Millbrae staff say objective design standards, concept books will return to commission this year

Planning staff updated the Millbrae Planning Commission on May 4 that the city’s objective planning standards project has resumed and will again move through public outreach this year.

Staff said they expect another community meeting within the next couple of months, a study session before the Planning Commission in early fall, and an aim to complete draft standards by the end of the year. The work will include "concept books" to help applicants visualize styles, materials and good architectural design for new construction.

Staff also formally introduced Assistant Planner Kaylee Cho, who presented earlier on the 170 La Prenda project, and reported a recent site visit to a mock-up for the Chamaqua project at 959 El Camino Real/Meadow Glen. The mock-up allowed staff to assess materials, window proportions, texture and roof tiling and will inform subsequent reviews as the project progresses.

The commission did not take action on these items; staff said the objective-standards effort will likely require multiple meetings before it reaches the city council.

Chair Davis and commissioners highlighted an upcoming community event, the Millbrae Arts Commission annual art show, and closed the meeting.