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Council reviews public draft of zoning-code and objective design standards; staff flags SB 79 transit-density implications
Summary
Council reviewed the public-review draft of a zoning-code update and objective design standards (SCAG REAP-funded). Staff noted changes to mixed-use zoning, parking standards and density-bonus rules and warned that SB 79 could increase allowable heights/density near eligible commuter-rail stations if SCAG finds stations meet trip thresholds.
San Fernando officials heard a public-review presentation of the city's proposed zoning-code updates, SP-5 changes and new objective design standards required by the housing element, and discussed potential impacts of Senate Bill 79 (SB 79) tied to commuter-rail station eligibility.
Consultant John Moreland and staff said updates include two new commercial mixed-use zones replacing prior overlays (to comply with recent case law), updated density bonus provisions (including a 5% bonus for large-family units), new parking ratios and objective open-space and building-design standards for projects meeting the thresholds. The draft also creates a streamlined ministerial path for projects that meet objective standards and state affordability requirements; projects that decline objective standards would instead go to the Planning and Preservation Commission for public hearing.
On SB 79, staff noted the law increases density near eligible transit stations if a station has a threshold of departures (48 in any direction). The presentation said the Sylmar Metrolink station currently shows 33 departures; Metro is planning improvements that could increase trips and require SCAG to determine eligibility. If SCAG deems a station eligible, staff said some properties near the Sylmar station could be eligible for densities up to 100 units per acre and heights of about 65 feet under SB 79's framework. Council asked staff to publicize review documents and promised additional outreach; staff set a public-comment deadline and scheduled follow-ups with planning bodies.
Staff asked for council comments on the draft and noted the public-review period is open through Feb. 27 with subsequent hearings planned in March–May ahead of SCAG deadlines.
