center,
which is no longer operational and
will be demolished as part of the project. The site also contains ancillary improvements including two
Figure 1: Project Vicinity
outbuildings, concrete walkways, and wood decks, all of which will be removed to accommodate the
proposed project. The site is currently developed with a small parking lot, which is accessed from an
existing driveway along Grand Avenue.
Surrounding uses include multifamily residences to the west and south, offices in converted single-family
residential structures to the east, and the Villa Inn motel, which is located north of the site, across Grand
Avenue. The offices located at 1811 and 1817 Grand Avenue, as well as the single-family residence
located at 1601 Lincoln Avenue that were constructed circa 1908 are recognized by the City of San Rafael
as historical resources (see Figure 1). As such, Brunzell Historical prepared a report to evaluate potential
impacts of the proposed project to these historic resources 1. Also located within proximity of the project
site is the Sonoma Marin Area Rail Transit (SMART) right of way, located east of the site and running
parallel with Highway 101.
History:
The project previously received Conceptual Design Review (CDR20-007) by the Board on November 17,
2020, consistent with SRMC Section 14.25.030(B) which requires conceptual review by the Board for
developments subject to Major Environmental and Design Review. The Board provided the following
comments to the applicant at the November 2020 meeting. Each Board recommendation is shown in
bold, followed by a brief discussion of how the applicant has addressed these comments.
1. Applicant is encouraged to create a better sense of entry to the hotel lobby along Grand
Avenue. Added glazing to the Lincoln Avenue elevation, added awnings to Lincoln and Grand
Avenue elevations, and rotated the elevator tower parallel to Lincoln Avenue to open the hotel
entry vestibule (see Sheet A9 of Exhibit 1a).
2. Applicant is encouraged to provide equal attention of design details to all facades,
particularly along the southeast portion of the upper floors. Added niche elements and
architectural detailing to the first floor, did not incorporate glazed openings to address neighbor
privacy concerns (see Sheet A10 of Exhibit 1a).
3. Applicant is encouraged to explore presenting the project as a 3D model , including the
immediate adjacent development. Model views provided (see Sheets A13, A14, A15, and A17
of Exhibit 1a).
4. Provide preliminary civil drawings (grading, stormwater drainage), a shade study and
photometric study with the formal project submittal. Preliminary Grading and Drainage Plan
provided (see Sheet C2.0 of Exhibit 1b).
5. Provide calculations (in square feet) on the amount of overall site landscaping,
landscaping required and landscaping provided off-site. Applicant provided landscape area
calculations demonstrating that the project will landscape 48% of the front and street side setback
area, which is slightly less than the 50% required. Additional landscaping provided within the
public right-of-way and on the interior portion of the lot (see Exhibit 2).
6. Synthetic turf should be proposed in lieu of natural grass turf. Plans have been modified to
incorporate synthetic turf instead of natural lawn (see Sheet L0.1 of Exhibit 1c).
7. Applicant is encouraged to explore utilizing permeable pavers as much a practical to meet
the project’s stormwater treatment requirements and re-evaluate the proposed plant
palette for compatibility with bioretention areas. The plant list specified for the biofiltration
planters has been selected based on Appendix E of the BASMAA Post-Construction Manual –
Design Guidance for Stormwater Treatment and Control for Project in Marin, Sonoma, Napa, and
Solano Counties.
1 https://www.cityofsanrafael.org/sanrafael-inn/
General Plan and Zoning Designations
The project site has a General Plan Land Use of High Density Residential (HDR) which is the highest
density category applied to residential areas, allowing up to 43.6 dwelling units per net acre. The
corresponding Zoning Designation for the site is Multifamily Residential: High-Density (HR1), which
provides opportunities for high-density multifamily residential developments and conditionally permits
office, commercial, and visitor accommodation uses, such as the proposed hotel.
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
Site Plan
The project proposes to demolish the existing, approximately 930 square foot garden center building,
outbuildings, and associated site improvements and construct a new, 46-room, four-story hotel with a
13,343 square foot building footprint and 44,485 square foot floor area. The project would also install
1,844 square feet of landscaping, 1,739 square feet of hardscape areas, and 842 square feet of paved
surfaces including sidewalk, curb, and driveway areas. In addition, the project proposes improvements
within the public right-of-way along Grand Avenue including 625 square feet of landscaping and
approximately 2,000 square feet of paved surfaces to accommodate sidewalk, curbs, and the driveway
(see Sheet A8 of Exhibit 1a for lot coverage diagram). Given the unique shape of the lot, there are six
property lines from which the structure is measured to determine compliance with applicable setbacks
including one front, two rear, two east side, and one west side. Setbacks from the rear and east side
property lines are described as “flag” or “pole” to indicate the location on the lot, as shown in Figure 2.
As proposed, the structure is located 2-feet 8 ¼-inches from the front property line, 5-feet 1 ⅝-inches
from the rear (flag) property line, 22-feet from the rear (pole) property line, 5-feet from the east side (flag)
property line, 4-feet from the east side (pole) property line, and 3-feet from the west side property line.
