AgdaPkt 2000-02-14 - Laserfiche WebLink

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~I\t 2) Concentration and Densitv The Subcommittee also requested that the Planning Commission investigate the possibility of setting up some criteria for limiting the number of uses within a certain area in order to avoid over concentration. (There are approximately 40 large family day care homes in Redwood City). An attached survey of adjoining cities indicates that some cities do have spacing requirements (300 ft.) while others do not. The Planning Commission recommended no concentration limits. Staff Alternative Following the Planning Commission and Subcommittee recommendation, Planning & Redevelopment staff discussed the issue with the City's Child Care Coordinator and other child care agencies. Please refer to the attached memorandum dated February 1, 2000, from the Child Care Coordinator. Based on these discussions staff suggests an alternate approach. There is a concern that City notification of adjoining property owners would give neighbors the false expectations that if enough neighbors object to the proposal then it would simply be denied. However as mentioned previously, State law essentially says that the City shall approve the application as long as certain provisions are met. The State sees a great need for the type of service, and doesn't want local agencies to interfere unless there is a major life and safety concern. In order to meet the intent of the Planning Commission and Council Subcommittee, i.e. provide notice of any proposed large family day care homes, and continue to facilitate day care uses, staff is proposing a variation of the proposal. Instead of requiring a conditional use permit and City notification of adjoining neighbors, the applicant themselves would notify the neighbors. The City would then only grant the discretionary use permit as long as the applicant agrees to meet the standard conditions and notifies the adjoining neighbors of the pending approval. The applicant would have to submit proof that the neighbors were contacted (e.g. copy of certified mail receipt, signed-off letter, or some other means). A sample letter that the applicant can use is attached. No fee would be proposed nor would there be any public hearing. However, the discretionary permit could be appealed to the City Council based on health, life, and safety concerns. This approach would be consistent with the City Council priorities of improving communication to citizens while also promoting child care services. SUMMARY Presented below is a summary of the existing rules and proposed changes for large family day care homes: ..,.....-.--.... '_no T"