Policy S 2.2 Landslides and Erosion Control. Reduce landslides and erosion in existing and new develop- ment through continuing education of design professionals on mitigation strategies. Control measures shall retain natural topographic and physical features of the site, if feasible.
Policy S 2.3 Vulnerable Buildings. Encourage modifications to existing unreinforced masonry and soft story buildings, and similar unsafe building conditions to reduce the associated life safety hazards from ground shaking during earthquakes, as shown on Figure S-3. Require voluntary structural modifications to be designed in character with the existing architectural style.
Policy S 2.4 Liquefaction. Use the best-available liquefaction mapping data to avoid siting and locat - ing new public facilities and infrastructure in areas susceptible to liquefaction, as shown in Figure S-4.
ACTIONS
Action S 2.5 Seismic Shaking Mapping. Consult with a geology specialist to update the City’s geologic hazard mapping, documenting the areas within the city with moderate or high potential for liquefaction or ground failure, as shown in Figure S-4.
Action S 2.6 Incentives for Seismic Upgrades. Develop and implement a program to provide financial incentives and education to building owners to support seismic upgrades.
Action S 2.7 Seismic Stability. Review the seismic stability of the City’s assets and infrastructure, such as City Hall, recreational facilities, roadways, and bridges and identify improvements necessary to enhance each facility’s ability to withstand geologic hazards, up to and including a full replacement of the facility.
Action S 2.8 Unreinforced Masonry Buildings. Establish and maintain an inventory of unreinforced ma- sonry building in the city and work with the property owners to upgrade the buildings to meet minimum safety and building code requirements.
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Action S 2.9 Soft Story Buildings. Establish and maintain an inventory of soft story multifamily residen - tial buildings in the city. Educate residents about the vulnerability of soft story construction to severe damage and potential collapse during a significant seismic event, and work with property owners to substantially improve the seismic performance of these residential buildings to meet current structural building design standards.
FLOOD HAZARDS
Flooding occurs when there is too much water in inland areas to be held in local water detention areas, be carried away by drains or creeks, or soak into the soil. When this happens, water can build up and wash into normally dry areas, causing significant harm to buildings, people, and habitats. Floods can be caused by heavy rainfall or long periods of moderate rainfall, or clogged drains during periods of little rainfall. In rare instances, a break in a dam, levee, water pipe, or water tank can also cause flooding.
FEMA maps areas at risk of inundation from a 100-year flood, which has a 1 percent chance of occurring in any year, and a 500-year flood, where the risk of flooding is 0.2 percent annually, as shown in Figure S-5.
These areas are primarily located along creeks, including Laurel Creek and San Mateo Creek, and east of El Camino Real. Climate change may increase the frequency and severity of storms and expand the parts of the city that are considered prone to flooding.
Flooding can also be induced by dam failure, which is caused by structural failure or deficiency associated with intense rainfall, prolonged flooding, earthquakes, landslides, or equipment malfunction. There are two dams of significant concern to San Mateo, as shown in Figure S-6. Failure of Crystal Springs Dam and Laurel Creek Dam would inundate areas along San Mateo Creek and Laurel Creek, and the eastern sections of the city towards the San Francisco Bay. Although dam failures are very rare, they aren’t unprecedented. Each dam is required to have a comprehensive emergency action plan approved by the California Department of Water Resources, Division of Safety of Dams.
Tsunamis, caused by offshore earthquakes, can severely damage property, result in loss of lives, disrupt emergency services, and obstruct roads through intense flooding. Figure S-7 illustrates the areas that may be subject to tsunami inundation in San Mateo, which include shoreline areas along the San Francisco Bay.
As shown in Figure S-7, although much of the tsunami flooding would occur in the northeast portion of the city, the area of tsunami inundation along the southeast corner of the city originates from the Belmont Slough and would stop at the levee, where the Bay Trail is located and the lagoon starts. Earthquakes with magnitudes below 6.5 are very unlikely to trigger a tsunami. See also the Geologic and Seismic Hazards section of this element for more information on earthquake hazards.
As discussed in the Public Services and Facilities Element, San Mateo has levees that protect the city from flooding from creeks and the San Francisco Bay. Non-federal levees are along the shoreline of Seal Point Park, and over 1,300 feet of levees have been upgraded along the San Mateo and Burlingame border . The San Mateo County Flood and Sea Level Rise Resiliency District, or OneShoreline, was created in 2020 to facilitate multijurisdictional flood and sea level rise resiliency projects in San Mateo County. Earthquakes or overtopping due to major storms can cause levees to fail, flooding the shoreline areas of the city. 187
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Source: CalDWR, 2022; FEMA, 2022; ESRI, 2022; PlaceWorks, 2023.
Figure S-5 Potential Flood Hazards
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Figure S-6 Potential Flood Hazards – Dam and Levee Failure 189
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Note: This map is included for informational purposes and is not adopted as part of this General Plan.
Figure S-7 Tsunami Hazard Zones
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GOALS, POLICIES, AND ACTIONS
GOAL S-3 Protect the community from unreasonable risk to life and property caused by flood hazards.
POLICY
Policy S 3.1 Development within Floodplains. Protect new development and substantial retrofits within a floodplain by requiring the lowest finish floor elevation to be above the applicable floodwater elevation or by incorporating other flood-proofing measures consistent with Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) regulations, OneShoreline guidance, the City’s Floodplain Management Ordinance, and other City policy documents.
ACTIONS
Action S 3.2 Floodplain Ordinance Update. Update the Floodplain Management Ordinance, including to align with FEMA and OneShoreline recommendations and to update construction cost value information.
Action S 3.3 Flood Risk Mapping Data. Regularly update mapping data pertaining to the 100-year and 500-year floodplains, dams, and levee failure as information becomes available.
Action S 3.4 Community Rating System. Undertake efforts that increase the City’s rating under FEMA’s Community Rating System, such as expanding and improving Geographic Information System (GIS) mapping capacity, developing a flood early warning system, and creating a Flood Emergency Action Plan.
Action S 3.5 Early Flood Warning. Collaborate with OneShoreline to provide early flood warning for flood-prone areas of the city through OneShoreline’s stream monitoring station and notifi - cation system.
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SEA LEVEL RISE
As global temperatures increase, glaciers and other land ice near the north and south poles melt and sea levels rise. Higher temperatures also cause water to expand in oceans, further contributing to sea level rise.
Rising seas increase the risk of flooding, storm surge inundation, erosion and shoreline retreat, and wetland loss. According to OneShoreline, San Mateo County as a whole is the most vulnerable county in California to sea level rise because of its extensive coastline and Bay shoreline and the number of people, value of properties, and critical assets in sea level rise-prone areas. Along the shoreline of the city, different scenarios project that sea levels will rise between 1.1 and 2.7 feet by 2050, with levels above 2 feet likely, and by 3.4 to 10.2 feet by 2100. However, it is possible that sea levels could rise faster than these projections. Figures S-8 and S-9 display the expected sea level rise in San Mateo in 2050 (2 feet) and 2100 (7 feet) based on the Ocean Protection Council’s 2018 Updated California Sea Level Rise Guidance, featuring models from the Adapting to Rising Tides program of the San Francisco Bay Conservation and Development Commission (BCDC). These figures do not reflect the improvements currently underway for the Foster City levee system.
Rising sea levels can also cause the shoreline to flood more frequently and severely during storms or king tide events. King tides are abnormally high, predictable astronomical tides that occur about twice per year, with the highest tides occurring when the earth, moon, and sun are aligned. Because sea level rise will cause ocean levels to be higher during normal conditions, shoreline floods can reach further onto land. For example, a storm that has a one in five chance of occurring in a given year (known as a five-year storm) can create a temporary increase in sea levels of approximately two feet. The goals, policies, and actions in this section call for planning for a medium- to high-risk aversion scenario in 2100. This scenario uses a 1 in 200 chance for sea level rise projections, providing a precautionary projection that can be used for less adaptive (less able to make changes that reduce harm in response to hazards), more vulnerable developments or populations that will experience moderate to high consequences if actions are not taken to address sea level rise in these areas. Figure S-10 shows shoreline flooding on top of sea level rise in the event of a five-year storm for 2050.
Rising sea levels also threaten a significant portion of San Mateo’s housing, commercial buildings, essential infrastructure, and economic drivers, as low-lying land near the shoreline could be subject to more frequent flooding. Affected essential infrastructure includes US Highway 101, State Route (SR-) 92, and the Caltrain station and associated railroad infrastructure. Meanwhile, rising tides may increase groundwater levels, inundating contaminated soils. Given that some contaminated sites in San Mateo sit near the shoreline, rising groundwater may cause contaminated soils to leach into new, different areas.
Natural ecosystems in the bay will be disrupted by the higher tide levels and intrusion of saltwater into freshwater creek systems and the Marina Lagoon. Historically, marshlands along the shoreline have adapted to changes in sea level by building up sediment, increasing the height of the marsh to keep pace with the tide levels of the San Francisco Bay, and moving inland. However, eastern San Mateo is lined with a three-mile levee system that has very little marsh habitat, and any habitat migration is expected to be outpaced by sea level rise. Creative integration of nature-based solutions to combine natural buffers with San Mateo’s extensive existing levee system to mitigate flooding risks could be an opportunity to re-establish ecological communities and enhance natural areas, such as the creeks throughout the city and the Marina Lagoon. 192
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In 2023, the City completed improvements in the North Shoreview neighborhood, which is south of Coyote Point, roughly bound by San Mateo Creek to the south, U.S. Highway 101 to the west, the Poplar Creek Golf Course to the north, and San Francisco Bay to the east. Ground elevations in the neighborhood range from below sea level to about 10 feet above sea level, so the area is susceptible to flooding from San Francisco Bay and stormwater runoff that collects behind the levees protecting the neighborhood from bay water intrusion. Figure S-11 shows a map of the neighborhood and the various structures and facilities that provide protection against these flood risks. The City upgraded the Coyote Point and Poplar Avenue pump stations and made improvements to a section of the Bayfront Levee. With the added protection, approximately 1,600 properties in North Shoreview will be removed from the 100-year flood zone once approved by FEMA. The levee improvements will add 3.9 feet above the predicted base flood elevation to account for sea level rise.
Neighboring Foster City is also in the process of constructing improvements to their levee system, which interconnects with the City of San Mateo’s system. Their improvements will provide protection from the 100-year flood and an additional 3 feet above the predicted base flood elevation to account for sea level rise.
The City of San Mateo will continue working with regional, State, and federal partners to proactively address the potential impacts of sea level rise. The City regularly participates in data gathering and mapping, collab- orates with OneShoreline, manages a new assessment district in North Shoreview to fund necessary flood protection improvements, and completes infrastructure projects to provide flood protection. The City is also engaged through the BayCAN collaborative, a Bay Area-wide collaborative network of local govern - ments and organizations focused on responding effectively and equitably to the impacts of climate change. 193
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Source: ESRI, 2022; PlaceWorks, 2023.
Note: This map is included for informational purposes and is not adopted as part of this General Plan.
Figure S-8 2050 Sea Level Rise
Note: This map
does not reflect
the improvements
currently underway
for the Foster City
levee system.
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Source: ESRI, 2022; PlaceWorks, 2023.
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Figure S-9 2100 Sea Level Rise
Note: This map
does not reflect
the improvements
currently underway
for the Foster City
levee system.
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Figure S-10 2050 Sea Level Rise Plus 100-Year Storm
Note: This map
does not reflect
the improvements
currently underway
for the Foster City
levee system.
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GOALS, POLICIES, AND ACTIONS
GOAL S-4 Develop regionally coordinated sea level rise adaptation measures and programs.
POLICIES
Policy S 4.1 Sea Level Rise Planning. Integrate sea level rise planning into all relevant City processes, including General Plan amendments, Specific Plans, zoning ordinance updates, capital proj- ects, and review and approval of new development and substantial retrofits.
Policy S 4.2 Sea Level Rise and Groundwater Rise Protection. Ensure that new development, substan- tial retrofits, critical facilities, City-owned buildings, and existing and future flood control infrastructure are planned and designed to accommodate climate change hazards, including increases in flooding, sea level rise, and rising groundwater, based on the best available science.
Policy S 4.3 Natural Infrastructure. Consider the use of nature-based solutions and natural infrastruc - ture in sea level rise adaptation strategies.
Figure S-11 North Shoreview Flood Protection Improvements Note: This map is included for informational purposes and is not adopted as part of this General Plan. 197
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Policy S 4.4 OneShoreline Coordination. Coordinate with OneShoreline to develop and implement co- ordinated approaches to sea level rise with other San Mateo County jurisdictions.
ACTIONS
Action S 4.5 Climate Change Adaptation Plan. Assess sea level rise projections, consistent with One - Shoreline recommendations, identify the extent of areas vulnerable to sea level rise in the city, and develop a Climate Change Adaptation Plan that sets a comprehensive strategy and includes planning and design standards for climate risk protection. Use this plan to evaluate development applications to ensure projects are protected from sea level rise hazards over the life of the project and to assess public infrastructure needs for adequate protection.
Action S 4.6 Sea Level Rise Monitoring. Review and use the best-available sea level rise science and projections and regularly identify natural resources, development, infrastructure, and communities that are vulnerable to sea level rise impacts, including impacts from rising groundwater. Use this information to continue to develop or adjust planning and adaptation strategies.
Action S 4.7 Rising Groundwater Coordination. Coordinate with OneShoreline, local jurisdictions, and regional and State agencies to study and enforce requirements related to rising groundwa- ter levels caused by sea level rise.
Action S 4.8 Natural Infrastructure. Use or restore natural features and ecosystem processes where feasible and appropriate as a preferred approach to the placement of hard shoreline protec- tion when implementing sea level rise adaptation strategies.
Action S 4.9 Sea Level Overlay Zone. Study the feasibility of establishing a sea level rise overlay zone that would allow for the creation of adaptation policies, rules, or construction codes unique to this area, and consistent with OneShoreline guidance, to require properties be made resilient to sea level rise.
Action S 4.10 Sea Level Rise Funding. Study options for establishing dedicated General Fund dollars to support efforts to address sea level rise, including sufficiently supporting OneShoreline.
Action S 4.11 New Development. Explore creation of a new fee for new development along the bay shoreline to fund sea level rise protection measures and adaptation strategies. 198
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WILDFIRE HAZARDS
Wildfires are a regular feature of the landscape in much of California and can be sparked by lightning, malfunctioning equipment, vehicle crashes, or other causes. High winds, such as the Diablo Winds, can cause fires to spread rapidly and erratically, increasing the difficulty of containment and possibility of burning into developed areas. In addition to direct fire impacts on people and property, wildfires remove stabilizing vegetation from hillsides, increasing the likelihood of future landslides. When wildfires burn at very high temperatures, soils can become hydrophobic, preventing the ground from absorbing stormwater and causing flooding downslope. Residents can also be harmed by smoke from wildfires in the region or across northern California. Particulate matter from smoke can cause respiratory illnesses, especially for those who spend a lot of time outdoors during smoky conditions.
The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) designates lands into responsibility areas based on who is financially responsible for fire-protection services. Local Responsibility Areas (LRAs) include areas where City fire departments or local fire protection districts are charged with fire protection.
State Responsibility Areas (SRAs) include unincorporated areas and State lands where the State has financial responsibility for wildfire protection. San Mateo is within an LRA, and the San Mateo Consolidated Fire Department provides fire prevention and protection services for the area. There are no locations in San Mateo that currently lack access to fire-protection services. 199
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Within the responsibility areas, CAL FIRE designates (with City approval) lands as Moderate, High, or Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones. As shown in Figure S-12, Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones are in western San Mateo between the City Limits and SR-92, as well as near Yale Drive and St. Johns Cemetery. Current mapping does not yet designate Moderate or High Fire Hazard Severity Zones in the City Limits. Users should consult the most recent available mapping from CAL FIRE’s Fire and Resource Assessment Program (FRAP).
1 Future updates to this Safety Element will include new fire mapping data as it becomes available.
Wildfires may start in wildland areas, natural areas in the unincorporated county, but they can easily spread to developed areas in the city between urban development and wildlands. This area is called the Wildland- Urban Interface (WUI), as shown in Figure S-13. The WUI is made up of two distinct zones. The interface zone contains dense housing or other structures next to vegetation but has little wildland vegetation that can burn in a wildfire. The wildland zones have higher concentrations of wildland vegetation with fewer structures and may have limited access and/or steeper terrain that makes controlling wildfires more difficult.
As shown in Figure S-13, the wildland zones are in and near Laurelwood Park and in open space areas near the Peninsula Golf & Country Club. The interface zones border the park and open space areas and include residential neighborhoods, roadways, and other infrastructure throughout west and southwestern parts of San Mateo.
Within the Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones and WUI zones, there are existing homes, businesses, and public land uses, as well as associated infrastructure like major roadways (e.g., SR-92 and Interstate 280), electrical transmission infrastructure, water and wastewater distribution systems, and communication facilities. Much of this development occurred prior to wildfire hazard mapping; the policies and actions in this element limit future residential development in Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones and aim to protect existing buildings and infrastructure. Meanwhile, State law requires that homeowners in the WUI zones create and maintain defensible space around homes and other structures, keep roofs clear of flammable material, and use spark arresters on chimneys. Figure S-14 shows the land use designations within Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones for the Strive San Mateo General Plan 2040.
Although no fires have burned in close proximity to San Mateo since CAL FIRE has kept records (1878), several fires have burned in the unincorporated areas of San Mateo County. Recently, the 2020 CZU Lightning Complex Fire burned over 86,000 acres in southern San Mateo County. In 2022, a wildfire burned in the Emerald Hills area of Redwood City, to the south of San Mateo, which could have burned into the city under different conditions. Areas that have previously burned, regardless of their location within or outside of a Fire Hazard Severity Zone, are likely to burn again. Due to climate change, fire activity is projected to increase where development expands in the WUI zones and in areas of high winds. 1 Available at https://frap.fire.ca.gov.