The building has an overall height of 54-feet 9-inches as measured to the stair/elevator tower located at
the southwest corner of the lot.
Figure 2: Proposed Site Plan
Floor Plan
The proposed hotel has a total floor area of 44,485 square feet inclusive of the first floor (13,343 square
feet), second floor (10,852 square feet), third floor (10,256 square feet), and fourth floor (10,034 square
feet). The first floor has the largest floor plate and consists of the proposed 38-car parking area, refuse
enclosure, lobby, café, restrooms, secure parking for up to four bicycles, employee break room, laundry
area, storage, and mechanical/electrical rooms. The second floor consists of a boardroom and fitness
room, 14 guest rooms, an employee office, linen storage area, and mechanical/electrical room. The third
and fourth floors consist of 15 and 17 guest rooms, respectively, as well as employee offices, storage,
and mechanical/electrical rooms.
Architecture, Colors, and Materials
The project features a Mediterranean/Spanish Colonial Revival architectural style with predominant
design features including stone base and cap, ground-floor brick façade, second floor metal railings,
arched entries and windows, decorative arched wall niches, decorative wall brackets and sconces, and
a metal tile roof. Proposed colors and materials include cement plaster in four shades of brown, brown/red
brick veneer, bronze aluminum windows, and terra cotta-style metal roof tiles. As proposed, the project
is consistent with Section 14.16.227, which states that colors and materials, shall be designed to avoid
creating undue off-site light and glare impacts.
Access and Circulation
Vehicular access to the site would be provided via Grand Avenue and would use the existing,
approximately 30-foot wide driveway, which provides access to two uncovered parking spaces, the
passenger loading zone, and the covered parking area, which is located on the first floor of the proposed
building as shown in Figure 2 above. From the covered parking area, access to the main portion of the
first floor is provided via one set of interior swinging doors near the ADA parking stalls, and one interior
swinging door at the southwest portion of the parking area. Bicycle and pedestrian access to the site is
provided via existing and proposed facilities, including short-term bicycle parking on Lincoln Avenue, and
long-term bicycle parking on the interior portion of the first floor. Access throughout the site is provided
via interior and exterior stairs and an elevator.
Landscaping, Lighting, and Fencing
The project proposes landscaping along the north, south, and west portions of the project site including
landscaping within the Grand Avenue and Lincoln Avenue public right-of-way. In total, the project will
provide 3,293 square feet of landscaping including 1,944 square feet within the front and street side yard
setback area, 884 square feet within the public right-of-way, and 465 square feet within the interior
portions of the lot. Proposed plantings include six 15-gallon trees along the Lincoln Avenue frontage, six
24-inch box trees along the Brookdale Avenue and Grand Avenue frontages, shrubs and groundcovers
along the front and west sides of the proposed structure and within the outdoor pet area at the southern
portion of the lot, and containers with accent plantings on the second level patio. In addition to traditional
landscaping, the project also proposes two bioretention areas which are intended to treat stormwater
onsite including one, 206-square-foot planter along the western building façade and one, 57-square-foot
planter within the pet area at the southern portion of the project site. As shown on the Conceptual
Landscape Plan (Sheet L0.1 of Exhibit 1c), the project also includes brick accent paving at the primary
building entrance at the intersection of Lincoln Ave/Grand Ave, as well as in line with the tree wells along
Lincoln Avenue.
Lighting along the Grand Avenue elevation includes two single-head LED pole lights, one double-head
LED pole light, two wall sconces at the building entrance, LEDs integrated into the metal awning, and
LEDs integrated into the second-floor balcony railing. Lighting along the Lincoln Avenue frontage includes
seven wall sconces, 21 LEDs integrated into the railing at the outdoor café patio, and three in-grade LED
accent fixtures. Lighting at the outdoor pet area includes 13 LED recessed wall lights, two LED ceiling
surface mounted lights, two wall mounted sconces, and LED bollards. Lighting along the Brookdale
Elevation includes five LEDs integrated into the second-floor railing. As proposed, the project
incorporates lighting that is designed to conceal light sources from view off-site and avoid spillover onto
adjacent properties, consistent with Section 14.16.227 of the SRMC.
Proposed fencing is minimal and includes retention of the existing property line fence located along the
flag portion of the eastern property line, and a new, approximately 6-foot wood fence with stone veneer
columns along the pole portion of the eastern property line. In addition, an approximately 10-foot privacy
wall around the perimeter of the outdoor patio.
Signage
The project proposes four sigs including two, approximately 32-square-foot blade signs at the north and
west elevations, an approximately 1.5 square foot identification plaque at the west elevation, and an
approximately 26 square foot window sign at the west elevation. As proposed, signage for the project
exceeds the maximum number and square footage allowed by Chapter 14.19 (Signs) of the SRMC. As
such, the project is requesting a Major Sign Exception, which is further discussed in the analysis section
below.
