HomeMy WebLinkAbout2026-07-08 PC PacketPage 1 of 2
Planning Commission
Regular Meeting
AGENDA
(to be held both at the physical and virtual locations below)
Civic Center Council Chamber ♦ 300 Seminary Avenue ♦ Ukiah, CA 95482
To participate or view the virtual meeting, go to the following link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/83128884939
Or you can call in using your telephone only:
• Call (toll free) 1-888-788-0099
• Enter the Access Code: 831 2888 4939
• To Raise Hand enter *9
• To Speak after being recognized: enter *6 to unmute yourself
Alternatively, you may view the meeting (without participating) by clicking on the name of the meeting at
www.cityofukiah.com/meetings.
July 8, 2026 - 5:15 PM
1. ROLL CALL
2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
3. AB 2449 NOTIFICATIONS AND CONSIDERATIONS
4. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
4.a. Approval of the Minutes of June 10, 2026, a Regular Meeting.
Recommended Action: Approve the Minutes of June 10, 2026, a Regular Meeting.
Attachments:
1. 2026-06-10 PC Draft Minutes
5. APPEAL PROCESS
All determinations of the Planning Commission regarding major discretionary planning permits are final unless a written appeal
stating the reasons for the appeal is filed with the City Clerk within ten (10) days of the date the decision was made. An
interested party may appeal only if he or she appears and states his or her position during the hearing on the decision from
which the appeal is taken. For items on this agenda, the appeal must be received by [date].
6. COMMENTS FROM AUDIENCE ON NON-AGENDA ITEMS
The Planning Commission welcomes input from the audience. If there is a matter of business on the agenda that you are
interested in, you may address the Planning Commission when this matter is considered. If you wish to speak on a matter that
is not on this agenda that is within the subject matter jurisdiction of the Planning Commission, you may do so at this time. In
order for everyone to be heard, please limit your comments to three (3) minutes per person and not more than ten (10) minutes
per subject. The Brown Act regulations do not allow action to be taken on audience comments in which the subject is not listed
on the agenda.
7. VERIFICATION OF NOTICE
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8. PLANNING COMMISSIONER'S REPORT
9. DIRECTOR'S REPORT
9.a. Receive Community Development Director's Report.
Recommended Action: Receive Community Development Director's Report and discuss
questions with Staff.
Attachments:
1. Planning Division Projects Report - 07-01-26
10. CONSENT CALENDAR
The following items listed are considered routine and will be enacted by a single motion and roll call vote by the Planning
Commission. Items may be removed from the Consent Calendar upon request of a Commissioner or a citizen in which even
the item will be considered at the completion of all other items on the agenda. The motion by the Commission on the Consent
Calendar will approve and make findings in accordance with Administrative Staff and/or the Commission recommendations.
11. UNFINISHED BUSINESS
11.a. Review and Finalize Draft Amended Planning Commission Rules of Conduct.
Recommended Action: Discuss amended Planning Commission Rules of Conduct and finalize
any additional amendments.
Attachments:
1. 2026-04 PC Reso - Rules of Conduct w revised Exh A - signed
2. Final Rules of Conduct Draft (clean) July 2026
12. NEW BUSINESS
12.a. Discussion with Possible Action, in the Form of Recommendations and/or Other Input by
Consensus of the Commission, Related to the Meeting Schedule and Scope of the Design
Review Board.
Recommended Action: Discuss, and possibly take action by consensus of the Commission in the
form of recommendations and/or other input, related to the scope and meeting schedule of the
Design Review Board.
Attachments:
1. Div. 1, Ch. 4, Art. 4B DESIGN REVIEW BOARD
13. ADJOURNMENT
Please be advised that the City needs to be notified 72 hours in advance of a meeting if any specific accommodations or interpreter services
are needed for you to attend. The City complies with ADA requirements and will attempt to reasonably accommodate individuals with
disabilities upon request. Materials related to an item on this Agenda submitted to the Planning Commission after distribution of the agenda
packet are available at the Civic Center 300 Seminary Ave. Ukiah, CA 95482; and online at: www.cityofukiah/meetings/ at the end of the next
business day.
I hereby certify under penalty of perjury under the laws of the State of California that the foregoing agenda was posted on the bulletin board at
the main entrance of the City of Ukiah City Hall, located at 300 Seminary Avenue, Ukiah, California, not less than 72 hours prior to the meeting
set forth on this agenda.
Kristine Lawler, City Clerk
Dated: 7/1/26
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Agenda Item 4a.
Page 1 of 2
CITY OF UKIAH
PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES
REGULAR
Civic Center Council Chamber ♦ 300 Seminary Avenue ♦ Ukiah, CA 95482
Virtual Meeting Link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/83128884939
June 10, 2026
5:15 p.m.
1. ROLL CALL
The City of Ukiah Planning Commission held a Regular Meeting on June 11, 2026. The meeting was
legally noticed on June 5, 2026. The meeting was held in person and at the following virtual link:
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/83128884939. Vice Chair Johnson called the meeting to order at 5:15 p.m.
Roll call was taken with the following Commissioners Present Jacob Brown, Devery Montaňo, and
Rick Johnson. Commissioners Absent by Prearrangement: Mark Hilliker and Alex de Grassi. Staff
Present: Craig Schlatter, Community Development Director and Kim Saylor, Assistant Clerk.
VICE CHAIR JOHNSON PRESIDING.
2. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
The Pledge of Allegiance was led by Commissioner Montaňo.
3. AB 2449 NOTIFICATIONS AND CONSIDERATIONS
No notifications or considerations received.
4. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
a. Approval of the Minutes of May 27, 2026, a Regular Meeting.
Motion/Second: Montaňo/Brown, to approve the minutes of the May 27, 2026, a Regular Meeting, as
submitted. Motion carried by the following Roll Call votes: AYES: Brown, Montaňo, and Johnson
NOES: None. ABSENT: Hilliker and de Grassi. ABSTAIN: None.
5. APPEAL PROCESS
Vice Chair Johnson stated the appeals deadline date is June 22, 2026, before 5:00 p.m.
6. COMMENTS FROM THE AUDIENCE ON NON-AGENDA ITEMS
No public comments were received.
7. VERIFICATION OF NOTICE
The clerk noted that the agenda was properly noticed.
8. PLANNING COMMISSIONERS' REPORTS
No reports were received.
9. DIRECTOR’S REPORT
a. Receive Community Development Director’s Report.
Presenter: Craig Schlatter, Community Development Director;
Reports were received.
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Minutes of the Ukiah Planning Commission June 10, 2026, Continued:
Page 2 of 2
No public comment was received.
10. CONSENT CALENDAR
No consent calendar items were placed on the agenda.
11. UNFINISHED BUSINESS
No unfinished business items were placed on the agenda.
12. NEW BUSINESS
a. Review and Consider Adoption of a Resolution Providing a Recommendation to the Ukiah
City Council on an Ordinance that Facilitates a Comprehensive Land Use Amendment and
Rezoning of Parcels Within and Adjacent to the City of Ukiah's Downtown Zoning Code
Boundary; and Creates a Recreational Zoning District compatible with the City's Existing
Recreation (REC) Land Use Designation.
Presenters: Jesse Davis, Chief Planning Manager and Katherine Schaefers, Planning Manager .
RECESS: 6:02 – 6:05 P.M.
No public comment was received.
Motion/Second: Brown/Montaňo to consider adoption of a resolution (PC Reso 2026-06) providing a
recommendation to the Ukiah City Council on an ordinance that facilitates a comprehensive land use
amendment and rezoning of parcels within and adjacent to the [city of Ukiah's] Downtown Zoning Code
boundary; and creates a recreational zoning district compatible with the city's existing recreation (REC)
land use designation; along with – as recommended – the removal of the First Baptist Church parcel
from the downtown zoning code. Motion carried by the following Roll Call votes: AYES: Brown,
Montaňo, and Johnson. NOES: None. ABSENT: Hilliker and de Grassi. ABSTAIN: None.
13. ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business, the meeting adjourned at 6:51 p.m.
____________________________
Kim Saylor, Deputy City Clerk
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Page 1 of 1
Agenda Item No: 9.a.
MEETING DATE/TIME: 7/8/2026
ITEM NO: 2026-1181
AGENDA SUMMARY REPORT
SUBJECT: Receive Community Development Director's Report.
DEPARTMENT: Community
Development PREPARED BY: Craig Schlatter, Community Development Director
PRESENTER: Craig Schlatter, AICP
ATTACHMENTS:
1. Planning Division Projects Report - 07-01-26
Summary: Planning Commission will receive the Community Development Director's Report and discuss
questions with Staff.
Background: Director's Reports are bi-monthly oral reports given by the Community Development Director on
the status of projects, primarily within the Planning Division, of the Community Development Department.
Updates may include, but are not limited to, application status of major and minor discretionary permits, the
implementation status of advanced planning and related 2040 General Plan programs and projects, and
updates related to the activities of other divisions of the Department.
