1 From: kdoodah
Sent: Thursday, June 4, 2026 10:00 AM
To: Web Planning Division <[email protected]>
Subject: Not in favor of the Grove, sick of all the growth, moved here for small town, its being ruined by all the growth.
All I hear is that Brentwood administration wants more$$. Stop just stop please.
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1 From: Andreas Pierson
Sent: Tuesday, June 9, 2026 1:39 PM
To: =yCouncil Members; webCityClerk
Subject: Support for The Grove at Brentwood – Please Approve Dear Brentwood City Council,
I am a nearby resident writing to express my strong support for The Grove at Brentwood project.
This development would be a wonderful addition to our community by bringing shops, cafes, outdoor gathering space, and a community theater to a currently underutilized site. It earned a unanimous 5-0 approval from the Planning Commission, and I believe the council should affirm that decision.
I urge you to approve both the Design Review and Conditional Use Permit and allow this project to move forward. Our community deserves this kind of thoughtful, vibrant development.
Thank you for your time.
Andreas Pierson
1 From: Belinda Hudkins
Sent: Tuesday, June 9, 2026 12:05 PM
To: Web Planning Division <[email protected]>
Subject: The Grove
We recently moved to Brentwood and love the vibe.
So many great places to visit and the Farmers market is one of the best I have ever been to.
It would be a horrible mistake not to build the Grove. Myself and my neighbors are really looking forward to it. It will bring a lot of revenue to our town. Please vote again to move forward with the project.
Thanks for your Ɵme
Belinda Hudkins
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1 From: Bill Harrigan
Sent: Tuesday, June 9, 2026 2:20 PM
To: Web Planning Division <[email protected]>
Subject: The Grove at Brentwood
Looking forward to have the Grove at Brentwood approved. I can’t think of a beƩer way to give the community such a fun place to meet and socialize.
Bill Harrigan
From: Bob Mankin
Sent: Sunday, June 7, 2026 3:23 PM
To: webCityClerk
Cc: matt
Subject: PUBLIC COMMENT: Item G.1 - County Planning Commissioner & Chamber Support for The Grove CUP (CUP25-010)
Dear Mayor and Members of the City Council,
My name is Bob Mankin. I am a member of the Brentwood Chamber of Commerce, and I currently serve as a County Planning Commissioner for this district.
I am writing to strongly urge the City Council to uphold the Planning Commission’s unanimous 5-0 approval of Conditional Use Permit No. 25-010 for The Grove at Brentwood, exactly as proposed by the applicant.
As a land-use oƯicial, I evaluate this project through the lens of objective zoning standards, code consistency, and orderly public process. During the May 5th meeting, the Brentwood Planning Commission meticulously raised, analyzed, and debated the project's layout, parking, and hours of operation. The record notes that while the Downtown Specific Plan completely exempts non-residential projects from parking requirements, the applicant went above and beyond by voluntarily engineering 144 parking spaces to prevent local traƯic friction. Furthermore, the Commission verified that the applicant's self-imposed 10:00 PM conclusion for amplified outdoor events fully addresses local noise guidelines. Finding that the project fully conformed with our zoning standards, the Commission voted unanimously 5-0 to approve the master hours with no changes.
When a single councilmember routinely utilizes discretionary authority to pull heavily vetted economic projects—such as the arbitrary hour restrictions attempted here—it represents a profound breakdown in proper public process. Selectively imposing tighter hour restrictions exclusively on The Grove—while neighboring downtown venues like 311 Oak Street Pub (advertises open until 1:00 AM/2:00 AM) and Crown & Crow (advertises open until 12:00 AM) operate hours later - constitutes discriminatory reverse spot zoning.
This ad-hoc intervention destroys regulatory predictability, creates an unstable local business climate, and exposes the City of Brentwood to severe legal liability under the Equal Protection Clause. I urge you to protect the integrity of our zoning codes, respect the thorough vetting of your own appointed commissioners, and vote to approve the project without arbitrary hour restrictions.