Grading/Drainage
As proposed, the project includes grading throughout the site and within the public right-of-way. As
indicated on Sheet C2.0 of Exhibit 1b, the project will result in 853 cubic yards of cut, and 906 cubic yards
of fill, resulting in a net import of 53 cubic yards.
ANALYSIS
Staff is seeking feedback and recommendations from the DRB on the following design-related standards
of review. . A complete analysis of both design and non-design related standards of review will be
included in staff’s report to the Planning Commission:
• San Rafael General Plan 2040
• San Rafael Design Guidelines
• San Rafael Municipal Code
o Division IV, Chapter 14.19 (Signs)
o Division V, Chapter 14.23 (Variances)
o Division V, Chapter 14.24 (Exceptions)
General Plan 2040 Consistency:
The project is consistent with the applicable design-related General Plan policies listed below. An
analysis of the project’s consistency with all applicable General Plan policies will be included in staff’s
report to the Planning Commission, which will be scheduled for a later date pending the Board issuing a
recommendation on the project
Policy CDP-3.3: Use landscape design in public rights-of-way to soften the built environment,
showcase San Rafael’s natural environment, and advance City goals related to walkability, climate
change, conservation, and hazard reduction. Landscaping should control heat build-up from
pavement, provide shade, reduce air pollution, and improve visual quality.
The project proposes landscaping along Lincoln Avenue and Grand Avenue within the public right-
of-way. Landscaping includes street trees along Lincoln Avenue as well as between the sidewalk and
the building, which softens the overall appearance, reduces the perceived mass, and provides an
enjoyable, walkable pedestrian experience. In addition, the proposed landscaping provides shade
along Lincoln Avenue and Grand Avenue and improves the overall visual quality of the project. As
such, the project is consistent with General Plan policy CDP-3.3.
Policy CDP-4.1: Use design guidelines and standards to strengthen the visual and functional
qualities of San Rafael’s neighborhoods, districts, and centers. Guidelines and standards should
ensure that new construction, additions, and alterations are compatible with the surrounding
neighborhoods while still allowing for innovative, affordable design.
Policy CDP-4.3: Encourage creative architecture while respecting the context of each site.
Policy CDP-4.7: Design larger scale buildings to reduce their perceived mass. Encourage the
incorporation of architectural elements such as towers, arcades, courtyards, and awnings to create
visual interest, provide protection from the elements, and enhance orientation.
Policy CDP-4.8: Require sensitive scale and height transitions between larger and smaller
structures. In areas where taller buildings are allowed, they should be designed to minimize shadows,
loss of privacy, and dramatic contrasts with adjacent low-scale structures. Exceptions may be made
where taller buildings are also permitted on the adjoining site.
The proposed project is in a transitional area where several types of uses currently exist including
single- and multi-family residences, offices, and other visitor accommodations, including the Villa Inn,
located north of the site across Grand Avenue. The project is also located near high volume traffic
roadways including Highway 101 and Lincoln Avenue, the latter which is identified as a minor arterial
in the City’s General Plan, carrying between 10,000 and 20,000 vehicles per day. The building is
designed to step back as it increases in height, reducing the overall bulk and mass, and providing a
design that is compatible with surrounding residential uses. Though the building is substantially taller
than surrounding structures, it is in an area where such design and use is appropriate given the
transitional context and existing transportation network and is approximately 9-feet lower than the 54-
foot height permissible in the General Plan. The proposed structure provides visual articulation and
enhances the buildings orientation toward Lincoln Avenue using design elements such as accent
paving, ground-floor brick façade, second-floor patio with metal railings, arched entries and windows,
metal awnings above the main lobby entrance, elevator tower, decorative wall elements, and an
outdoor café patio which will activate the space between the hotel and Lincoln Avenue. Furthermore,
as shown on Sheet A13 of Exhibit 1a, though the new building will increase shadowing on adjacent
properties during the 3 p.m. winter solstice, impacts will be marginal as existing buildings and
vegetation also shade nearby structures. Lastly, the proposed building has minimized windows along
the eastern “pole” portion of the property to reduce privacy impacts of the adjacent residential uses
on Brookdale Avenue. As such, the project has been designed consistent with General Plan policies
CDP-4.1, -4.3, -4.7, and -4.8. Policy CDP-4.9: Encourage parking and circulation design that
supports pedestrian movement and ensures the safety of all travelers, including locating parking to
the side or rear of buildings, limiting driveway cuts and widths, and minimizing large expanses of
pavement. Parking should be screened from the street by landscaping and should provide easy
access to building entrances.
Proposed parking is located within the interior portion of the first floor, effectively screening parking
and eliminating interaction between vehicular traffic and pedestrians accessing the site. In addition,
the project will utilize the existing driveway cub cut along Grand Avenue and will not result in new,
large expanses of pavement. Lastly, the two uncovered parking spaces located within the public right-
of-way along Grand Avenue are screened by proposed landscaping along the eastern property line.
As such, the project is consistent with General Plan policy CDP-4.9.
Policy CDP-4.11: Encourage lighting for safety and security while preventing excessive light spillover
and glare. Lighting should complement building and landscape design.
