LoCOBot / @ 8:35 a.m. / Agendizer

Eureka Planning Commission
May 21, 2025, 5:30 p.m.

A. ROLL CALL

B. SALUTE TO THE FLAG

C. APPROVAL OF MINUTES

1. Planning Commission Meeting Minutes

DOCUMENTS:

Meeting Minutes


D. NEW BUSINESS

1. Resolution to Remove Parking Indentures between 3011 G Street and the properties at 3005

This memo is recommending the Planning Commission to approve the removal of parking indentures between three properties in Eureka, California as they now comply with current parking regulations. The indentures were originally put in place to meet stricter parking requirements, but recent state law changes no longer require them. The memo explains the background and reasons for removing the indentures, as well as provides a suggested motion for the Planning Commission to consider.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a Dungeons & Dragons campaign!

In the city of Eureka, a new law has been passed that changes the requirements for parking in certain areas near major transit stops. This change has led to a resolution being brought before the Planning Commission to remove parking indentures between three properties on G and Harris Streets. However, as the city council considers this resolution, strange things begin happening in the area.

Reports start coming in of disappearances near the proposed garage project at 3011 G Street. Residents claim to have seen mysterious figures lurking in the shadows, and strange symbols have been found drawn on the ground nearby. The city has hired adventurers to investigate the strange occurrences and ensure the safety of the residents.

As the adventurers delve into the mystery, they discover that the parking indentures are not just legal documents, but powerful magical wards that have been keeping an ancient evil at bay. The removal of the indentures has weakened the protective barrier, allowing the malevolent force to begin manifesting in the physical world.

The adventurers must navigate through a series of puzzles and traps to locate the source of the dark magic and ultimately defeat the ancient evil threatening the city. Along the way, they will encounter dangerous monsters, cunning traps, and powerful spells as they race against time to save Eureka from destruction.

Will the adventurers be able to unravel the mystery and stop the evil before it’s too late? Or will the city be consumed by darkness and chaos? Only time will tell in this thrilling Dungeons and Dragons campaign set in the heart of Eureka.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportAttachment 1 - Resolution


E. PUBLIC HEARINGS - CONTINUED

F. PUBLIC HEARINGS - NEW

1. McKenny Residential Unit Use Permit Location: 2328 23rd St

The Planning Commission is reviewing a request for a permit to allow a residential unit within a medical office building. The project is in compliance with the city’s General Plan and relevant regulations. The proposed unit will not have any negative impacts on public health, safety, or welfare. The project is also exempt from environmental assessment under the California Environmental Quality Act. The Commission will hold a public hearing to consider approving the permit.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a heartbreaking country/western song!

Verse 1:
They said we could build a home
In the place where we’ve always roamed
A residential unit, among the medical drones
But now I’m here all alone

Chorus:
Oh, McKenny Residential Unit Use Permit
They said we could live in it
But now it’s just a dream that’s unlit
Oh, McKenny Residential Unit Use Permit

Verse 2:
We were building a life together
In that 458-square-foot shelter
But now it’s just an empty space
In a building meant for saving grace

Chorus:
Oh, McKenny Residential Unit Use Permit
They said we could live in it
But now it’s just a dream that’s unlit
Oh, McKenny Residential Unit Use Permit

Bridge:
They talked about zoning and plans
But they don’t understand
The heartache of losing our place
In the midst of this bureaucratic race

Chorus:
Oh, McKenny Residential Unit Use Permit
They said we could live in it
But now it’s just a dream that’s unlit
Oh, McKenny Residential Unit Use Permit

Outro:
I’ll always remember that 2328 23rd Street
Where we were supposed to meet
But now it’s just a memory
Of what could’ve been, you and me.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportAttachment 1 - ResolutionAttachment 2 - Applicant Submitted MaterialsAttachment 3 - Legacy Subdivision Parcel Map


2. Sunset Heights Parcel 1 Design Review Modification Location: 1200 W Harris Street; APNs: 008-052-024, -025, and -032 (new APNs pending for Parcel 1) Project: Modification MOD-25-1 to Design Review DR-24-0005

The Sunset Heights Affordable Housing Development is requesting to modify the design of buildings 1A and 1B to accommodate more three-bedroom units and install solar panels. The modifications do not change the height or placement of the buildings and maintain visual harmony with the surrounding neighborhood. The project is exempt from environmental assessments under CEQA guidelines. The Planning Commission is recommended to hold a public hearing and approve the modifications with conditions.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a science-fiction story!

On a warm May evening in the year 2025, the Planning Commission of the City of Eureka gathered to discuss the Sunset Heights Parcel 1 Design Review Modification. The staff report detailed the proposed changes to the street-facing facades of buildings 1A and 1B on Parcel 1 of the Sunset Heights Affordable Housing Development.

The modifications were necessary to accommodate an increased number of three-bedroom units, requiring adjustments to the design and layout of the buildings. The revised roofline also allowed for the installation of more solar panels, in line with the city’s commitment to sustainable development.