Sincerely,
Bob Mankin
County Planning Commissioner, District 3
Member, Brentwood Chamber of Commerce
1 From: tigandol
Sent: Monday, June 8, 2026 8:44 PM
To: Web Planning Division <[email protected]>
Subject: Support for the Grove
I was sad to see a councilwoman pull The Grove after the planning commission approved it 5-0. What further study is needed? Trust your planning commission to do their job.
Let the project move forward. Brentwood needs more fun things like this, a site that brings residents together and expands the dining and shoppig offerings in the downtown area. The addition of The Grove will benefit all downtown businesses and the city as a whole.
Carol Green
Brentwood
1 From: ChrisƟne Hassler
Sent: Monday, June 8, 2026 9:06 AM
To: Web Planning Division <[email protected]>
Cc: Carol Gwin
Subject: The Grove Project - Brentwood, City Council MeeƟng June 9th, 2026 Subject: Support for Final Approval of “The Grove” Development Dear Members of the City Council,
As a member of the Garin family, the sellers of this property, I would like to express our strong support for the final approval of “The Grove” development in Brentwood.
Over the past three years, we have worked closely with the buyer in a thoughƞul and deliberate collaboraƟon to shape a project that reflects the character and spirit of downtown Brentwood. Great care has been taken to create a design inspired by a Ɵmeless, Italian style—one that feels both enduring and naturally integrated into the exisƟng community.
We have also made a conscious effort to honor the history of this site. Many longƟme residents will remember the train staƟon that once stood across from the Garin property, as well as the thriving acƟvity of packing and boxing fruits and vegetables at what is now the site of The Grove. This project respecƞully acknowledges that legacy by incorporaƟng elements of Brentwood’s agricultural and commercial past into a new, modern market seƫng.
We believe “The Grove” will upliŌ and revitalize the downtown area—bringing renewed energy, beauty, and economic vitality while staying connected to the history that defines Brentwood.
We respecƞully encourage the City Council to approve this project and support a vision that bridges Brentwood’s past with its future.
Thank you for your consideraƟon.
Sincerely,
ChrisƟne Hassler
1 From: Denise Duran
Sent: Tuesday, June 9, 2026 5:21 AM
To: webCityClerk
Subject: Re: The Grove-Website: Council Meetings Online The Grove represents an opportunity for Brentwood to embrace thoughtful growth that strengthens both our local economy and our community identity. By prioritizing boutique and independent businesses over national chains, the project helps keep dollars circulating locally, supports Brentwood entrepreneurs, and creates jobs while utilizing land that is already part of the existing built environment rather than expanding into the agricultural spaces that contribute to the city's unique character.
More than a shopping destination, The Grove is designed as a community gathering place that extends the vitality of downtown Brentwood. It provides additional dining, retail, and group gathering options that residents often travel outside the city to find, while also offering indoor space that can complement the Farmers Market and other downtown events during hot summer months and the rainy season. With a variety of experiences for all ages, it encourages people to spend time, connect, and invest in the local community.
The project also honors Brentwood's heritage by activating a property adjacent to the historic rail corridor that helped shape Contra Costa County's growth. Rather than imposing a corporate development on the community, The Grove has been shaped by local family business interests and reflects years of planning, drawing inspiration from successful mixed-use concepts while tailoring them to the values, needs, and character of Brentwood.
As this project moves through the public process, it is important that city leaders remain attuned to the distinction between appropriate interest and interference. The city of Brentwood has a Planning Department to review, analyze, and work with City staff and applicants. What is the purpose of a Planning Department if its work is not accepted by elected officials who put those residents in those roles? The impact of unnecessary interference will increase uncertainty for businesses, discourage future investment, and slow opportunities that residents have long expressed a desire to see.
A thriving community depends on collaboration between residents, business owners, developers, and local government. When each plays its appropriate role, Brentwood can continue to grow in a way that preserves its character, expands economic opportunity, and creates places where people want to gather, connect, and spend their time.
