Marin IJ
3/24/07

Contested Loch Lomond plan advances
Jennifer Upshaw

Plans to develop a controversial housing project at Loch Lomond Marina are headed to the San Rafael Planning Commission next month.

The Design Review Board signed off on the contentious project, clearing the way for the commission's consideration April 24.

Community Development Director Bob Brown said the public will get to sound off on the project during what may be a lengthy hearing.

"The intent is to have the public hearing until all comments are received," he said. "So we'll go ideally as long as it takes."

The project will return to the commission May 8 for a vote. A date for City Council consideration has not been set. The project also must be approved by the Bay Conservation and Development Commission.

"We are pleased to move forward," said Mary McEachron, a land-use attorney representing the project, which is being developed by Sausalito-based Dorfman Partners LLC.

"What is significant about this project is how much it's been shaped, almost uniquely in my experience, by input," she said. "I know it sounds corny - in my mind it's a much better project. It's been a long painful project, but it's a much better project."

Proposed plans include 82 units of housing and 22,250 square feet of commercial space, including a 13,250-square-foot grocery store. Public park space and parking will be included. The marina will remain.

Plans for a market instead of a smaller convenience store have won rave reviews from the public. Residents said a full-service grocery store was a must.

Still, neighbors have concerns about the extent of the development, the number of residences, height, traffic, access and wildlife preservation.

"I think there's pretty much a consensus there needs to be development. The landowner has the right to develop the property," said Chris Petersen, vice president of the Loch Lomond Neighborhood Association. "I think there's also consensus that something extraordinary needs to be put there."

Of residents' concerns, he said: "We are hopeful that the city will listen to us and that these points can be worked out."