Council adopts Planning and Historic Preservation commissions' work plans

The City Council unanimously adopted two resolutions approving annual work plans for the Planning Commission and the Historic Preservation Commission, accepting past accomplishments and setting priorities for fiscal year 202627.

Mike Strong, the city's director of community development, told the council the resolutions capture recurring tasks and new recommended work, including the zoning-ordinance 2026 cleanup, tribal resources guideline updates, and review of capital improvement projects such as the El Camille Road widening and the Coastal Rail Trail segments.

Vice Chair Nick Foster of the Planning Commission summarized the commission's focus on advanced planning, wireless facilities (Council Policy 64), and several planning reviews and trainings. "Newidge Carlsbad Luxury Resort, the Dewhurst, Fairfield Apartment Homes at Bressy" were among projects listed for upcoming review, Foster said, adding the commission meets regularly and provides training for members.

Jamie Jacobs, chair of the Historic Preservation Commission, presented priorities for preserving the city's historic resources, including continuing a new plaque program, advancing the Mills Act program to encourage preservation of designated properties, and strengthening collaboration with the Carlsbad Historical Society and local schools through programs such as the 3rd-grade art contest.

Council members thanked the commissioners and staff for their volunteer service and work. Councilmember Acosta thanked the commissions and staff and urged continued dialogue as projects move forward.

The council moved to adopt the two resolutions and voted unanimously to approve the work plans.

The adoption formally directs staff and the commissions to implement the listed activities and report back as projects reach decision points.