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Council directs plain‑language overhaul of courtesy notices for state‑mandated ROD/density‑bonus projects
Summary
After a lengthy discussion on how and when to tell neighbors about high‑density Residential Overlay District and density‑bonus projects, council asked staff to revise mailed notices for clarity, add QR links and developer contact info, expand default radius to 1,000 feet, and pursue push/app and water‑bill sign‑ups for targeted outreach.
The Manhattan Beach City Council on Dec. 2 told staff to redesign the city's courtesy notice for Residential Overlay District (ROD) and state density‑bonus projects to make them clearer and more actionable for residents.
Planning Manager Adam Feinestone reviewed ROD/density‑bonus rules and reminded council that qualifying ROD projects are processed ministerially under state law and therefore do not require public hearings. The city currently mails a 'courtesy' notice to property owners and residents within 500 feet when building plans are submitted. Feinestone said the notices were intended to inform neighbors but often did not clearly explain that the city has limited discretion and that the state density‑bonus law constrains the city's ability to deny qualifying projects.
Council members and public commenters pushed for plain English that explains the limited discretion, for earlier and second 'construction' notices, for QR links and…
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