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Source: CalFire, 2022; ESRI, 2022; PlaceWorks, 2023.
Note: This map is a draft and will be updated once CalFire publishes the new Wild Hazard Zones.
Figure S-12 Wildfire Hazard Zones
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Source: City of San Mateo, 2022; ESRI, 2022; PlaceWorks, 2023.
Figure S-13 Wildland-Urban Interface
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Source: City of San Mateo, 2022; ESRI, 2022; PlaceWorks, 2023.
Note: This map is a draft and will be updated once CalFire publishes the new Wild Hazard Zones. *This map is draft and will be updated once Cal Fire publishes the new Wildfire Hazard Zones.
Figure S-14 Land Uses in Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones 203
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GOALS, POLICIES, AND ACTIONS
GOAL S-5 Maintain adequate fire and life safety protection from wildland fires.
POLICIES
Policy S 5.1 Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones. Avoid new residential development in Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones, as shown on Figure S-14, or the most current data available from CAL FIRE. Redevelopment or reconstruction of existing structures is allowed. Coordinate with San Mateo Consolidated Fire Department (SMC Fire) to ensure new construction of buildings or infrastructure within a Fire Hazard Severity Zone or Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI), as shown on Figures S-12 and S-13 or the most current data available from CAL FIRE, are in full compliance with applicable State and local regulations and meet the Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone Fire Safe Regulations for road ingress and egress, fire equipment access, and adequate water supply.
Policy S 5.2 Reconstruction of Development. Require reconstruction projects or significant retrofits in a Fire Hazard Severity Zone and the Wildland-Urban Interface, as shown on Figures S-12 and S-13 or the most current data available from CAL FIRE, to be consistent with the California Building Standards Code, California Fire Code, and Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone Fire Safe Regulations.
Policy S 5.3 Wildland Fire Protection. Require all development in and adjacent to designated Fire Hazard Severity Zone and Wildland-Urban Interface to prepare a fire protection plan for review and approval by SMC Fire prior to issuance of building permits and to provide access and defensible space in accordance with California codes and local ordinances.
Policy S 5.4 Hillside Vegetation Stability. Stabilize, and as feasible re-vegetate, burned slopes following a wildfire event to reduce landslide and debris flow risk.
Policy S 5.5 Fire Risk Mapping. Coordinate with SMC Fire to consistently update any mapping data showing fire extent in San Mateo using CAL FIRE data and local wildland fire risk maps indi- cating the locations and extents of Fire Hazard Severity Zones, Local Responsibility Areas, and the Wildland-Urban Interface. Use this mapping data to inform decisions about existing risk and future land uses throughout the city and share these maps widely on the City’s website, published handouts and flyers, and at in-person and virtual education events.
Policy S 5.6 Firefighting Infrastructure. Coordinate with SMC Fire to ensure adequate firefighting in - frastructure, including road and building clearance for firefighting vehicles, and clear and legible street signage throughout the community.
Policy S 5.7 Peakload Water Supply. Ensure that the California Water Service Company and the Estero Municipal Improvement District provide and maintain a water supply and distribution system that provides an adequate static pressure to deliver the minimum fire hydrant flow to all areas of the city, except where a lesser flow is acceptable, as determined by SMC Fire. 204
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Policy S 5.8 Facilities Planning. Place all new public facilities or relocate existing public facilities outside of identified fire hazard risk areas as feasible. Appropriately retrofit public facilities to miti - gate fire risk.
Policy S 5.9 Land Use Management for Fire Risks. Maintain all City-owned public lands and work with private landowners to reduce fuel loads, establish appropriately placed fire breaks/defensi- ble space, require long-term maintenance of fire hazard reduction projects, and educate all property owners in the city on proper landscape maintenance and firescaping standards to reduce the risk of fire hazards.
Policy S 5.10 Wildland Fire Vulnerability. Consider all improvements at Sugarloaf Mountain and Laurel- wood Park in the context of the area’s high fire risk and include wildfire mitigation compo - nents in projects when feasible.
Policy S 5.11 Fire-Safe Roads. Coordinate with SMC Fire to evaluate new development or significant retrofits that have access on roadways that do not meet fire-safe road and vegetation stan- dards within the Wildfire-Urban Interface and/or Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone and ensure that road standards and vegetation management occurs and is maintained.
Policy S 5.12 Secondary Access. Explore secondary means of ingress and egress in areas with evacuation constraints, as shown in Figure S-2, Evacuation-Constrained Areas, for existing subdivisions or developments of 30 units or more within a Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone.
Policy S 5.13 Emergency Access. Require that roads, driveways, and other clearances around structures are located and designed to ensure emergency access.
Policy S 5.14 Emergency Services. Work with SMC Fire to provide fire prevention, protection, and emer- gency preparedness services that adequately protect residents, employees, visitors, and structures from fire and fire-related emergencies.
ACTIONS
Action S 5.15 Tree Maintenance. Collaborate with SMC Fire to maintain City-owned trees in a manner that does not contribute to fire danger, in accordance with current best management practices (BMPs).
Action S 5.16 Fire-Safe Education. Work with SMC Fire and seek funding to develop a fire-safe education program that provides information and awareness to community members about defensive space, fire-resistant landscaping and construction, evacuation preparation, and other wild- fire education topics.
Action S 5.17 Fire Hazard History. Include a historical record of any significant fire events that have oc - curred in San Mateo or the surrounding area in all updates to the City’s Safety Element.
Action S 5.18 Vegetation Management on City-Owned Land. Coordinate with SMC Fire to continue conducting and providing long-term maintenance of vegetation management projects in City-owned parks and open spaces to prevent wildfire ignition and spread. 205
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Action S 5.19 Reevaluation of Development Standards. Reevaluate development standards for wildfire risk areas following major wildfire events and apply updated standards as needed to main- tain high levels of wildfire protection.
Action S 5.20 Vegetation Management. Coordinate with the SMC Fire and the FIRE SAFE San Mateo County to obtain funding for and conduct vegetation and fuel modification or management.
HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
Much of the economic success of the Bay Area is based on research and manufacturing, the byproducts of which include substances that may be harmful to people and the surrounding environment. Hazardous waste ranges from familiar substances, such as waste oil and cleaning solvents, to highly toxic industrial compounds, and include toxic metals, gases, flammable and explosive liquids and solids, corrosive materials, radioactive materials, and infectious biological waste. They can be released through human error, malfunc- tioning or broken equipment, or as an indirect consequence of other emergencies (e.g., if an earthquake damages a hazardous material storage tank). Hazardous materials can also be released accidentally during transportation, as a consequence of vehicle accidents.
Most of the waste generators in San Mateo are small-quantity generators – small businesses and households that generate less than 12 tons per year . Numerous industrial and commercial operations, both past and present, have manufactured, handled, stored, and disposed of hazardous materials. Hazardous material sites include manufacturing operations, facilities with leaking underground storage tanks (LUSTs), and generators of hazardous waste. In the twenty-first century, life science buildings are replacing industrial businesses as users of hazardous materials and producers of hazardous waste.
The San Mateo County Hazardous Waste Management Plan, implemented by San Mateo County Environ- mental Health Service, the designated Certified Unified Program Agency for the county, has designated 15 areas in San Mateo that are zoned for either commercial or industrial uses as suitable for waste treatment, recycling, storage, and transfer facilities. The sites designated for these facilities are in manufacturing districts adjacent to the Union Pacific rail corridor . Sites designated for storage and transfer facilities are in service commercial and transit-oriented development zoning districts adjacent to the rail corridor, west of US Highway 101 on Amphlett Boulevard, and in Coyote Point Park.
Hazardous materials are primarily transported within San Mateo via trucks carrying a variety of materials, including gasoline, other petroleum products, and other chemicals known to cause fire and life safety problems. There is a significant potential for accidental release of wastes in transit due to the presence of US Highway 101 running through the eastern portion of the city. The transport of hazardous materials is regulated by the California Department of Transportation and California Highway Patrol on State and Interstate highways in California. Local agencies have the authority to restrict the use of local roads for waste transport, as well as the time of transit, if not unduly restrictive to commerce.
Generally, selection of transportation routes should minimize the time and distance that hazardous waste is in transit, avoid residential neighborhoods and sensitive receptors, avoid periods and areas of traffic congestion, minimize use of local roads, and provide for adequate emergency response services. 206
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GOALS, POLICIES, AND ACTIONS
GOAL S-6 Protect the community’s health, safety, and welfare relating to the use, storage, transport, and disposal of hazardous materials.
POLICIES
Policy S 6.1 County Cooperation. Cooperate with the County of San Mateo and San Mateo Consoli - dated Fire Department in the regulation and transportation of hazardous materials in San Mateo. Share hazardous materials management enforcement with San Mateo County and San Mateo Consolidated Fire Department.
Policy S 6.2 County Hazardous Waste Management Plan. Adopt the San Mateo County Hazardous Waste Management Plan by reference into the Safety Element. Make amendments, as nec- essary, to suit local needs and issues.
Policy S 6.3 Transportation Routes. Restrict the transportation of hazardous materials and waste to designated truck routes and limit such transportation to non-commute hours.
Policy S 6.4 Hazardous Waste Management Facilities Location. Regulate the location and operation of new hazardous waste management facilities.
Policy S 6.5 Design of Hazardous Waste Management Facilities. Require the following features and mitigation measures in the design of proposed hazardous waste management facilities, in - cluding life sciences buildings, to minimize potential health, safety, and aesthetic impacts on surrounding properties and occupants:
• For sites in areas subject to flooding or inundation as shown on Figures S-5 and S-6, require facilities to have a surface elevation at least 1.5 f eet above the maximum flood water level for areas containing hazardous substances or to be flood-proofed in some other manner suitable to the City.
• Require facilities to provide for full on-site containment of maximum permitted quantities of hazardous substances, including protection of storm drain or sanitary sewer inlets from accidental entry of hazardous materials.
• Require facilities to provide separate storage and/or treatment of potentially reactive substances, including separate spill containment vessels. Require that storage of hazardous gases provides adequate filtration and neutralization devices to prohibit accidental release of toxic substances.
• Require that all storage and treatment occur within an enclosed structure. • Require new facilities be sited as far away as possible within the project site from sensitive communities, such as homes, schools, playgrounds, sports fields, childcare centers, senior centers, and long-term healthcare facilities.
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Policy S 6.6 Risk Assessment. Require applications for hazardous waste management facilities to pre - pare a risk assessment to determine site suitability. Establish risk criteria such as distance from public facilities, residential, or immobile population and recreation areas; impacts from natural hazards (seismic, geologic, flood, and fire hazards); impacts on wetlands, endangered species, air quality, and emergency response capabilities; and proximity to major transport routes.
Policy S 6.7 Contaminated Sites. Require the cleanup of contaminated sites, including those indicated on the Hazardous Waste and Substances Sites List (Cortese List) published by the Depart - ment of Toxic Substances Control and/or other agencies, such as the San Mateo County Health Department and the Regional Water Quality Control Board, in conjunction with sub- stantial site development or redevelopment, where feasible.
Policy S 6.8 Cost Recovery. Require San Mateo County businesses that generate hazardous waste or applicants for hazardous waste management facilities to pay necessary costs for implemen- tation of Hazardous Waste Management Plans and for application costs, and to pay for costs associated with emergency response services in the event of a hazardous material release, to the extent permitted by law.
ACTION
Action S 6.9 Shared Data. Regularly coordinate with San Mateo County to collect data on businesses that store hazardous substances to share with local emergency service providers, including the Police Department and San Mateo Consolidated Fire Department, as well as the Public Works Department for the wastewater source-control program. 208
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Noise Element
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NOISE ELEMENT
INTRODUCTION
This Noise Element provides the policy framework for controlling, managing, and mitigating excessive noise in the city. These policies will protect land uses that are sensitive to noise, such as residences, schools, and libraries, while minimizing noise from the sources that create them.
RELEVANCE TO
GENERAL PLAN THEMES
Sustainability in this Element:
• Reducing noise levels reduces stress for humans and animals, improving the health and well-being of our community and habitats.
Environmental Justice in this Element:
• Minimizing and mitigating noise impacts will help alleviate the harmful effects of noise pollution in neighborhoods close to freeways, the rail corridor, and other high-volume roadways, which already experience disproportionate impacts from multiple pollution sources.
Community Engagement in this Element:
• Informs the San Mateo community about upcoming land use projects that would contribute to or be affected by a noisy environment. • Leverages creative outreach strategies to engage with all San Mateo residents, particularly those that live in equity priority communities, about development projects and new activities that could generate noise or mitigate existing noise nuisances.
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NOISE IN SAN MATEO
Sounds can bring joy to the listener, but they can also be a nuisance. Loud sounds can become unwanted noise that could be harmful to our physical, mental, and emotional health. Stress and lost sleep from noise pollution contributes to cardiovascular and metabolic diseases. While noise pollution has the potential to affect all San Mateo residents, existing noise levels are highest in neighborhoods closest to freeways and the rail corridor, compounding the negative health effects of air pollution and other pollution sources in those communities.
San Mateo’s vibrant urban environment generates noise on a daily basis. Vehicles create a rhythmic hum that is oftentimes punctuated by honks and other noises as they travel along the city’s streets and thorough- fares. Trains traveling on the Caltrain/Southern Pacific rail corridor sound their horns to warn pedestrians, motorists, and others about their impending arrival. This safety measure also creates noise pollution for those that live or work near the rail corridor . Commercial activities and open spaces, such as restaurants, storefronts, and parks help to create a lively atmosphere for social interactions and economic activities.
However, they also have the potential to generate noise nuisances, especially for entertainment uses that occur after normal business hours. Other noise sources in the community come from construction activities, aircraft flyovers, landscaping equipment, and fixed mechanical equipment, such as air conditioning units.
MEASURING ENVIRONMENTAL NOISE
Environmental noise level or intensity is measured in decibels (dB), which range from 0 dB, the threshold at which people can detect sound, to 140 dB, the threshold where it becomes painful to hear . For every increase of 10 dB, the perceived loudness of noise is doubled. For example, a motorcycle accelerating (90 dB) seems twice as loud as a power lawn mower (80 dB).
This Noise Element uses a unit of measurement called the “A-weighted” decibel scale, which is sometimes expressed as dBA. Humans do not hear all frequencies equally. As a result, this measurement takes into consideration that human hearing decreases at extremely low and high frequencies. State law requires general plans to use the Community Noise Equivalent Level (CNEL) or the Day/Night Average Sound Level (L
dn) to describe the community noise environment and its effects on the population. The City of San Mateo uses the Day/Night Average Sound Level (L dn), which represents a 24-hour average sound level, with an additional 10 dB added for nighttime noise between the hours of 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m., as shown in the land use compatibility standards for noise in Table N-1.
Table N-1 is used to determine whether the existing exterior noise levels that would surround a proposed new use are acceptable or unacceptable and to identify where a proposed project may need to incorporate noise mitigation features. Roadway noise is the primary contributor to the average exterior noise levels in San Mateo. Existing and projected average exterior noise levels in San Mateo are shown in Figures N-1, N-2, and N-3.
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Source: ESRI, 2022; ECORP , 2023; PlaceWorks, 2023.
Note: This map is included for informational purposes and is not adopted as part of this General Plan.
Figure N-1 Existing Traffic Noise Contours
0 Miles
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Figure N-2 Future Traffic Noise Contours
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Figure N-3 Rail Noise Contours
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Table N-1 Land Use Compatibility Guidelines
Land Use Category of Proposed
New Use
Day-Night Average Exterior Noise Level, Ldn (dBA)
0 - 59 60 - 65 66 - 70 71 - 80 over 81
Noise-Sensitive Land Uses
Residential (all densities) *
Multifamily Common Open Space for
Residents
Hotels, Motels, and Other Lodging
Schools, Libraries, Hospitals, Churches,
Long-Term Care Facilities
Parks, Playgrounds, Privately Owned
Publicly Accessible Open Space
Office and Commercial
Research and Development, Industrial
Normally Acceptable. Specified land use is satisfactory based on the assumption that any buildings involved are of normal, conventional construction, without any special noise mitigation requirements.
Conditionally Acceptable. New construction or development should be undertaken only after a detailed analysis of the noise-reduction requirements is made and needed noise mitigation features have been included in the design.
Normally Unacceptable. New construction or development should not be undertaken. * See residential land use designations in the Land Use Element of this General Plan.
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MITIGATING NOISE IMPACTS
Excessive noise in the city can be addressed in three ways: land use planning, physical mitigation, and administrative regulation. Land use planning means considering the existing and future noise environment when reviewing proposed development and locating new uses in a way that minimizes the exposure of new community members to excessive noise. Most of San Mateo is within the “conditionally acceptable” range of between 60 dB and 70 dB (L
dn), so some form of noise mitigation will likely need to be incorporated into building and site design for any new noise-sensitive land uses listed in Table N-1.
San Mateo’s residential neighborhoods that border US Highway 101, State Route (SR-) 92, El Camino Real, and the railroad corridor are subject to sound levels exceeding 70 dB (Ldn), as shown in Figures N-1 and N-3.
The Land Use Element allows residential and other types of development in these areas, and this Noise Element provides policy guidance to mitigate noise impacts on that new development, such as through site design and construction methods.
