Objective Design Standards

Argued the new standards are a loophole to recreate unenforceable SB 9 restrictions, potentially undermining housing goals and inviting state scrutiny.

Raised three legal concerns: the 30% slope building ban may violate state law, second-story setbacks create uniform 'wedding cake' designs, and director visibility judgment may conflict with ministerial review.

Asked that objective standards and the SB 9 ordinance be considered concurrently, and questioned whether deck privacy vegetation would conflict with fire code on small lots.

Urged preserving the town's character and asked how the standards hold up against builder's remedy projects and potential state law overrides.

Said the proposed buildings look too big and boxy for a town, suggested taller parking garages downtown instead, and worried the town is losing its charm.

Sierra Club conservation coordinator supporting the Bird Alliance's lighting proposals: 2700K max color temperature, 11 p.m. auto shutoff, and light-trespass protections for all adjacent properties.

Roni Fisher, chair of the Environmental Action Committee for the Santa Clara Valley Bird Alliance, seconded the lighting recommendations and urged the council to adopt them.

Speaking for Terry Martin Architects, thanked the town for looping in the local design community and said she felt heard, expressing interest in how the transition unfolds.

Asked how the Lisa Wise contract extension affects the historic preservation committee's pending issues.