City Ventures seeks approval for affordable housing project in Cotati

The Cotati City Council meeting on May 13, 2025, focused on a proposed housing project that aims to enhance community living while addressing safety and environmental concerns. The project, presented by City Ventures, includes plans for both market-rate and affordable housing units, as well as accessory dwelling units.

Key discussions revolved around the project's design and its integration with the community. The developers emphasized their commitment to creating an attractive and cohesive environment, highlighting features such as amenity spaces, including a playground and dog park. They expressed enthusiasm for collaborating with city staff to ensure the project aligns with local policies and community needs.

Council member Sparks raised important safety concerns regarding the preservation of mature oak trees on the site. She requested clarification on the oak protection plan, emphasizing the need for regular inspections to prevent potential hazards. The developers assured the council that they would work with local arborists to ensure public safety.

Another point of discussion was the proposed Class 1 multi-use path for cyclists, which aims to keep bike lanes separate from traffic. Council members sought clarification on the design, ensuring that safety measures are in place for cyclists and pedestrians.

Concerns were also raised about a large mound of dirt on the property, with residents questioning its safety. The developers confirmed that environmental assessments had been conducted, and the soil was deemed clean and reusable.

Additionally, the council discussed access to a pool for residents of the affordable housing units. There were calls for a sliding scale fee structure to ensure that low-income families could afford access to the pool, as the proposed fee of up to $50 per month could be prohibitive for some residents.

The meeting concluded with discussions about the subdivision of the property into two lots, one designated for affordable housing. Council members expressed the need for assurances that both market-rate and affordable units would be built as planned, emphasizing the importance of accountability in the project’s execution.

Overall, the meeting highlighted the council's commitment to ensuring that the new housing project meets community standards while addressing safety, environmental, and accessibility concerns. The next steps will involve further collaboration between the developers and city staff to refine the project details.