Denise Duran
District 3 Resident
Brentwood Chamber of Commerce, Director
Past President, 2023
1 From: Elisa Garin
Sent: Monday, June 8, 2026 6:32 PM
To: Web Planning Division <[email protected]>
Subject: The Grove at Brentwood
To the Brentwood City Council, Planning, and Other Interested Parties:
It is my understanding that the Brentwood City Counsel has requested additional review of a project called the “Grove at Brentwood”, submitted for consideration by Matt Hagar and ACRE Partners at 3740 Walnut Blvd., Brentwood, CA.
I am writing to express my support for this project which includes an architecturally interesting building, expansive parking, and a shady park-like greenspace for relaxation and recreation available for patrons and community use. The attractive public market/building seamlessly meshes with the historical downtown vibe. The building will house a number of new restaurants, shops, and small businesses offering products and services from artisan food and grocery vendors, personal care services like hair, nails, and massage, exercise, books, flowers, soap, candles, and other retailers. The outdoor space will provide a family friendly venue with activity areas, shade trees, benches, a playground, water features, and an outdoor gathering spot for art and cultural events. This neighborhood locale will offer a perfect site to host small to medium events such as films, meetings, theater, music, dance, ceremonies, lectures, seasonal festivals, community awards, and school performances.
This dual-purpose commercial development will provide a much-needed safe kid-friendly neighborhood gathering space in downtown Brentwood. Over the past three years Matt and his partners have put a lot of thought and effort into obtaining business and community feedback regarding how this location can enhance the needs of the downtown area. As a unique venue it is sensitive to preserving the small-town feel of Brentwood and promoting niche businesses while providing a vibrant neighborhood gathering spot. I hope you will consider approving the “Grove at Brentwood” project because I think it will be a unparalleled asset to the community.
For questions or other information feel free to contact me at this e-mail or by phone at or Cell .
Thank you
Elisa R. Garin
Property Owner
1 From: Henry Dill
Sent: Friday, June 5, 2026 9:57 AM
To: Web Planning Division <[email protected]>
Subject: The grove project
To whom it may concern
I’m wriƟng in support of this project and all its benefits. Bringing this piece of the city to life with a space that will enhance the downtown is something that must happen. AŌer years of just being a dirt lot with a walnut tree and weeds it can be an asset to the City of Brentwood. Not to menƟon generate tax dollars for the city and social opportuniƟes for the ciƟzens of the city.
Please go forward with this project.
Henry Dill
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1 From: Jared Casto
Sent: Tuesday, June 9, 2026 9:37 AM
To: Web Planning Division <[email protected]>; Contreras, Miguel <[email protected]>; Johnson, Gerald <[email protected]>
Subject: RE: The Grove At Brentwood-Addtl Entitlement Hearing Now June 9th Good afternoon Gentlemen and Council members,
I have met you both briefly at a handful of community and city events and would like to oƯer my personal and professional input on ‘The Grove’ project being reviewed tonight. In my 15 years of experience working in architectural firms on permits for rezoning, CUP and SUP processes all around the Bay Area and Central Valley, I see that the uncommon has happened, and a unanimous vote of approval was pulled back for re-review. I spoke briefly at the previous hearing but will not be able to attend this new one so I am voicing my support here. I have heard there is still a lot of support eager to voice positive input tonight, so I trust that whatever items are a concern can be addressed as conditions of approval and the seemingly overwhelming community support for this project to move forward is heard, and helps the momentum again this evening.
I know that the concerns for late hours and loud amphitheater sounds have been voiced. We all know that the public does not always understand the workings of the design process and how, though these plans are well developed and thought out, are not final. The planning approval only begins the process of finalizing the drawings through engineering and building departments where these concerns can be refined. As I know Matt and the leaders at SDG are all long time local community members interested in growing the area while maintaining what has been so successful in Brentwood neighborhoods and downtown area, they have already addressed a lot of these concerns in the current design and can do so further through acoustic studies and traƯic analysis reports. I would like to see that be a part of items to be required for permit approval to appease those concerned, but again I trust and know after speaking with them and reviewing the various phases of these plans being developed, that the design team already plans to keep those as priorities as they proceed. Mitigations and adjustment can be made for certain minimums and maximums in writing as required for final approval while still moving the project forward for further design. Limiting the hours of operation on this type of building also very much limits the financial recovery time and increases tenant turnover over long term success. I believe that within reason extended hours for some percentage of downtown uses should be considered a good thing for the success of small and medium business.
