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Council appoints two to planning commission amid housing‑element implementation concerns
Summary
Woodside council appointed Mister Evans and Commissioner Gar to the planning commission and questioned candidates about implementing the town’s housing element, potential recusal issues and how the commission will advance sites and zoning changes.
The Woodside Town Council appointed Mister Evans and Commissioner Gar to the planning commission on Feb. 10, following interviews and council questioning about the town’s housing element implementation.
Evans said the housing element work has been difficult and that achieving an objective such as adding “over 300 units to Woodside” depends heavily on private property owners’ willingness to change parcel use. He told council he plans to prioritize careful review and to be present and engaged, noting personal availability as an empty nester. Council member Wall asked how Evans would approach carrying out the housing element’s implementation; Evans replied that much will rest with council decisions and that planning staff and commission should focus on thoughtful review.
Commissioner Gar, seeking reappointment, reviewed his multi‑year experience on the commission, described involvement in town center planning and ADU and multifamily deliberations, and said he will continue to work pragmatically through constrained sites. Council asked Gar about a potential recusal on a site near his property (Raymundo) and his role as a private resident in local deliberations; Gar acknowledged potential recusal but said he would remain engaged in non‑conflicted ways.
After a public comment period with endorsements, council moved to appoint Evans and Gar; the motion passed. Council thanked the outgoing commissioner Appel for past service and said proclamations and tokens of appreciation will be provided.