Physical mitigation refers to reducing the noise level by controlling how buildings are built and where they are located. For instance, buildings could use sound-absorbing materials to absorb the noise, install walls or windows to reduce the noise indoors, or be located in areas away from sources that produce substantial noise, such as freeways or train tracks. Trees and other vegetation can also help to absorb, deflect, and mask unwelcome noise, while also offering shade and absorbing carbon.
The City’s Noise Control Ordinance is an example of administrative regulations. This ordinance, which is part of the Municipal Code, limits the operating hours and duration of noise sources by decibel level. For example, construction activities are restricted at night so residents can have a quiet and peaceful night of sleep.
Noise mitigation in the city requires a collaborative approach between the City of San Mateo and other agencies. The City has the power to enact the policies in this Noise Element and the regulations in the Noise Control Ordinance. However, many sources of noise pollution are outside of the City’s control. Noise generated from trains that use the Caltrain/Southern Pacific rail corridor, particularly the train horns, is regulated by safety standards set by the Federal Rail Administration. While there is noise pollution from the San Francisco International Airport (SFO), the City has limited influence on flight paths, which are determined by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Additionally, freeways are under the jurisdiction of the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans). Moving forward, the City will continue to work closely with agencies such as Caltrain, Caltrans, and SFO to reduce noise impacts to all those that live, work, and play in San Mateo.
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GOALS, POLICIES, AND ACTIONS
GOAL N-1 Protect noise-sensitive land uses from excessive noise levels.
POLICIES
Policy N 1.1 Noise and Land Use Planning. Integrate noise considerations into land use planning deci - sions to minimize noise impacts to or from new development.
Policy N 1.2 Interior Noise Level Standard. Require submittal of an acoustical analysis and interior noise insulation for all noise-sensitive land uses listed in Table N-1 that have an exterior noise level of 60 dBA (Ldn) or above, as shown on Figure N -2. The maximum interior noise level shall not exceed 45 dBA (Ldn) in any habitable rooms, as established by the California Building Code.
Policy N 1.3 Exterior Noise Level Standard for Residential Uses. Require an acoustical analysis for new multifamily common open space for residents that have an exterior noise level of 60 dBA (Ldn) or above, as shown on Figure N-2. Incorporate necessary mitigation measures into residential project design to minimize common open space noise levels. Maximum exterior noise should not exceed 65 dBA (L
dn) for residential uses and should not exceed 65 dBA (Ldn) for public park uses.
Policy N 1.4 Exterior Noise Level Standard for Parks and Playgrounds. Require a feasibility analysis of noise-reduction measures for public parks and play areas that have an exterior noise level of 70 dBA (L
dn) or above.
Policy N 1.5 Inclusive Outreach. Notify the community when new land uses that would result in exces - sive noise levels are being considered and inform community members about how they can engage in the process. Use outreach and engagement methods that encourage broad rep - resentation and are culturally sensitive, particularly for equity priority communities.
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GOAL N-2 Minimize unnecessary, annoying, or unhealthful noise.
POLICIES
Policy N 2.1 Noise Regulation. Regulate noise in San Mateo to prohibit noise that is annoying or injuri - ous to community members.
Policy N 2.2 Minimize Noise Impacts. Incorporate necessary mitigation measures into new develop - ment design to minimize short-term noise impacts. Determine whether new development has the potential to result in a significant noise impact on existing development based on the following standards. Impacts will be analyzed based on long-term operational noise in - creases at the sensitive receptor property line, or new uses that generate noise levels at the sensitive receptor property line, as follows:
Policy N 2.3 Minimize Commercial Noise. Protect land uses other than those listed as “noise sensitive” in Table N-1 from adverse impacts caused by the on-site noise generated by new develop - ments. Incorporate necessary mitigation measures into development design to minimize short-term and long-term noise impacts. Prohibit new uses that generate noise levels of 65 dBA (L
dn) or above at the property line, excluding existing ambient noise levels.
Policy N 2.4 Traffic Noise. Recognize projected increases in ambient noise levels resulting from future traffic increases, as shown on Figure N-2. Promote reduced traffic speeds and the installation of noise barriers or other methods to reduce traffic noise along highways and high-volume roadways where noise-sensitive land uses (listed in Table N-1) are adversely impacted by excessive noise levels (60 dBA [L
dn] or above).
Policy N 2.5 Railroad Noise. Support the installation of noise barriers and other mitigations along the railroad corridor where noise-sensitive land uses are adversely impacted by excessive noise levels (60 dBA [Ldn] or greater), as shown in Figure N-3.
Ldn Category of Existing Development
Per Figures N-1, N-2, and/or N-3
Noise Increase Considered “Significant” over Existing
Noise Levels
Normally Acceptable An increase of more than 5 dBA and the total Ldn exceeds the “normally acceptable” category
Conditionally Acceptable An increase of more than 5 dBA Unacceptable An increase of more than 5 dBA
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Policy N 2.6 Railroad Vibration. Require that new residential projects (or other sensitive uses) within 200 feet of existing railroad lines conduct a ground-borne vibration and noise evaluation consistent with Federal Transit Administration-approved methodologies.
Policy N 2.7 Construction Noise and Vibration Monitoring. Require construction noise limits and vibra- tion monitoring around sensitive receptors, including through limiting construction hours and individual and cumulative noise from construction equipment. For larger development projects that demand intensive construction periods and/or use equipment that could create vibration impacts, require a vibration impact analysis, as well as monitoring and reporting of noise/vibration levels throughout construction, consistent with industry standards.
ACTIONS
Action N 2.8 Conditions of Approval for Noise Monitoring. Establish conditions of approval for larger development projects to ensure that requirements for construction noise and vibration monitoring. Include a requirement for a monitoring plan that provides information on the monitoring locations, durations and regularity, the instrumentation to be used, and appro- priate noise and vibration control measures to ensure compliance with the noise ordinance and any applicable vibration limits.
Action N 2.9 Railroad Noise Reductions. Implement projects necessary to achieve Quiet Zones in the city, such as elimination of at-grade rail crossings or other mitigation measures to decrease horn and other operational noise levels, with a focus on achieving Quiet Zones as part of any substantial expansions of the rail service.
Action N 2.10 Railroad Noise Barriers. Work with the Peninsula Corridor Joint Powers Board to promote and encourage adequate noise mitigations and barriers to be incorporated into any rail ser- vice expansion or track realignment.
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CHAPTER 10
Abbreviations and Glossary
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ABBREVIATIONS AND GLOSSARY
This glossary explains the technical terms used in this General Plan. Definitions come from several sources, including the California Office of Planning and Research, the California Institute for Local Government, and the American Planning Association Glossary of Zoning, Development, and Planning Terms.
ABBREVIATIONS
AA-T Arts Degree for Transfer
AB Assembly Bill (State)
ABAG Association of Bay Area Governments
ADA Americans with Disabilities Act
ADU Accessory Dwelling Unit
AMI Area Median Income
AS-T Associate in Science Degree for Transfer
AV Autonomous vehicle
BAAQMD Bay Area Air Quality Management District
BART Bay Area Rapid Transit
BMR Below Market Rate
BRT Bus Rapid Transit
BUILD Better Utilizing Investments to Leverage Development CalEnviroScreen California Communities Environmental Health Screening Tool CAL FIRE California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection CalOES California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services Cal Water California Water Company
Caltrans California Department of Transportation
CAP Climate Action Plan
C/CAG City/County Association of Governments of San Mateo County CDFW California Department of Fish and Wildlife
CEQA California Environmental Quality Act
CERT Community Emergency Response Team
CNEL Community Noise Equivalent Level
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CIP Capital Improvement Program
dB Decibel
dBA Decibel “A-Weighted”
du/ac Dwelling units per acre
EAS Emergency Alert System
EBT Electronic Benefit Transfer
EIR Environmental Impact Report
EMS Emergency Medical Service
EMID Estero Municipal Improvement District
EV Electric Vehicle
FAR Floor Area Ratio
FAST Fixing America’s Surface Transportation
FEMA Federal Emergency Management Agency
FHSZ Fire Hazard Severity Zone
FIRM Flood Insurance Rate Map
FRAP Fire and Resource Assessment Program
GHG Greenhouse Gas
GIS Geographic Information Systems
GPA General Plan Amendment
GPS General Plan Subcommittee
ITS Intelligent Transportation Systems
JPB Joint Powers Board
LAFCO Local Agency Formation Commission
Ldn Day/Night Average Sound Level
LID Low Impact Design
LOS Level of Service
LRA Local Responsibility Area
MFD Multi-Family Dwelling
MJHMP Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan
MMRP Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program
MTC Metropolitan Transportation Commission
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ODS Objective Design Standards
OneShoreline San Mateo County Flood and Sea Level Rise Resiliency District PCE Peninsula Clean Energy
PG&E Pacific Gas and Electric Company
PSPS Public Safety Power Shutoff
RHNA Regional Housing Needs Allocation
SB Senate Bill (State)
SLR Sea Level Rise
SPAR Site Plan and Architectural Review
SFD Single-Family Dwelling
SFPUC San Francisco Public Utilities Commission
SF RWS San Francisco Regional Water System
SMC Fire San Mateo Consolidated Fire Department
SMCTA San Mateo County Transportation Authority
SMPD San Mateo Police Department
SOI Sphere of Influence
SR- State Route
SRA State Responsibility Area
SVS Social Vocational Services
TAC Toxic Air Contaminant
TDM Transportation Demand Management
TIA Transportation Impact Analysis
TNC Transportation Network Company
TOD Transit Oriented Development
USACE United States Army Corps of Engineers
VMT Vehicle Miles Traveled
VHFHSV Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone
WUI Wildland-Urban Interface
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TERMINOLOGY
21 Elements. A multi-year, multi-phase collaboration of all 21 San Mateo County jurisdictions, along with partner agencies and stakeholder organizations.
Acreage. The land area that exists prior to any dedications for public use, health, and/or safety purposes.
Action. A measure, procedure, or technique that helps the City achieve a specific goal. An action is something concrete that can and will be completed. (see “Goal”)
Adaptation. Making changes in response to current or future conditions (such as the increased frequency and intensity of climate-related hazards), usually to reduce harm and take advantage of new opportunities.
Adaptive Management. A flexible, iterative decision making process that can be adjusted in the face of uncertainties as outcomes from management actions and other events become better understood.1 Adverse Impact. A negative consequence for the physical, social, or economic environment resulting from an action or project.
Affordability, Housing. The relation of housing costs to household income.
Affordable Housing. A for-sale housing or rental housing affordable to households whose incomes do not exceed 120 percent of the area median income (moderate- or lower-income households).
Archaeological Resource. Material evidence of past human activity found below the surface of ground or water, portions of which may be visible above the surface.
Assembly Bill (AB). A State law or bill originating from the State Assembly. The abbreviation “AB” preceeds the specific bill number .
Association of Bay Area Governments. The regional planning agency for the nine Bay Area counties, including San Mateo County, and the 101 cities and towns within these counties.
Asset. A valued feature of a community that may be harmed by climate change. Assets may include buildings, infrastructure, community services, ecosystems, and economic drivers.
Below Market Rate Unit. A below market rate unit is an affordable housing unit (see Affordable Housing definition).
Buffer. An area established between potentially conflicting land uses, which, depending on the potential impact, may use landscaping or structural barriers such as yards or roads.
Bicycle Class Facilities. A classification system for bicycle paths and roadways identified in the California Highway Design Manual.
Shared-use paths (Class I): Off-road pathways designed for people walking, biking, and rolling (e.g., skateboard or scooter).
Separated bike lanes (Class IV): A designated lane separated from vehicular traffic by a buffer with vertical protection (e.g., flexible posts, planters, parked vehicles, curbs). 1 U.S. Department of the Interior, 2009. Adaptive Management, The U.S. Department of the Interior Technical Guide, page 5.
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Buffered bike lanes (Class II): A designated bicycle lane adjacent to vehicular traffic separated by a striped buffer area on the pavement.
Standard bike lanes (Class II): A designated bicycle lane directly adjacent to vehicular traffic.
Bicycle boulevards (Class III): Bicyclists share a lane with vehicular traffic and are identified with bicycle signage and pavement markings to increase driver awareness of bicyclists and aid bicyclists with navigation; however, bicycle boulevards include traffic-calming treatments and are solely implemented on low-speed (i.e., less than 25 mile per hour) and low-volume (i.e., less than 3,000 vehicles per day) streets to ensure they are low-stress facilities.
Bicycle routes (Class III): Bicyclists share the lane with vehicular traffic and are identified with bicycle signage and pavement markings to increase driver awareness of bicyclists and aid bicyclists with navigation. The City is phasing out this type of route within the bicycle network and upgrading to other facility types.
Building. A structure with substantial walls and roof designed for the shelter, enclosure, or protetion of persons, animals, chattels, or property of any kind. (see “Structure”) Building Code. Standards adopted by the State governing the construction, alteration, demolition, occupancy, or other use of buildings used for human habitation. The State regulations are substantially the same as those contained in the most recent editions of the Uniform Building Code, Uniform Housing Code, Uniform Plumbing Code, Uniform Mechanical Code, and the National Electric Code. Local governments may have stricter standards under certain circumstances.
California Environmental Quality Act. Legislation and corresponding procedural components established in 1970 by the State of California to require environmental review for projects anticipated to result in adverse impacts to the environment. (see “Environmental Impact Report”) Capital Improvement Program. A program that schedules permanent improvements, usually for a minimum of five years in the future, that fits the projected fiscal capability of the local jurisdiction. The program generally is reviewed on an annual basis for conformance to and consistency with the General Plan.
Carbon Neutral. Reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions to zero, either by entirely eliminating all GHG emissions or by balancing out all remaining GHG emissions through carbon removal practices so that the “net” emissions are zero.
City. City with a capital “C” generally refers to the City of San Mateo government or administration. City with a lower case “c” may mean any city or may refer to the geographical area.
City Limits. The legal boundaries of the geographical area subject to the jurisdiction of the City of San Mateo’s government. For example, development applications for properties located within the City Limits must be reviewed by the City.
Clean Air Refuge. A building with efficient air filtration and improved air quality that is opened to community members during poor air quality days.
Climate Change. Long-term shifts in temperatures and weather patterns that have come to define the Earth’s local, regional and global climates . In the context of this plan, this term refers to changes brought on by human activities, also known as anthropogenic climate change.
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Compatible. Capable of existing together without conflict or ill effects.
Complete Street. A transportation facility that is planned, designed, constructed, operated, and maintained to provide comfortable and convenient mobility, and improve accessibility and connectivity to essential community destinations for all users and abilities, regardless of whether they are travelling as pedestrians, bicyclists, wheelchair users, public transportation riders, or drivers. Complete streets are especially attuned to the needs of people walking, using assistive mobility devices, rolling, biking, and riding transit.
Complete Streets Act. A law that requires all road construction and improvement projects to evaluate how the right-of-way serves all who use it, including pedestrians, bicyclists, and transit users.
Conservation. The management and use of natural resources in a sustainable manner . Conservation results in land and water areas that are protected and managed for durability to sustain functional ecosystems, both intact and restored, and the diversity of life they support.
Conserve. To manage natural resources sustainably.
Critical Facility. A facility whose continued functioning is necessary to maintain public health and safety following a disaster, and where damage or failure could pose hazards to life and property well beyond their immediate vicinity.
Cultural Resource. A historic, archaeological, tribal, or paleontological resource or human remains. Cultural resources include tribal cultural resources, as defined in California Public Resources Code Section 21074, regardless of whether a tribe is federally recognized.
Decibel (dB). A unit used to express the relative intensity of a sound as it is heard by the human ear . The lowest volume a normal ear can detect under laboratory conditions is 0 decibel, the threshold of human hearing. Since the decibel scale is logarithmic, 10 decibels are 10 times more intense and 20 decibels are 100 times more intense than 1 decibel.
Decibel, A-weighted (dBA). The “A-weighted” scale for measuring sound in decibels, which weighs or reduces the effects of low and high frequencies to simulate human hearing. Every increase of 10 dBA doubles the perceived loudness, even though the noise is actually 10 times more intense.
Dedication. Giving private land for public use, and the acceptance of land for such use by the governmental agency having jurisdiction over the public function for which it will be used. Dedications for roads, parks, school sites, or other public uses are often required by a city or county as conditions for approval of a development. (see “In-Lieu Fee”)
Density. The number of permanent residential dwelling units per acre of land (du/acre). Densities specified in this General Plan are expressed in dwelling units per net acreage, excluding land area that may be devoted to public right-of-way, including roadways..
Development Review. The comprehensive evaluation of a development and its impact on neighboring properties, the environment, and the community as a whole, from the standpoint of site and landscape design, architecture, materials, lighting, and signs, in accordance with a set of adopted criteria and standards.
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Development. The physical expansion and/or construction of non-farm land uses. Development activities include subdivision of land; construction of a single-family dwelling on an existing lot; construction or alteration of structures, roads, utilities, and other facilities; grading; deposit of refuse, debris, or fill materials; and clearing of natural vegetative cover (with the exception of agricultural activities). Routine repair and maintenance activities are not considered development.
Development Fees. Direct charges or dedications collected on a one-time basis for a service provided or as a condition of approval being granted by the local government. The purpose of the fee or exaction must directly relate to the need created by the development. In addition, its amount must be proportional to the cost of the service or improvement. Fees can be broken down into two major classes: (1) service charges, such as permit fees covering the cost of processing development plans, connection, or standby fees for installing utilities, or application fees for reviewing and considering development proposals; and (2) “impact” fees levied on new development to cover the cost of infrastructure or facilities necessitated by development. (See “Impact Fee”)
Disability, persons with. A physical impairment or mental disorder, which is expected to be of a long, continued, or indefinite duration and is of such a nature that the person’s ability to live independently could be hindered unless improved by more suitable housing conditions.
