55B - RESO - SB2 PLANNING GRANTS

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SB 2 Planning Grants Application E. Project Description Provide a description of the project and the scope of work to be performed below. Use Appendix A for additional information if necessary. Note: If partnering with another local government or entity, be sure to clarify the responsibilities and deliverables of vour localitv pursuant to such partnership. The City intends to utilize grant funding for the following planning goals and priorities: 1. PPA: Expedited Processing: The City proposes to use SB2 grant monies for a variety of counter and permit processing improvements. First, the City proposes to upgrade to a different land management permitting system. The enhancements will include online permit processing and digital plan review. Second, the City proposes to create informational videos for publication on the City's website. The videos will explain counter processes and development project procedures. Additional video options will detail zoning districts/development standards that are commonly requested. Lastly, physical improvements to the planning and building processes include lobby computers/stations for customers to apply for permits and review permit history/plans on file, scanning/organizing of plans into digital archives, and upgrades to staff computers and counter equipment. The City is projecting that the improvements will reduce counter processing time by an average of 45 percent. The planning and building counters currently average approximately 10-15 minutes with each customer. Much of the counter time is spent inputting information into the computer, processing plans, and responding to lengthy inquiries. By offering expedited forms of our services, we can assist customers through the process efficiently and increase productivity. 2. PPA: Accessory Dwelling Units or Other Innovative Building Strategies: The City has received an influx of ADU applications (over 90+) in the past few years. Depending on the type of ADU proposed (i.e., conversion, new detached), average timing of planning review is approximately 2-4 months, including applicant revisions and resubmittals. In order to expedite the processing of ADU applications, the City would like to have pre -approved plans created for detached structures and garage conversions. The pre -approval plans would have both planning and building plan check code compliance (if feasible); therefore, customers can use the plans to get their ADUs permitted and constructed in a shorter timeframe. The City anticipates that ADU applications with pre -approved plans will double in quantity because processing time would be significantly reduced to over-the-counter planning approval (same day) or within one month for both planning and building approvals. Additional features to this PPA would include a workbook to explain the process, application, fees, and detailed information required on ADU plan submittals. The City anticipates that more information available to the public (online or brochures) would accelerate production of ADUs. 3. Zoning Code Update: Following the adoption of the General Plan and to implement Housing Element policies, the City proposes to use SB2 grant monies to update the zoning code including revisions to residential zones and development standards, evaluate allowances for by -right multifamily housing, and consider objective design standards. The City does not know the extent of by -right housing and objective design standards and is therefore submitting this activity as a non-PPA. CA-HCD SB 2 PGP P��Ep l S 0 2019 Year-1 Grant Application