Discussion: This report is expected to provide updates in the following areas:
• July 2026 Planning Division Projects Report (Attachment 1)
o This is a monthly report produced on the first of each month. The July 2026 report and previous
monthly reports are located on the Planning Division Services webpage, under "Current
Planning Reports," found at this link: https://cityofukiah.com/community-development/planning-
services
Recommended Action: Receive Community Development Director's Report and discuss questions with
Staff.
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Permit #Site Address Date
Submitted Summary of Project Status
PA24-000020/21 534 E Perkins St 12/23/2024
Major Site Development Permit of APN 002-200-43 within the Pear Tree Center,
approximately 150 feet west of the E. Perkins St./S. Orchard Ave. intersection.
The proposal includes the construction of a ±1,700 sq. ft. Starbucks retail,
operating as carry-out and drive-through only, with no interior dining, and a total
gross building area, including the outdoor canopy, of approximately 2,885 sq. ft.
Inactive. No Applicant communication since February, 2025.
PA26-000011 214 & 228 E Perkins St 4/10/2026
Proposed two story building and associated site work . The building is to be
utilized as comprehensive substance abuse disorder treatment center
comprised of a doctor's offices, dental offices, exam rooms, group and
individual counseling rooms, administrative support rooms and community
wellness rooms for the Pinoleville Pomo Nation.
Pre-Application PC review on 5/13/2026. Application not yet
submitted.
PA26-000017 290 Seminary Ave 5/26/2026 Temporary Outdoor Community Activation Space in Downtown Ukiah Initial Application Review.
PA26-000018 300 Plant Road 6/2/2026
Minor Use Permit involving APNs 184-080-11, 184-090-10, 184-090-11 and 184-
010-04 to establish a commercial outdoor cannabis cultivation operation on an
approximately 17-acre site leased from the City of Ukiah. The project would
include up to 12 acres of flowering canopy.
Planning Reivew; CEQA Initial Study drafting begun.
City of Ukiah
Submitted Planning Applications
7/1/2026
Page 1 of 4
ATTACHMENT 1
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General Plan
Element
Implementation
Program Date Due Description Status / Comments
Land Use E – Zoning Code
Amendments 12/31/2025 Amend the Zoning Code to address Downtown Zoning Code and Design
Guidelines.
City Council Introduction scheduled for July 1,
2026.
Economic
Development
A – Economic
Development Strategy 12/31/2025 Prepare, adopt, and regularly update an Economic Development
Strategy.
In progress. Preparation of the Economic
Development Strategy is deferred pending
further progress on the City’s reorganization
and annexation applications.
Environment &
Sustainability
H – Cultural and Historic
Registry 12/31/2025 Update the list of cultural and historic resources eligible for state or
national designation.
In progress. Updates are deferred until
completion and adoption of the Historic
Preservation Ordinance.
Environment &
Sustainability
I – Historic Preservation
Ordinance 12/31/2030 Adopt a Historic and Archaeological Preservation Ordinance.
In progress. City staff, in coordination with the
Historical Society of Mendocino County, are
drafting the ordinance based on community
and Ad Hoc Committee input.
Mobility MOB 5.2 – Support for
Charging Stations 12/31/2025 Support installation of electric vehicle charging stations.
In progress. Electric Utility Department and
Community Development staff coordinated to
install 18 public chargers across three
locations, including the Library, Anton Stadium,
and Ukiah Skate Park. Building permits are
being finalized for submittal.
Mobility G – Transit Center 12/31/2030 Coordinate with MTA and partners to seek funding and conduct
feasibility work for a downtown transit center.
In progress. In January 2026, in coordination
with CDD Staff, language was added to the
draft Mendocino County RTP identifying a
vacant Courthouse Boulevard site as a
potential downtown transit center location by
MTA and MCOG staff.
City of Ukiah
2040 General Plan Implementation - Status of Projects In-Process or Completed within the Last 60 Days
7/1/2026
Page 7 of 37
General Plan
Element
Implementation
Program Date Due Description Status / Comments
Mobility L – Airport Parcels /
MOB-6.3 12/31/2025 Prepare a study identifying airport-supportive development parcels and
develop an infill policy for Airport Compatibility Zones.
In progress. Airport Infill Policy Ad Hoc
Committee is scheduled to meet on June 11,
2026, and determine if an application for review
should be submitted to the Mendocino Airport
Land Use Committee.
Mobility
A – Street Design / D –
VMT Performance
Measures
5/20/2026
Promote multimodal transportation through flexible parking regulations
and implement VMT reduction measures. The Ordinance expands
standards for bicycle storage, updated parking lot layout and
infrastructure, as well updates off-street parking standards for
commerical businesses.
Resolution No. PC 2026-05, approved by the
Planning Commission on April 22, 2026. City
Council adopted Urgency Ordinance #1268 on
5/20/26.
Land Use E – Zoning Code
Amendments 3/18/2026 Update zoning districts and maps for consistency with the 2040 Land
Use Diagram.
Zoning, General Plan Land Use, and
Downtown Zoning Code map updates
approved by City Council on March 18,
2026.More information at
https://cityofukiah.com/community-
development/planning-services/
Land Use D – City Gateway
Design Standards 4/1/2026 Prepare gateway design standards addressing landscaping, signage,
building form, and historic themes.
Resolution No. 2026-15 adopted by City
Council on 4/1/26. More information at
https://cityofukiah.com/gateway-standards/
Page 8 of 37
Permit #Site Address Approved Date Summary of Project Comments
PA26-
000001 228 E Perkins St.4/1/26
Historic Demolition application pursuant to Ukiah City Code 3016. Vacant
commercial structure formerly operating as the "Perkins St. Grill" and the
"Lido" restaurant.
Approved by City Council on 4/01/26.
PA26-
000012 1009 W. Perkins St.5/27/26
Three parcel Minor Subdivision.The northern portion of the property fronts
W. Perkins Street and currently contains an existing single-family dwelling.
The southern portion of the property fronts W. Church Street and includes a
second single-family dwelling on its eastern side, alongside a vacant,
grassy field on its western side.
Approved by City Engineer on 5/27/26.
PA26-
000005 760 Apple Ave 6/3/2026
Minor Use Permit/Site Development Permit for construction of a ±410
square-foot conference room north of the existing contractor's shop on APN
003-050-66 to provide additional office space for the staff and owners.
Design Review Board recommended approval on April 29, 2026; Approved by
Zoning Administrator on 6/3/2026.
PA26-
000013 680 S State St 6/3/2026
Minor Use Permit to convert the existing ±17,479 square foot retail
structure into a bowling/entertainment facility. From 2008 - 2025, the
structure and parcel were utilized by Rite-Aid Pharmacy. Since closure of
the pharmacy in June 2025, the property has remained vacant.
Approved by Zoning Administrator on 6/3/2026.
PA26-
000016 1102 W Clay St 6/9/2026
Lot Line Adjustment (LLA) involves two (2) parcels. he adjustment is minor
and is intended to align the property line with an existing fence, transferring
approximately 115 square feet from Parcel 2 to Parcel 1
Approved by City Engineer on 6/9/2026.
City of Ukiah
Recently (Within Previous 90 Days) Approved Projects
7/1/2026
Page 9 of 37
Page 1 of 1
Agenda Item No: 11.a.
MEETING DATE/TIME: 7/8/2026
ITEM NO: 2026-1183
AGENDA SUMMARY REPORT
SUBJECT: Review and Finalize Draft Amended Planning Commission Rules of Conduct.
DEPARTMENT: Community
Development PREPARED BY: Craig Schlatter, Community Development Director
PRESENTER: Craig Schlatter, AICP, Community Development
Director
ATTACHMENTS:
1. 2026-04 PC Reso - Rules of Conduct w revised Exh A - signed
2. Final Rules of Conduct Draft (clean) July 2026
Summary: Planning Commission will review the final draft of the amended Planning Commission Rules of
Conduct and discuss any needed additional amendments.
Background: Since March 2026, the Planning Commission has engaged in a series of discussions about
amendments to the Planning Commission Rules of Conduct (Rules). The first two such discussions, at the
regular meetings of March 11 and March 25, 2026, culminated in the Planning Commission's unanimous
adoption of Resolution No. 2026-04 (Attachment 1), making changes to the "Visiting the Site" section of the
Rules, as well as two other minor changes recommended by Staff. The second such discussion, at the regular
meeting of May 27, 2026, involved a detailed review of the Rules by both Staff and the Commission and a
series of Commission-directed changes.
Discussion: Staff has amended the Rules per Commission's direction at the May 27, 2026, meeting, and a
final version of the Rules is attached (Attachment 2). Given the length of discussion on this item at the May 27
meeting and the resulting numerous amendments to the Rules, Staff is presenting this final draft to the
Commission for review and editing, as desired.