In general, proposed lighting is consistent with the City’s regulations which specify that lighting shall
be shielded to conceal light sources from view off-site, avoid spillover onto adjacent properties, and
shall be of minimum intensity to provide a sense of security. Section 14.16.227 of the SRMC specifies
that the foot-candle intensity should fall below one at the property lines. Though first floor lighting
along the eastern “pole” portion of the property will exceed the lighting intensity identified in the
SRMC, this portion of the project includes a six-foot fence which will shield light from spilling over
onto adjacent properties, and as such the project complies with this requirement. Furthermore,
proposed lighting is complementary to the building and landscape design, and as conditioned will
comply with the City’s standards. As such, the project is consistent with General Plan policy CDP-
4.11.
San Rafael Design Guidelines for Non-Residential Development:
In general, the project is consistent with and incorporates design recommendations and guidelines
contained in the City’s Design Guidelines for non-residential development. A bulleted list of applicable
design guidelines is included under each subheading below, followed by a brief analysis of the project’s
consistency with each design area (e.g. parking lots, landscaping, etc.).
Parking Lots:
• A logical sequence of entry and arrival as part of the site’s design should be provided; On
major arterials, where possible and appropriate, consolidate curb cuts and reduce entry
and exit conflicts. The parking area for the proposed project will utilize the existing curb cut
along Grand Avenue, providing a logical entry to the site and avoiding additional curb cuts along
Lincoln Avenue, which is identified as a minor arterial in the City’s General Plan.
• Where possible, design entrances from the street to direct views towards the building
entry; Parking should be distributed to provide easy access to building entrances. The
vehicular entrance from Grand Avenue is immediately adjacent to the building entry and
convenient access to the front lobby and reception area is provided within the parking area.
• Design for adequate vehicle maneuverability in parking areas. Vehicles should not back
out from a parking space onto the street. The parking facility design has been reviewed by the
City’s Department of Public Works to ensure that adequate vehicle maneuverability is provided,
and vehicles are not required to back out onto the adjacent public right-of-way.
• Parking areas should be screened from the street with hedges, walls, fences, or berms,
subject to security considerations. The main parking is in an enclosed area and as such is
screened from view. In addition, the two parking spaces within the public right-of-way at the front
portion of the property are screened by proposed landscaping along the eastern property line.
• Auto and pedestrian entrances into the development should be easy to find. For example,
special entry treatments, such as colored concrete, special planting and signage should
be located at the entries to the site. The project proposes accent paving at the intersection of
Lincoln Avenue/Grand Avenue, providing easily identifiable access to pedestrians accessing the
site.
Landscaping:
• Landscaped areas should be planned as integral parts of the development and to create a
strongly landscaped character for the site; Trees should be planted in a variety of
locations, such as along the side property lines, clustered in planting areas, or distributed
throughout the parking lot, consistent with the zoning ordinance; Pedestrian areas should
be made visually attractive with special planting and flowering trees. The project proposes
installation of landscaping throughout the site and within the public right-of-way along Lincoln
Avenue and Grand Avenue, including installation of six street trees along Lincoln Avenue. The
northwest portion of the site includes accent plantings, paving, and trees, providing a visually
attractive area for pedestrians and drawing attention to the main point of entry.
• Commercial signage or displays should not be hidden with landscaping. Proposed signage
is located at the main entry and will not be blocked by proposed landscaping.
Lighting:
• Limit the intensity of lighting to provide for adequate site security and for pedestrian and
vehicular safety; Shield light sources to prevent glare and illumination beyond the
boundaries of the property; Lighting fixtures should complement the architecture of the
project. The applicant has submitted a photometric study demonstrating lighting levels
throughout the project site. As proposed and conditioned, lighting will be adequate to provide site
security for pedestrian and vehicular safety and is designed to complement the proposed
architecture while avoiding off-site light and glare impacts.
Pedestrian Circulation:
• Consider pedestrian orientation when designing building entries, windows, signage and
doors; Include a well-defined pedestrian walkway between the street and building entries;
Special design elements should be included, such as bollards, pots, benches, trash cans,
unique paving, tree grates, tree guards and pedestrian lighting to add visual richness to
areas designed for pedestrian access. As proposed, the project incorporates several elements
that provide clear pedestrian entry to the building. The northwest portion of the site includes
accent paving to articulate the building entrance. In addition, the site includes signage at the
entrance as well as accent plantings along the front and street side frontages which add to the
pedestrian environment.
• Adequate facilities should be provided for bicycle parking, consistent with zoning
requirements. Short-term bicycle parking is provided along Lincoln Avenue, consistent with
applicable zoning requirements.
Building Form:
• Consider the pedestrian experience when designing the ground floor of buildings. The
project has been designed with the pedestrian experience as a focal point, providing articulating
elements along the Lincoln Avenue frontage which break up the overall massing, providing an
interactive and enjoyable pedestrian experience.