Duplex. A free-standing house divided into two separate living units or residences, usually having separate entrances; or two single-family detached dwelling units on a single lot.
Dwelling Unit. The place of customary abode of a person or household, which is either considered to be real property under State law or cannot be easily moved.
Ecosystem. An interacting system formed by a biotic community and its physical environment.
Electric Vehicle. A zero-emission vehicle that uses electricity stored in a battery to power one or more electric motors and can be plugged in at home, work, fleet, or public charging stations.
Environmental Impact Report. A study required pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act that assesses all the environmental characteristics of an area, determines what effects or impacts will result if the area is altered or disturbed by a proposed action, and identifies alternatives or other measures to avoid or reduce those impacts. (see “California Environmental Quality Act”) Equity. The state in which each individual or group is allocated or has access to the resources needed to reach an equal or fair outcome.
Equity Priority Community. A low-income area that is disproportionately affected by environmental pollution and other hazards that can lead to negative health effects, exposure, or environmental degradation. This is the term the City of San Mateo uses in place of “disadvantaged communities,” as named in Senate Bill (SB) 1000. SB 1000 defines disadvantaged communities per Heath and Safety Code Section 39711, specifying CalEnviroScreen as the primary screening method for identifying these communities.
Erosion. The process by which soil and rock are detached and moved by running water, wind, ice, and gravity.
Evacuation Route. A roadway designated in the General Plan as a potential recommended route to travel when evacuating from a hazardous condition.
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Evacuation-Constrained Parcels. Parcels located on a single-access road that do not have at least two ingress/egress routes.
Exposure. The presence of people, infrastructure, natural systems, and economic, cultural, and social resources in areas that are subject to harm.
Farmers’ Market. A mobile or non-mobile market: (1) operated by a local government agency, one or more certified producers, or a nonprofit organization; (2) certified by and operating in a location approved by the County Agricultural Commissioner; and (3) where farmers sell directly to consumers agricultural products or processed products made from agricultural products that the farmers grow themselves.
Fault. A fracture in the earth’s crust that forms a boundary between rock masses that have shifted.
Fire Hazard Severity Zone. An area of significant fire hazard based on fuels, terrain, weather, and other relevant hazards.
Flood, 100-Year. In any given year, a flood that has a 1 percent likelihood (a 1 in 100 chance) of occurring, and is recognized as a standard for acceptable risk.
Flood, 500-Year. In any given year, a flood that has a 0.2 percent likelihood (a 1 in 500 chance) of occurring.
Floodplain. The relatively level land area on either side of the banks of a stream regularly subject to flooding.
Floor Area Ratio. The size of a building in square feet (gross floor area) divided by gross land area, expressed as a decimal number . For example, a 60,000-square-foot building on a 120,000-square-foot parcel would have a floor area ratio of 0.50. The FAR is used in calculating the building intensity of development.
Garden, Community. A shared, semi-public space where people in the surrounding neighborhood share the work and harvest of maintaining a plot of fuits, vegetables, or other plants. Community gardens provide residents with an opportunity to grow fresh produce, flowers, or other plants on land that they do not own. Community gardens can also serve an educational function, especially when operated by community organizations or educational instituions..
Gateway. A unique transition point in topography, architecture, or land use that serves as an entrance to the city or specific neighborhoods within the city.
General Plan. A collection of City policies regarding its long-term development, in the form of maps and accompanying text. The General Plan is a legal document required of each local agency by the State of California Government Code Section 65301 and adopted by the City Council.
Geographic Information Systems. A combination of approaches, programs, methodologies, and technol- ogies to map, gather, store, manipulate, analyze, present, and interpret spatial information and data.
Goal. A description of the general desired result sought by the City. Each goal has one or more policies and/ or actions associated with the goal. (see “Policy” and “Action”) Greenhouse Gas. A gas that allows sunlight to pass through but reflect heat radiated from the earth’s surface, trapping heat in the lower atmosphere. Common greenhouse gases (GHGs) include water vapor, carbon dioxide (CO
2), methane (CH4), and nitrous oxide (N 2O). They may be emitted by natural or human processes.
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Groundwater. Water that exists beneath the earth’s surface, typically found between saturated soils and rock, and is used to supply wells and springs.
Habitat. The physical location or type of environment in which an organism or biological population lives or occurs.
Hazard. An event or physical condition that has the potential to cause fatalities, injuries, property damage, infrastructure damage, agricultural losses, damage to the environment, interruption of business, or other types of harm or loss.
Hazard Mitigation. Sustained action taken to reduce or eliminate the long-term risk to human life and property through actions that reduce hazard, exposure, and vulnerability.
Hazardous Material, Hazardous Waste. A substance or waste that, because of its physical, chemical, or other characteristics, may pose a risk of endangering human health or safety or of degrading the environment.
This does not include household hazardous waste, universal waste, or electronic waste, as they do not contain the quantity, concentration, and/or types of products significant enough to pose a substantial risk to human health and safety or to the environment.
Historic Resource. A historic resource is a building, structure, site, or district that has one or more of the following characteristics:
• Listed in or determined to be on or individually eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places and/or California Register of Historical Resources. • Identified as a Downtown Historic District or Glazenwood Historic District contributor building as designated in the 1989 Historic Building Survey Report. • Determined to be eligible through documentation contained in a historic resources report.
Horizon Year. The year through which the General Plan is intended to be effective, or 2040.
Household. All persons occupying one dwelling unit.
Human Scale. Buildings, structures, streetscape, and other urban design elements that are of a size and propotion that relates to the size of a human to create a comfortable and inviting experience.
Impact, Climate. The effects (especially the negative effects) of a hazard or other condition associated with climate change.
Impact Fee. A fee imposed on a proposed development project by a jurisdiction to address impacts to city services or infrastructure, based on the number of units, square footage, or acreage. The fee is often used to offset costs of schools, roads, police and fire services, housing, and parks. (See “Development Fee”) Implementation. Actions, procedures, programs, or techniques that carry out a plan.
Infill Development. Development that occurs on vacant or underutilized land within areas that are already largely developed.
In-Lieu Fee. A fee that may be required of an owner or developer as a substitute for a dedication of land or an asset for public use, such as public art, replacement of trees, or parking spaces, usually calculated in dollars per lot, and referred to as in-lieu fees or in-lieu contributions. (see “Dedication”)
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King Tides. Abnormally high, predictable astronomical tides that occur about twice per year, with the highest tides occurring when the Earth, Moon, and Sun are aligned.
Land Use. The occupation or use of an area of land for any human activity or purpose.
Land Use Designation. One particular land use category, from a range of land use classifications, assigned to a parcel as established by the General Plan Land Use Element.
Landslide. Movement of soil and/or rock down a slope, which typically occurs during an earthquake or following heavy rainfall.
Liquefaction. The transformation of loose, wet soil from a solid to a liquid state, often as a result of ground shaking during an earthquake.
Local Agency Formation Commission. A five- or seven-member commission within each county that reviews and evaluates all proposals for formation of special districts, incorporation of cities, annexation to special districts or cities, consolidation of districts, and merger of districts with cities. Each county’s LAFCO is empowered to approve, disapprove, or conditionally approve such proposals.
Maximum Development. Development of land to its full potential, or theoretical capacity, as permitted under current or proposed planning or zoning designations.
Micro Agriculture. The practice of growing and processing fresh food in an urban area.
Micromobility. Transportation via small, lightweight vehicles, typically electric assisted, operated by the driver, such as electric scooters and bicycles. Vehicles typically do not exceed 15 miles per hour and are often available for rent for short-range travel within a defined area.
Mitigation. A protective measure or modification of a project to avoid, reduce, minimize, or eliminate a negative impact. There are various types of mitigation, including environmental impact mitigation, hazard mitigation, greenhouse gas emissions mitigation, and more.
Mixed-Use. Any mix of land uses, including mixing residences with commercial, offices with retail, or visitor accommodation with offices and retail. As distinguished from a single-use land use designation or zone, mixed use refers to an authorized variety of uses for buildings and structures in a particular area. When the mix of uses is within one building, its called vertical mixed-use. A type of mixed-use development where uses are behind or next to each other but in different buildings on the same development site is called horizontal mixed use.
Multimodal Level of Service. A scale that measures the performance of vehicle, bicycle, pedestrian, and transit facilities.
Municipality. An incorporated city or town.
Neighborhood. Relatively large residential areas that have some common characteristics, such as a common history, neighborhood association, or common physical characteristics (e.g., architectural style), a common meeting place, intangible characteristics (e.g., a psychological sense of cohesion), or clear physical boundaries (e.g., waterways or major roads).
Noise Contour. A line connecting points of equal noise level as measured on the same scale.
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Noise-Sensitive Use. A location where people reside or where the presence of unwanted sound could adversely affect the use of land, such as residences, schools, and hospitals.
Non-Conforming Use. A use that was legally allowed when brought into existence, but no longer permitted by current regulation. “Non-conforming use” is a generic term and includes: (1) non-conforming structures (because their size, type of construction, location on land, or proximity to other structures is no longer permitted); (2) non-conforming use of a conforming building; (3) non-conforming use of a non-conforming building; and (4) non-conforming use of land. Any use lawfully existing on any piece of property that is inconsistent with a new or amended General Plan, and that in turn is a violation of a Zoning Ordinance amendment subsequently adopted in conformance with the General Plan, will be a non-conforming use.
Typically, non-conforming uses are considered “grandfathered in” and permitted to continue, subject to certain restrictions on discontinuance or rehabilitation.
Nonessential Idling. Unnecessary operation of a gas-powered vehicle while it is stationary when none of the following circumstances are met: the vehicle is stuck in traffic; idling is necessary to inspect or service the vehicle; the vehicle is transferring power via a power-takeoff device; the vehicle can’t move due to adverse weather conditions or mechanical failure; the vehicle is a bus with passengers on board. See California Code of Regulations, Title 13, Section 2485, for a full definition.
Overlay. A land use or zoning designation that modifies the basic underlying designation or designations in some specific manner .
Parcel. An area of land that is a legally created lot.
Park. Tract of land set aside for public use, aesthetic enjoyment, recreation, or the conservation of natural resources.
Regional Park: Regional Parks are of a relatively expansive size and their unique natural and cultural attractions draw visitors from the entire region. These parks usually have many uses and require a higher level of management when compared to smaller parks such as city parks, neighborhood parks, recreation centers, and pocket parks, which have fewer activities and primarily serve local residents.
Community Park: Community parks serve the needs of a rangle of people, from several neighborhoods to the entire city. They typically contain a wide variety of facilities for active and passive recreation, and organized sports. They also provide amenities typical of neighborhood parks for use by the surrounding residents. Parks containing fewer elements but that contain facilities that serve the entire city may be considered to be community parks.
Neighborhood Park: Neighborhood Parks provide for the daily recreation needs of nearby residents, with primarily passive and informal recreation facilities. Neighborhood parks often include play areas, picnic areas, open turf areas or green space, basketball courts, and tennis courts. The neighborhood parks also may contain play fields.
Mini Parks: Mini parks are small parks, generally less than one acre in size, that accommodate the daily recreation needs of nearby residents. They typically include children’s play areas, sitting areas, and limited green space, but are not large enough to contain play fields.
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Policy. A specific statement that guides decision making as the City works to achieve a goal. Policies represent statements of City regulation and set the standards used by decision makers when considering proposed development and actions. A policy is ongoing and requires no further action (see “Goal”).
Reach Code. A local municipal code that exceeds the State Building Code requirements. A reach code must be at least as stringent as the State Code, cost-effective, approved by the California Energy Commission, and updated and re-approved with each State Energy Code update.
Reconstruction. Redevelopment of a building or structure, after being damaged or destroyed in a disaster, to its original state.
Resilience. The capacity of any entity—an individual, community, organization, or natural system—to prepare for disruptions, recover from shocks and stresses, and adapt and grow from a disruptive experience.
Community resilience is the ability of communities to withstand, recover, and learn from past disasters to strengthen future response and recovery efforts.
Rewilding. Returning land to its natural state to regenerate natural areas. In contrast to restoration, rewilding focuses on returning ecosystems to their former states as close as possible while allowing for plant, animal, and other ecosystem subsitutions to account for changing future conditions.
Riparian. A habitat and vegetation zone that is associated with the banks and floodplains of a river, stream, or lake. Riparian trees and shrubs are typically phreatophytes, plants whose root systems are in constant contact with groundwater .
Risk. The potential for damage or loss created by the interaction of hazards with assets such as buildings, infrastructure, or natural and cultural resources.
Roadway Classifications. Roadway classifications define the function of various street types in the transpor- tation network. The City of San Mateo classifies its roadways using the Caltrans Functional Classification System.
Local Streets and Alleyways: Local streets and alleyways make up the majority of the roadway system and typically have lower speeds and vehicular traffic volumes.
Collectors: Collectors link neighborhoods together and allow travelers to reach places outside of their neighborhoods. They have higher speeds than local streets and can handle more traffic volume.
Collectors are important segments of San Mateo’s existing and proposed bikeway network.
Arterials: Arterial streets connect the regional roadway network with collectors. Most intersections along arterials are signalized, often with a coordinated and interconnected signal system. Compared to collectors, arterials have higher capacity to accommodate traffic volumes, and they provide for longer, continuous movement throughout the city.
Freeways: Freeways are high-speed roadways without intersections that allow residents to reach destinations outside of the city, either by car or transit. US Highway 101 and State Route 92 run through the city, while Interstate 280 is just west of the City Limits.
Safe Routes to School. Pedestrian and bicycling routes that provide children with safe access to and from schools.
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Scenic Roadways; Scenic Trails. Land that is visible from, adjacent to, and outside a roadway right-of-way, and is made up primarily of scenic and natural features. Topography, vegetation, viewing distance, and/or jurisdictional lines determine the scenic corridor boundaries.
Sea Level Rise. The worldwide average rise in mean sea level, which may be due to a number of different causes, such as the thermal expansion of sea water and the addition of water to the oceans from the melting of glaciers, ice caps, and ice sheets, including as a result of climate change.
Seniors. People 65 years of age or older.
Sensitive Habitat. Land containing unique, representative, threatened, and/or endangered plant and animal communities, or ecosystems.
Sensitive Receptor. A use that is highly sensitive to impacts from other uses, including homes, schools, playgrounds, sports fields, childcare centers, senior centers, hospitals, and long-term healthcare facilities.
Sensitivity. The level to which a species, natural system, community, or government would be affected by changing climate conditions.
Severe Ground Shaking. Intense ground movement resulting from the transmission of seismic waves during an earthquake.
Specific Plan. Under Article 8 of the Government Code (Section 65450 et seq.), a legal tool for detailed design and implementation of a defined portion of the area covered by a General Plan. A Specific Plan may include all or a part of detailed regulations, conditions, programs, and/or proposed legislation that may be necessary or convenient for the systematic implementation of any General Plan element(s).
Sphere of Influence. The probable physical boundaries and service area of a municipality or special district, as determined by the Local Agency Formation Commission of the county.
Stormwater. Water that comes from a rain event.
Structure. Anything constructed or erected on and permanently attached to the ground, except fences six feet or less in height (see “Building”).
Sustainability. Meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs in three key realms, or pillars: economic viability, environmental protection, and social equity.
Toxic Air Contaminant. An air pollutant that may cause or contribute to an increase in serious illness, or that may pose a present or potential hazard to human health, according to California Health and Safety Code Section 39655.
Traffic Calming. Measures designed to reduce motor vehicle speeds and to encourage pedestrian and bicycle use, including narrow streets with fewer lanes, tight turning radii, sidewalk bulbouts, parking bays, textured paving at intersections, and parkways between sidewalks and streets.
Transit-Oriented Development. The clustering of homes and jobs at higher densities within a half mile of a rail station or bus service with 15 minute headways or less.
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Triplex. A free-standing house divided into three separate living units or residences, usually having separate entrances, or three single-family detached dwelling units on a single lot.
Unincorporated Area. Land that is outside of an incorporated city and falls under a County’s jurisdiction.
Development proposals in unincorporated areas need County review and approval.
Use. The purpose for which a lot or structure is or may be leased, occupied, maintained, arranged, designed, intended, constructed, erected, moved, altered, and/or enlarged in accordance with the City Zoning Code and the General Plan land use designations.
Wastewater. Water that contains other elements, such as sewage, small pathogens, organic matter, and inorganic contaminants. This term is also used to refer to water generated in industrial plants and commercial activity.
Wetland. An area that is seasonally or permanently inundated or saturated by surface water or ground - water at a frequency and duration sufficient to support a distinct ecosystem with a prevalence of vegetation typically adapted for life in saturated soil conditions, commonly known as hydrophytic vegetation. Wetlands may be coastal or inland.
Wildland-Urban Interface. An area that includes both houses and wildland vegetation, creating a signif - icant threat to human life or property from wildfires.
Zoning. Zoning implements the land use policies of the General Plan. The adopted codes of a City by ordinance or other legislative regulation that identifies districts or zones citywide. These zones specify allowable uses for real property, as well as standards for buildings constructed in these areas.
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MEMORANDUM
DATESeptember 1, 2023
TOSan Mateo Planning Commission
FROMJoanna Jansen and Carey Stone, PlaceWorks
SUBJECTSummary of General Plan Subcommittee Input on Draft General Plan 2040 This memorandum summarizes the General Plan Subcommitee (GPS) input on Draft General Plan 2040 received at the August 29, 2023 GPS meeting. The summary of GPS input focuses on comments that requested changes to the Draft General Plan and other requested actions by the GPS. In addition, when the GPS requested additions related to specific goals, policies, or actions, the policy language has been pasted below for the reader’s reference.