Staff has also requested a review of the Rules by the City Attorney's Office, as well as recommended
guidelines for the disclosure of information related to Ex Parte Communications. If comments are received
from the City Attorney's Office prior to the July 8 meeting, they will be transmitted to the Commission and
uploaded to the agenda item for viewing.
Staff recommends the Commission review and finalize the draft amended Planning Commission Rules of
Conduct.
Recommended Action: Discuss amended Planning Commission Rules of Conduct and finalize any additional
amendments.
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RESOLUTION NO. 2026-04
A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF UKIAH ADOPTING
AMENDED RULES OF CONDUCT FOR MEETINGS OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION
WHEREAS:
1. Article 4, Section 1155 of Ukiah City Code requires the Planning Commission to adopt rules
for the transaction of its business; and
2. In 1983, the Ukiah Planning Commission adopted rules to govern the conduct of Planning
Commission meetings, and in 1999 and 2017 these rules were updated; and
3. These rules were last updated by the Planning Commission on April 26, 2023, through
Resolution No. 2023-03; and
4. The Planning Commission wishes to adopt an amendment to the Rules of Conduct to alter
the language within Sections 1 and 9.III of the Rules of Conduct and comply with Article 4,
Section 1155 of Ukiah City Code; and
5. On March 25, 2026, by a unanimous 4-0 vote (Commissioner Hilliker absent), the Planning
Commission directed the Rules of Conduct, Section 9.III, be amended to replace language in
that section with the language listed as “Option 1” within the attachment to the March 25,
2026, meeting, and that the amended Rules of Conduct be considered for adoption at the next
regular meeting of the Planning Commission; and
6. Two other minor updates to the Rules of Conduct were needed to reflect the 5:15 p.m. start
time of the Planning Commission and the updating of the Clerk’s title.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Planning Commission of the City of Ukiah
hereby adopts amended Rules of Conduct for meetings of the Planning Commission, which are
included as “Exhibit A.”
PASSED AND ADOPTED on this 22nd day of April 2026, by the following roll call vote:
AYES: Commissioners Hilliker, Brown, Montao, Johnson, and Chair de Grassi
NOES: None
ABSTAIN: None
ABSENT: None
Alex De Grassi Craig Schlatter, AICP
Chair, Planning Commission Community Development Director
ATTEST:
Kristine Lawler, CMC/City Clerk
Alex de Grassi (May 6, 2026 15:08:12 PDT)
Alex de Grassi
ATTACHMENT 1
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1
RULES OF CONDUCT
OF THE UKIAH PLANNING COMMISSION MEETINGS
FOR THE CITY OF UKIAH
SECTION 1. UKIAH PLANNING COMMISSION MEETINGS
The Ukiah Planning Commission (“Commission”) meets regularly on the second and
fourth Wednesday of each month at 5:15 p.m. The Commission meetings are held at the
Civic Center Council Chambers, located at 300 Seminary Avenue. The Rules of Conduct
sets forth procedural guidelines for the conduct of Ukiah Planning Commission meetings
as follows:
I. Special Meetings/Time and Place/Notices
Special Planning Commission meetings may be called at any time by the Planning
Commission Chair or by three (3) members of the Commission by directing the Clerk or
Clerk Designee, hereinafter referred to as “Clerk,” to deliver or mail a written notice to
each Commissioner, to each local newspaper of general circulation, radio and television
station requesting a notice in writing. Such notice shall be delivered personally or by mail
at least twenty-four (24) hours before the time of such meeting, as set forth in the notice.
The call and notice shall set forth the time and place of the special meeting, which may be
at a time and place different from the regular meeting time or place, and the business to
be transacted. A copy of the notice shall also be posted at or near the door to the City Hall
Council Chambers. No other business shall be considered at such meetings. Such written
notice may be dispensed with as to any Commissioner who, at or prior to the time the
meeting convenes, files with the Planning Commission a written waiver notice. Such
waiver may be given by U.S. mail, email, or facsimile. The written notice may also be
dispensed with as to any Commissioner who is actually present at the meeting at the time
it convenes.
II. Open to the Public/Exception
All regular and special meetings of the Planning Commission shall be public; provided,
however, the Commission may hold a special meeting, with applicable provisions of state
law, including the Ralph M. Brown Act (Government Code Sections 54950 et seq.).
III. Closed sessions/Disclosure of Information
Not applicable.
SECTION 2. AGENDA
I. Preparation and Posting of Agendas
Except for documents or information prepared by City staff that is not available by 12:00
noon on Wednesday, but in the Community Development Director’s judgement should be
included with the agenda prior to its delivery to members of the Planning Commission, all
reports, communications, ordinances, resolutions, contract documents, or other matters
to be submitted to the Commission at a regular meeting, shall be delivered to the Clerk no
EXHIBIT A
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later than 12:00 noon on Wednesday, six (6) working days preceding the meeting. The
Clerk or City Planning Division staff shall prepare the agenda of all such matters under the
direction of the City Community Development Director. The agenda and supporting
documents shall be delivered to the Planning Commissioners no later than the Friday
preceding the Wednesday Planning Commission meeting to which the agenda pertains.
The agenda itself shall be posted in a location freely accessible to the public at least 72
hours before each regular meeting or 24 hours before any special meeting of the Planning
Commission. The agenda must include a brief description of each item of business to be
transacted or discussed at the meeting, as well as the time and location of the meeting.
The Community Development Director shall review the items to be placed on the agenda
and place those items which he or she believes to be of a routine non-controversial nature
and are properly documented on the consent calendar, for adoption by a single motion.
II. Order of Business
The business of the Planning Commission and the order of its agenda shall be in such
form, as the Commission may from time to time adopt by resolution.
SECTION 3. PLANNING CORRESPONDENCE
I. Availability to the Public
Correspondence on agenda and/or non-agenda items addressed to the Planning
Commission and received by the Clerk, Planning Division staff, or any other officer or
employee of the City, shall not become a public record until received and distributed to
the Commission at a regular, special, or adjourned meeting of the Planning Commission.
Correspondence may come in the form of U.S. mail, email, and/or facsimile.
Correspondence should not be read aloud at a Planning Commission meeting unless
requested by a majority vote of the Commission.
II. Authority of the Community Development Director
The City Community Development Director is hereby authorized to open and examine all
mail or other written communications addressed to the Planning Commission and to give
them immediate attention to this end, that all administrative business referred to in such
communications, and not necessarily requiring Commission action, may be acted upon
between Commission meetings; provided, however, mail addressed to individual
Commissioners shall not be opened without the consent of the Commissioner.
SECTION 4. PRESIDING OFFICER
The Planning Commission Chair shall be the presiding officer at all meetings of the
Planning Commission. In the absence of the Planning Commission Chair, the Planning
Commission Vice Chair shall preside. In the absence of both the Chair and Vice Chair, the
Clerk shall call the Commission to order, whereupon, a temporary presiding officer or
Commissioner shall be elected by the Planning Commissioners present to serve until the
arrival of the Planning Commission Chair or Vice Chair or until adjournment. Wherever in
this article the term Chair is used, it shall apply equally to the presiding officer as set forth
in this section.
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I. Powers and Duties
A. Participation: The presiding officer may move, second, debate, and vote
from the Chair.
B. Signing of Documents: The presiding officer shall sign all ordinances,
resolutions, contracts, and other documents necessitating his/her signature
which were adopted in his/her presence, unless he or she is unavailable,
in which case the signature of an alternate presiding officer may be used.
C. Sworn Testimony: The presiding officer may require any person
addressing the Planning Commission to be sworn as a witness and to
testify under oath, and the presiding officer shall so require, if directed to
do so, by a majority vote of the Planning Commission.
D. Discussion of and Action on Agenda Items: Under rules, as shall be
determined from time to time by the Commission Chair, the public shall be
offered an opportunity to address at the meeting, any item included on the
agenda. The Planning Commission shall not take action on any item not
appearing on the posted agenda unless: 1) a Commission majority
determines that an ‘emergency situation”, as defined herein, exists; 2) The
Commission determines by a two-thirds (2/3) vote or by a unanimous vote
if less than two-thirds (2/3) of the Planning Commissioners are present, that
a need to take immediate action to the item arose subsequent to the
posting of the agenda; or 3) the item was included in a properly posted
agenda for a prior meeting occurring not more than five (5) days prior to
the meeting at which time the action is taken and was continued to the
meeting at which time the action is taken
As used in this section “emergency” means an event which will cause a
work stoppage, severely impairing public health or safety, or a crippling
disaster severely impairing public health or safety.
SECTION 5. RULES OF ORDER
In the event of questions as to procedure not set forth in this article for Planning
Commission meetings, the Chair shall be guided by the rules of general parliamentary
procedure.
I. Rules of Order/Failure to Observe
Rules adopted to expedite the transaction of the business of the Commission in an orderly
fashion shall be deemed to be procedural only and subject to the privilege of the presiding
officer. The failure to strictly observe such rules shall not affect the jurisdiction of the
Commission or invalidate any action taken at a meeting, which is otherwise held in
conformity with law.
