November 2004

by Diane G. Kindermann Henderson

California’s legislature has implemented statutory requirements aiming to remedy the communication gap between water suppliers and municipalities when considering land use planning decisions. Senate Bill 610 and Senate Bill 221 require detailed information regarding water availability to be provided to local decision makers of cities and counties prior to approval of specified large development projects. In addition, both statutes require this information be included in the administrative record to serve as the evidentiary basis for an approval action by the city or county on such projects. The Guidebook for Implementation of Senate Bill 610 and Senate Bill 221 of 2001, prepared by the California Department of Water Resources, is a step-by-step manual providing direction on how to effectively complete a SB 610 water assessment and a SB 221 verification of sufficient water supply.
Continue Reading Attention Water Suppliers and Municipalities: A Step-By-Step Guide to Implementing SB 221 and SB 610 Has Arrived

by William W. Abbott

One person’s innovative, edgy infill development is another person’s significant impact. Or is it? This is the issue recently addressed in Bowman v. City of Berkeley (2004) 122 Cal.App.4th 572. The developer in Bowman proposed an infill project in the City of Berkeley. The project involved an existing, single story vacant building of no architectural significance. The developer proposed to demolish the existing building and construct a four floor retail and a senior residential project of 40 units. The project went through multiple design changes as it proceeded with City review. In response to City and public review, the developer modified the building height where the site shared a property line with residential properties. City staff supported the project and recommended a negative declaration.
Continue Reading Design Review and CEQA Analysis: New Guidance