As the Planning Commission deliberated on the proposed modifications, a strange occurrence began to unfold. A shimmering portal appeared in the center of the room, causing gasps of surprise from the commissioners and staff. Through the portal emerged a group of beings unlike any the citizens of Eureka had ever seen.

The beings introduced themselves as representatives from a distant planet called Xylophus, a technologically advanced society that had been monitoring Earth’s progress in sustainable development. They had been drawn to the Sunset Heights project by the city’s commitment to affordable housing and environmental responsibility.

The Xylophusians offered to share their advanced technology with the city, including energy-efficient building materials, solar power systems, and waste management solutions. In exchange, they asked to observe the modifications to the Sunset Heights project and study how Earthlings were tackling issues of affordable housing and environmental sustainability.

The Planning Commission, stunned by the unexpected arrival of extraterrestrial visitors, quickly agreed to the terms. As the Xylophusians assisted in the implementation of the design modifications, they shared their knowledge and expertise with the city’s planners and developers.

The project was completed with the help of the Xylophusians, and the Sunset Heights Affordable Housing Development became a model of innovative design and sustainable living. The buildings featured cutting-edge technology and energy-efficient systems, showcasing a harmonious blend of traditional and modern architectural styles.

As the sun set on the newly modified Sunset Heights project, the citizens of Eureka looked up at the sky in wonder, knowing that they were not alone in their efforts to create a better future for their community and the planet. And so, the unlikely collaboration between Earthlings and beings from another world set a new standard for urban development and environmental stewardship in the city of Eureka.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportAttachment 1 - ResolutionAttachment 2 - Exhibit AAttachment 3 - Applicant Submitted MaterialsAttachment 4 - December 11, 2024 Planning Commission Staff Report


3. Gulch and Greenway Overlay Zone and Associated Municipal Code Updates Location: Citywide; APNs: Various Project: TA-21-0003

The city of Eureka is proposing to create a new Gulch Greenway Overlay Zone to protect the environment and update related zoning and building code regulations. The purpose is to establish standards for development within this overlay zone and to protect natural resources. The Planning Commission is recommending that the City Council adopt these proposed amendments. The project is exempt from environmental review under CEQA guidelines due to its focus on protecting natural resources. Public hearings have been held to gather input on the proposed changes.

— LoCOBot

… or, as a job interview!

Interviewer: Thank you for coming in today. Can you tell me about your experience with zoning codes and municipal code updates?

Interviewee: Of course. I have extensive experience working with zoning codes and municipal code updates in various cities. My background in urban planning has allowed me to work on similar projects, such as establishing overlay zones and updating regulations to protect natural resources and the environment.

Interviewer: That’s great to hear. Can you provide an example of a project where you successfully implemented new zoning regulations to protect the environment?

Interviewee: One project that comes to mind is when I worked with a city to establish a greenway overlay zone to protect a sensitive habitat area. I led the process of updating the zoning map and codes to establish stricter regulations for development within the overlay zone. This included amendments to tree removal and landscaping regulations, as well as procedures for permitting development in specific areas within the overlay zone.

Interviewer: That sounds like a significant project. How did you ensure that the new regulations were in compliance with environmental laws, such as CEQA?

Interviewee: I collaborated closely with the city’s environmental department and legal team to ensure that the new regulations met the requirements of environmental laws, such as CEQA. We conducted thorough assessments of the potential impacts of the project and made sure to follow all guidelines and exemptions under CEQA. Additionally, we engaged with the public through public hearings and outreach to gather feedback and address any concerns.

Interviewer: It sounds like you have a strong background in this area. How do you prioritize tasks and manage timelines when working on complex projects like this?

Interviewee: I prioritize tasks by creating detailed project plans and timelines, setting clear milestones, and regularly communicating with stakeholders to ensure everyone is on the same page. I also make sure to factor in any potential delays or challenges that may arise and adjust the timeline accordingly. By staying organized and proactive, I am able to effectively manage complex projects and meet deadlines.

Interviewer: Thank you for sharing your experience with us. We will be in touch regarding the next steps in the interview process.

Interviewee: Thank you for the opportunity to discuss my background and experience. I look forward to potentially working with your team on projects like the Gulch Greenway Overlay Zone.

— LoCOBot

DOCUMENTS:

Staff ReportAttachment 1 - ResolutionAttachment 2 - Proposed Gulch Greenway Overlay Zone OrdinanceAttachment 3 - Other Proposed Amendments in Track ChangesAttachment 4 - Proposed Ordinance for Other AmendmentsAttachment 5 - Public Comments


G. COMMISSIONERS' REPORTS AND COMMUNICATIONS

1. Appointment of special committee to discuss the commercial fishing industry


H. DIRECTOR'S REPORTS AND COMMUNICATIONS

I. ADJOURNMENT

J. NOTICES


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