• A continuity of design, materials, color, form and architectural details is encouraged for
all portions of a building and between all the buildings on the site. Though the building
proposes to exceed the base 36-foot height limit set forth for the HR1 Zoning District, it has been
designed to incorporate a substantial amount of glazing along the Lincoln Avenue elevation as
well as a second floor patio, which effectively breaks up the overall building mass along this
elevation. The proposed colors and materials are consistent throughout and include stone base
and cap elements, brick accent siding at the base, and varying shades of brown cement plaster.
• Consider the development’s visual and spatial relationship to adjacent buildings and other
structures in the area. Though adjacent buildings are smaller in scale than the proposed hotel,
the building provides various stepped roof forms along the interior elevation which is intended to
provide a transition between the smaller residential structures and the proposed building. As such,
the project is consistent with design guidelines related to building form.
Entryways:
• A defined sense of entry with pedestrian orientation should be provided; Building
entrances should be defined with architectural elements such as roof form changes,
awnings or other architectural elements. As discussed previously, the project includes several
elements that clearly define the pedestrian entry including accent paving, metal awnings over the
entrance, and project signage. As such, the project is consistent with design guidelines related to
entryways.
Towers:
• If a tower is included in the design, it should perform a definite on-site function, such as
delineating an entrance to a site or a building entry or emphasizing a display window;
Where appropriate, the visual bulk of the upper portion of the tower should be reduced to
reduce its apparent bulk, for example with openings through it or with open latticework.
The stair/elevator tower is located at the northwest corner of the site adjacent to the hotel entry
and includes decorative brackets and window openings that reduce the apparent bulk, consistent
with the City’s design guidelines.
Materials and Colors:
• Use articulation, texturing and detailing on all concrete exposed to exterior view; Exterior
materials should minimize reflectivity; Use color to provide appropriate accents on a
building. The proposed colors and materials are varied and provide articulation through the use
of different textures and colors. The proposed palette provides neutral, warm tones that are not
reflective in nature. The various shades of brown provide accents that help to break up the
massing of the building and as such, the project is consistent with design guidelines related to
colors and materials.
San Rafael Municipal Code (Title 14 – Zoning)
Chapter 19 – Signs
Chapter 14.19 of the SRMC sets forth regulations for the location, size, type, and number of signs
permitted in the various zoning districts. In the HR1 district, projects are permitted up to two signs and a
maximum of 25 square feet of signage. Permitted sign types include wall, projecting/blade, awning,
monument, directory, and changeable copy. The project includes two, approximately 32-square-foot
blade signs at the north and west elevations, an approximately 1.5-square-foot identification plaque at
the west elevation, and an approximately 26-square-foot window sign at the west elevation. As specified
in Section 14.19.045, when proposed signage deviates from the established standards, an exception
may be requested. The project requests a Major Sign Exception as it proposes signage which deviates
from the standards for sign size and height by more than 20%. Major Sign Exceptions are subject to
review by the Design Review Board, and approval by the Planning Commission subject to the findings
listed in Section 14.19.045(C) of the SRMC An analysis of the project’s consistency with the applicable
findings is summarized below. Staff is seeking feedback and recommendations of the proposed Major
Sign Exception and in particular, requests that the Board comment on the appropriateness of the sign
exception, and provide any recommendations related to the proposed sign location, size, type, and
design.
Major Sign Exception Findings:
The project is located on a flag-shape lot with frontage on Grand Avenue, Lincoln Avenue, and Brookdale
Avenue and is proximate to and visible from Highway 101. Given that the proposed visitor
accommodation use is conditionally permitted within the multi-family zoning district, sign limitations set
forth for multi-family developments do not necessarily meet the signage needs appropriate for a hotel
use. Hotel uses are not subject to floor area ratio requirements and are permitted a maximum height of
54-feet, resulting in larger and taller buildings than that which may otherwise be developed in multi-family
zoning districts. Given the permissible size and height of the building, two signs and a total of 25 square
feet of signage would not be appropriate or compatible with the project. For comparison, commercial
districts permit two signs per frontage and a maximum sign area equal to the linear distance of business
or use frontage. The proposed building contains approximately 313 linear feet across the Grand Avenue,
Lincoln Avenue, and Brookdale Avenue frontages. The project proposes to exceed the maximum number
of signs by two and the maximum size by approximately 67 square feet. Though this will result in larger
and a greater number of signs than what is typically permitted in the multi-family zoning district, the
signage is compatible with the proposed commercial use and the size and height of the building.
Furthermore, signs are located along the Grand Avenue and Lincoln Avenue frontages, oriented away
from adjacent residential uses and towards the public right-of-way. As such, the proposed signage is
generally consistent with the applicable findings for a sign exception and staff requests that the Board
provide any recommendations to the Planning Commission related to the proposed sign location, size,
type, and design. Chapter 14.23 – Variances
As proposed, the project deviates from the established development standards of the HR1 Zoning District
including the minimum front and street side yard setbacks, minimum landscaping, and parking
dimensions set forth in Chapter 14.18 of the SRMC. The Planning Commission may approve the
requested Variances if the applicable findings in Section 14.23.070 of the SRMC can be made. A full
analysis of the project’s consistency with the applicable Variance findings will be included in staff’s report
to the Planning Commission. . In considering the overall design of the project, and in particular the site
plan, staff requests that the Design Review Board provide any recommendations to the Planning
Commission with regard to the proposed reduction in setbacks and landscaping.