GENERAL COMMENTS
•Some GPS members requested the addition of an executive summary at the start of each element to explain what changes could result upon implementation and how it could affect community members in their day-to-day activities. One GPS member suggested that the Big Ideas fuilfilled this function.
•Several GPS members supported the placemaking concepts in the Draft General Plan and expressed interested in actions that will help define and enhance what makes San Mateo charming and unique from other Peninsula communities. This includes adding further text, policies, and actions that support cultural events and entertainment resources.
•Add policy direction throughout the General Plan to support local businesses, including business retention, and highlight the positive impacts local businesses have on the city. •Continue to coordinate with OneShoreline when planning for flooding improvements and sea level rise adaptation.
•Examine City fees for mixed-use and residential development projects and ensure that these fees are not an obstacle to housing produciton.
•Evaluate the parameters for mixed-use development to ensure commercial development is balanced with housing development.
•GPS members expressed support for initial staff recommendations to:
oModify Study Area 3 boundary in the 25 th Avenue area to remove the church parking lot site.
oAdd policy guidance on seniors/aging, including a focused section in Public Services and Facilities Element.
oReflect applicable plans on flooding/stormwater infrastructure to align with
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community priorities.
LAND USE ELEMENT
•Look at the allowed density ranges for Residential Low I and Residential Low II land use designations and confirm whether the allowed uses of triplexes, fourplexes, condominiums, and apartments can feasibly be accommodated under these designations. If not, consider whether these uses should be removed from the designation descriptions.
•Some GPS members requested that housing not be allowed within 500 feet of high- volume roadways while maintaining the overall residential capacity of the Draft General Plan Land Use Map. Other GPS members feel more comfortable with housing near high volume thoroughfares given building technology and buffers that can reduce exposure to particulate matter and a vehicle fleet that is transitioning to electric. •Revisit the Draft General Plan Land Use Map to ensure that a single block does not have more than one land use designation.
•Clarify Policy LU 1.9 Voter Approved Growth Limits so that it is clearer that Measure Y stays in effect after adoption of the General Plan until voters determine whether or not to modify the height and density requirements.
•Support for new Action LU 1.10 to annually monitor housing and job growth. •Communicate more transparently that only the ten Study Areas would be exempt from Measure Y upon voter approval and that other areas of the city would still be regulated by Measure Y requirements.
•Update Action LU 8.4 City Investment as follows: “Use funds collected by the park impact fee and other additional resources to invest in programs and public improvements that connect residents with opportunities to increase their physical activity and improve their physical and mental health, especially in equity priority communities with higher risk of negative public health outcomes. Identify new funding sources for programs and public improvements, if needed.” •Add actions to support Policy LU 8.5 Community Preservation and Policy LU 8.6 Safe and Sanitary Homes.
oPolicy LU 8.5 Community Preservation. Prevent displacement in equity priority communities by protecting tenants, helping homeowners remain in place, and funding affordable housing.
oPolicy LU 8.6 Safe and Sanitary Homes. Encourage homes and neighborhoods that are free of environmental health hazards.
•Add policy direction to support accessory commercial units in residential areas at a scale that would not be disruptive to the surrounding neighborhoods. •Provide incentives for low-income homeowners to maintain their properties. •Add more specific policies or actions about future land acquisition by the City.
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CIRCULATION ELEMENT
•Consider being more explicit about reducing vehicle miles traveled in Policy C
1.Sustainable Transportation: “Reduce vehicle miles traveled (VMT) and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from transportation by increasing mode share options for sustainable travel modes, such as walking, bicycling, and public transit. •Ensure that the City coordinates with transit providers to maintain transit service in San Mateo and plans for first/last mile connections to transit. •Consider revising Action C 1.11 Complete Streets Plan to reference the travel modes included in Goal C-1 (i.e. walking, bicycling, and transit): “Complete and implement the Complete Streets Plan to improve the City's circulation network, including pedestrian, bicycling, and transit infrastructure, to accommodate the needs of street users of all ages and abilities.
•Add a goal that would identify a timeframe the City plans to implement all planned infrastructure projects and the number of City staff that would be rquired to meet that goal.
•Consider adding an action that would support improving leading pedestrian intervals, automatic actuation of pedestrian signals, and identifying a policy about limiting right turns on red to improve pedestrian and bicycle safety.
•Confirm that Policy C4.4 and C 4.5 are not the same thing. Note from General Plan team:
Policy C 4.4 focuses on bicycle safety technology and Policy C 4.5 focuses on shared mobility technology.
oPolicy C 4.4 Bicycle-Related Technology. Explore ways to use technology to improve bicycle safety and connectivity.
oPolicy C 4.5 Bicycle and Shared Mobility-Related Technology. Explore ways to use technology to improve bicycle and shared mobility safety and connectivity. •Clarify Policy C 6.7 Capital Improvement Program that it does not apply to adding new traffic lanes:
oPolicy C 6.7 Capital Improvement Program. Prioritize improvements that increase person throughput, but do not add new traffic lanes, in project prioritization to reduce VMT.
•Consider adding a policy that would allow density bonuses if additional parking is provided in areas where there are parking capacity issues such as portions of North Central.
COMMUNITY DESIGN AND HISTORIC PRESERVATION ELEMENT
• Revise Policy CD 1.3 Scenic Corridors as follows:
oPolicy CD 1.3 Scenic Corridors. Require new development adjacent to designated scenic corridors within San Mateo County’s General Plan to protect and enhance the visual character of these corridors to the extent feasible.
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•Update Policy CD 5.4 Public Awareness to ensure that property owners are aware if their property is being considered for designation as a historic resource or district. oPolicy CD 5.4 Public Awareness. Foster public awareness and appreciation of the City’s historic resources and educate the community about how to preserve and improve these resources. Increase public appreciation by supporting groups and organizations that provide neighborhood workshops, public presentations, interpretive signage, and walking tours.
•Update Action CD 3.11 Tree Support for Low-Income Homeowners to ensure there are funding sources for low-income homeowners to pay for the replacement of trees:
oAction CD 3.11 Tree Support for Low-Income Homeowners. Explore funding sources and other forms of City support for low-income homeowners to plant and/or replace trees on their property.
•Ensure the City understands all the implications of defining a historic resource as being eligible for listing on National and California registers. oPolicy CD 5.3 Historic Resources Definition. Define historic resources as buildings, structures, sites, and districts that are listed in or determined to be eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places and/or California Register of Historical Resources, designated resources in the 1989 Historic Building Survey Report, and resources found to be eligible through documentation in a historic resources report.
•Remove Policy CD 8.3 Respect Exisitng Scale and Rhythm because it is too prescriptive and would fit better in the objective design standards:
oPolicy CD 8.3 Respect Existing Scale and Rhythm. Encourage new mixed-use and commercial development to respect the scale and rhythm of surrounding buildings, including by providing breaks in the building face at spacings common to buildings in the area and by stepping back upper floors.
CONSERVATION, OPEN SPACE, PARKS AND RECREATION ELEMENT
•Add policies and/or actions to support the expansion of cultural and entertainment resources in San Mateo.
•Add an action item under Goal COS-9 that explores stable, long-term funding sources for parks and recreation services.
oGoal COS-9 Provide stable and adequate operational and capital funding for the parks and recreation system.
PUBLIC SERVICES AND FACILITIES ELEMENT
•Add background text and policy direction for seniors and aging, building on the Age- Friendly Action Plan.
•Add a policy to enourage local busineses to attain the Age Friendly Business ceritifcation.
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•Add more policies to support the use of recycled water. •Add policy direction to increase public restrooms in San Mateo, especially in parks. •Strengthen polices and actions about microgrids further. •Expand PSF 4.11 Public Wi-Fi so that it applies to other public buildings oPSF 4.11 Public Wi-Fi. Provide high-speed internet access to the public at all City facilities and parks and school facilities.
SAFETY ELEMENT
•Update Policies SAF 1.14 and SAF 1.15 and Action SAF 1.19 to refer to the County Events Center which is a designated emergency center and will be an important resource in the event of an emergency:
oPolicy SAF 1.14 Multijurisdictional Cooperation. Continue the development of local preparedness plans and multijurisdictional cooperation and communication for emergency situations.
oPolicy SAF 1.15 Emergency Preparedness. Coordinate with San Mateo County, neighboring cities, and nongovernmental partners to effectively prepare for and respond to hazards and natural disasters.
oAction SAF 1.19 Public Safety Outreach. Develop a public safety education program to increase public awareness of potential hazards, City’s emergency readiness and response program, and evacuation routes. Target public education programs to segments of the community that are most vulnerable to hazards and safety risks.
NOISE ELEMENT
•The GPS did not have any comments on the Noise Element.
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1 ATTACHMENT 3 - COMMUNITY DESIGN AND HISTORIC RESOURCES ELEMENT – RECOMMENDED REVISIONS Change
ID
Policy/
Action Number
Comment
Source Original Comment Recommended Change(s)
1 Policy CD 1.3 Scenic
Corridors
General Plan
Subcommittee
Add “to the extent feasible” to policy. Policy CD 1.3 Scenic Corridors. Require new development adjacent to designated scenic corridors within San Mateo County’s General Plan to protect and enhance the visual character of these corridors to the extent feasible.
2 Policy CD 3.7 Street Tree
Equity
Online Tool If the City is going to plant trees or give them to citizens to plant, make sure there is a requirement to
take care of the tree. They have be watered,
particularly during the first year. If not, you are
wasting taxpayer money.
Policy CD 3.7 Street Tree Equity. Plant new street trees to increase the tree canopy throughout the city, especially in gateway areas and in tree-deficient neighborhoods; encourage neighborhood participation in tree planting programs; and incorporate programs for long-term care and maintenance of the new street trees.
3 Action CD 3.11 Tree
Support for Low-Income
Homeowners
Planning
Commission
Revise Action CD 3.11 to add City support for the
establishment and maintenance of trees in addition
to planting.
Action CD 3.11 Tree Support for Low-Income Homeowners. Explore funding sources and other forms of City support for low-income homeowners to plant, maintain, and/or replace trees on their property.
4 New Action under Goal
CD-3
Planning
Commission
Add an action to support the establishment of newly
planted City-owned street trees.
Tree Establishment. Develop a program and identify funding to support the early establishment and ongoing maintenance of City- owned street trees.
5 New Policy City Staff
recommended
change.
Add new policy to clearly support the City’s
comprehensive approach to historic preservation.
Add new first policy under Goal CD-5 and renumber subsequent policies and actions:
Comprehensive Approach to Historic Preservation. Implement a comprehensive approach to historic preservation based on community input and best practices from State and federal agencies, to find the right balancing between preservation with other important priorities such as providing new homes and supporting local businesses.
6 Policy CD 5.1 Historic
Preservation
Policy CD 5.2 Historic
Resources Preservation
City Staff
recommended
change.
Combine 2040 Draft General Plan Policies CD 5.1 and
5.2 to reduce redundancy.
Historic Preservation. Actively identify and preserve historic resources and concentrations of historic resources which convey the flavor of local historical periods, are culturally significant, or provide an atmosphere of exceptional architectural interest or integrity, when they meet national, State, or local criteria. Historic resources include individual properties, districts, and sites that maintain San Mateo’s sense of place and special identity, and enrich our understanding of the city’s history and continuity with the past.
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2 Change
ID
Policy/
Action Number
Comment
Source Original Comment Recommended Change(s)
7 Policy CD 8.3 Respect
Existing Scale and
Rhythm
General Plan
Subcommittee
Planning
Commission
Update or Remove policy because it is too prescriptive
and would fit better in the objective design standards
Remove the reference to stepping back upper floors.
Policy CD 8.3 Respect Existing Scale and Rhythm. Context Sensitive Design. Encourage nNew mixed-use and commercial development should incorporate architectural styles and elements that relate to respect the scale and design rhythm of surrounding buildings, including by providing breaks in the building face at spacings common to buildings in the area and by stepping back upper floors. 8 Action CD 8.6 Objective
Design Standards
City Staff
recommended
change
Action CD 8.6 Objective Design Standards. Develop and adopt objective design standards for new mixed-use and commercial development to provide a clear understanding of the City’s expectation for new project design, including context appropriate architectural styles and pedestrian-friendly design.
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1 ATTACHMENT 4 – CONSERVATION, OPEN SPACE AND RECREATION ELEMENT – RECOMMENDED REVISIONS Change
ID
Policy/
Action Number
Comment
Source Original Comment Recommended Change(s)
1 Policy COS 1.4 Avoidance
of Nesting Birds
Online Tool Not "should be avoided" it has to be "must be avoided" Make it a requirement.
Policy COS 1.4 Avoidance of Nesting Birds. Native bird nests in active use shall should be avoided when required by in compliance with State and federal regulations. For new development sites where nesting birds may be present, vegetation clearing and construction should be initiated outside the bird nesting season (March 1 through August 31) or preconstruction surveys should be conducted by a qualified biologist in advance of any disturbance. If active nests are encountered, appropriate buffer zones should be established based on recommendations by the qualified biologist and remain in place until any young birds have successfully left the nest.
2 Policy COS 1.5 Surveys
for Sensitive Natural
Communities
Online Tool "Must be conducted" not "should be conducted." Policy COS 1.5 Surveys for Sensitive Natural Communities. Require that sites with suitable natural habitat, including creek corridors through urbanized areas, be surveyed for the presence or absence of sensitive natural communities prior to development approval.
Such surveys shall should be conducted by a qualified biologist and occur prior to development-related vegetation removal or other habitat modifications.
3 Policy COS 1.6 Surveys
for Regulated Waters
Online Tool "Must be conducted" not "should be conducted." If you are going to protect our natural resources, quit using all the weasel words that people can get around...unless
that is the intent?
Policy COS 1.6 Surveys for Regulated Waters. Require that sites with suitable natural habitat, including creek corridors through urbanized areas, be surveyed for the presence or absence of regulated waters prior to development approval. Such surveys shall should be conducted by a qualified wetland specialist and occur prior to development-related vegetation removal or other habitat modifications.
4 Policy COS 3.1 Aesthetic
and Habitat Values –
Public Creeks.
Public Comment “Policy COS 3.1 Aesthetic and Habitat Values – Public Creeks. Preserve and enhance the aesthetic and habitat
values of creeks, such as San Mateo, Laurel, and
Beresford Creeks, and other City owned channels in all
activities affecting these creeks, including revegetation, rewilding, erosion control, and adequate setbacks for
structures. Prioritize restoration of creeks and their
riparian setback as part of any new developments
impacting the creeks.”
Policy COS 3.1 Aesthetic and Habitat Values – Public Creeks.
Preserve and enhance the aesthetic and habitat values of creeks, such as San Mateo, Laurel, and Beresford Creeks, and other City owned channels in all activities affecting these creeks, including revegetation, rewilding, erosion control, and adequate setbacks for structures. Prioritize restoration of creeks and their riparian setback as part of any new developments impacting the creeks.
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2 Change
ID
Policy/
Action Number
Comment
Source Original Comment Recommended Change(s)
5 Policy COS 3.2 Aesthetic
and Habitat Values –
Private Creeks.
Public Comment “Policy COS 3.2 Aesthetic and Habitat Values – Private Creeks. Encourage preservation and enhance the
aesthetic and habitat values of privately owned sections of all other creeks and channels, shown in Figure COS-3.
Prioritize restoration of creeks and their riparian setback as part of any new developments impacting the creeks.”
Policy COS 3.2 Aesthetic and Habitat Values – Private Creeks.
Encourage preservation and enhance the aesthetic and habitat values of privately owned sections of all other creeks and channels, shown in Figure COS-3. Prioritize restoration of creeks and their riparian setback as part of any new developments impacting the creeks.
6 New Action Under Goal
COS-4
Planning
Commission
Mitigate outdoor air quality in polluted areas. Outdoor Air Quality Mitigation. Explore the feasibility of funding and installing pollutant screening solutions such as walls and vegetation to address outdoor air quality in residential areas close to pollutant sources such as highways.
7 Policy COS 5.6 Child and
Youth Development
Public Comment Interested in programs for keeping teenagers busy:
worried about the drug/fentanyl use in the county and
the amount of teenagers that are dying because of it.
Policy COS 5.6 Child and Youth Development. Provide preschool through teenage youth with a variety of experiences that nurture individuality, spark imagination, promote health, increase safety, encourage active recreation, and build the skills needed to ensure success in the next stage of development.
8 Action COS 5.12
Coordination with
Education Providers
Public Comment “What does this even mean?”
Staff reviewed, including P&R Director, and determined
that intent of action is unclear and that it was not
needed it order to implement the policies under Goal
COS-5.
Action COS 5.12 Coordination with Education Providers. Coordinate with education providers, including local school districts, the College of San Mateo, and the San Mateo Public Library, to identify appropriate service targets and provide activities within those identified targets.
9 New Action under Goal
COS-6
Planning
Commission
Address park access east of El Camino Real and east of
US 101.
Comprehensive Access Analysis. Conduct a comprehensive
accessibility gap analysis to address equitable park access, with an emphasis on neighborhoods east of El Camino Real and east of US 101.
10 Background Text Public
Comments
Multiple public comments noted that the senior issues
and implementation of the City’s Age Friendly Action
Plan needed to be more clearly addressed and
supported in the General Plan.
Recommend to add a new Goal dedicated to seniors in the Public Services and Facilities Element, in addition to the policies and actions that already specifically reference seniors and aging in the Circulation, Conservation, Open Space, and Recreation, and Public Services and Facilities Elements. Add reference to the new senior section in the Public Services and Facilities Element in this element.