II. Rules of Decorum
A. Commissioners: While the Commission is in session, the Commissioners
shall preserve order and decorum, and a Commissioner shall neither, by
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4
conversation or otherwise, delay or interrupt the proceedings or the peace
of the Commission, nor disturb any Commissioner while speaking, nor
refuse to obey the orders of the presiding officer. Commissioners shall not
leave their seats during a meeting without first obtaining the permission of
the presiding officer.
B. Employees: Members of the City staff and employees shall observe rules
of order and decorum as are applicable to the Planning Commission.
However, members of the City staff and employees may not leave their
seats during a meeting without first obtaining the permission of the
presiding officer.
C. Persons Addressing the Council: Any person making impertinent,
slanderous, or profane remarks, or who becomes boisterous while
addressing the Commission, shall be called to order by the presiding
officer, and if such conduct continues, may, at the discretion of the
presiding officer, be ordered barred from further attendance before the
Commission during that meeting.
D. Members of the Audience: Any person in the audience who engages in
disorderly conduct, such as clapping of the hands, stamping of the feet,
whistling, using profane language, yelling, or similar demonstrations, which
disturbs the peace and good order of the meeting, or who refuses to comply
with the lawful orders of the presiding officer, is guilty of a misdemeanor
under the provisions of State law, and, upon instructions from the presiding
officer, it shall be the duty of the sergeant at arms (Chief of Police or his/her
designee) to remove such person from the Council Chamber and to place
him or her under arrest.
E. Dangerous Instruments: No person may enter the chambers of a
legislative body, as defined in Section 54852 of the Government Code of
the State, or any place where such legislative body is in session, with any
firearm, weapon, or explosive device of any nature. The provisions of this
section shall not apply to authorized peace officers or to those persons
authorized by the Penal Code of the State to carry such weapons.
F. Rules of Decorum/Enforcement: The Chief of Police, or such members of
the Police Department as the Chief of Police may designate, shall be
sergeant at arms of the Commission and shall carry out all orders given the
presiding officer for the purpose of maintaining order and decorum at
Commission meetings. Any Commissioner may move to require the
presiding officer to enforce the rules, and the affirmative vote of a majority
of the Commission shall require him or her to do so.
II. Rules of Debate
A. Getting the Floor: Every Commissioner desiring to speak at a
Planning Commission meeting shall first address the Chair, gain
recognition by the presiding officer, and confine himself/herself to the
question under debate, avoiding personalities and indecorous language.
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B. Questioning the Staff: Every Commissioner desiring to question the City
staff shall, after recognition by the presiding officer, address his or her
questions to City staff.
C. Interruptions: A Commissioner, once recognized, shall not be interrupted
when speaking unless called to order by the presiding officer, a point of
order or chooses to yield to a question by another Commissioner. If a
Commissioner is called to order while speaking, he or she shall cease
speaking until the question of order is determined to be in order, then he or
she may proceed. Members of the City staff, after recognition by the
presiding officer, shall hold the floor until the completion of their remarks or
until recognition is withdrawn by the presiding officer.
D. Points of Order: The presiding officer shall determine all points of order,
subject to the right of any Commissioner to appeal to the Council. If an
appeal is taken, the question shall be, “Shall the decision of the presiding
officer be sustained”? A majority vote shall conclusively determine such
question of order.
E. Points of Personal Privilege: The right of a Commissioner to address the
Commission on a question of personal privilege shall be limited to cases in
which his or her integrity, character, or motives are questioned or where
the welfare of the Commission is concerned. A Commissioner raising a
point of personal privilege may interrupt another Commissioner who has
the floor only if the presiding officer recognized the privilege.
F. Limitation of Debate: No Commissioner shall be permitted to speak more
than once on any particular subject until every other Commissioner desiring
to do so shall have spoken.
SECTION 6. MOTIONS
A motion by any member of the Planning Commission, including the presiding officer, may
not be considered by the Commission without receiving a second.
I. After Motions are Made and Hearings are Closed
After a motion has been made or a public hearing has been closed, no member of the
public shall address the Commission from the audience on the matter under consideration
without first seconding permission to do so by a majority vote of the Commission. Prior to
taking a vote, the Commission may engage in discussion and debate.
SECTION 7. VOTING RULES
I. Seating Arrangement for Commission
The Planning Commission Chair shall sit in the center chair of the Commission; the next
Commissioner in seniority, based upon the time at which the Commissioner was appointed
by the City Council) shall sit alternately on the left and right of the Planning Commission
Chair. Should the Chair not be present at the meeting, the Vice Chair shall sit in the center
chair as presiding officer.
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II. Question to be Stated
Upon moving the question, the presiding officer shall call for the vote which shall be taken
first from the least senior member then moving by seniority rank to the most senior
member, with the presiding officer voting last.
III. Registration of Votes
Any vote of the Planning Commission, including a roll call vote, may be registered by the
members by answering “aye” for an affirmative vote or “no” for a negative note upon the
name of the Planning Commissioner.
IV. Voting Procedure/Disqualification
Any Planning Commissioner who is disqualified from voting on a particular matter by
reason of a conflict of interest, shall publicly state, or have the presiding officer state, the
nature of such disqualification in open meeting. A Commissioner who is disqualified by
reason of a conflict of interest in any matter, shall not remain in his or her seat during the
debate and vote on such matter, but shall request and be given the permission of the
presiding officer to step down from the Council table and leave the Council Chamber. A
Commissioner stating such disqualification shall not be counted as a part of a quorum,
and shall be considered absent for the purpose of determining the outcome of any vote
on such matter.
V. Failure to Vote
Planning Commissioners present at a Planning Commission meeting shall vote unless
disqualified by reason of a conflict of interest or where the Commissioner in good faith
believes that he or she should not vote on a measure for good cause, such as, but not
limited to, not having attended a prior meeting essential to an informed note on the
measure. A failure to vote or an abstention shall not be counted. A measure shall pass
only if it receives “aye” votes from a majority of the Commissioners present at the meeting
provided a quorum is established. Commissioners abstaining shall be counted in
determining whether a quorum is present.
VI. Tie Votes
Tie votes shall be lost motions and may be reconsidered.
VIII. Changing Votes/Abstention
A Planning Commissioner may change his or her vote only if he or she makes a timely
request to do so immediately following the announcement of the vote by the Clerk and
prior to the time the next item in the order of business is taken up. A Commissioner who
publicly announces he or she is abstaining from voting on a particular matter shall not
subsequently be allowed to withdraw his or her abstention.
SECTION 8. RECONSIDERATION OF ACTIONS
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A motion to reconsider any action taken by the Planning Commission may be made only
on the day such action was taken. It may be made either immediately during the same
session or at recessed or adjourned session thereof. Such motion may be made only by
one of the Commissioners who voted with the prevailing side. The provision of this section
shall not be construed to prevent any Commissioner from making or remaking the same
or any other motion at a subsequent meeting of the Commission.
SECTION 9. PUBLIC HEARINGS
I. Public Hearing Defined
A public hearing is any hearing which is publicly noticed by publication in a newspaper of
general circulation, posting on affected property, or mailing to affected parties. Generally,
public hearings can be classified as quasi-judicial or quasi-legislative. The following is a
general summary description of quasi-judicial and legislative hearings. The discussion is
not intended to change the general California law governing this subject. Generally, a
quasi-judicial decision is any decision affecting one, or a limited number of individual
applicants, in which the Planning Commission is legally required to make its decision
based on the evidence presented during the hearing. Examples of such hearings include
appeals from land use decisions by Planning Commission to the Ukiah City Council, such
as those concerning major use permits, variances, and major site development permits.
Generally, a quasi-legislative decision generally is a decision to make or amend rules
affecting a whole class or large number of persons. The City Council is required to
seriously consider evidence presented during quasi-legislative hearings, but it is not
legally required to base its decision exclusively on the evidence presented. Examples of
quasi-legislative decisions include the adoption or amendment of zoning ordinances,
general plan amendments, and other ordinances.
II. Submission of Documents
In order to give adequate consideration to written documents, the following rules shall
apply:
A. Time and Submission: Any written document excluding written comments
submitted on a particular agenda item by the public, whether containing
factual information or legal or policy arguments
exceeding 250 words, must be submitted to the Clerk six (6) calendar days
prior to the scheduled hearing date. Photographs or other graphic
depictions may be filed at the hearing.
1. If the submission deadline falls on a legal holiday or weekend, the
document must be submitted the last working day prior to the
submission deadline.
2. The Planning Commission shall exclude from the record and not
consider any document submitted after the submission deadline,
unless upon a motion by a Commissioner, a majority of the
Commissioners present at the hearing vote to consider the
document. A decision to consider a document not timely filed shall
be considered automatic grounds to continue the hearing, although
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a continuance shall require a specific motion adopted by a majority
of the Commissioners present at the meeting.