Chapter 14.24 – Exceptions
As proposed, the project exceeds the maximum lot coverage permitted in the HR1 Zoning District by two
percent. As specified in Section 14.24.020(C) of the SRMC, in any residential district, the maximum lot
coverage may be increased by up to ten percent, where it can be found that such increases are necessary
for significantly improved site planning or architectural design, creation or maintenance of views, or where
the exceedance will facilitate highly desirable features or amenities, and where such increases will not
unreasonably affect abutting sites. Like approval of Variances, the Planning Commission may approve
an Exception if the applicable findings in Section 14.24.060 of the SRMC can be made. A full analysis of
the project’s consistency with the applicable findings will be included in staff’s report to the Planning
Commission. In considering the overall design of the project, and in particular the site plan, staff requests
that the Design Review Board provide any recommendations to the Planning Commission regarding the
proposed lot coverage exceedance.
NEIGHBORHOOD CORRESPONDENCE
Notice of hearing for the project was conducted in accordance with noticing requirements contained in
Chapter 29 of the Zoning Ordinance. A Notice of Public Hearing was mailed to all property owners and
occupants within a 300-foot radius of the subject site and all other interested parties, 15 calendar days
prior to the date of all meetings, including this hearing. Public notice was also posted on the subject site
15 calendar days prior to the date of all meetings, including this hearing.
Public comments have been received and include concerns related to the appropriateness of the
proposed hotel use, the overall height and scale of the building, parking, traffic, and loss of views. Copies
of all written public correspondence on the proposed project received to date are attached to this report
as Exhibit 3.
CONCLUSION
In conclusion, staff recommends that the Board review the project and determine whether the comments
provided to the applicant during the Conceptual Design Review meeting on November 17, 2020, have
been adequately addressed to ensure the project design is appropriate given the proposed use and
setting and should determine whether to impose conditions on the project to further ensure consistency
with the adopted design standards. In particular, staff requests that the Board provide recommendations,
and conditions where appropriate related the following:
• Proposed sign location, size, type, and design
• Reduction in front (Grand Avenue) and street side (Lincoln Avenue) setbacks
• Reduction in minimum landscaping requirements
• Proposed lot coverage
If the Board determines that the design of the building is in compliance with applicable design guidelines
and regulations, staff recommends that the Board forward a recommendation for approval or conditional
approval to the Planning Commission.
EXHIBITS
1. Project Plans
a. Architectural, dated June 22, 2021, available online:
https://storage.googleapis.com/proudcity/sanrafaelca/uploads/2021/09/1580-Lincoln_01-ARCH.pdf
b. Civil, dated June 22, 2021, available online:
https://storage.googleapis.com/proudcity/sanrafaelca/uploads/2021/09/1580-Lincoln_03-CIVIL.pdf
c. Landscape, dated June 22, 2021, available online:
https://storage.googleapis.com/proudcity/sanrafaelca/uploads/2021/09/1580-Lincoln_02-LAND.pdf
d. Lighting, dated June 22, 2021, available online:
https://storage.googleapis.com/proudcity/sanrafaelca/uploads/2021/09/1580-Lincoln_04-LIGHT.pdf
e. Signage, dated January 22, 2021, available online:
https://storage.googleapis.com/proudcity/sanrafaelca/uploads/2021/09/1580-Lincoln_05-SIGN.pdf
2. Landscape Areas, dated January 22, 2021, available online:
https://storage.googleapis.com/proudcity/sanrafaelca/uploads/2021/09/1580-Lincoln-Landscape-
Areas-Exhibit-21062.pdf
3. Public Comment
a. Bernardi
b. Coiner
c. Garbosky
d. Levin
e. Welte
f. Cole
Other project documents are available on the project website at: cityofsanrafael.org/sanrafael-inn/
cc: Robert Sauvageau, 10 Monterey Blvd., San Francisco, CA 94131
1580 Lincoln, LLC, 1600 Lincoln Ave, San Rafael, CA 94901
EXHIBIT 3: PUBLIC COMMENTS
a. Bernardi
b. Coiner
c. Garbosky
d. Levin
e. Welte
f. Cole
EXHIBIT 3A10/5/21 , 9 :40 AM Mail -Krystle Rizzi -Outlook
Hotel at 1580 Lincoln Avenue
Sue Bernardi
Tue 10/5/2021 9:23 AM
To: Krystle Rizzi < Krystle.Rizzi@cityofsanrafael.org >
Hello Kyrstle,
We don 't need another hotel on Lincoln Avenue. There are 2 already and a MARRIOTT was just built
DOWNTOWN, which would be the preferred Hotel where people would want to stay.