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ATTACHMENT 5 – NOISE ELEMENT – RECOMMENDED REVISIONS
Change
ID
Policy/
Action Number
Comment
Source Original Comment Recommended Change(s)
1 Policy N 1.3 Exterior
Noise Level Standard for
Residential Uses
Policy N 1.4 Exterior
Noise Level Standard for
Parks and Playgrounds.
Public Comment Policies N1.3 and N1.4 seem to contradict. N1.3 says public parks shouldn't exceed 65 dBA LDN, and N1.4
says public parks require a feasibility study above 70
dBA LDN. Table N-1 confers with N1.4. I think that the
final sentence of N1.3 is in error.
Policy N 1.3 Exterior Noise Level Standard for Residential Uses.
Require an acoustical analysis for new multifamily common open space for residents that have an exterior noise level of 60 dBA (Ldn) or above, as shown on Figure N-2. Incorporate necessary mitigation measures into residential project design to minimize common open space noise levels. Maximum exterior noise should not exceed 65 dBA (Ldn) for residential uses and should not exceed 65 dBA (Ldn) for public park uses.
Adjust Table N-1 to reflect ambient noise levels over 70 dBA for proposed parks being “Conditionally Acceptable”, instead of “Normally Unacceptable.”
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P.O. Box 146 San Mateo, CA 94402
www.smheritage.org
October 2, 2023
City Council
City of San Mateo
330 W. 20th Street
San Mateo, CA 94403
RE: Comments on General Plan Policies related to Historic Resources Dear Mayor Lee and City Council Members:
Staff should be commended for their efforts on this complicated General Plan. We appreciate that many of our comments have been incorporated into the General Plan and are encouraged that the awareness of San Mateo’s historic resources is increasing.
RECOMMENDED CHANGES TO HISTORIC PRESERVATION POLICIES
Summary
Please consider these recommendations for the Community Design and Historic Preservation section of the General Plan. The proposed changes are further discussed below.
1. Do not remove the word “eligible” from the historic policies.
2. Add “in conformance with state and federal laws and CEQA” and “especially small businesses” to the new holistic approach policy.
3. Add “or buildings” and “contributor properties to eligible historic districts” to the new Policy CD 5.1 Historic Preservation.
4. Add “contributor properties to eligible historic districts” to the definition of historic resources in Policy CD 5.1 to ensure protection of historic districts.
5. Add “(including contributors to historic districts)” to the definition of historic resources in Policy CD 5.3, to protect historic districts and be consistent with how Downtown historic resources are treated.
6. Provide a reference or more information about the requirements of a historic resources report referenced in Policy CD 5.3.
7. Add the requirement to identify demolition alternatives for contributors to a historic district.
Change ID 5 New Policy
Comprehensive Approach to Historic Preservation. Implement a comprehensive approach to historic preservation based on conformance with state and federal laws and CEQA, community input and best practices from State and federal agencies, to find the right balancing between preservation with other important priorities such as providing new homes and supporting local businesses, especially small businesses.
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San Mateo City Council
October 2, 2023
A holistic approach is only a benefit if it follows state and federal laws and CEQA. Finding a balance between preservation and other important priorities can only occur if the City understands the resources that have already been lost (through a true cumulative impact analysis) and the remaining resources in the City (through surveys). The City should implement a moratorium on demolishing eligible historic properties until a cumulative impact analysis is completed through the Draft General Plan EIR.
Change ID 6 Combined Policy CD 5.1 and 5.2
Policy CD 5.1 Historic Preservation.
Historic Preservation. Actively identify and preserve historic resources and concentrations of historic resources or buildings which convey the flavor of local historical periods, are culturally significant, or provide an atmosphere of exceptional architectural interest or integrity, or when they meet national, State, or local criteria. Historic resources include individual properties, districts, contributor properties to eligible historic districts, and sites that maintain San Mateo’s sense of place and special identity, and enrich our understanding of the city’s history and continuity with the past.
Please add “or buildings” to reflect the definition of historic districts, which may consist of a group of buildings that are not individually eligible. Add “contributor properties to eligible historic districts” to ensure protection of historic districts, which often consist of a group of buildings that are not individually eligible, but are as a group.
Policy CD 5.3: Historic Resources Definition.
Define historic resources as buildings, structures, sites, and districts (including contributors to historic districts) that are listed in or determined to be eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places and/or California Register of Historical Resources, designated resources in the 1989 Historic Building Survey Report, and resources found to be eligible through documentation in a historic resources report.
Please add “contributors to eligible historic districts” to the definition of historic resources in Policy CD 5.3, to be consistent with how Downtown historic resources are treated. Contributors to historic districts must be protected in order to protect the integrity of the district.
Please provide a reference or more information about the requirements of a historic resources report.
Policy CD 5.7: Demolition Alternatives
Please add the requirement to identify demolition alternatives for contributors to a historic district.
Action CD 5.8: Historic Resources Context Statements, Action CD 5.9: Historic Resources Survey, and Action CD 5.10: Historic Preservation Ordinance Actions CD 5.8, 5.9, and 5.10 imply they will be conducted sequentially (Prepare neighborhood‐ specific historic context statements prior to updating the historic resources survey.) Please update the Historic Preservation Ordinance first to address the two new eligible historic
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San Mateo City Council
October 2, 2023
districts (the Yoshiko Yamanouchi House Historic District and Baywood Historic District). The current historic ordinance seems to only apply to the Downtown Historic District (27.66.020 APPLICABILITY). A first step to change the applicability of the ordinance to all of San Mateo.
STAFF REPORT COMMENTS
The staff report for the City Council meeting states on p. 5, under Community Feedback on Draft General Plan 2040, that there are emerging themes in feedback on the Draft General Plan.
Two of the points are troubling:
“… the emerging community feedback themes on the Draft General Plan, specific to the three elements being reviewed at this meeting, are as follows:
Community Design and Historic Resources Element
• Outline a process to designate a historic district that requires 2/3 approval of the affected property owners.
• Do not designate new historic districts.
Where did these points originate? The staff are calling out “Outline a process to designate a historic district that requires 2/3 approval of the affected property owners” and “do not designate new historic districts” as emerging themes, yet there were no such comments on the Notice of Preparation of the Draft General Plan EIR or on the Draft EIR. There were no such comments in the on‐line General Plan.
I reviewed the comments on the General Plan and Draft EIR posted on the Strive website. There are many, many comments advocating for historic preservation. I did not see one comment that said: “require a 2/3 approval of the affected property owners” (taken from San Francisco policies which we do NOT want to emulate) or “do not designate new historic districts.” A September 26, 2023 letter refers to historic districts but does not accurately reflect the process of designation. The process is lengthy, complex, and determined by the State Office of Historic Preservation and the Keeper of the National Register of Historic Places (U.S. Park Service) based on detailed, objective criteria. Districts are not determined by “a small group of people.” In addition, the State will send a letter to the City and to each property owner in an eligible district asking whether the owner supports or objects to the district listing (a vote). The City has been informed of the Baywood Historic District process in every step but has declined to participate.
PLANNING COMMISSION COMMENTS
Commissioner Seema Patel has repeatedly misrepresented historic resources and the historic district process at public meetings and on social media. She falsely claims that an individual with enough time could determine eligible “hundreds or maybe thousands of properties or a handful of districts subject to additional restrictions” and maybe state laws without owner or staff or city consent—effectively losing local control. This is not how the process works.
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San Mateo City Council
October 2, 2023
Commissioner Patel should know this, especially after claiming she has done extensive research on the topic. Her repeatedly promoting misinformation is behavior that is not appropriate for a City representative.
PLANNING COMMISSION RECOMMENDATIONS
We strongly object to the Planning Commission’s recommendation to remove “eligible” from the historic resources policies and actions. It is inappropriate for Planning Commissioners to advocate for acting in conflict with state and federal historic preservation laws and CEQA. Does this violate the oath taken by commissioners? This is another example of the Planning Commissioners acting in their own self‐interests (as a representative of the YIMBY Peninsula Advisory Board?) and ignoring the shared values of historic preservation and the community.
Thank you for your consideration.
Respectfully submitted,
President
San Mateo Heritage Alliance
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From: Peggy Berlese
Sent on: Monday, October 2, 2023 3:19:29 PM
To: City Council (San Mateo) <[email protected]> Subject: Baywood
Dear City Council members,
My husband, David Goss and I, have lived in Baywood since 1985. We previously lived in the Aragon. We bought homes in these neighborhoods because of the beautiful architectural styles of the homes. We live at , which probably would be designated a historic resource in Baywood. We have remodeled our home in various ways over the years but have never even considered changing the front exterior of the home given its beautiful architecture. We fully support making Baywood a historic district.
I am friends with Laurie Hieter. I have known her since our kids started kindergarten at Baywood in 1995. Laurie is much more knowledgeable than most about the ins and outs of making Baywood a historic district. I completely trust and agree with what Laurie is advocating about the wording of the historic preservation section of the general plan:
1. Do not remove the word “eligible" from the historic policies.
2. Add “contributors to eligible historic districts” to the definition of historic resources in Policy CD 5.3, to be consistent with how Downtown historic resources are treated and to protect historic neighborhood appearance.
3. Add the requirement to identify demolition alternatives for contributors to a historic district.
4. Protecting historic resources is an important value in San Mateo and is compatible with adding affordable housing.
Thank you,
Peggy Berlese
Best wishes,
Peggy Berlese
Herzig & Berlese
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From: James Clark
Sent on: Monday, October 2, 2023 8:47:11 PM
To: Clerk <[email protected]>
CC: Zachary Dahl <[email protected]>; Somer
Smith <[email protected]>
Subject: Comment regarding 2040 San Mateo Plan
Hello -
I wanted to provide a comment on the San Mateo 2040 city plan, particularly around noise. My wife and I live along B street, along the section without traffic lights between 9th and 5th streets. Because of the larger street size here and the easier access to the freeway, we experience a lot of noise due to loud cars and Harley Davidson motorcycles racing up and down the street, often late at night.
I've actually been in contact with local law enforcement on the issue, as late night parties at the Yuppie Bar / Cantina and the service staff at Espetus getting off work have recently become more problematic. I've also been sharing video footage that I've collected of a lot of bad behavior from repeat offenders who find it fun to race down what we now call the "San Mateo Speedway."
My intention in all of this isn't to directly attack certain individuals or businesses, but more in a hope to effect some change in the way this section of San Mateo is designed. Given that there is currently a lot of pedestrian traffic through here (with more to come once a new project is built where Kelly Moore paints currently is), placing a few painted crosswalks is not going to stop this kind of behavior through here. Noise will simply increase while safety will decrease.
We need to instead focus on various traffic calming measures to prevent the desire to speed and rev loud engines along B street in the first place. Occasionally sending officers out to ticket cars or to patrol sidewalks is not a sustainable solution unfortunately. Instead we should take simple measures like reducing street width sizes to specifically reduce the "open-ness" of the road that currently encourages this kind of behavior today.
My hope would be to see permanent fixtures that slow and/or divert traffic included as part of the 2040 general plan for San Mateo. This could include tried-and-true city planning designs like raised intersections that not only slow cars but also provide better accessibility access, putting people first instead of optimizing for the speed and size of cars that are only getting faster and larger.
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I believe with some relatively simple implementations of these designs applied as soon as is financially feasible (timed with repaving or other construction projects) will drastically increase the quality of life for those of us who live here in the wonderful city of San Mateo.
Thank you.
-James Clarke
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From: Chris Cooper
Sent on: Monday, October 2, 2023 9:00:55 PM
To: City Council (San Mateo) <[email protected]> Subject: City Council Meeting Tomorrow Night
San Mateo City Council,
I have been a proud homeowner in Baywood of a beautiful historical mediterranean.
Please consider these recommendations for the Community Design and Historic Preservation section of the General Plan:
1. Do not remove the word “eligible" from the historic policies.
2. Add “contributors to eligible historic districts” to the definition of historic resources in Policy CD 5.3, to be consistent with how Downtown historic resources are treated and to protect historic neighborhood appearance.
3. Add the requirement to identify demolition alternatives for contributors to a historic district.
4. Protecting historic resources is an important value in San Mateo and is compatible with adding affordable housing.
I hope you'll join me in agreeing that historic preservation is a universal value that we can all support.
Thanks, Chris Cooper
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From: Larry Garnick
Sent on: Monday, October 2, 2023 3:01:38 PM
To: City Council (San Mateo) <[email protected]> Subject: Protect Historic Properties
Members of the City Council:
In your construction and approval of the City Plan, please give utmost consideration to protecting historic resources in San Mateo and please embrace progress towards new historic district designations where appropriate.
These are of great importance to me.
Regards,
Larry Garnick
30 Year Homeowner
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From: linda lara <
Sent on: Monday, October 2, 2023 9:33:31 PM
To: City Council (San Mateo) <[email protected]> CC: ; San Mateo Heritage Alliance <[email protected]> Subject: Tonight's CC Meeting - 10/2/23
Dear City Council Members, City Manager and other city leaders,
Regarding this evenings meeting about Draft General Plan 2040, please consider my thoughts as a long time resident of San Mateo since 1961. My daughter is now a 45 year resident of our city, with 3 children of her own. Generations of families live, work and play in our city and are creating their own history here.
My comments in particular are about Historic Resources and maintaining them throughout our city either residentially, or commercially.
Sadly, the City of San Mateo over many years has done little to preserve and maintain our historic resources and contributions made to our city and county by these historic resources.
I'm not sure when the seemingly disregard for history began in our city, but in my estimation the first mistake was moving City Hall out of downtown to its present location.
Little by little history is disappearing.
Bay Meadows Race Track was a large contributor to the city and county of San Mateo, and to the best of my knowledge has received no historic recognition to date.
Not only did they provide decades of revenue, they also provided jobs, recreation, sports and entertainment.
Bay Meadows also remained open during WWII and contributed nearly 4 million dollars in war effort and hundreds of thousands of dollars to emergency war relief, veterans hospitals, wounded soldier funds, bay area army and navy bases etc.
None of this seems to be acknowledged at the current Bay Meadows developments or anywhere throughout our city.
In your plans for the future of this city, please, please do not erase it's past.
Please find a way to embrace, promote, identify and tell the stories of our past history.
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I am aware that the Ching Lee Laundry at 1st and Claremont has received a plaque and recognition. I do hope these efforts will continue throughout San Mateo.
No one person should ever forget their beginnings, who they are, where they came from, how they grew and developed to who they are now. Nor should a city, county, state or country.
Thank you for your time, thank you for listening.
Sincerely,
Linda Slocum Lara
San Mateo Drive
San Mateo
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From: S Miller
Sent on: Monday, October 2, 2023 6:03:45 PM
To: City Council (San Mateo) <[email protected]> Subject: Oppose Baywood Historic District
I would like to take the opportunity to voice my opposition to a Baywood Historic District. I received an email from supporters of the district asking for people to email the city council, so I am letting you know my opposing viewpoint.
I believe that historic district designation is not warranted for a variety of reasons, many of which have been detailed by others. Of course those wanting historical designation for their properties can pursue this now. I would like to bring your attention to another argument against historic district designation, which is the history of racist restrictions in San Mateo property deeds. The racist language remains despite a disclaimer, in my opinion precluding historical designation on that grounds alone.
Thank you for your consideration,
-Steve Miller
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From: Shirley Melnicoe
Sent on: Monday, October 2, 2023 9:53:53 PM
To: Alex Khojikian <[email protected]>; Amourence Lee <[email protected]>; [email protected]; Adam Loraine <[email protected]>; [email protected]; Richard Hedges <[email protected]>; City Council (San
Mateo) <[email protected]>
Subject: Comments on General Plan regarding Historic Resources
Dear City Manager & City Council Members:
Over 30 years ago, I chose to live in Baywood because of the lovely classic homes and the curving streets and I want to see it preserved. It is not a cookie-cutter suburban neighborhood. Many of these homes were created by craftsmen and their work can never be duplicated.
Unfortunately, it seems there are some loud voices from developers and contractors who are spreading false information and controversy about historic districts. It appears their views and inaccurate information may have influenced your staff and I find that most disturbing.
Under the Community Design and Historic Resources Element, there are two bullet points that would undercut protection of the neighborhood that homeowners so dearly desire. I strongly object to the following misleading statements:
o Outline a process to designate a historic district that requires 2/3 approval of the affected property owners. (Where did this come from? Why not follow established state and federal procedures?)
o Do not designate new historic districts (If the neighborhood meets the criteria for historic district designation, it should be designated as a historic district.) It is paramount that we preserve our historical buildings and districts for future generations and keep San Mateo unique. Please include historic district
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contributor buildings to the list of historic resources so we can preserve the beauty of our historic neighborhoods.
Please do what is good for the community and for all of us that live here and want to remain here.
Thank you.
Sincerely,
Shirley Melnicoe
Resident
--
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From: Jesus Nazereth
Sent on: Tuesday, September 26, 2023 5:15:24 PM
To: City Council (San Mateo) <[email protected]> Subject: Deir
I want MODERATE growth, not maximum growth. You are not representing me. You are being an autocrat and going against the wishes of your constituents.
San Mateo resident
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From: Martha Park
Sent on: Monday, October 2, 2023 9:48:00 PM
To: City Council (San Mateo) <[email protected]>; Amourence Lee <[email protected]>; Rob Newsom <[email protected]>; Adam Loraine <[email protected]>; Richard
Hedges <[email protected]>; Lisa Diaz
Nash <[email protected]>
Subject: Historic Resources in San Mateo
Dear Mayor Lee, Deputy Mayor Diaz-Nash, and City Council Members,
I am writing to express support for continuation of the historic preservation language in the General Plan. There needs to be some protection from indiscriminate demolition of historic structures in our downtown and neighborhoods. Thought and deliberation should be required during development and
redevelopment - especially when demolition is involved.
