TO: HONORABLE CHAIR AND MEMBERS OF THE PLANNING
COMMISSION
FROM: Carl Stiehl, City Planner
PREPARED BY: Chris Tracy, AICP, Senior Planner
SUBJECT:
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Continuance of the Reintroduction of Hillside Ordinance Updates (DCA-2021-2396) to amend the Murrieta Development Code to the July 8th, 2026, Planning Commission Hearing
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RECOMMENDATION
recommendation
1. Open the public hearing for the item; and
2. Receive public comments for the item; and
3. Continue the Reintroduction of the Hillside Ordinance Updates (DCA-2021-2396) to amend the Murrieta Development Code to the July 8th, 2026, Planning Commission Hearing.
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BACKGROUND
On May 13, 2026, the Planning Commission held a noticed public hearing to consider a proposed Development Code Amendment (DCA-2021-2396) regarding hillside development. At that meeting, the Commission recommended continuing the item to allow staff to better clarify the definitions of "developed" and "undeveloped" hillside areas.
Staff was preparing the item for the June 10, 2026 hearing and had publicly noticed for this hearing. While that continuance from the May 13th hearing was initially slated for tonight, staff is now recommending a further continuance to the July 8, 2026, meeting. This is because the Planning Commission Chair is unable to attend the June 10th meeting and wishes to participate in the discussion. Because the Chair originally initiated the May 13th continuance to refine these definitions, it is appropriate to continue this item.
Therefore, because tonight's meeting was already publicly noticed, the public hearing portion must still be opened tonight to allow any community members in attendance to speak on the item. Following this, the item may be continued to the July 8th Planning Commission public hearing.