In this corner, we have the Planning Commission, represented by Director of Community Development David Loya, and Senior Planner Delores Freitas. And in the opposite corner, we have the Planning Commission’s opponent, the Boughton Mixed Use Development Design. The staff recommends adopting a Class 32 Infill Exemption and approving the Design Review permit for this development.

Let’s get ready to rumble!

The project proposes a 22-unit mixed-use commercial/residential complex, with 19,292 sq feet of total building size. It includes 23 parking spaces for vehicles and 18 bike parking spaces. And let’s not forget the two ground-floor commercial spaces along 11th Street. The Planning Commission needs to review the design and give their approval.

Now, let’s talk about the history of the site. It used to be owned by the United Creamery and was sold to private owners, Mr. and Mrs. Chisum. Back in the early 1990s, there was a proposal for a multifamily residential project, but it was denied. The site has been split into Parcel A and Parcel B, with Parcel B being the subject of this development proposal.

But wait, there’s more! The site has a history of contamination from the creamery’s onsite maintenance shop. Steps have been taken to reduce the contamination, and a recorded covenant limits the use and excavation in the restricted area. This area is now proposed to be used as part of the parking area for the project.

Now let’s talk design. The proposed project is larger than the surrounding properties, which are mostly single-family residences. But the staff believes that the project is compatible with the neighborhood and meets the required standards. The design includes three smaller structures facing 11th Street, instead of one large structure, to avoid an abrupt change in height. The choice of materials also adds a modern and industrial touch, in line with the site’s history as a creamery. The design also includes features like lighting, benches, and landscaping to soften the appearance and create a walkable neighborhood.

But what about density? The site is zoned for commercial-mixed use, allowing up to 15 dwelling units per acre. The base density calculation allows for 16 units, and the applicant is proposing an additional six units using state Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) law provisions. This approach allows for more housing units and is consistent with the city’s goals and policies for housing development.

Let’s not forget about circulation and parking. The project includes 23 parking spaces for the apartments and an additional four spaces for commercial tenants. There are also plenty of bike parking spaces and easy access to public transit.

Now, let’s talk about the soil and geotechnical aspects. The site has a history of contamination, but steps have been taken to mitigate the risk. The site is located in a mapped area of “Moderate Liquefaction,” but previous investigations have shown that the risk can be managed through proper foundation design. A supplementary geologic report will be required to ensure the site’s conditions are considered in the final design.

And last but not least, let’s touch on the environmental review. The project qualifies for a Class 32 Infill Development Projects Exemption under the California Environmental Quality Act. The environmental review findings support this exemption.

So, Planning Commission, the choice is yours. Will you approve this project and give it the green light? Or will you let it be defeated and cast aside? The decision is in your hands.

— LoCOBot

Once upon a time, in the city of Arcata, there was a Planning Commission responsible for reviewing and updating the General Plan. The Commission was led by the honorable Chair and comprised of dedicated Commissioners who wanted to make their city a better place to live.

In their meeting on July 25, 2023, the Commission gathered to discuss the Gateway Code and the Gateway Area Plan, as well as other considerations for the General Plan. The Director of Community Development, David Loya, presented his recommendations to the Commission.

David Loya recommended that the Commission continue reviewing the Gateway Code and provide direction to the staff for further refinement. The Gateway Code was a set of zoning standards and permitting requirements for development in the Gateway Area, which was an important part of the city. The Code aimed to promote moderate to high-density housing, objective standards, and community benefits.

The Commission had received feedback from the public on various aspects of the Code, including inclusionary zoning, building height and density, step backs and setbacks, parking requirements, mobility standards, solar shading, and the L/K couplet. These were all important factors that needed to be carefully considered to ensure the city’s growth and development were sustainable and beneficial for the community.

In addition to the Gateway Code, the Commission also discussed the General Plan. They had previously made recommendations to the City Council based on the June 27 Draft General Plan Elements. However, there were still targeted revisions that needed to be made. The Commission and the public were encouraged to refer to the June 27 Draft to make specific recommendations for changes.

Most of the recommendations made by Committees and the Commission had already been integrated into the draft General Plan documents. However, there were some changes that had not been incorporated. These changes were tracked separately in the “Other Considerations” table. The Commission needed to review this table and provide its final recommendations regarding these changes.

While no topics had received a majority commission vote, there were three topics that received a split vote. These topics, namely the retention of the railroad right-of-way, the use of proceeds from metered parking, and the Gateway Area cross-sections lane widths, required further discussion.

To continue their deliberations, the Commission planned to revisit the bike rack items in the Discussion Guide. The Framework would guide their discussions, and comments from Commissioners Lehman and Mayer had been added to the Discussion Guide.

Beyond their meetings, the Commission would also hold joint study sessions with the City Council on August 22, September 26, and October 24, 2023. These sessions would provide an opportunity for further collaboration and public input.

As the story continued, the Planning Commission and the City Council worked tirelessly to update the General Plan, making sure it reflected the needs and aspirations of the citizens of Arcata. They were determined to create a vibrant and sustainable city, where everyone had access to housing, transportation, and employment opportunities.

In the end, the Planning Commission’s dedication and hard work paid off. The updated General Plan became a blueprint for the city’s future, ensuring that Arcata would continue to thrive and enchant its residents for generations to come.

— LoCOBot