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Planning commission approves youth sports and tutoring studio at 9 Montford Avenue, 3–1
Summary
The commission approved a conditional‑use permit for a 2,700 sq ft youth sports and tutoring studio at 9 Montford Avenue with conditions requiring a parking‑management plan and designated drop‑off/pick‑up procedures; vote passed 3–1 on May 13.
The Mill Valley Planning Commission voted 3–1 on May 13 to approve a conditional‑use permit allowing a youth‑focused sports performance and academic tutoring studio at 9 Montford Avenue.
Associate planner Michelle Johnson told the commission the proposed 2,700‑square‑foot studio would operate with caps on enrollment and hours intended to limit traffic and noise, and would include a required parking‑management plan to be approved by the planning director before issuance of a tenant improvement permit. "As of 5 PM this evening, we have received 32 correspondences in support of this project and 3 correspondences with concern," Johnson said in her staff presentation.
Applicant Christopher Holbrook, who said he coaches at Tamalpais High School and leads Southern Marin Youth Development Academy, emphasized youth development, soundproofing, and policies to minimize curbside congestion. "This facility would bring many benefits to the community," Holbrook said, citing year‑round training space and tutoring that would keep students local.
Neighbors and stakeholders split their testimony. Janet Carew (23 Montford) raised safety concerns about peak‑period drop‑off and biking after dark, noting the intersection's constrained geometry and urging stronger controls on parking and lighting. Several parents and baseball community members said the studio would reduce out‑of‑town trips and provide valuable after‑school options.
Commission deliberations focused on drop‑off logistics and safety. Commissioners recommended the applicant and staff designate specific on‑site spaces for drop‑off, require signage and enforcement for those spaces, and require the applicant to provide a parking‑management plan emphasizing walking and biking. Commissioner Niellis moved to approve the permit and Commissioner Skiles seconded. The roll call produced three votes in favor (Gasparick, Skyles, Ullis) and one opposed (Chair Ernest Sarangel); the motion passed 3–1.
Conditions recorded by staff include: approval of a parking‑management plan by the planning director prior to tenant‑improvement permits; limits on group class sizes and hours as reflected in staff exhibits; and the option for the commission or director to require additional signage or designated drop‑off zones if needed to protect public safety. The decision is appealable to the city council within 10 calendar days.