Historic preservation is a value that we all should be striving for.
Thanks for your consideration,
Martha Park
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From: Maxine Terner
Sent on: Monday, October 2, 2023 9:58:38 PM
To: City Council (San Mateo) <[email protected]> CC: Alex Khojikian <[email protected]>
Subject: General Plan Update - Community Design and Historic Preservation Elements
As a former Planning Commissioner knowledgeable about General Plans and someone who has actively participated in many of the General Plan update (GP) meetings, workshops and pop-up events, I am confused and concerned about the staff report and the unsubstantiated and seemingly biased language. Trust in government is fundamental to our democracy.
Words matter. The Draft GP has NOT “focused on crafting a shared community vision for what San Mateo can be in the year 2040,” particularly with regard to selecting the preferred land use and circulation scenarios. The highest development land use scenario was NOT the “culmination of community, General Plan Subcommittee, and Planning Commission feedback” but that of the previous, pro-development City Council direction. The community’s vision for land use was clear when Measure Y passed which continued General Plan 2030. Tweaks to Measure Y were expected during the GP update but totally ignoring it was not.
It must be pointed out that the number of people voting for Measure Y far surpassed the relatively few individuals participating in the GP update despite the expensive and extensive outreach so thoroughly enumerated in the staff report. Since the staff report relies so much on the “number” of outreach meetings, perhaps the Council should ask for an “outcome report” on how many unique individuals attended these meetings and whether their goals for inclusiveness and diversity were met.
The report continues its confusing, biased and unsubstantiated language in referencing “themes.” Key themes on p.2 are identified broadly as: sustainability, environmental justice, and community engagement and addressed throughout the GP update. Yet, on p.5 under Community Feedback it notes there are “emerging themes” in feedback on the Draft General Plan. What follows under the Community Design and Historic Resources Element is very un- themelike, specific language that has not been previously seen nor discussed in any of the public meetings:
• Outline a process to designate a historic district that requires 2/3 approval of the affected property owners.
• Do not designate new historic districts.
Who added this language and based on what? This language also conflicts with Attachment 3, Recommended Staff Revisions # 5 and 6; and Big Ideas in GP 2040, Address Historic Preservation Holistically. Residents have consistently supported recognizing and protecting the unique historic resources of San Mateo. Many focus group participants in this and prior General Plans noted that the authentic downtown and traditional neighborhoods were reasons they moved to San Mateo. Historic Preservation policies have been part of the past two General Plans and should not be diluted in this one. Do not include this language in the Historic Resources Element.
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My Specific Recommendations to Attachment 3, Revisions to the Community Design and Historic Preservation Elements follow:
New Policy CD 5 - Add language: Implement a comprehensive approach to historic preservation based on conformance with state and federal laws and CEQA, community input and best practices from State and federal agencies and to find the right balancing between preservation with other important priorities such as providing new homes and supporting local businesses, especially small businesses.
Policy CD 8.3 Maintain language about “stepping back upper floors.” This is especially important for taller buildings and consistent with many of the new higher height buildings built in neighboring Peninsula cities. It is also consistent with reducing wind and other impacts that conflict with having a pedestrian oriented downtown and community.
Other Recommendations:
1 - Prepare an “outcome report” on how many unique individuals attended all listed meetings and whether the Council's goals for inclusiveness and diversity were met.
2 - Do not remove word "eligible" from Policy CD 5.3 as recommended by Planning Commission since it is legally required by state and federal laws, including CEQA.
3 - Revise the public input schedule to give both the Council and residents adequate time to review and discuss the lengthy GP update. With the agenda packet going out late on a Thursday for input on a Monday, there is not enough time for residents to review. Especially when the staff report is so long and complex. There is no stated reason to rush for the November 2024 ballot; the existing GP is valid through 2030 and the Housing Element can be updated prior to then.
Thank you for your consideration of these comments. We all share the goal of having a socially- responsible GP 2040 that the community can be proud of and trust.
Sincerely,
Maxine
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From: Lisa Vande Voorde
Sent on: Monday, October 2, 2023 9:51:34 PM
To: City Council (San Mateo) <[email protected]>; Alex Khojikian <[email protected]>
Subject: COMMENTS ON DRAFT GENERAL PLAN: Historic Resources Element
Dear City Council Members and City Manager,
I have taken a close look at the Staff Report for tonight's 10/2/23 City Council meeting, and I am submitting the
following comments on items of specific concern.
First, regarding the staff recommended revisions to the Historic Resources Element as outlined on Attachment 3, I encourage Council to consider adding the changes
highlighted in yellow. My reasoning follows in green
italics.
Change ID 5: Add new policy to clearly support the City’s comprehensive approach to historic preservation.
Comprehensive Approach to Historic Preservation. Implement a comprehensive approach to historic preservation based on conformance with state and federal laws and CEQA, community input and best practices from State and federal agencies,
to find the right balancing between preservation with other important priorities such as providing new homes and supporting local businesses.
State law, federal law and CEQA must provide the
framework to this policy to ensure compliance.
Change ID 6: Combine 2040 Draft General Plan Policies CD 5.1 and 5.2 to reduce redundancy.
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Historic Preservation. Actively identify and preserve historic resources and concentrations of historic resources which convey the
flavor of local historical periods, are culturally significant, or provide anatmosphere of exceptional architectural
interest or integrity, when they meet national, State, or local criteria. Historic resources include individual
properties, districts, contributor properties to eligible historic districts, and sites that maintain San
Mateo’s sense of place and special identity, and enrich our understanding of the city’s history and continuity with the past.
Contributor properties are very important components of an historical district. As illustration, one can consider an historical district as a quilt made up of squares of both eligible individual properties as well as contributor
properties. All of them individually contribute to the whole, to the beauty, the identity, and character of the quilt.
Secondly, I would also like to provide my comment on
specific provisions of the Chapter 5 Community Design
Historic Resources Draft and ask the Council to consider adding the following language highlighted:
Policy CD 5.3: Historic Resources Definition.
Define historic resources as buildings, structures, sites, and districts, including contributors to historic districts, that are listed in or determined to be eligible for listing in the National Register
of Historic Places and/or California Register of Historical Resources, designated resources in the 1989 Historic Building Survey Report, and resources found to be eligible through documentation in a historic resources report.
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Please add “contributors to eligible historic districts” to the definition of historic resources, for the same reasons I outlined above.
Finally, I'd like to comment about the Planning
Commission's feedback regarding the Historic Resources
Element, specifically:
Community Design and Historic Resources Element
• Remove eligible as part of the definition of Historic Resources in Policy CD 5.3 Historic Resources Definition.
WORDS HAVE MEANING. STRIKING ONE LITTLE
WORD CAN HAVE MAJOR CONSEQUENCES. And I
strongly object to the Planning Commission's
recommendation to remove the word "eligible" from the
definition of historic resources. That definition is critical to ALL provisions that follow in the Draft General Plan
Historic Resources Element Goals, Actions and
Policies. Deleting that word not only has serious
implications for the entirety of the Historic Resource
Element, it also goes against State, Federal, and CEQA
laws. That our Planning Commission would advocate
going against these laws should be of major concern to
our City Council.
Thank you for your time, and I sincerely hope my
comments will be considered as you go forward in your
deliberations this evening.
Lisa Vande Voorde
San Mateo Resident
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October 2, 2023
Subject: Historic Preservation
Dear City Council Members.
I do support adding the New Policy CD 5 in the General Plan under Historic Preservation:
New Policy CD 5 - Add language: Implement a comprehensive approach to historic preservation based on conformance with state and federal laws and CEQA, community input and best practices from State and federal agencies and to find the right balancing between preservation with other important priorities such as providing new homes and supporting local businesses, especially small businesses.
Thank you.
Sincerely,
Laurie Watanuki
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From: Keith Weber
Sent on: Monday, October 2, 2023 9:38:04 PM
To: Alex Khojikian <[email protected]>
CC: Amourence Lee <[email protected]>; Rob
Newsom <[email protected]>; Lisa Diaz
Nash <[email protected]>; Richard
Hedges <[email protected]>; Adam
Loraine <[email protected]>; City Council (San Mateo) <[email protected]>
Subject: 10/2/23 Council Mtg., Item 8, General Plan 2040 Staff Report
Dear City Manager Alex Khojikian,
Welcome to the City of San Mateo. We haven't yet met, but I have heard very good things about you and hope we have a chance to meet soon.
I was troubled by two statements in the Community Design and Historic Resources Element section of the staff report for tonights 10/2/23 City Council meeting on the 2040 General Plan. Two of the six bullet points noted as "emerging themes" - specifically "do not designate new historic districts" and requiring "2/3s approval for historic districts"- may have been expressed by a few individuals, but to identify these statements as "themes," stretches credulity. Where did these statements originate and why should they be considered themes?
I really don't know, but they may have originated with Planning Commissioner Seema Patel, who has taken to social media in an effort to influence public opinion and encourage opposition to historic resource policies and
single family neighborhoods. Ms. Patel is trying to be both an activist pushing her agenda on social media, and a planning commissioner representing official City policy. The fact that her personal antipathy towards historic preservation is presented in a staff report as legitimate community "themes," unfairly biases the report and misleads the City Council. Please consider deleting them and reissuing the Staff Report. Consider replacing them with a theme that more accurately reflects the overarching desire of the majority of the community as expressed in the many public comments, and in the current and proposed General Plans:
• San Mateans value their historic neighborhoods and wish to preserve them.
Additionally, I would like to echo other community members asking the City Council to incorporate a new policy to align San Mateo's historic preservation policies with state and
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federal law (please see Attachment 3, Revisions to the Community Design and Historic Preservation Element):
New Policy CD 5 - Add language: Implement a comprehensive approach to historic preservation based on conformance with state and federal laws and CEQA, community input and best practices from State and federal agencies and to find the right balancing between preservation with other important priorities such as providing new homes and supporting local businesses, especially small businesses.
Sincerely,
Keith Weber
San Mateo
Cc: San Mateo City Council
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From: Connie Weiss
Sent on: Monday, October 2, 2023 6:23:02 PM
To: City Council (San Mateo) <[email protected]>; City Mgr <[email protected]>
Subject: General Plan and Historic Districts
Hello City Council Members and City Manager Khojikian,
I would like to add my support to the comments made by the San Mateo Heritage Alliance already submitted, and in particular, call out these recommendations for the Community Design and Historic Preservation section of the General Plan:
1. Do not remove the word “eligible" from the historic policies.
2. Add “contributors to eligible historic districts” to the definition of historic resources in Policy CD 5.3, to be consistent with how Downtown historic resources are treated and to protect historic neighborhood appearance.
3. Add the requirement to identify demolition alternatives for contributors to a historic district.
4. Protecting historic resources is an important value in San Mateo and is compatible with adding affordable housing.
I would also like to call out a growing concern I have for those on the Planning Commission who are pushing their agendas without respect and regard for San Mateo residents and voters. I witnessed Seema Patel (once again) insulting a resident on Nextdoor. She will claim she is speaking as a “private citizen” but she is putting forth opinions and misinformation that are clearly on topics before the Planning Commission. When I pointed out this repeated bad behavior in a response on Nextdoor, my comment was removed. I am sure Patel’s role as a reviewer helped here, as nothing I posted in the comment violated Nextdoor etiquette.
Why is this important? Patel has been trying to weaken the historic preservation language in the General Plan (she joined a YIMBY Action advisory board in 2021).
She wants to redefine historic resources to exclude resources that are eligible for listing on the National or State Register of Historical Resources. Her definition is not consistent with state or federal definitions. The California Environmental Quality Act requires agencies (including cities) to consider a project's effects on listed or eligible
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historic resources. Why would a City Commissioner advocate for going against state and federal law?
And please note that she is not the only Commissioner who is worrisome - YIMBY Action and Planning Commissioner John Ebneter has been a vocal advocate for eliminating single-family zoning, against the will of the majority of San Mateo residents, and Adam Nugent is on the record for going around Council to undermine the work Staff and Council approved for the Housing Element.
Please do not take any recommendation from the Planning Commission without a careful look at where their recommendations are coming from, including cherry- picked comments that support their activist agendas. It seems that the majority of the Commission is fully aligned with special interests and not with the residents of this beautiful city. We all deserve better.
Thank you,
Connie Weiss
San Mateo Resident
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From: weller323
Sent on: Monday, October 2, 2023 5:01:53 PM
To: City Council (San Mateo) <[email protected]> Subject: General Plan Design and Historic Preservation
Dear City Council members,
I am strongly urging you to support and protect our city's historic resources and historic district designations in San Mateo's General Plan 2040. The preservation of our historic buildings and homes distinguish San Mateo as a city that values its unique historical charm and character. As a leader of peninsula cities/suburbs future planning and development, San Mateo can demonstrate growth for business and affordable housing while maintaining the irreplaceable character and charm that distinguishes our city.
(1.) I ask you not to remove "eligible" from historic policies. (2.) Add "contributors to eligible historic districts" to the definition of historice resources. (3. )Require alternatives to the demolition of historic buildings/homes.
The above three, as part of the General Plan's draft of historic resources, are consistent with state and federal law. They will help insure San Mateo's character will not be bulldozed for developers' short term profits and will be there for future generations.
Sincerely,
Nancy Weller
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From: Stephen Weller
Sent on: Monday, October 2, 2023 3:48:44 PM
To: City Council (San Mateo) <[email protected]> CC: Laurie Hietter ; Nancy Weller
Subject: General Plan 2040
Members of the San Mateo City Council:
We have followed with great interest the development of the 2040 General Plan for the City San Mateo.
The Draft General Plan is released and adoption appears to be imminent.
There are many San Matins who strongly wish to preserve the “single family dwelling” aspect of our community.
In view of the need for additional low income dwellings in California, and legislation which promotes the conversion of existing properties to multiple dwelling facilities, I feel that residents who live in or plan on living in San Mateo should have the choice to preserve single family homes in portions of our City.
To that end, we feel that designating portions of San Mateo as Historic Resources is important.
Please consider the following additions or changes to the 2040 General Plan:
Add a requirement to identify “demolition alternatives” for homes that are identified as representing historic buildings;
Add “contributors to eligible historic districts” to the definition of historic resources.
Protecting historic resources is an important value in San Mateo, compatible with adding affordable housing, and acknowledges one reason that our family has chosen to live in San Mateo.
Stephen A Awller, MD
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From:
Sent on: Monday, October 2, 2023 6:01:04 AM
To: City Council (San Mateo) <[email protected]> CC:
Subject: Historic preservation of Baywood neighborhood in San Mateo
Dear Council Members,
With this note I would like to add a strong voice for the historic preservation of our beautiful Baywood neighborhood. It is a primary reason I own a home here. While the world changes rapidly the preservation of our vanishing historic areas becomes doubly important. It would be a terrible waste to degrade the beauty of this treasure with mixed housing or construction that does not blend with the striking architectural character here.
Cordially,
Helene Wickett
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From: Martin Wiggins <[email protected]>
Sent on: Monday, October 2, 2023 10:34:52 PM
To: Amourence Lee <[email protected]>; Richard
Hedges <[email protected]>; Lisa Diaz
Nash <[email protected]>; Adam
Loraine <[email protected]>; Rob
Newsom <[email protected]>
CC: Zachary Dahl <[email protected]>; Manira
Sandhir <[email protected]>; Martin
McTaggart <[email protected]>; Patrice
Olds <[email protected]>
Subject: San Mateo General Plan update - Goal COS-4 comment
Dear Mayor Lee and Councilmembers,
I am writing to you regarding the San Mateo General Plan 2040 update, further to my comments at the 09/26 Planning Commission meeting on the same subject. I want to support the staff-recommended change noted on Attachment 4 of your packet (page 258 of 259), regarding studying the feasibility of studying air pollution mitigations near highways, in areas where we are planning new housing.
While the land rights and physical constraints along highway edges may appear to make this a daunting task, there are opportunities, including in our most highly polluted (in terms of carcinogenic diesel particulate matter) area, Study Area 8 at the confluence of US-101 and SR92. For example, along South Amphlett Boulevard, the city should have room to fit screening and/or sound walls on city or private land. These are both recommended by BAAQMD in their Planning Healthy Places guidance. Please note – their #1 tool in this document is to not place new housing near heavily trafficked highways, but in the event that such is not feasible, they recommend these two approaches. At this very high-level planning stage, I think it is appropriate to be consistent with our own contemplated goals and policies, including Goal LU-1 regarding environmental and health equity, and Policy LU 8.6 Safe and Sanitary Homes which says "Encourage homes and neighborhoods that are free of environmental health hazards."
Thank you for your consideration, and for supporting a clean and safe San Mateo for current and future generations.
Best,
Martin Wiggins
Planning Commissioner
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City Council
Draft General Plan 2040 - Meeting 1 of 3
October 2, 2023
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General Plan Team
» City of San Mateo
• Zachary Dahl, Interim Director
• Manira Sandhir, Planning Manager
• Somer Smith, Associate Planner
• Bethany Lopez, Senior Engineer
• Mary Way, Administrative Assistant
» Technical Advisory Committee
• Over 40 staff members from all City
departments and SMCFD
» Consultants
• Joanna Jansen, PlaceWorks
• Carey Stone, PlaceWorks
• Angelica Garcia, PlaceWorks
• Evelia Chairez, PCRC
• Sabina Mora, Good City Co
• Nelson\Nygaard
• Kittelson Associates, Inc.