B. Manner of Submission: All documents must be presented to the Clerk for
consideration at the hearing. No documents presented to the individual
Commissioners prior to the hearing shall be considered as part of the
hearing record.
1. To be considered, an original and seven (7) copies must be filed
with the Clerk.
2. Upon Receipt, the Clerk shall date stamp as received the original
and all copies. Upon request, the Clerk will furnish the proponent
of the document with a date stamped copy. The Clerk shall
immediately distribute copies of the submitted documents to the
individual Commissioners and the Community Development
Director. The Clerk shall retain the original and include it in the
hearing record, which the Clerk shall compile and maintain.
III. Viewing the Site
In quasi-judicial hearings involving specific property, Commissioners must disclose
if they have visited the site since the item was noticed. At the beginning of the
agenda item for the hearing involving the specific property, the Planning
Commission Chair shall poll the Commissioners to establish on the record, whether
they have viewed the site, and any relevant observations and concerns from
viewing the site.
In quasi-legislative public hearings involving specific property, Commissioners may
visit the site and may disclose the visit, but they are not required to.
IV. Making a Decision
In quasi-judicial hearings, the Planning Commission shall base its decision
exclusively on the record, including documents submitted in accordance with this
rule and testimony and oral argument presented during the hearing. Any motion
deciding the matter shall include sufficient findings of fact to inform the parties of
the basis on which the Planning Commission made its decisions, and to determine
whether the decision is based on lawful principles. Where possible, the staff report
the Planning Commission shall include proposed findings for Planning
Commission consideration.
In quasi-legislative hearings, the Planning Commission shall seriously consider all
documents submitted in compliance with this rule and testimony and oral argument
presented during the hearing. The motion deciding the matter need not include
specific legal requirements applicable to the particular matter.
V. Conduct of Public Hearing
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As presiding officer, the Planning Commission Chair shall conduct the hearing to
promote an orderly presentation of the evidence by all parties. Subject to the
following guidelines, the Chair shall use his or her discretion in presiding over the
hearing:
A. Order of Proof: Generally, all those supporting an application or measure
shall present their evidence and argument first. Those opposing the
application or measure shall present their evidence and argument second.
Those supporting the measure shall be allowed some additional time for
rebuttal. If during the rebuttal project proponents present new argument or
evidence, project opponents shall be allowed some additional time to rebut
that new matter.
B. Time Limitations: The Planning Commission Chair may impose time
limitations on all those wishing to present evidence or argument. The Chair
may prevent the presentation of irrelevant, repetitive, or cumulative
testimony or argument.
C. Manner: Each person desiring to address the Planning Commission shall
step up to the microphone reserved for that purpose, state his or her name
and address for the record, state the subject he or she wishes to discuss,
state whom he or she is representing, if he or she represents an
organization or other persons, and unless further time is granted by a
majority vote of the Commission, shall limit his or her remarks to three (3)
minutes. All remarks shall be addressed to the Commission as a whole and
not to any member thereof.
D. Spokesmen for Groups of Persons: In order to expedite matters and to
avoid repetitious presentations, whenever any group of persons wishes to
address the Planning Commission on the same subject matter, it shall be
proper for the presiding officer to request that spokesman be chosen by the
group to address the Commission, and in the event additional matters are
to be presented by any other member of such group, to limit the number of
such persons addressing the Commission.
SECTION 10. ORDINANCES/RESOLUTIONS/CONTRACTS
I. Motions
Motions shall be used to express decisions of the Planning Commission on routine
questions or matters of temporary importance, or to give instructions to the staff
and shall be moved, seconded, and adopted by a voice vote unless a roll call is
requested by a Commissioner.
II. Resolutions
Resolutions shall be used to express decisions of the Planning Commission of a
permanent or lasting nature and shall be introduced, seconded, and adopted by a
roll call vote.
III. Ordinances
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Not applicable.
SECTION 11. MINUTES/PREPARATION AND CHANGES
The Clerk shall have the exclusive responsibility for the preparation of the minutes of
Planning Commission meetings, and any directions for changes in the minutes shall be
made only by a majority action of the Commission.
I. Minutes/Request for Detail
During a Planning Commission meeting any Commissioner may request the Clerk
include in the minutes for that meeting a verbatim transcript of any portion of the
meeting designated by the Commissioner. If so requested, the Clerk shall include
the verbatim transcript of such segment in the draft minutes presented to the
Planning Commission for approval, unless the request is rejected by a majority
vote of the Commission.
II. Minutes/Reading
Unless the reading of the minutes of a Planning Commission meeting is ordered
by a majority vote of the Commission, such minutes may be approved without
reading, if the Clerk has previously furnished each Commissioner with a copy.
III. Minutes/Entry of Statements
A Planning Commissioner may request through the presiding officer of a Planning
Commissioner meeting, the privilege of having an abstract of the statement of such
Commissioner on any subject under consideration by the Commission entered in
the minutes. If the Commission consents thereto, such statement shall be inserted
in the minutes.
SECTION 12. SPECIAL COMMITTEES
All special Planning Commission committees shall be appointed by the presiding officer
with a majority consent of the Commission. Such committees shall be temporary in tenure
and shall automatically be discharged upon the completion of their charge, or upon an
order of the presiding officer or majority of the Commission.
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RULES OF CONDUCT FOR CITY OF UKIAH
PLANNING COMMISSION MEETINGS
City of Ukiah Department of Community Development
RULES OF CONDUCT
Adopted 1983
Amended 1999
Amended 11/8/17
Amended 4/26/23
Amended 4/22/26
ATTACHMENT 2
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Table of Contents
PREAMBLE.…………………………………………………………………….. 2
1 MEETING DAYS AND TIMES………………………………………….. 3
2 AGENDA AND ORDER OF BUSINESS………………………………. 3
3 PLANNING COMMISSION CORRESPONDENCE………………….. 3
4 PRESIDING OFFICER………………………………………………….. 3
5 RULES OF ORDER………………………………………………………4
6 MOTIONS……………………………………………………………….... 6
7 VOTING RULES…………………………………………………………. 7
8 RECONSIDERATION OF ACTIONS………………………………….. 8
9 PUBLIC HEARINGS…………………………………………………….. 8
10 RESOLUTIONS………………………………………………………… 11
11 MINUTES PREPARATION AND CHANGES……………………….. 11
12 SPECIAL COMMITTEES……………………………………………….12
13 EX PARTE COMMUNICATIONS………………………………………12
PREAMBLE
These Rules of Conduct are adopted pursuant to the authority set forth in
Chapter 4, Article 4, Section 1155 of Ukiah City Code and provide procedural
guidelines for the conduct of Ukiah Planning Commission meetings.
Meetings of the Commission are conducted according to these Rules and as
modified by the Commission from time to time.
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SECTION 1. MEETING DAYS AND TIMES
1.1 Regular Meetings/Time and Place
The Ukiah Planning Commission (“Commission”) meets regularly on the second and fourth
Wednesday of each month at 5:15 p.m. The Commission meetings are held at the Civic Center
Council Chambers, located at 300 Seminary Avenue.
1.2 Special Meetings/Time and Place/Notices
Special Planning Commission meetings may be called at any time by the Planning Commission
Chair or by three (3) members of the Commission by directing the Clerk or Clerk Designee,
hereinafter referred to as “Clerk,” to deliver or mail a written notice to each Commissioner, to each
local newspaper of general circulation, radio and television station requesting a notice in writing.
Such notice shall be delivered personally or by mail at least twenty-four (24) hours before the time
of such meeting, as set forth in the notice. The call and notice shall set forth the time and place
of the special meeting, which may be at a time and place different from the regular meeting time
or place, and the business to be transacted. A copy of the notice shall also be posted at or near
the door to the Civic Center Council Chambers. No other business shall be considered at such
meetings. Such written notice may be dispensed with as to any Commissioner who, at or prior to
the time the meeting convenes, files with the Planning Commission a written waiver notice. Such
waiver may be given by U.S. mail, email, or facsimile. The written notice may also be dispensed
with as to any Commissioner who is actually present at the meeting at the time it convenes.
1.2 Open to the Public/Exception
All regular and special meetings of the Planning Commission shall be public; provided, however,
the Commission may hold a special meeting, with applicable provisions of state law, including the
Ralph M. Brown Act (Government Code Sections 54950 et seq.) and related State laws such as
provisions within AB 2449.
SECTION 2. AGENDA AND ORDER OF BUSINESS
2.1 Preparation and Posting of Agendas
The Clerk or Department of Community Development Planning Division staff shall prepare the
agenda of all such matters under the direction of the Community Development Director. The
agenda and supporting documents shall be delivered to the Planning Commissioners no later
than the Friday preceding the Wednesday Planning Commission meeting to which the agenda
pertains. The agenda itself shall be posted in a location freely accessible to the public at least 72
hours before each regular meeting or 24 hours before any special meeting of the Planning
Commission. The agenda must include a brief description of each item of business to be
transacted or discussed at the meeting, as well as the time and location of the meeting. The
Community Development Director shall review the items to be placed on the agenda and place
those items which he or she believes to be of a routine non-controversial nature and are properly
documented on the consent calendar, for adoption by a single motion.
