The Planning Commission Meeting held on November 6, 2024, in Woodside focused on the topic of Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) and their impact on local development. A significant discussion centered around the potential for increasing the intensity of development in the area by offering bonuses for ADUs.

Commission members expressed concerns about how incentivizing ADUs could lead to more intense development, which is a critical issue for the community. One member highlighted the existing flexibility within the system, suggesting that homeowners could convert existing structures, such as pool houses or home offices, into ADUs without increasing the overall floor area. This approach aims to maintain the current limits while still providing options for property owners.

Additionally, there was support for adjusting regulations to allow for more ADUs in properties ranging from 1 to 2 acres. The commission discussed a proposal to increase the number of allowable units in these areas to four. Another important point raised was the need to modify regulations to permit attached ADUs to expand septic systems and manage slopes exceeding 35%, even if it involves parts of the main residence's septic system.

The meeting concluded with a consensus among members to move forward with these adjustments, reflecting a balance between encouraging housing options and preserving the character of the community. The next steps will involve drafting a resolution that incorporates these changes for further review.