The motel across the street from the proposed hotel is the same owner.
1. Why don't they make that property more appealing instead of building another hotel.
2. There has been a witness who says that the property is used for rooms for hire ........... Would the
proposed property turn into the same kind of business?
The property is too narrow for the proposed building. It 's a small lot for a 46 room hotel. Do you know
how big the rooms will be? Would people want to stay in a small room?
A lift for parking; the noise. Remember, it's a residential area not an industrial area .......... There is already
a parking problem on Lincoln Avenue.
We are in a drought, and I am concerned about water usage.
The LOCATION is in a residential area.
It would block views of 1579, making it a tunnel affect reducing the already lack of sunshine.
My property value .... Will that be affected? Who wants to look at a hotel from their living room? Would
you?
We all understand that the cost of building is expensive. But does that mean we have to ruin a
residential area by building 4 and 5 story buildings on Lincoln Avenue.
Again, ask yourselves, would you want this to be in the area where you LIVE, and look at a hotel for a
view?
Thank you,
Sue Bernardi
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10/4/21, 12:13 PM
1580 Lincoln Proposal
Mon 10/4/2021 11:57 AM
To: Krystle Rizzi < Krystle.Rizzi@cityofsanrafael.org >
Dear Krystle,,
Mail -Krystle Rizzi -Outlook
As a long time owner of a condo on Lincoln Ave in San Rafael I want to express my dissatisfaction with the
proposed building at 1580 Lincoln Ave for the following reasons (I will be brief):
The building is HUGE and does not fit in at all with the rest of the nearby neighborhood buildings. We already
have 2 motels within a couple of blocks of one another. Why a third motel/hotel? Plus there is the Marriott in
downtown San Rafael that will soon be completed. That seems to be more than enough motels/hotels within this
small area.
The proposal will create more traffic and the parking solution is crazy! The car lifts will be noisy and I live right
across the street from this proposal.
The building as proposed will take away the views, the sunshine and privacy for the units facing Lincoln. I fear my
property value will be decreased due to this.
Water! We are in the middle of a severe drought. Now is not the time to build something of this magnitude.
Please reconsider and put something smaller in that conforms to the neighborhood. It is your job to do so!
Linda Coiner
San Rafael, CA 94901
Linda Coiner (this is my signature)
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EXHIBIT 3B
10/4/21, 8:34 AM Mail -Krystle Rizzi -Outlook
Lincoln Hill Projects
Sat 10/2/2021 1:04 PM
To: Steve Stafford <Steve.Stafford@cityofsanrafael.org >; Krystle Rizzi < Krystle.Rizzi@cityofsanrafael.org >
HI Steve and Krystle,
My wife and I have been living in the Lincoln Hill neighborhood since 2005.
We would like to advise you of our issues with and opposition to the two large projects now being
considered for the area.
These are the Senior Living Center at 800 Mission and the Hotel proposed for 1580 Lincoln.
In both cases the scale of the buildings is totally out of character for the neighborhood and the
anticipated traffic and overall impact poorly addressed.
Parking is sorely inadequate and overall scale and size of both very inappropriate.
Developers are always pushing to maximize return and minimize investment .. to the detriment of the
significant impact these types of projects have on quality of life for existing residents.
In my opinion the proposals need to be scaled back significantly, not allowed height exemptions and
realistic parking needs to be addressed with the builds.
We are all for progress ... and opposed to uncontrolled development.
Thank you for your consideration,
RJ Garbosky
/////////////////////////////
San Rafael
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EXHIBIT 3C
10/4/21, 8:36 AM Mail -Krystle Rizzi -Outlook
Hotel at 1580 Lincoln
Carol Levin
Thu 9/30/2021 6:53 PM
To: Krystle Rizzi < Krystle.Rizzi@cityofsanrafael.org >
I am opposed to the tentative hotel planned for Lincoln Ave. It is far too big to blend with the character of the
neighborhood. The idea of a car lift is ridiculous. Likely guest will be too hassled by such a lift and choose to park
on the street, further impacting the neighbors. Moreover, inevitably, the planned parking, even with the lift, will
be inadequate. It is only wishful thinking to believe that all the guest won't have a car, and at times, even more
than one car, as busy family members scramble to meet at the appointed rendezvous. Please only approve a
project that is a reasonable size, and has easy parking for all the guest, so it does not impact a neighborhood that
already has parking challenges.
Carol Levin
San Rafael, CA 94901
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EXHIBIT 3D
10/4/21, 8:36 AM Mail -Krystle Rizzi -Outlook
RE: San Rafael Inn 1580 Lincoln Ave-Proj# ED21-008, UP21-003, V21-002, SE21-004
Stuart Welte
Sat 10/2/2021 2:07 PM
To: planning <planning@cityofsanrafael.org>; Krystle Rizzi <Krystle.Rizzi@cityofsanrafael.org>; April Miller
<April.Miller@cityofsanrafael.org >
Cc: 'Valarie Welte'
RE: San Rafael Inn 1580 Lincoln Ave-Proj# ED21-008, UP21-003, V21-002, SE21-004
Hello Ms. Miller, Ms. Rizzi, and City Planning, and Public Works/Engineering:
My family and I have lived in Central San Rafael and Lincoln Hill for decades, and we love the City and have always
supported bringing a renewed vitality to the Lincoln Ave and Downtown areas.
