In a recent government meeting, the council addressed a contested item regarding a proposed development project, identified as Item 113. The discussion centered on a request to increase the height of a building from 60 feet to 80 feet, which would allow for an additional floor and approximately 20 new housing units. The proposal also included a stipulation that 12% of the units would be designated as affordable housing, an increase from the previous 10%.
After a series of public comments, the council moved to approve the item on first reading, with plans to revisit it for potential second and third readings on September 26. Council Member Allison Alter abstained from the vote, which passed without objection.
In a poignant moment at the meeting's conclusion, the council honored the late Jacob Leer, a dedicated public servant and District 2 Ethics Commissioner, who recently passed away. Council Member Fuentes proposed adjourning the meeting in his memory, highlighting Leer’s contributions to the community and expressing condolences to his husband, Pedro Villalobos, who chairs the Parks and Recreation Board. The motion to adjourn in honor of Leer was seconded and passed without objection, marking a respectful tribute to a valued member of the community.