Council approves contracts for objective design standards and preapproved ADU program — $315,000 in total

The City Council approved two professional services agreements aimed at modernizing design review and easing accessory dwelling unit (ADU) production.

Community Development Director Erica Ramirez presented Item 28: a staff recommendation to (1) contract Torti Gallas and Partners to prepare objective design standards, not to exceed $215,000, and (2) contract Office of People to prepare a preapproved ADU program, not to exceed $100,000. Staff said funds for both projects are included in the current fiscal year budget and that the work products are expected to be complete by late 2026.

Representatives from both recommended firms described their approaches. Torti Gallas discussed tradeoffs inherent to objective standards, noting the goal is to translate community character into measurable, legally defensible standards through walking tours, design surveys and iterative drafts. Office of People described its preapproved ADU experience in other Southern California jurisdictions and estimated significant soft‑cost savings for homeowners that use preapproved plans.

Council members questioned timelines and community engagement steps, raised SB‑79 timing concerns and asked whether the standards would address areas likely to face early state‑driven housing projects. Staff responded that the 11‑ to 12‑month timeline anticipated SB‑79 and that the work will include planning commission and public outreach steps.

Council approved the agreements by roll call; staff will return with project milestones and community engagement plans as the projects move forward.