Calistoga council introduces ordinance to implement housing‑element changes, including wider allowance for group homes

The Calistoga City Council unanimously accepted introduction and waived further reading of an ordinance on Nov. 18 that would amend Titles 8 and 17 of the Calistoga Municipal Code to implement 14 programs from the city’s sixth‑cycle housing element.

Assistant Planner Lauren Clark told the council the package includes a no‑net‑loss requirement to preserve residential capacity when a site is reduced (A1.1‑1), a minimum density requirement for multifamily projects (A1.2‑1) that requires such projects to achieve at least 50% of the general‑plan maximum density, and a provision to allow adaptive reuse of inns, motels and certain commercial spaces for long‑term housing with a use permit. Several items stem from state law and council direction, Clark said.

One of the most discussed items, Program A6.1‑9, would allow residential care facilities and group homes of up to 12 people in all residential zones without a discretionary use permit, provided the proposals meet objective code standards. City Attorney Karen Murphy and staff explained that group homes and residential care facilities are distinct uses: residential care typically serves people needing ongoing medical or custodial care (for example seniors or people with disabilities), while group homes can include people with special needs or those transitioning from foster care or rehabilitation. Murphy said state law requires local codes to accommodate certain housing and supportive uses and that these facilities are subject to state licensing and inspections.

Councilmembers voiced concerns about siting and scale. Councilmember Eisenberg and others said 12 residents could feel like a heavy concentration in small, single‑family homes, while building‑official testimony and staff explanations emphasized that occupancy is ultimately controlled by building code calculations (square footage and occupancy limits), parking and other code requirements, and state licensing rules. The building official said typical occupancy calculations for a two‑bedroom house would yield roughly four to five people, depending on square footage, and that a standard small residence would not ordinarily accommodate a dozen residents.

After public comment and further questions, Mayor Donald Williams moved to introduce the ordinance and waive further readings; Councilmember Eisenberg seconded. A roll call vote recorded Aye votes from Eisenberg, Cooper, Giff, Vice Mayor Lopez Ortega and Mayor Williams. The motion passed unanimously.

What happens next: the council introduced the ordinance (first reading) and will return at a future meeting for subsequent steps in the formal adoption process. Staff said the amendments implement state requirements and council direction; some items (e.g., ministerial approval where 20% of units are affordable) are intended to streamline housing delivery while other items reflect compliance with state law.