Cotati Planning Commission recommends city council approve mixed‑use project at 8150 La Plaza, asks applicant to shift building to save oak

The Cotati City Planning Commission voted on [date not specified in transcript] to forward a recommendation that the City Council approve preliminary and final design review, variances and a tree removal permit to allow construction of a mixed‑use project at 8150 La Plaza, after requiring changes intended to reduce impacts on adjacent Arthur Street residences.

Senior Planner JP Harris told the commission the proposal includes two new buildings with ground‑floor commercial space, enclosed garages and five residential units overall; staff recommended approval, with entitlements including a tree removal permit and variances for rear setback, vehicle access from La Plaza and modest height increases. "Staff recommends that the planning commission adopt the resolution recommending that the city council approve preliminary and final design review, variances, and a tree removal permit to allow construction of [the] mixed use project at 8150 La Plaza," Harris said.

Why it matters: neighbors raised concerns about loss of mature oak trees that provide screening, increased building mass close to rear lots and whether the project could meet zoning density with smaller units rather than taller structures or reduced setbacks. Jenny Blaker, an Arthur…