Berkeley City Council Meeting Summary

Date: [Date Not Provided]

Attendees: - Mayor Jesse Arreguin - Councilmembers: Rashi Kesarwani (District 1), Terry Taplin (District 2), Ben Bartlett (District 3, absent), Igor Tregub (District 4), Sophie Hahn (District 5), Susan Wengraf (District 6), Cecilia Lunaparra (District 7), Mark Humbert (District 8) - City Staff and Public Commenters

Key Discussion Points

The meeting primarily focused on amendments to zoning ordinances and the general plan to facilitate the development of middle housing—multi-family buildings larger than single-family homes but smaller than high-rise projects. The goal is to create a more inclusive and equitable housing environment by allowing denser multi-unit developments in low-density residential districts.

Components of the Proposal: - Zoning Districts: Merge R1A and R2 zoning districts to permit residential development with a zoning certificate. - Density Standards: Establish minimum and maximum density standards to provide predictability. - Height and Lot Coverage: Adjust height limits and lot coverage standards to accommodate three-story buildings. - Open Space and Setbacks: Standardize open space requirements and align setback standards with those for ADUs (Accessory Dwelling Units). - Demolition of Single-Family Homes: Permit demolition with a zoning certificate if it results in a net increase in units.

Fire Safety Concerns: - Hillside Overlay District: Exclude this district from zoning changes until a safety and evacuation study is completed. - Evacuation Routes: Emphasize the importance of safe evacuation routes, particularly in high-density, fire-prone areas.

Public Comments: - Mixed Opinions: Some residents supported increased housing density for affordability and climate goals, while others feared gentrification and displacement. - Fire Safety: Many highlighted past fire incidents and the challenges of evacuating dense areas during emergencies.

Councilmember Questions: - Igor Tregub: Inquired about tenant protections and the timeline for the fire study. - Sophie Hahn and Susan Wengraf: Emphasized the need for fire safety measures in high-risk zones.

Procedural Error: A procedural error necessitated modifications to the staff recommendation, delaying the adoption of the first reading of the ordinance to allow for corrections.

Environmental Impact Report (EIR): An EIR was prepared and adopted, analyzing the impacts associated with the middle housing policy.

Community Engagement: - Extensive Outreach: Included stakeholder interviews, surveys, public workshops, and presentations to various boards. - Feedback: Indicated a strong desire for more affordable housing and housing for special needs and homeless communities.

Parking Issues: - Street Parking: Concerns about parking and traffic congestion in high-density areas. - EV Charging: Need for plans to include EV charging stations in new developments.

Bike Infrastructure: - Implicit Needs: While not a primary focus, discussions on reducing car reliance suggest a need for improved bike lanes and facilities.

• Deferred Voting: Immediate voting on the inclusion of the H overlay in zoning changes was deferred pending further review and the evacuation study results.
• Public Hearing: Kept open to gather more input and refine the proposed ordinance.
• Revised Ordinance: Staff directed to prepare a revised ordinance incorporating public input and safety concerns.

Conclusion

The Berkeley City Council meeting was dominated by discussions on middle housing policies, fire safety, and the implications of increased housing density. The council emphasized the need for a cautious approach, extensive community engagement, and further studies to ensure the proposed changes promote inclusivity, safety, and sustainability. 🌳🏡🚲