On April 14, the Planning Board will consider updating the Universal Residential Design Ordinance to reduce barriers to smaller and townhome-style developments by providing certain accessibility exemptions. Karin K. Jensen also explains other meeting topics and how to get involved. https://alamedapost.com/news/april-14-planning-board-preview/

On March 10, the debate surrounding parking spaces at the Alameda Aquatic Center continued during a Planning Board public workshop. The new designs have eliminated 27 parking stalls. Karin K. Jensen also relays updates on the Housing Element, a transportation report, and CARP. https://alamedapost.com/news/planning-board-provides-feedback-updated-aquatic-center-design/

The February 24 Planning Board meeting spotlighted housing. Karin K. Jensen reports that the Board approved the Rebuilding Existing Supportive Housing at Alameda Point report and voted to update the City’s Universal Design Ordinance, which supports housing for individuals with mobility difficulties. https://alamedapost.com/news/planning-board-approves-reshap-report/

The Planning Board held a workshop on drafting a Short-Term Rental Ordinance, which would regulate rentals of less than 30 days. Karin K. Jensen reports that public comment overwhelmingly supported short-term rentals, citing benefits to the local economy, flexibility for small landlords, and more. https://alamedapost.com/news/planning-board-considers-regulating-short-term-rentals/

On Monday, January 27, the Planning Board held its first meeting of the year and provided comments on the Draft Urban Forest Plan and the City of Alameda’s Inclusionary Housing Ordinance. Ken Der reports that approximately 9,600 new trees are needed to reach the Plan's goal of 20% canopy cover. https://alamedapost.com/news/planning-board-reviews-urban-forest-plan-inclusionary-housing-ordinance/

On December 16, the Planning Board reviewed updated plans for the RADIUM Theatre Performing Arts Center and a proposed new building on the Wind River Campus. Karin K. Jensen reports that some commenters voiced concerns that Wind River's overseers have allowed areas around campus to be "neglected." https://alamedapost.com/news/planning-board-reviews-radium-theatre-wind-river-building/

The Planning Board held a public workshop to review the conceptual plan for the Aquatic Center at Jean Sweeney Park. Karin K. Jensen reports that some commenters advocated for "reducing or eliminating" the parking lot. In other business, the Board approved an outdoor dining patio at Saltbreaker. https://alamedapost.com/news/planning-board-reviews-draft-aquatic-center-design/

In 1999, the Planning Board approved a master plan and use permit for the St. Joseph Basilica site at 1109 Chestnut Street. Karin K. Jensen gives an update from the Planning Board meeting on October 28, 2024, as the Board approved a resolution to indefinitely extend the permit.

https://alamedapost.com/news/planning-board-approves-st-joseph-development-permit-extension/

The old Corica Park fire tower is getting a makeover! Maurice Ramirez shares photos of the painting process as artist John Horton beautifies the structure.

https://alamedapost.com/features/corica-park-fire-tower-restoration-looking-good/

After undergoing a Call for Review, a new preschool at 3100 Central Avenue gets a green light from the Planning Board. "Supporters cited a critical need for high-quality aftercare and preschool services, calling the location ideal for East End families," reports Karin K. Jensen.

https://alamedapost.com/news/planning-board-approves-preschool-permit-after-call-review/

In response to a recent controversial lawsuit, 100+ Alameda Food Bank supporters turned out for a protest at the September 17 City Council meeting. Adam Gillitt reports from the animated meeting, where plaintiff Tod Hickman, owner of Building 43 Winery, again insisted, “It is a historic parking lot.”

https://alamedapost.com/news/alameda-food-bank-supporters-rally-to-oppose-ceqa-lawsuit/

On July 22, the Planning Board approved the design review for the Alameda Food Bank’s planned addition of a 10,000-square-foot warehouse to Building 607 at 677 West Ranger Avenue. Karin K. Jensen covers the updated designs for the expansion.

https://alamedapost.com/news/planning-board-approves-alameda-food-bank-warehouse-design/

On June 10, the Planning Board held a public workshop on the draft Development Plan for the RADIUM Theatre Performing Arts Center. Karin K. Jensen reports that the meeting centered around ensuring the preservation of the views of the center's neighbor, the Alameda Naval Air Museum.

https://alamedapost.com/news/performing-arts-center-workshop-considers-neighboring-building/

On May 13, the Planning Board approved a design for the Corica Park Golf Course Fire Tower Beautification project. Karin K. Jensen shares the design options and explains that the Board voted to approve the map-inspired design but left final color choice to the artists’ discretion.

https://alamedapost.com/news/planning-board-approves-corica-fire-tower-design/

The Planning Board voted to allow Natel Energy to expand its operations into outdoor space at its Alamdeda Point facility. Ken Der explains that the expansion will facilitate testing for FishSafe turbines, which harvest hydroelectric energy with minimal impact on aquatic life.

https://alamedapost.com/news/planning-board-approves-natel-expansion-at-alameda-point/

The Planning Board conditionally approved a development plan and design review for ten new townhomes for sale—the Del Monte Towns—at the corner of Sherman and Clement. Karin K. Jensen reports that the homes are the third and final phase of the Del Monte Warehouse development.

https://alamedapost.com/news/planning-board-approves-new-del-monte-towns-townhomes/

The Planning Board reviewed 2023 reports on the General Plan and Housing Element, Transportation Plans, and the Climate Action Resiliency Plan. Karin K. Jensen reports they also endorsed associated 2024 draft work plans, including the Vision Zero Action Plan.

https://alamedapost.com/news/planning-board-reviews-2023-progress-sets-goals-for-2024/

The Planning Board covered a lot of ground at its Feb. 12 meeting—literally! Karin K. Jensen reports that a new FAAS facility is coming to Bay Farm, Triumphant Life Church can stay on Park St. following zoning and permit missteps, and Alameda Point is getting new work/live units.

https://alamedapost.com/news/planning-board-approves-faas-facility-church-work-live-units/

To remove barriers to affordable housing development, the Planning Board voted to initiate comprehensive revisions to the City’s Subdivision Ordinance. Karin K. Jensen also reports that the Board is considering the merit of raising the allowable fence height in Alameda front yards.

https://alamedapost.com/news/planning-board-recommends-subdivision-ordinance-revisions/

#Zoning #officer #fired after being asked to 'look into' #DragQueenStoryHour.

#Town #Boardmember #JoeMastroianni told the #employee to #checkout the #event planned for a local #cat #cafe

A week later, the #supervisor #fired her with no #explanation she says.

#Women #Transgender #LGBTQ #LGBTQIA #NewYork #Rotterdam #Codes #BuildingCodes #ZoningLaws #PlanningBoard #Hate #Bigotry #Harassment #Homophobia #Transphobia

https://www.timesunion.com/news/article/worker-fired-asked-look-into-drag-story-hour-18490767.php