By Brielle Johnck
Menlo park, CA
HERE’S THE LATEST INFORMATION.
As of October 11, 2024 the application process has gone through several steps with the developer N17 submitting its plans, designs, and its response to the list of Menlo Park requirements. The City has responded claiming some requirements relating to paving, landscape and exact measurements of plans need correction. So back to N17 the application goes.
Application approval is just the beginning and when the remaining requirements are corrected and resubmits the City has 180 days to approve or deny the project.
In the City’s October 11 response to N17 one page stands out as it appears to emphasize the difference between the application process, which is occurring now and the approval process which will begin after N17 completes the last application requirements. The letter states that project is inconsistent with the City’s General Plan Land Use Designation and Zoning Code. There is more but I hesitate to interpret. This letter deserves a read. I will send a copy if you email me at sunsetmess@gmail.com
This horrific development is possible because of the new laws passed by the California State Legislature. Assembly Member Marc Berman and State Senator Josh Becker joined Governor Newsom in supporting this effort. Consequently the State has severely limited the options for Menlo Park and all municipalities in California. Menlo Park is not alone.
We know you care: 710 signatures were submitted in less than a week in February 2024. The Sunset Magazine campus at 80 Wilow Rd. is facing demolition and two massive apartment buildings, an office, a hotel, and a retail development in a residential neighborhood in Menlo Park is in the application phase.
One state-wide organization Our Neighborhood Voices has a comprehensive plan to challenge the State of California’s housing mandate that has made the Sunset Magazine project possible. Read about their mission and impressive progress: ourneighborhoodvoices.com