2.2 Order of Business
The business of the Planning Commission and the order of its agenda shall be in such form, as
the Commission may from time to time adopt by resolution.
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SECTION 3. PLANNING COMMISSION CORRESPONDENCE
3.1 Availability to the Public
Correspondence on agenda and/or non-agenda items addressed to the Planning Commission
and received by the Clerk, Planning Division staff, or any other officer or employee of the City,
shall not become a public record until received and distributed to the Commission at a regular,
special, or adjourned meeting of the Planning Commission. Correspondence may come in the
form of U.S. mail, email, and/or facsimile. Correspondence should not be read aloud at a Planning
Commission meeting unless requested by a majority vote of the Commission.
3.2 Authority of the Community Development Director
The Community Development Director is hereby authorized to open and examine all mail or other
written communications addressed to the Planning Commission and to give them immediate
attention to this end, that all administrative business referred to in such communications, and not
necessarily requiring Commission action, may be acted upon between Commission meetings;
provided, however, mail addressed to individual Commissioners shall not be opened without the
consent of the Commissioner.
SECTION 4. PRESIDING OFFICER
The Planning Commission Chair shall be the Presiding Officer at all meetings of the Planning
Commission. In the absence of the Planning Commission Chair, the Planning Commission Vice
Chair shall preside. In the absence of both the Chair and Vice Chair, the Clerk shall call the
Commission to order, whereupon, a temporary Presiding Officer or Commissioner shall be elected
by the Planning Commissioners present to serve until the arrival of the Planning Commission
Chair or Vice Chair or until adjournment. Wherever in this article the term Chair is used, it shall
apply equally to the Presiding Officer as set forth in this section.
4.1 Powers and Duties
A. Participation: The Presiding Officer may move, second, debate, and vote from the
Chair.
B. Signing of Documents: The Presiding Officer shall sign all ordinances, resolutions,
contracts, and other documents necessitating his/her signature which were
adopted in his/her presence, unless he or she is unavailable, in which case the
signature of an alternate Presiding Officer may be used.
C. Sworn Testimony: The Presiding Officer may require any person addressing the
Planning Commission to be sworn as a witness and to testify under oath, and the
Presiding Officer shall so require, if directed to do so, by a majority vote of the
Planning Commission.
D. Discussion of and Action on Agenda Items: Under rules, as shall be determined
from time to time by the Commission Chair, the public shall be offered an
opportunity to address at the meeting, any item included on the agenda. The
Planning Commission shall not take action on any item not appearing on the
posted agenda unless: 1) a Commission majority determines that an ‘emergency
situation”, as defined herein, exists; 2) The Commission determines by a two-thirds
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(2/3) vote or by a unanimous vote if less than two-thirds (2/3) of the Planning
Commissioners are present, that a need to take immediate action to the item arose
subsequent to the posting of the agenda; or 3) the item was included in a properly
posted agenda for a prior meeting occurring not more than five (5) days prior to
the meeting at which time the action is taken and was continued to the meeting at
which time the action is taken
As used in this section “emergency” means an event which will cause a work
stoppage, severely impairing public health or safety, or a crippling disaster
severely impairing public health or safety.
SECTION 5. RULES OF ORDER
In the event of questions as to procedure not set forth in this article for Planning Commission
meetings, the Chair shall be guided by the rules of general parliamentary procedure such as
Robert's Rules of Order.
5.1 Rules of Order/Failure to Observe
Rules adopted to expedite the transaction of the business of the Commission in an orderly fashion
shall be deemed to be procedural only and subject to the privilege of the Presiding Officer. The
failure to strictly observe such rules shall not affect the jurisdiction of the Commission or invalidate
any action taken at a meeting, which is otherwise held in conformity with law.
5.2 Rules of Decorum
A. Commissioners: While the Commission is in session, the Commissioners shall
preserve order and decorum, and a Commissioner shall neither, by conversation
or otherwise, delay or interrupt the proceedings or the peace of the Commission,
nor disturb any Commissioner while speaking, nor refuse to obey the orders of the
Presiding Officer. Commissioners shall not leave their seats during a meeting
without first obtaining the permission of the Presiding Officer.
B. Employees: Employees of the City (staff) shall observe rules of order and decorum
as are applicable to the Planning Commission. However, employees of the City
may not leave their seats during a meeting without first obtaining the permission
of the Presiding Officer.
C. Persons Addressing the Commission: Any person making impertinent,
slanderous, or profane remarks, or who becomes boisterous while addressing the
Commission, shall be called to order by the Presiding Officer, and if such conduct
continues, may, at the discretion of the Presiding Officer, undertake specific
actions as described in Section D.
D. Members of the Audience: Any person in the audience who engages in disorderly
conduct, such as clapping of the hands, stamping of the feet, whistling, using
profane language, yelling, or similar demonstrations, which disturbs the peace and
good order of the meeting, or who refuses to comply with the lawful orders of the
Presiding Officer, so as to render the orderly conduct of the meeting unfeasible
and order cannot be restored by the removal of individuals who are willfully
interrupting the meeting, will be considered “willful interruption,” as defined by
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California Government Code Section 54957.4. In these situations, the Presiding
Officer may order the meeting room cleared and continue in session. Only matters
appearing on the agenda may be considered in such a session. Representatives
of the press or other news media, except those participating in the disturbance,
shall be allowed to attend any session held pursuant to this section. Nothing in
this section shall prohibit the Commission from establishing a procedure for
readmitting an individual or individuals not responsible for willfully disturbing the
orderly conduct of the meeting.
E. Dangerous Instruments: No person may enter the chambers of a legislative body,
as defined in Section 54852 of the Government Code of the State, or any place
where such legislative body is in session, with any firearm, weapon, or explosive
device of any nature. The provisions of this section shall not apply to authorized
peace officers or to those persons authorized by the Penal Code of the State to
carry such weapons.
F. Rules of Decorum/Enforcement: The Chief of Police, or such members of the
Police Department as the Chief of Police may designate, shall be sergeant at arms
of the Commission for the purpose of maintaining order and decorum at
Commission meetings. Any Commissioner may move to require the Presiding
Officer to enforce the rules, and the affirmative vote of a majority of the
Commission shall require him or her to do so.
5.3 Rules of Debate
A. Getting the Floor: Every Commissioner desiring to speak at a
Planning Commission meeting shall first address the Chair, gain recognition by the
Presiding Officer, and confine himself/herself to the question under debate,
avoiding personalities and indecorous language.
B. Questioning the Staff: Every Commissioner desiring to question the City staff shall,
after recognition by the Presiding Officer, address his or her questions to City staff.
C. Interruptions: A Commissioner, once recognized, shall not be interrupted when
speaking unless called to order by the Presiding Officer, a point of order or chooses
to yield to a question by another Commissioner. If a Commissioner is called to
order while speaking, he or she shall cease speaking until the question of order is
determined to be in order, then he or she may proceed. Members of the City staff,
after recognition by the Presiding Officer, shall hold the floor until the completion
of their remarks or until recognition is withdrawn by the Presiding Officer.
D. Points of Order: The Presiding Officer shall determine all points of order, subject
to the right of any Commissioner to appeal that point. A majority vote shall
conclusively determine such questions of order.
E. Points of Personal Privilege: The right of a Commissioner to address the
Commission on a question of personal privilege shall be limited to cases in which
his or her integrity, character, or motives are questioned or where the welfare of
the Commission is concerned. A Commissioner raising a point of personal privilege
may interrupt another Commissioner who has the floor only if the Presiding Officer
recognized the privilege.
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F. Limitation of Debate: No Commissioner shall be permitted to speak more than
once on any particular subject until every other Commissioner desiring to do so
shall have spoken.
SECTION 6. MOTIONS
A motion by any member of the Planning Commission, including the Presiding Officer, may not
be considered by the Commission without receiving a second.
6.1 After Motions are Made and Hearings are Closed
After a motion has been made or a public hearing has been closed, no member of the public shall
address the Commission from the audience on the matter under consideration without first
seconding permission to do so by a majority vote of the Commission. Prior to taking a vote, the
Commission may engage in discussion and debate.
SECTION 7. VOTING RULES
7.1 Seating Arrangement for Commission
The Planning Commission Chair shall sit in the center chair of the Commission; the next
Commissioner in seniority, based upon the time at which the Commissioner was appointed by the
City Council) shall sit alternately on the left and right of the Planning Commission Chair. Should
the Chair not be present at the meeting, the Vice Chair shall sit in the center chair as Presiding
Officer.
7.2 Question to be Stated
Upon moving the question, the Presiding Officer shall call for the vote which shall be taken first
from the least senior member then moving by seniority rank to the most senior member, with the
Presiding Officer voting last.
