AGENDA ITEM
TO:
HONORABLE CHAIR
AND MEMBERS OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION
FROM:
SUSANA MARTINEZ
ASSOCIATE PLANNER
SUBJECT:
title
OPPORTUNITIES STUDY AREAS PROJECT UPDATE
summary
Summary:
To catalyze the redevelopment of vacant and underutilized properties across our compact 2.2-square-mile landlocked footprint, the City initiated the Opportunities Study Area (OSA) Project. Partnering with consulting firm PlaceWorks, the City established a market-tested, flexible regulatory framework designed to diversify its long-term tax base and achieve the highest and best use of land. Unlike traditional planning efforts based on internal wish lists, this framework is rooted in a comprehensive regional economic study confirming that Signal Hill can actively absorb and sustain the specific uses, densities, and scope of proposed development.
By aligning zoning with true market demand; paired with expanded by-right uses, flexible development standards, modernized parking, and streamlined entitlements, the City eliminates regulatory friction, expands building envelopes, and creates certainty for property owners. Crucially, to overcome upfront delays and costs associated with legacy oil field remediation, the City is proactively executing a municipally funded Programmatic Environmental Impact Report (PEIR) across the entire 243-acre project area. This programmatic CEQA coverage drastically lowers entry barriers, enhances land values, and ensures local project economics can compete directly with neighboring markets.
On November 10, 2026, the City Council received an update on the Opportunities Study Areas (OSA) Project and provided feedback regarding the proposed Overlay Zoning District (OZD) development standards and associated implementation strategies. Council expressed support for continuing to advance the project while identifying several components for additional consideration and refinement. Staff will provide Planning Commission with the same update as City Council and summarize the direction provided by City Council. A copy of the original staff report to City Council has been included as an attachment.
Strategic Plan Goal(s):
Goal No. 1 Financial Stability: Ensure the City’s long-term financial stability and resilience.
Goal No. 3 Economic & Downtown Development: Improve the local economy, support local businesses, and create a vibrant downtown core.
Goal No. 4 Infrastructure: Maintain and improve the City’s physical infrastructure, water system, and recreational spaces.
Goal No. 5 High-Functioning Government: Strengthen internal communication, recruitment, retentions, systems, and processes to increase the effectiveness and efficiency of City services.
recommendation
Recommendation:
Receive and file.
body
Attachment:
A. City Council Staff Report: Opportunities Study Areas Project Update, November 10, 2026