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Page 2 of 4 <br />staff on evaluating the City’s current zoning and permitting processes and opportunities to <br />support expansion of this industry sector in Pleasanton. <br /> <br />Since August 2024, the City has completed a review of its current industrial zoning <br />framework, received technical assistance and industry feedback, and identified key areas <br />of opportunity. The findings and recommendations prepared by Alex Greenwood were <br />provided to staff. <br /> <br />Key takeaways and recommendations are as follows: <br /> <br />KEY FINDINGS <br /> Existing Zoning Supports Industry – with Gaps: Pleasanton’s current industrial <br />zones (I-G and I-P) provide a reasonable foundation for biotech and life sciences <br />use. However, ambiguities and outdated terminology may limit flexibility. <br /> Target Industry Alignment: The biotech and advanced manufacturing industries <br />typically require high-performance, clean industrial space with flexible layouts and <br />scalable utility infrastructure — uses not always clearly permitted or encouraged <br />in current zoning. <br /> Life Science Sector Industry Timelines: Unlike most traditional industrial or <br />office uses, life science businesses often face accelerated timelines — from <br />securing a new round of funding to the time required to open a new lab facility. As <br />a result, these businesses favor zoning processes that are rapid, over-the-counter, <br />and flexible to meet specific industry site requirements. They prefer locations with <br />updated, streamlined zoning to avoid delays and uncertainty. To stay competitive, <br />Pleasanton's zoning should be updated to reflect the industry needs of the life <br />science sector. <br /> Competitive Advantage of Tri-Valley: Pleasanton is well-positioned to compete <br />regionally due to its quality of life, workforce, and emerging cluster of firms, but <br />zoning must be clear and supportive to maintain momentum. <br />RECOMMENDATIONS <br />1. Amend the Pleasanton Municipal Code (PMC) to Update Industrial Definitions <br />and Establish a Third Type of Industrial Use Definition: <br /> "Light industrial" category would be revised for less intrusive industrial <br />uses capable of operation in such a manner as to control the external effects <br />of manufacturing processes such as smoke, noise, vibration, soot, and <br />odor. It includes: <br />o Warehousing, storage, wholesaling, logistics, and distribution uses. <br />o Printing, contractors, and business services not generally patronized by <br />the general public.