MAC Sends Large Parcel Issue to Nov. Vote

Agricultural landowners may soon be able to build larger structures on their land if an amendment to a current ordinance is passed by public vote this fall.

On Monday, the Castro Valley Municipal Advisory Council (MAC) took an initial step in getting the matter on the upcoming ballot by approving the language of the proposed ballot measure which would modify the amount of development allowed on certain agricultural parcels.

Properties that are designated “Large Parcel Agriculture” (LPA) currently allow a maximum building intensity of .01 Floor Area Ratio (FAR). For example, a 100-acre (4,356,00-square-feet) parcel with a FAR of 01 would be able to have a 1-acre (43,560-square-feet) of building area for non-residential buildings.

The new proposed amendment allows a FAR of .025 to all types of agricultural buildings on LPA properties. Additionally, a .025 FAR would be allowed for covered equestrian areas.

MAC member Chuck Moore is often a champion for agricultural causes and said the project has been in the works for over a decade.

“As we work through this process as a ballot measure, I think it’s important to support the agricultural area,” said Moore.

Following the MAC’s approval, the ballot language will be approved by the County Board of Supervisors and will be on the November 8, 2022, ballot.

The MAC also approved an application for a new eyebrow tattoo business at 20861 Wilbeam Avenue. The business wanted signage that read “Brows Studio and Academy, but the MAC felt that because no classes or instruction would be taking place on-site, the word “Academy” should not be used.

Moore suggested that the applicant come back with adjusted signage, but MAC Chair Ken Carbone said the matter could be handled at the meeting just by instructing the applicant to change the sign.

“We don’t want to create more obstacles for anybody,” said Carbons. “I think we can clear this up pretty easily.”