To those preparing the Draft EIR for the R3 zoning update project,
Livable Mountain View thanks Mountain View city staff for this opportunity to comment on the scoping of the Draft EIR for the R3 zoning update project. We also thank Advance Planning Manager Eric Anderson for hosting a Q & A session with our group on this subject. Mr. Anderson urged us to summarize our comments in a formal letter, so we are doing that here:
1. We ask that the those preparing the Draft EIR consider the state density bonus when determining the impacts of the R3 project. In particular, since Mountain View has a 15% inclusionary affordable housing mandate, developers will meet the 50% density bonus requirement simply by following the Mountain View mandate. This is why projects like Chase Bank redevelopment are opting for the 50% state density bonus. Furthermore, by providing another 5% of affordable housing, a 100% density bonus would be permitted. The Draft EIR should NOT ignore this by studying only the base density.
2. We ask that the Draft EIR be delayed until after September 12, 2025, so that the results of the California Assembly vote on SB79 are known. SB79 would permit BY RIGHT 5-7 story buildings (up 10-14 stories with the state density bonus) within one-half mile of train, light rail, and frequent bus stops. This would significantly alter the permitted zoning in our city. It is best to undertake the Draft EIR AFTER the SB79 vote in taken.
3. We ask that impacts on infrastructure needs, in particular water usage, the effects on climate change, and greenhouse gas emissions be adequately considered.
4. We ask that the cumulative effect of background projects, for example, the Moffett Precise Plan and frequent gatekeeper project approvals, be considered.
5. We ask that the Draft EIR make specific positive recommendations that will mitigate the effects of the R3 upzoning project. It would be greatly disappointing if this Draft EIR ends up being just a legally mandated but practically meaningless exercise.
Thank you for listening to our recommendations on this important topic.
Robert Cox, Louise Katz, Peter Spitzer, Maureen BNlando, Hala Alshahwany, Chuck Muir, Julie Muir, Muriel Sivyer-Lee, Nancy Stuhr, Toni Rath, Natalie Solomon, Jerry Steach, Lorraine Wormald, and Leslie Friedman
For the Steering Committee of Livable Mountain View