That being said, as a Studio director in the same field of work, as a local business looking to grow, as a community member who enjoys downtown, as a Tenant of Matts, as a Father of homeschool kids who very much enjoys the community life that Brentwood oƯers, I am very eager to watch this building get built with my son and contribute to its success with my family when it opens. I hope you and fellow council members hear the public tonight and see their interest in this long unused portion of land, as I have not seen this high of a percentage of positive feedback in the many applications that I have processed. Thank you for your time in reading this and your careful concern for this community the council has helped build and maintain.
Sincerely,
1 From: Jessica Enos
Sent: Tuesday, June 9, 2026 3:04 PM
To: webCityClerk
Subject: The Grove- Public Comment
Attachments: The Grove Public Comment.docx
Please see attached
Thank you
Dear Brentwood City Council,
I am writing to express my support for The Grove project. The Grove is a well thought out project that turns a vacant and unsightly lot in our downtown area into a vibrant community enhancing destination. Matt Hagar reached out to me a few months ago to discuss what collaborations could be possible for Harvest Time and this project, and I am excited to continue these talks as the project comes to fruition. The most important piece of our conversation to me was Mr. Hagar’s clear want for The Grove to become a true community partner, his willingness to share the project vision with me and his desire to see how this business could support local agriculture shows his awareness and intention for this to be a true Brentwood business. Brentwood has a wonderful reputation of being family friendly and The Grove furthers that culture, by bringing a space for local shops, local restaurants, and outdoor gathering spaces that allow all ages to spend quality time together. It is my hope that the City Council will give this project their full consideration and support.
Thank you,
Jessica Enos
1 From: Lauren Palacios
Sent: Tuesday, June 9, 2026 9:15 AM
To: webCityClerk
Subject: The Grove Development Build
To Whom It May Concern:
I am writing to show my support for moving forward with the build of The Grove development. As a resident who lives directly across the street, on Walnut Blvd. I have no concern that this new business will bring any issues to the neighborhood, rather, it will bring great economic value and growth to Brentwood. Thank you for your time on this matter.
Lauren Palacios
1 From: Leslie Servin
Sent: Thursday, June 4, 2026 5:33 PM
To: Web Planning Division <[email protected]>
Subject: Grove
I am in for new business in Brentwood.
But, i would like to see a new traffic flow study in this area.
Walnut traffic backs up all the way across train tracks on to Brentwood Blvd.
I cant image the traffic if they sponsor a art event or music entertainment event.
No, to liquor sales after 10 pm as it is located next to homes.
I hope they have spoken to Southern Pacific about the off set for train tracks.
Yes, i know trains have not used these rails for many, many years.
Leslie Servin
Brentwood,CA.
Noche Gardens neighbhood.
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1 From: m.ogren
Sent: Friday, June 5, 2026 3:43 PM
To: Web Planning Division <[email protected]>
Subject: The Grove Project
Dear Members of the Brentwood City Council,
I am writing to express my strong support for the proposed Grove project. After reviewing the plans, I believe this development will be a significant asset to our downtown area, providing much-needed upgrades and a central gathering place for families and friends.
Currently, I often travel to other cities to find the variety of shopping and dining experiences that the Grove project would bring directly to Brentwood. This development would meet a clear local demand for high-quality spaces where residents can enjoy diverse food choices while watching their children gather in a safe environment.
Beyond the lifestyle benefits, this project will bolster our local economy by providing essential employment opportunities for students. We have already seen the positive impact of businesses like Handel’s, which has improved our streets and provided valuable work experience for local youth. It is rewarding to see the young people I have coached learning the value of hard work through local employment, and the Grove would further expand these opportunities.
