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We’re pleased that Merlone Geier submitted revised plans which take into account the DRB and public recommendations including 138 for ownership townhomes and affordable housing, although we were hoping for more than the minimum required of 10%. We are disappointed that the 2040 Northgate Vision Plan still eliminates open space included in the 2025 Plan and still includes two pollution producing drive-throughs despite the DRB and the public’s concerns about increased greenhouse gases. Further, we know that Mayor Colin participated in the drafting of Marin’s Climate Action Plan, including goals of reducing greenhouse gases. Our biggest concern, is that Marin’s largest 20+ year project will not have a DA which is a negotiation between the city and the developer that identifies the standards and conditions for the life of the project. Allowing the city to determine if the developer is meeting its goals and keeping its promises. While DA’s are not mandatory, typically both sides benefit as they provide transparency for all involved. RGM had lobbied the city to include issues such as safer bus stops on Las Gallinas, completion of the North San Rafael Promenade, including a safe walking route to the SMART station; a guarantee that the open space, including the town square, be open and accessible to the general public in perpetuity; and using the “in-lieu” fees payable to the city (because the project does not include the amount of open space required by General Plan 2040) to improve local Terra Linda parks and playgrounds. RGM is researching other aspects of this issue. Other major projects such as Loch Lomond, BioMarin, etc. all had DA’s and we encourage the city to continue to negotiate for a DA.
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