• Economic & Planning Systems (EPS)
• BKF Engineers
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Tonight’s Agenda Discussion
» Presentation
» Clarifying Questions
» Public Comment
» City Council Discussion and Direction
• Community Design and Historic Resources Element
• Conservation, Open Space, and Recreation Element
• Noise Element
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Project Overview
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General Plan: Vision Statement
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Past General Plan Milestones
Timeframe Task
Fall - Winter 2018 Establish communitywide vision for 2040 Spring - Summer 2019 Identify study areas
• Developed with an awareness of Measures P and Y
• Study areas did not include any Single-Family Residential areas and excluded most of the Equity Priority Communities
Fall 2019 Create a range of land use alternatives
Winter 2019 - Summer 2021 Finalize draft land use alternatives Fall 2021 - Summer 2022 Select a preferred land use and circulation scenario Summer - Fall 2022 Prepare draft goals, policies, and actions (GoPAs) Winter 2023 – Summer 2023 Prepare Draft General Plan
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Where Are We Now and What’s Next?
We are here
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Draft General Plan 2040 Online Resources
» StriveSanMateo.org has information to
assist with the community’s review:
• Draft General Plan
• User Guide
• Ten Big Ideas
• Online commenting tool
• Interactive Draft General Plan 2040 Land Use
Map
• Measure Y FAQ
• And much more!
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Draft General Plan
Community Outreach
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Community Engagement
» Direct Engagement
• Citywide mailers
Newsletter, mailed mid July
Town Hall Meeting Notice, mailed mid Aug
• 1 Virtual Workshop (August 16th)
• 5 District Town Hall Meetings
• Presentations to community groups
• Self-guided Open Houses at City facilities
• Pop-up events throughout the City
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Town Hall Meetings
» Thursday, August 31 – District 5
San Mateo Senior Center
• Council Member Adam Loraine
» Wednesday, September 6 – District 1
San Mateo Main Library
• Deputy Mayor Lisa Diaz Nash
» Wednesday, September 13 – District 2
Martin Luther King Jr. Community Center
• Mayor Amourence Lee
» Wednesday, September 20 – District 4
Bayside School, Old Gym
• Council Member Richard Hedges
» Thursday, September 28 – District 3
The Nueva School Gym
• Council Member Rob Newsom Jr.
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Community Engagement
» General Plan Subcommittee Meeting
• Tuesday, August 29 at 6pm
» Planning Commission Meetings
• Tuesday, September 12 at 6pm - Draft Environmental Impact Report (DEIR) • Tuesday, September 26at 6pm - Draft General Plan
» City Council Meetings
• Monday, October 2 at 7pm – DEIR, Community Design, Noise & COS&P (tonight) • Monday, October 16 at 7pm – Safety, Public Services and Circulation • Monday, October 30 at 6pm – Survey Results and Land Use Element • City Council will review community, GPS and Planning Commission input, and provide direction on how to finalize the General Plan, but no final decisions will be made. » Final adoption hearings for the General Plan in the beginning of 2024.
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» Community input themes since Draft General Plan publication in July:
• More policies and focus on senior issues; support Age Friendly Action • New development – both concern and support for planned housing and density increases • Ensure sufficient retail and commercial space as housing supply increases • Maintain and support local businesses
• Ensure San Mateo’s unique urban fabric is maintained and improved as the city grows • Expand urban forest and street trees
• Maintain quality of life, such as public safety, City services and park facilities, with new growth and development
• Demonstrate that future growth would not compromise the fiscal sustainability of the City of San Mateo
• Protect historic resources
• More focus and detailed attention to storm and flood preparedness • Improve roadway/sidewalk safety, reduce congestion, and ensure adequate parking Community Engagement Themes
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General Plan Subcommittee Input Themes
» Add an executive summary at the start of each element » Add more actions to enhance placemaking in San Mateo
» Support local businesses and highlight the positive impacts local business has on the community
» Outside of the General Plan, examine fees and policies that could be an obstacle to housing production
» Support for all initial staff recommendations
» All input summarized in Attachment 2 of Agenda Report
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Planning Commission Input Themes
» Concern that “Explore” is too vague a term
» Address outdoor air pollution for development adjacent to HWYs » Plan for continued street tree maintenance
» Update historic resource definition to improve local control » Improve park access
» Support for augmenting policy direction on seniors/aging » Plan for flood protection
» Support local businesses
» Increase new publicly accessible plazas and park spaces
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Draft General Plan 2040
Overview
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10 Big Ideas
» Reflects new policy
direction in this iteration of
the General Plan
» Represents policy priorities
that surfaced through
community outreach
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General Plan Elements
2. Land Use
3. Circulation
4. Housing (prepared separately)
5. Community Design and Historic Resources
6. Conservation, Open Space, Parks and Recreation
7. Public Services and Facilities
8. Safety
9. Noise
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General Plan – Other Components
1. Introduction
[Elements – 2 through 9]
10. Glossary
11. Implementation Plan (separate from General Plan)
• Explains how actions will be implemented
Who is responsible
Timing
• Tracks progress
• Finalized after completion of the General Plan
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Draft General Plan 2040 Key Themes
» Draft General Plan embodies three key themes which are woven throughout the document:
• Sustainability. Help ensure that San Mateo can meet its current needs and leave viable resources for future generations.
• Environmental Justice. Reduce the unique or compounded health risks in San Mateo’s equity priority communities.
• Community Engagement. Increase community participation in the planning and development processes
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Example General Plan Page
» Each goal number starts with the element
acronym, followed by the number of the goal
» Policy or action numbering based on the
number of the goal and is numbered
sequentially
» Icons identify which policies and actions are
related to the three General Plan themes
Sustainability
Environmental Justice
Community Engagement
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How the General Plan Will Be Implemented
» After adoption, City staff will work to implement
the General Plan’s to-do list, or “Actions”
» Level of effort for each action varies: some are
ongoing, some are one-time tasks
» Example actions:
• Prepare a comprehensive adaptation plan to reduce
climate change risks
• Establish and maintain an inventory of historic resources • Coordinate with Caltrain and SamTrans on transit
improvements
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General Plan Implementation + City Budget Prioritization » General Plan Implementation Plan will identify general timeframe for implementation of each action
» Process to fund General Plan actions:
• Each City Department recommends a list of actions and estimated budget for each action for Council consideration to fund prior to start of each fiscal year
• Many of the recommendations originate from the General Plan • City Council prioritizes what initiatives will be funded based on available budget
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Climate Action Plan
Technical Update
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San Mateo Climate Action Plan Technical Update
» City’s comprehensive strategy to
reduce GHG emissions.
• Implementation program of the 2030
General Plan.
» First prepared in 2015, based on
earlier plans from 2007-2010.
» Updated in 2020.
» Serves as a “CEQA Qualified” GHG
Reduction Strategy.
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Draft Environmental
Impact Report
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EIR Project Description
The Project Description consists of two main project
components:
» General Plan 2040
• Land use map
• Projected buildout
• Goals, policies, and actions
» Technical update to the Climate Action Plan
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EIR Study Area
» The study area for the EIR
includes both the City Limits and
the Sphere of Influence.
» Analyses in the EIR require two
types of data inputs.
• Some require spatial inputs only.
• Some require both spatial and
quantitative inputs.
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Draft General Plan 2040 Land Use Map
» Spatial analyses are
based on all areas
where development
would be allowed by
the General Plan land
use map.
» This is the same
boundary as the EIR
Study Area.
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Project Buildout
Quantitative analyses are based on the potential for growth citywide between 2019 and 2040, which represents an approximate 20-year buildout horizon.
PROPOSED GENERAL PLAN 2040 BUILDOUT PROJECTIONS IN THE EIR STUDY AREA Category
Existing
Conditions
(2019)
Projected Net Change by Area
(2019-2040) Total Net
Change
(2019–2040)
Total
Buildout
(2040)City Unincorporated
Households 41,060 20,070 10 20,080 61,140
Housing Units 43,770 21,400 10 21,410 65,180
Total
Population 108,020 51,990 30 52,020 160,040
Jobs 62,440 16,530 390 16,920 79,360
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Future development is focused in 10 Study Areas
Study Area characteristics:
» Areas near transit, services, and jobs
» Areas where current buildings are aging, vacant, or
not maintained
» Areas where property owners have expressed
interest in considering redevelopment
Study Area capacity for change:
• 92% of new housing
• 89% of new jobs
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CEQA Overview
» The California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) is the State’s primary environmental protection law.
» An Environmental Impact Report (EIR) is an informational document:
• Discloses the potential physical environmental impacts of projects • Identifies mitigation measures
• Describes feasible project alternatives
» The EIR is the highest-level environmental review document under CEQA.
» CEQA does not dictate project approval or denial.
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Program-Level EIR
"Program-level" EIRs are appropriate when a project consists of a series of actions related to issuing rules, regulations, and plans. » Does not evaluate site-specific impacts of future projects that are consistent with the General Plan.
» Allows future project-level environmental review to "tier off" the program EIR.
» Streamlines future environmental review procedures.
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Environmental Topics Evaluated in the EIR
Aesthetics *
Air Quality
Biological Resources *
Cultural Resources *
Energy *
Geology and Soils *
Greenhouse Gas Emissions *
Hazards and Hazardous
Materials *
Hydrology and Water Quality *
Land Use and Planning *
Noise
Parks and Recreation *
Population and Housing *
Public Services *
Transportation *
Tribal Cultural Resources *
Utilities and Service Systems *
Wildfire
* Impacts found to be less than significant
because General Plan policies avoid or lessen.
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Significant and Unavoidable Impacts
» Air Quality
• AQ-2: Construction of development projects that could occur from implementation of the proposed project would generate emissions that would exceed the Bay Area Air Quality Management District’s regional significance thresholds and cumulatively contribute to the nonattainment designations of the San Francisco Bay Area Air Basin.
• AQ-3: Operation of development projects under the proposed project would generate operational emissions that would exceed the Bay Area Air Quality Management District’s regional significance thresholds for volatile organic compounds (VOC) and nitrogen oxides (NOX). • AQ-4: Construction emissions associated with development under the proposed project could expose air quality-sensitive receptors to substantial toxic air contaminant concentrations and exceed the Bay Area Air Quality Management District’s project-level and cumulative significance thresholds.
• AQ-6: Implementation of the proposed project would generate a substantial increase in emissions that exceeds the Bay Area Air Quality Management District’s significance thresholds and would cumulatively contribute to the nonattainment designations and health risk in the San Francisco
Bay Area Air Basin.
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Significant and Unavoidable Impacts
» Noise
• NOISE-1: Buildout under the proposed project is anticipated to result in unacceptable traffic noise with an increase of more than 5.0 dBA Ldn over existing conditions along one roadway segment (1st Avenue west of B Street) within the EIR Study Area. • NOISE-6: Buildout under the proposed project is anticipated to result in unacceptable cumulative traffic noise within the EIR Study Area.
» Wildfire
• WILD-2: Development under the proposed project would increase population, buildings, and infrastructure in wildfire-prone areas, thereby exacerbating wildfire risks. • WILD-5: Potential development under the proposed project could, in combination with other surrounding and future projects in the State Responsibility Areas, Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones, or Wildland Urban Interface, result in cumulative impacts associated with the exposure of project occupants to pollutant concentrations from a wildfire or uncontrolled spread of a wildfire due to slope, prevailing winds, or other factors.
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Cumulative Impact Findings
» Cumulative impacts account for development under the proposed project, in addition to other surrounding development, that could cumulatively cause an impact on the physical environment. » The General Plan EIR is evaluated in the context of citywide cumulative impacts.
» The Draft EIR finds that cumulatively considerable impacts could result from:
• Air Quality
• Noise
• Wildfire
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Alternatives Analysis
» CEQA requires an EIR to describe a range of reasonable alternatives to the project that would attain most of the project objectives but would avoid or substantially lessen any of the project’s significant effects.
» One of the alternatives must be a “no project alternative.” » The Draft EIR evaluates two alternatives:
• No Project Alternative
• Reduced Traffic Noise Alternative
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Statement of Overriding Considerations
The City may approve the project with significant and unavoidable impacts by issuing a “Statement of Overriding Considerations” » Identifies how the project's benefits outweigh the potential impacts • Examples: providing affordable housing, reducing per capita VMT, supporting local businesses
» Must be included in the record of project approval
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EIR Process
» This chart summarizes the EIR process
mandated by State Law
» Comment period on the EIR was August
11 to September 25, 2023
» Publication of Final EIR anticipated in
January 2024
= current phase
= opportunities for public input
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Community Design & Historic
Resources Element
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Community Design & Historic Resources Element
» Natural Landscapes and the Urban Forest
» Archaeological and Paleontological Resources
» Historic Resources
» Sustainable Design
» Public Art
» Residential Design Guidance
» Mixed-Use and Commercial Areas Design
Guidance
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Community Input
» Maintain San Mateo’s unique character.
» Improve gateways into San Mateo.
» Expand street trees and require regular maintenance.
» Both support and opposition to designating new historic resources and establishing new historic districts.
» Establish a process for historic district designation that requires approval by the affected property owners.
» Update the historic resources survey.
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Planning Commission Recommendations
» Add support for the establishment and maintenance of trees, especially in equity priority communities, under Goal CD-3. » Remove eligible as part of the definition of Historic Resources in Policy CD 5.3 Historic Resources Definition.
» In addition to the staff-recommended changes to Policy CD 8.3, remove the reference to stepping back upper floors at the end of the policy.
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General Plan Subcommittee Feedback
» Revise Policy CD 1.3 (Scenic Corridors) as follows:
• Policy CD 1.3 Scenic Corridors. Require new development adjacent to designated scenic corridors within San Mateo County’s General Plan to protect and enhance the visual character of these corridors to the extent feasible » Update Action CD 3.11 (Tree Support for Low-Income Homeowners) to ensure there are funding sources for low-income homeowners to pay for the replacement of trees.
» Update Policy CD 5.4 (Public Awareness) to ensure that property owners are aware if their property is being considered for designation as a historic resource or district.
» Ensure the City understands all the implications of defining a historic resource as being eligible for listing on National and California registers. » Remove or Update Policy CD 8.3 (Respect Existing Scale and Rhythm) because it is too prescriptive and does not align with objective design standards.
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Staff Recommended Changes
» Policy CD 1.3 Scenic Corridors
» Policy CD 3.7 Street Tree Equity
» Action CD 3.11 Tree Support for Low Income Homeowners » New action to fund City-owned tree maintenance
» New “Comprehensive Approach to Historic Preservation” policy » Merge Policies CD 5.1 and 5.2
» Reorganize hierarchy of Historic Resources actions to align with stated approach » Policy CD 8.3 Respect Existing Scale and Rhythm
» Action CD 8.6 Objective Design Standards
A separate process to begin updating the City's historic preservation policies will be initiated in early 2024.
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Conservation, Open Space
and Recreation Element
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Conservation, Open Space and Recreation
Element
» Natural Resources Protection
» Access to Nature
» Open Space Preservation
» Creeks and Riparian Areas
» Air Quality
» Parks and Recreation
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Community Input
» Protect Marina Lagoon from the impacts of new
development.
» Improve and restore San Mateo waterways.
» Protect groundwater resources.
» Phase out the use of gas-powered maintenance equipment. » Expand access to Coyote Point.
» Ensure sufficient park and open space as the city grows.
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General Plan Subcommittee Feedback
» Add policies and/or actions to support the expansion of cultural and entertainment resources in San Mateo.
• Goal COS-9 Provide stable and adequate operational and capital funding for the parks and recreation system.
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Planning Commission Recommendations
» Add a new Action under Goal COS-4 to mitigate outdoor air quality in areas adjacent to pollution sources (highways):
• Outdoor Air Quality Mitigation. Explore the feasibility of funding and installing pollutant screening solutions such as walls and vegetation to address outdoor air quality in residential areas close to pollutant sources such as highways.
» Add a new Action under Goal COS-6 to address park access east of El Camino and east of 101:
• Comprehensive Access Analysis. Conduct a comprehensive accessibility gap analysis to address equitable park access, with an emphasis on neighborhoods east of El Camino Real and east of US 101.
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Staff Recommended Changes
» Policy COS 1.4 Avoidance of Nesting Birds
» Policy COS 1.5 Surveys for Sensitive Natural Communities » Policy COS 1.6 Surveys for Regulated Waters
» Policy COS 3.1 Aesthetic and Habitat Values – Public Creeks » Policy COS 3.2 Aesthetic and Habitat Values – Private Creeks » New action to mitigate outdoor air quality near pollution sources » Policy COS 5.6 Child and Youth Development
» Action COS 5.12 Coordination with Education Providers » New action to improve park access east of El Camino Real and US 101
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Noise Element
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Noise Element
» Exterior Noise Standards
» Interior Noise Standards
» Measuring and Regulating Noise
» Reducing and Mitigating Noise
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Community Input
» Address the impacts of construction noise and monitor noise levels while construction is in progress.
» Address the impacts of traffic noise.
» Fix contradictions in Policies N 1.3 and N1.4.
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General Plan Subcommittee and Planning
Commission Feedback
» No recommendations from the GPS or Planning Commission on the Noise Element.
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Staff Recommended Changes
» Policy N 1.3 Exterior Noise Level Standard for Residential Uses » Adjust Table N-1
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Next Steps
» July to October 2023
• Draft General Plan Community Outreach
» City Council Meetings
• October 2 – CD and HP; COS and R; and Noise
• October 16 – Circulation, PSF and Safety
• October 30 – Land Use
» January 2024
• Publish General Plan 2040 and Final EIR
» February and March 2024
• General Plan 2040 Adoption Hearings
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City Council Discussion and Direction
» Discussion process:
• Provide comments by Element:
Community Design and Historic Resources Element
Conservation, Open Space and Parks Element
Noise Element
» Discussion questions:
• Do you support the staff recommended revisions for each element? • Are there any other changes or updates that should be made to the Draft General Plan?
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