Criticism of San Rafael’s plan to establish a temporary village of cabins for homeless individuals has intensified, with residents expressing concerns at a recent City Council meeting. The proposed site, located at 350 Merrydale Road in the Terra Linda area, aims to provide shelter for up to 70 people through a project expected to begin operations in early 2026.
During the City Council meeting on November 27, 2023, numerous residents voiced their opposition to the project, citing a lack of transparency in the planning process. Ken Dickinson, a member of the group Marin Citizens for Solutions Not Secrecy, criticized the city’s handling of the situation, particularly its timing in releasing over 500 pages of documentation shortly before the vote. “For most residents, that made meaningful engagement impossible,” Dickinson remarked.
Residents are particularly concerned about the minutes from the November 17 meeting, which they claim do not adequately reflect the community’s sentiments. Dickinson pointed out that the city invoked an emergency ordinance to facilitate the shelter’s establishment without offering immediate solutions for winter relief. “Trust comes from alignment between what the city says and what the city does,” he asserted.
The issue has sparked further debate, with resident Marianne Nannestad urging for amendments to the minutes to ensure an accurate historical record. “The public deserves an accurate record of what actually happened,” she said. Rob Epstein, the City Attorney, defended the practice of using abbreviated minutes, stating that full recordings of meetings are available online for public review.
Critics, including resident Frank Mason, expressed frustration over the perceived lack of communication from city officials. Mason accused the mayor of blindsiding the community during a press conference announcing the shelter plan, describing the event as “theater” rather than genuine leadership.
Before the meeting, resident Gregory Andrews submitted a letter requesting the removal of an ordinance establishing standards for homeless shelters from the council agenda. He argued that the lack of a staff report warranted a thorough discussion. Andrews emphasized that the city’s homeless residents deserve compassion and assistance, stating, “The problem is you, mayor and council members. I don’t trust you, and I hope you hear that.”
Despite the backlash, the City Council unanimously approved the consent calendar, which included the minutes from the controversial meeting and the shelter ordinance. The approval comes in the wake of a growing opposition movement, with the Marin Citizens for Solutions Not Secrecy filing a court action seeking a temporary injunction against the city’s plans. The group alleges that important decisions regarding the shelter were made in closed sessions, which they argue violates the Brown Act, a law aimed at ensuring government transparency.
On November 24, 2023, Judge Sheila Shah Lichtblau denied the motion for a temporary injunction, allowing city officials to proceed with the property acquisition. City Manager Cristine Alilovich announced that the city successfully closed escrow on the property on November 26, solidifying plans for the shelter.
The project will feature 65 cabins equipped to support up to 70 residents, complemented by 24-hour security and support services. Additionally, the city has committed to developing an affordable housing project consisting of 80 apartments at the site once the shelter operation concludes, with a deadline for project entitlements set for June 30, 2028.
The city has scheduled community meetings for December 9 and January 14 to gather public input on the project, including the establishment of a “good neighbor policy.” As tensions mount, the outcome of these discussions may play a crucial role in shaping the future of San Rafael’s approach to addressing homelessness.