7.3 Registration of Votes
Any vote of the Planning Commission, including a roll call vote, may be registered by the members
by answering “aye” or “yes” for an affirmative vote or “no” or “nay” for a negative vote upon the
name of the Planning Commissioner.
7.4 Voting Procedure/Disqualification
Any Planning Commissioner who is disqualified from voting on a particular matter by reason of a
conflict of interest, shall publicly state, or have the Presiding Officer state, the nature of such
disqualification in open meeting. A Commissioner who is disqualified by reason of a conflict of
interest in any matter, shall not remain in his or her seat during the debate and vote on such
matter, but shall request and be given the permission of the Presiding Officer to step down from
the Planning Commission dais and leave the Civic Center Council Chamber. A Commissioner
stating such disqualification shall not be counted as a part of a quorum, and shall be considered
absent for the purpose of determining the outcome of any vote on such matter.
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7.5 Failure to Vote
Planning Commissioners present at a Planning Commission meeting shall vote unless
disqualified by reason of a conflict of interest or where the Commissioner in good faith believes
that he or she should not vote on a measure for good cause, such as, but not limited to, not having
attended a prior meeting essential to an informed note on the measure. A failure to vote or an
abstention shall not be counted. A measure shall pass only if it receives affirmative (“yes” or
“aye”) votes from a majority of the Commissioners present at the meeting provided a quorum is
established. Commissioners abstaining shall be counted in determining whether a quorum is
present.
7.6 Tie Votes
Tie votes shall be lost motions and may be reconsidered.
7.7 Changing Votes/Abstention
A Planning Commissioner may change his or her vote only if he or she makes a timely request to
do so immediately following the announcement of the vote by the Clerk and prior to the time the
next item in the order of business is taken up. A Commissioner who publicly announces he or she
is abstaining from voting on a particular matter shall not subsequently be allowed to withdraw his
or her abstention.
SECTION 8. RECONSIDERATION OF ACTIONS
A motion to reconsider any action taken by the Planning Commission may be made only on the
day such action was taken. It may be made either immediately during the same session or at
recessed or adjourned session thereof. Such motion may be made only by one of the
Commissioners who voted with the prevailing side. The provision of this section shall not be
construed to prevent any Commissioner from making or remaking the same or any other motion
at a subsequent meeting of the Commission.
SECTION 9. PUBLIC HEARINGS
9.1 Public Hearing Defined
A public hearing is any hearing which is publicly noticed by publication in a newspaper of general
circulation, posting on affected property, or mailing to affected parties. Generally, public hearings
can be classified as quasi-judicial or quasi-legislative. The following is a general summary
description of quasi-judicial and legislative hearings. The discussion is not intended to change the
general California law governing this subject. Generally, a quasi-judicial decision is any decision
affecting one, or a limited number of individual applicants, in which the Planning Commission is
legally required to make its decision based on the evidence presented during the hearing.
Examples of such hearings include appeals from land use decisions by Planning Commission to
the Ukiah City Council, such as those concerning major use permits, variances, and major site
development permits. Generally, a quasi-legislative decision generally is a decision to make or
amend rules affecting a whole class or large number of persons. The City Council is required to
seriously consider evidence presented during quasi-legislative hearings, but it is not legally
required to base its decision exclusively on the evidence presented. Examples of quasi-legislative
decisions include the adoption or amendment of zoning ordinances, general plan amendments,
and other ordinances.
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9.2 Submission of Documents
In order to give adequate consideration to written documents, the following rules shall apply:
A. Time and Submission: Any written document excluding written comments
submitted on a particular agenda item by the public, whether containing factual
information or legal or policy arguments exceeding 250 words, must be submitted
to the Clerk prior to the time and date of the scheduled hearing. Photographs or
other graphic depictions may be filed at the hearing.
1. If the submission deadline falls on a legal holiday or weekend, the
document must be submitted the last working day prior to the submission
deadline.
2. The Planning Commission shall exclude from the record and not consider
any document submitted after the submission deadline, unless upon a
motion by a Commissioner, a majority of the Commissioners present at the
hearing vote to consider the document.
B. Manner of Submission: All documents must be presented to the Clerk for
consideration at the hearing. No documents presented to the individual
Commissioners prior to the hearing shall be considered as part of the hearing
record.
1. To be considered, an original and seven (7) copies must be filed with the
Clerk.
2. Upon Receipt, the Clerk shall date stamp as received the original and all
copies. Upon request, the Clerk will furnish the proponent of the document
with a date stamped copy. The Clerk shall immediately distribute copies of
the submitted documents to the individual Commissioners and the
Community Development Director. The Clerk shall retain the original and
include it in the hearing record, which the Clerk shall compile and maintain.
9.3 Viewing the Site
In quasi-judicial hearings involving specific property, Commissioners must disclose if they
have visited the site since the item was noticed. At the beginning of the agenda item for the
hearing involving the specific property, the Planning Commission Chair shall poll the
Commissioners to establish on the record, whether they have viewed the site, and any
relevant observations and concerns from viewing the site.
In quasi-legislative public hearings involving specific property, Commissioners may visit the
site and may, as deemed necessary or relevant, disclose the visit.
9.4 Conduct of Public Hearing
As Presiding Officer, the Planning Commission Chair shall conduct the hearing to promote
an orderly presentation of the evidence by all parties. Subject to the following guidelines,
the Chair shall use his or her discretion in presiding over the hearing:
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A. Order of Proof: Generally, all those supporting an application or measure shall
present their evidence and argument first. Those opposing the application or
measure shall present their evidence and argument second. Those supporting the
measure shall be allowed some additional time for rebuttal. If during the rebuttal
project proponents present new argument or evidence, project opponents shall be
allowed some additional time to rebut that new matter.
B. Time Limitations: The Planning Commission Chair may impose time limitations on
all those wishing to present evidence or argument. The Chair may prevent the
presentation of irrelevant, repetitive, or cumulative testimony or argument.
C. Manner: Each person desiring to address the Planning Commission shall step up
to the microphone reserved for that purpose, state his or her name and address
for the record, state the subject he or she wishes to discuss, state whom he or she
is representing, if he or she represents an organization or other persons, and
unless further time is granted by a majority vote of the Commission, shall limit his
or her remarks to three (3) minutes. All remarks shall be addressed to the
Commission as a whole and not to any member thereof.
D. Spokesperson(s) for Groups of Persons: In order to expedite matters and to avoid
repetitious presentations, whenever any group of persons wishes to address the
Planning Commission on the same subject matter, it shall be proper for the
Presiding Officer to request that spokesperson(s) be chosen by the group to
address the Commission, and in the event additional matters are to be presented
by any other member of such group, to limit the number of such persons
addressing the Commission.
E. Public Meeting Order of Business: The Presiding Officer shall have discretion in
how the order of business shall be conducted for the meeting item. In general, the
Order of Business will be undertaken as follows:
1. Presentation from City Planning Division staff and/or Community Development
Director.
2. Questions from Planning Commission to City Planning Division staff and/or
Community Development Director.
3. Presentation from the Applicant. At the discretion of the Presiding Officer, the
Applicant will have up to 10 minutes to present the item to the Planning
Commission.
4. Questions from the Planning Commission to the Applicant.
5. Public Hearing and opportunity for the public to comment on the item.
6. Final questions to City Planning Division staff and/or Community Development
Director.
7. Discussion and deliberation from the Planning Commission.
8. Motion/second and decision by the Planning Commission.
9.5 Making a Decision
In quasi-judicial hearings, the Planning Commission shall base its decision exclusively on
the record, including documents submitted in accordance with this rule and testimony and
oral argument presented during the hearing. Any motion deciding the matter shall include
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sufficient findings of fact to inform the parties of the basis on which the Planning
Commission made its decisions, and to determine whether the decision is based on lawful
principles. Where possible, the staff report the Planning Commission shall include
proposed findings for Planning Commission consideration.
In quasi-legislative hearings, the Planning Commission shall seriously consider all
documents submitted in compliance with this rule and testimony and oral argument
presented during the hearing. The motion deciding the matter need not include specific
legal requirements applicable to the particular matter.
SECTION 10. RESOLUTIONS
Resolutions shall be used to express decisions of the Planning Commission of a permanent or
lasting nature and shall be introduced, seconded, and adopted by a roll call vote.
SECTION 11. MINUTES PREPARATION AND CHANGES
The Clerk shall have the exclusive responsibility for the preparation of the minutes of Planning
Commission meetings, and any directions for changes in the minutes shall be made only by a
majority action of the Commission.
11.1 Minutes/Request for Detail
During a Planning Commission meeting any Commissioner may request the Clerk include
in the minutes for that meeting a verbatim transcript of any portion of the meeting
designated by the Commissioner. If so requested, the Clerk shall include the verbatim
transcript of such segment in the draft minutes presented to the Planning Commission for
approval, unless the request is rejected by a majority vote of the Commission.