The demand for this type of project in Brentwood is clear, and the need is immediate. I respectfully ask that you approve the Grove project to help continue improving our city.
Thank you for your time and for considering my support.
Best regards,
Mark Ogren
1 From: Markita Whitlatch
Sent: Tuesday, June 9, 2026 11:18 AM
To: Web Planning Division <[email protected]>
Subject: The Grove and Brentwood
Good morning,
I wanted to reach out in support of this project. This is such a great opportunity for Brentwood to have and to bring the area small and local businesses. A great space and location for the community to gather.
It’s thoughtfully planned out and would be a perfect addition to Brentwood! Respectfully,
Markita Whitlatch
1 From: Maurice
Sent: Tuesday, June 9, 2026 2:42 PM
To: Web Planning Division <[email protected]>
Subject: THE GROVE AT BRENTWOOD - JUNE 9TH 2026 _- CITY COUNCIL MEETING Dear Brentwood Planning and Council Members,
Thank you for all you do. My family and I are looking forward to seeing you this evening. We are greatly in support of the new project "The Grove At Brentwood". Not only do we feel this would be a wonderful addition to our community. It's also being spearheaded by one of our very own Matt Hagar. It's a blessing to watch a Brentwood native help build the community he grew up in.
Respectfully,
Maurice J. Daroy, LUTCF
29 year Brentwood Business Owner (Daroy Insurance Agency) Current Brentwood Resident
1 From: [email protected]
Sent: Tuesday, June 9, 2026 2:01 PM
To: Web Planning Division <[email protected]>
Subject: The Grove
I won’t be able to aƩend tonight but I am all for the Grove project moving forward, as are 6 of my friends! It’s what Brentwood needs.
Meryl Wiernik
1 From: Michael Morkrid
Sent: Friday, June 5, 2026 4:14 PM
To: Web Planning Division <[email protected]>
Subject: The Grove Project
I Michael Morkrid sƟll approve the Grove project in
Brentwood
-Michael Morkrid
6-5-2026
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1 From: Mindi Pierce
Sent: Tuesday, June 9, 2026 11:27 AM
To: Web Planning Division <[email protected]>
Subject: The Grove
Hello,
Sending my support for this project via email as I’m unable to make the meeƟng. I feel this would be a fantasƟc addiƟon to the area and locals will benefit from having new food and drink opƟons that transcend fast food which is overly abundant in our area. I am not concerned with the sale of alcohol but hope for traffic planning to ensure there are no negaƟve impacts to surrounding neighbors and that operaƟng hours, are reasonable and outdoor events have safety included.
Thank you from excited neighbor.
Mindi Pierce
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1 From: Nick Santucci
Sent: Tuesday, June 9, 2026 11:16 AM
To: Web Planning Division <[email protected]>
Subject: The Grove
I was saddened to hear there was an appeal to approval for The Grove despite a unanimous decision and widespread enthusiasm. This only delays such a great opportunity for Brentwood, its businesses, and the families who deserve more in this great city. Now more than ever, community is so important. The Grove will do nothing but strengthen the Brentwood community.
Thank you,
Nick Santucci
From: Ray Rodda
Sent: Monday, June 8, 2026 11:34 AM
To: webCityClerk
Subject: The Grove Project Brentwood
Good morning
While I will not be able to attend the city council meeting on June 9th and support the Newly Proposed Grove project. I would like to formally say that I support this project. Downtown Brentwood needs this project and the offerings that the Grove will bring. The proposed restaurant will be a very important feature that downtown needs more of.
