Corte Madera, California Development News

Town Council Reviews 150-Unit Assisted Living and Memory Care Facility Proposal

The Town Council considered a proposal for a 150-unit residential care facility, including 118 assisted living units and 32 memory care units, at 56 Madera Boulevard. The project involves preliminary and precise plan amendments, requiring Town Council approval. The facility would contribute 42% of the town's above-moderate income housing units. The applicant, O&I Development, sought waivers for development standards, including floor area ratio and building height. The project was presented under SB 330 (Housing Crisis Act) and the state density bonus law, which limit municipal discretion. A fee of approximately $1.9 million was negotiated in lieu of affordable units. The council also approved a resolution finding the project exempt from further environmental review under CEQA guidelines. Public comments raised concerns about building height, tree removal, parking, traffic safety, habitat loss, and the need for amenities like gardens and better community integration. The applicant team presented refinements and addressed concerns, including landscape enhancements and a sound wall along the Highway 101 corridor.