Planning Commission Livestream 12/18/25

The City of Encinitas Planning Commission held a meeting on December 18, 2025, primarily focused on zoning code amendments and a significant multifamily housing development project. The commission reviewed a zoning amendment to align parking regulations with Assembly Bill 308 and considered a design review permit, density bonus request, and coastal development permit for a 120-unit multifamily apartment complex on a 5.23-acre site. Key procurement-related discussions centered on the developer's request for waivers and a concession to omit required public frontage improvements along El Camino Real, which staff and commissioners opposed due to significant public health and safety concerns, including pedestrian, bicycle, and evacuation safety. The commission voted to approve the project while denying the concession, conditioning the project on the construction of standard public improvements. Public comments highlighted safety concerns, environmental impacts, and community livability issues. The meeting concluded with the motion passing 4-0 to approve the project with conditions, emphasizing the need for safety improvements funded by the developer.