About Us

Auto Dealers along Highway 101?

The Council recently approved an "overlay zone" that will allow auto dealers in
certain "light manufacturing" areas east of Highway 101.

Many of the commercial buildings on the east side of Highway 101 are now
vacant. Many of the buildings were built more than 30 years ago and, because of
code requirements since then, are unlikely to be reused in their current condition.

Anderson Honda and Carsen Audi are on Embarcardero, just beyond Mings
Restaurant. These dealerships are two of Palo Alto's largest and bring in
significant sales tax revenues to the City. In addition to sales tax revenues, local
dealerships allow our residents to service their vehicles conveniently.

The Council's approval of the overlay zone is an important signal to our auto
dealerships that we are willing to work with them to keep them, their sale tax
revenues and their services in Palo Alto.

The new overlay zone requires that the City Council review each application
individually so we can ensure the dealership will be compatible with the area.

Few issues today are simple or black and white. Almost
all have a complex past or deal with competing, valid
objectives. Please give me a call if you would like to
discuss this or other issues in more detail.

Bern