Sincerely
Raymond Rodda
President and CEO
385 Carrol Court, Brentwood, CA 94513
COMMERCIAL | INDUSTRIAL | MULTI-FAMILY
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1 From: Ryan Jensen
Sent: Tuesday, June 9, 2026 11:54 AM
To: Web Planning Division <[email protected]>; =yCouncil Members <[email protected]> Subject: The Grove at Brentwood
Planning department and City Council,
I am writing to show my full support for The Grove at Brentwood. I think this project is a much-needed, solid development for a blighted section of the downtown core. A place for families and small businesses to come together, support each other and have fun experiences while doing it. As a local commercial real estate agent, I see and discuss many conceptual and actual projects that don't make nearly as much sense as The Grove. It is crystal clear how much time was spent on the details both big and small. Also considering a local lifelong resident is leading this project, I don't see how this could be anything other than exactly the homerun project that downtown and the greater city needs. I personally think that this appeal is nothing short of political theater and has no real backing from the community. I urge the Council to approve this project without changes.
The city of Brentwood wants this project. This is proven by the Planning Department's unanimous vote to approve without changes and by the sheer volume of community support. It's been the biggest talk of the town and my neighborhood for months now. I live in this neighborhood and look forward to visiting The Grove on a regular basis. I also look forward to driving by every day and seeing true vision and growth come to downtown.
Best,
Ryan Jensen
1 From: Sallyann Pham
Sent: Tuesday, June 9, 2026 1:36 PM
To: webCityClerk
Subject: Support for The Grove project
To whom it may concern,
I am a resident here in Brentwood Ca who live just a few mins from the proposed area to build this facility. I’m wriƟng to support the project that I find will bring a facility and charm that downtown Brentwood needs for our growing city for all residents who reside here. Yes we can agree on a Ɵme ordinance for alcohol use but I don’t see how this place can impact the concern Mendoza has brought up considering we have so many restaurants and bars in the small proximity of downtown running currently with no issues. This project brings community and a place for family and friends to convene.
Sincerely,
Sallyann Pham
Sent from my iPhone
1 From: Stephen Booth
Sent: Tuesday, June 9, 2026 12:09 PM
To: webCityClerk
Subject: Grove
I would like to voice strong support for approval of the grove project. I understand some have concerns about competition with our existing downtown businesses and alcohol consumption on site, but I find these concerns misdirected.
While our downtown is lovely, its range is limited in terms of drawing people in. Increasing the range of amenities will draw more people to visit and stay longer. As the phase says, “a rising tide lifts all boats.” We know Brentwood is primarily seen as a “bedroom” and farming community for the Bay Area so I welcome new concepts to liven and contribute to the diversity of options for our local community and draw more locals and visitors alike into our city’s downtown core.
In terms of Alcohol consumption, I have trouble understanding how this is such a concern as most restaurants do serve alcohol. Giving more options for families to gather and experience a variety of food and drink is a further selling point, not a net-negative for this project.
Because this project represents such an exciting opportunity for the community as a whole, I look forward to seeing it move forward without further friction, reflecting the broad support it has from the local community.
Projects that offer such out-sized benefit to the community at large should be celebrated and encouraged. Let’s embrace this unique project while there’s momentum behind it, not squander a chance to see our cherished downtown evolve into something even more vibrant and engaging for the next generation of residents and visitors.
Stephen Booth
www.scb.photography
1 From: Contreras, Miguel
Sent: Thursday, June 4, 2026 3:02 PM
To: McVey, Amanda; DeBray, Cydrice
Subject: FW: Shame on you Jovita!
From: Susan Forrest
Sent: Thursday, June 4, 2026 2:54 PM
To: Web Planning Division <[email protected]>
Subject: Shame on you Jovita!
Let Brentwood proceed with The Grove project!!! Our downtown needs something like this!!! Jovita, you’re the lone standout on this! Get with progress and improving Brentwood.
this communication is strictly prohibited. If you have received this communication in error, please notify us immediately by replying to the message and deleting it from your computer.
From: Amber Zulawski
Sent: Tuesday, June 2, 2026 4:20 AM
To: webCityClerk
Cc: =yCouncil Members
Subject: Public comment organic wast
Attachments: Organic waste city signed.pdf
Please provide this public comment regarding the organic waste for the June 9 meeting.
Thank you,
Amber Zulawski