11.2 Minutes/Reading
Unless the reading of the minutes of a Planning Commission meeting is ordered by a
majority vote of the Commission, such minutes may be approved without reading, if the
Clerk has previously furnished each Commissioner with a copy.
11.3 Minutes/Entry of Statements
A Planning Commissioner may request through the Presiding Officer of a Planning
Commissioner meeting, the privilege of having an abstract of the statement of such
Commissioner on any subject under consideration by the Commission entered in the
minutes. If the Commission consents thereto, such statement shall be inserted in the
minutes.
SECTION 12. SPECIAL COMMITTEES
All special Planning Commission committees shall be appointed by the Presiding Officer with a
majority consent of the Commission. Such committees shall be temporary in tenure and shall
automatically be discharged upon the completion of their charge, or upon an order of the Presiding
Officer or majority of the Commission.
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SECTION 13. EX PARTE COMMUNICATIONS
Each member of the Commission shall accord to every person who has an interest in the quasi-
judicial proceeding the full right to be heard according to the law.
13.1 Obligation to Disclose Ex Parte Communications and Recusal Requirements
No Member of the Commission shall initiate, permit, or consider private, ex parte
communications concerning a pending quasi-judicial proceeding, unless: 1) the Commissioner
is recused from the proceeding; or 2) the Commissioner first discloses the nature and a short
summary of the communication with the Commission prior to the quasi-judicial proceeding being
undertaken.
13.2. Specific Instances where Ex Parte Communications are Permitted
Notwithstanding the foregoing, when circumstances require it, a Member of the
Commission may permit otherwise unauthorized ex parte communication for scheduling,
administrative, or emergency purposes, but only if the communication does not address
substantive matters and no one will gain a procedural, substantive, or tactical advantage
as a result of the communication.
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Page 1 of 1
Agenda Item No: 12.a.
MEETING DATE/TIME: 7/8/2026
ITEM NO: 2026-1211
AGENDA SUMMARY REPORT
SUBJECT: Discussion with Possible Action, in the Form of Recommendations and/or Other Input by
Consensus of the Commission, Related to the Meeting Schedule and Scope of the Design Review Board.
DEPARTMENT: Community
Development PREPARED BY: Craig Schlatter, Community Development Director
PRESENTER: Craig Schlatter, AICP, Community Development
Director
ATTACHMENTS:
1. Div. 1, Ch. 4, Art. 4B DESIGN REVIEW BOARD
Summary: Planning Commission will discuss, and possibly take action by consensus of the Commission in
the form of recommendations and/or other input, related to the scope and meeting schedule of the Design
Review Board.
Background: The Design Review Board (DRB) was created in 2012, and its function and purpose are
prescribed in Division 1, Chapter 4, Article 4B of Ukiah City Code (Attachment 1).
Due to the number of cancelations of Design Review Board (DRB) meetings in recent years, the City Clerk’s
Office scheduled an agenda item, 14b, on March 18, 2026, to recommend to the City Council a change in the
meeting schedule of the DRB. The Clerk proposed holding one annual meeting to update the DRB members
on current and upcoming projects, with special meetings scheduled throughout the year when projects are
ready for DRB review.
City Councilmembers discussed the Clerk's recommendation at their March 18 meeting, as well as discussing
possible changes to scope, and directed Staff to schedule a discussion with DRB Members. Council also
directed Staff to schedule a meeting with the Planning Commission, addressing a written comment from
Planning Commission Chair De Grassi. The Clerk’s Agenda Summary Report, the two written comments
received on item 14b, and the City Council discussion can be reviewed by visiting the City's meetings
webpage, at: https://www.cityofukiah.com/meetings.
Discussion: Staff facilitated the discussion with the Design Review Board at the DRB's June 25, 2026, regular
meeting. The video for this meeting is also available on the City's webpage at the aforementioned link.
This item has been scheduled per Council direction as a discussion with Planning Commissioners on the
current meeting schedule and scope and purpose of the DRB. The Planning Commission may also wish to
take other action in the form of recommendations and/or input by consensus.
Recommended Action: Discuss, and possibly take action by consensus of the Commission in the form of
recommendations and/or other input, related to the scope and meeting schedule of the Design Review Board.
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CHAPTER 4
COMMISSIONS AND BOARDS
ARTICLE 4B. DESIGN REVIEW BOARD
SECTION:
§1160: Creation
§1161: Members; Appointment; Term
§1162: Residency
§1163: Qualifications Of Board Members
§1164: Expenses Of Members; No Compensation
§1165: Chairman; Officers
§1166: Meetings; Rules; Record
§1167: Attendance
§1168: Board To Act In Advisory Capacity
§1169: Duties Of The Board
§1160 CREATION
There is hereby created a Design Review Board for the City of Ukiah ("City"). (Ord. 1136, §2, adopted 2012)
§1161 MEMBERS; APPOINTMENT; TERM
Members of the Design Review Board shall be appointed by a majority of the City Council, each to serve at the
will of the City Council up to a term of four (4) years. Members may be appointed to successive terms without
limitations. Members shall be appointed according to procedures established by resolution of the City Council
and shall be required to complete an application.
If a Board member vacates his or her office before the expiration of his or her term of office, a successor shall be
appointed by a majority of the City Council upon receipt and review of applications for the vacant appointment.
Board members shall be nominated and voted upon at a single City Council meeting, unless a different
procedure is approved by a majority vote of the City Council. (Ord. 1136, §2, adopted 2012; Ord. 1218, §1,
adopted 2021)
§1162 RESIDENCY
If Board members, other than the at-large members, move outside the City limits after appointment or they no
longer own a business in the City limits for Board members qualified to serve on that basis, their terms are
thereby terminated. (Ord. 1136, §2, adopted 2012)
§1163 QUALIFICATIONS OF BOARD MEMBERS
Board members shall have sufficient education and/or experience to perform and fulfill the duties required in
section 1169 of this code. This education and/or experience may consist of a college degree, professional
license, or employment experience in architecture and design, landscape architecture, building contracting,
Attachment 1
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urban planning, civil engineering, or similar field of study. Alternatively, the City Council may determine that a
combination of education and/or experience in lieu of a college degree, professional license, or employment
experience may qualify a candidate for the Board. (Ord. 1136, §2, adopted 2012)
§1164 EXPENSES OF MEMBERS; NO COMPENSATION
The members of the Board shall receive no compensation. (Ord. 1136, §2, adopted 2012)
§1165 CHAIRMAN; OFFICERS
The Board shall elect a chairperson from among the appointed members for a term of one year and, subject to
other provisions of law, may elect such other officers, such as a vice-chairperson, as it may determine. (Ord.
1136, §2, adopted 2012)
§1166 MEETINGS; RULES; RECORD
The Board shall hold at least one regular meeting each month at a time and place established by the Board,
unless a lack of business or a lack of a quorum occurs. The Board shall adopt rules for the conduct of business
and shall keep a written record of its findings and determinations, and overall business, which record shall be a
public record. The City Manager may assign a City staff member to serve as the Board’s recording secretary,
who shall prepare minutes for the Board’s approval. Alternatively, if no recording secretary is assigned to the
Board, the Board may assign meeting recording duties to a Board member, who shall prepare minutes for the
Board’s approval. (Ord. 1136, §2, adopted 2012)
§1167 ATTENDANCE
If a Board member absents himself or herself from four (4) regular meetings in any twelve (12) month period
without the prior approval of the Board, the City Council member who appointed him or her may vacate that
Board member ’s seat and fill it as any other vacancy. (Ord. 1136, §2, adopted 2012)
§1168 BOARD TO ACT IN ADVISORY CAPACITY
Such Board shall act in an advisory capacity to the City staff, Zoning Administrator, Planning Commission and
City Council in all matters pertaining to site development permit applications, planned development applications
and precise development plans, and urban design. (Ord. 1136, §2, adopted 2012)
§1169 DUTIES OF THE BOARD
It shall be the function and duty of the Design Review Board to review proposed site development permit
applications, planned development applications and precise development plans, work with staff and the
applicants to ensure design consistency with the Ukiah General Plan, Zoning Code, and Design Review
Guidelines, review and make decisions on issuance of mural permits for murals on private commercial
structures, and make recommendations concerning architecture, site design layout, landscaping, parking,
signage, exterior lighting, and other aspects of urban design to City staff, Zoning Administrator, Planning
Commission and City Council as appropriate. (Ord. 1136, §2, adopted 2012; Ord. 1255, §2, adopted 2025)
The Ukiah City Code is current through Ordinance 1263, passed November 19, 2025.Page 36 of 37
Disclaimer: The City Clerk’s office has the official version of the Ukiah City Code. Users should contact the City Clerk’s office
for ordinances passed subsequent to the ordinance cited above.
City Website: https://www.cityofukiah.com/
City Telephone: (707) 463-6217
Codification services provided by General Code
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