This ordinance aims to change the definition of "Laboratory" in the Planning Code to include Biotechnology and prohibit Laboratory uses in the Urban Mixed Use zoning district. It also confirms the Planning Department's environmental assessment and aligns with the city's General Plan and priority policies.
Ordinance amending the Planning Code to revise the definition of Laboratory to include Biotechnology, and to make Laboratory uses, as defined, a not permitted use in the Urban Mixed Use zoning district; affirming the Planning Department’s determination under the California Environmental Quality Act; and making public necessity, convenience, and welfare findings under Planning Code, Section 302, and findings of consistency with the General Plan, and the eight priority policies of Planning Code, Section 101.1.
How it got here
The legislation originated from a need to revise the Planning Code regarding laboratory uses in the Urban Mixed Use zoning district, prompted by ongoing tensions between residential and commercial uses.
The Board enacted legislation to delete the Life Science and Medical Special Use District, indicating a desire to limit such uses in the Eastern Neighborhoods.
Supervisor Walton introduced the proposed ordinance to amend the Planning Code to revise the definition of Laboratory to include Biotechnology and to prohibit Laboratory uses in the Urban Mixed Use zoning district.
The Planning Commission held a public hearing and adopted a recommendation for disapproval of the proposed ordinance, citing concerns about unintended consequences for laboratory uses.
The Planning Department determined that the proposed ordinance complies with the California Environmental Quality Act, which was affirmed by the Board.
The committee recommended the ordinance for passage, moving it forward in the legislative process.
The Board re-referred the ordinance for further consideration after the committee's recommendation.
Reconstructed from attached documents & the official record
