Planning commission continues review of new 'innovation‑based business' zoning; commission asks for site maps and adjacency protections

The Pleasanton Planning Commission continued consideration of draft municipal code amendments intended to add an “innovation‑based business” (IBB) land‑use category and to streamline entitlement steps for biotech, life‑science and similar indoor industrial users.

Staff and consultant Alex Greenwood Group presented findings that Pleasanton has competitive advantages (educated workforce, existing flex inventory and proximity to research institutions) and recommended code changes to clarify definitions, allow by‑right IBB uses in select industrial and PUD districts, reduce design‑review requirements for minor exterior changes, and adjust development standards such as building height near BART and performance standards for emissions and hazardous materials. Melinda (city planner) and Lisa (economic development) described proposed edits to definitions, the land‑use table and design‑review thresholds; Eric Lukini (senior planner) and consultant Alex Greenwood explained how other Bay Area cities have sought to speed permitting for life‑science uses.

Key proposals discussed included a new…