***Please require all new projects to UNDERGROUND All Existing and New utility services along their
street frontages.
This is required in every jurisdiction we design for, and it's the responsible method for providing utility service in
light of so many health, safety, and wellness reasons, including fire prevention.
This should Not be negotiable.
Thank you very much,
STUART WELTE, AIA, LEED ap, ICC
EID AR CHIT ECTS
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EXHIBIT 3E
Kingston Cole
San Rafael, CA 94901
Tuesday, October 12, 2021
Ms. Kristie Rizzi
Consulting Planner
Krystie.rizzi@cityofsanrafel.org
Ms. Rizzi:
I am writing in support of the 1580 Lincoln Avenue Hotel Project. I am a 26-year resident of the San
Rafael Hill neighborhood. I was a founding member of the Lincoln San Rafael Neighborhood Association;
and am also a recent president of that Association. I wrote the comments for our Association that were
submitted for the San Rafael 2040 General Plan (I wrote the same for the 2020 Plan as well). I am
retired but very active in civic involvement—currently serving as:
•Member, Coalition of Sensible Taxpayers (CO$T) Board of Directors
•Member: Citizens Oversight Committee for Transportation Authority of Marin (TAM)
•Member: Citizens Oversight Committee for the Marin Wildfire Prevention Authority (MWPA)
•Member: Residence Committee for Digital Marin Broadband Project
The vacant Sloat Gardens site at the corner of Lincoln and Grand Avenues has been an eye sore for all
the neighbors in the Lincoln/San Rafael Hill Area for almost two years. It will finally, I hope, be
developed by the Fonio family into a boutique hotel that will provide vibrancy and life to our
neighborhood as well as downtown San Rafael. It is in the LSRHNA’s “zone of influence.” When I was
president, we solicited neighborhood comments and did a sight inspection with Marcello Fonio to
understand better the parameters of the project.
We forwarded some criticisms to the City after that review. Unfortunately, those comments were
unduly negative and did not reflect the full range of opinions that I have personally received from
neighbors on the Hill. Most of written comments received by the LSRHNA were submitted by the Oaks
condominiums across the street from the project. Predictably, they complained of the potential traffic
and noise problems as well as views being obstructed. My home is directly behind the Oaks. I can say in
all honesty and with full irony that I have had the same complaints about the Oaks as they have about
the project—and have had those views for the last 26 years!
More importantly, I took the time to talk with neighbors up and down San Rafael Hill. I have walked the
Hill almost daily for 25+ years and now enjoy many friendships and acquaintances throughout the
neighborhood. My informal “polling” of these folks was revealing and relevant to the project: Those
people living farther up the Hill have an overwhelmingly favorable opinion of the project. Many can
hardly wait to have a friendly coffee shop nearby! The vast preponderance of neighborhood opinion is
in favor of the project.
EXHIBIT 3F
A new, rump group has taken over the LSRHNA and is now attempting to void the boutique hotel, using
the older comments and other, unsubstantiated claims that it is “too big, “too tall,” “esthetically bland,”
“too noisy at all hours of the day and night,” and will somehow, “devalue all surrounding properties.”
The members of the Design Review Board to Planning Commission should certainly review all
comments, exercise their discretion, and require any amendments to the proposal that they deem
necessary or desirable. I do ask them, however, to put all comments, particularly negative ones, into
their proper context in reaching a final decision.
I also support the 1580 Project for the following, more civic-minded reasons:
• We have endured the COVID pandemic now for over two years and counting. We must all look
for new ways to revitalize our community. I don’t believe we should cancel a project because it
is “too big” or “too tall”, i.e., traditional NIMBY objections, as we are recovering from this very
painful recession.
• I believe we have to balance the equities in our San Rafael Hill neighborhood—allowing
beneficial, zoning-compliant businesses in and along Lincoln Avenue to co-exist with our single-
family dwellings. This has been the case for decades. This type of development was permitted
in the 2020 General Plan—as it is in the 2040 Plan.
• 1580 Lincoln is a small (46 rooms) hotel project in size and scope. It’s not going to dominate,
much less destroy our neighborhood. We must grow—and do it intelligently.
• I believe we should welcome our new hotel guests and employees to the neighborhood. Many
jobs will be created—both in construction and ongoing operations of the hotel. All of these
people will add to the vibrancy and diversity of our entire neighborhood.
Finally, I ask that the Design Review Board, Planning Commission and the City Council act in an
expeditious manner. This is an important project that will add many benefits to our neighborhood and
the adjacent downtown area. I ask that you approve the 1580 Lincoln Avenue Project, after your due
deliberations.
Sincerely yours,
Kingston Cole