NOVATO

City seeks proposals for public art project

The deadline is Jan. 31 for artists to submit proposals to decorate downtown utility boxes.

The project is a collaboration of the city, the Novato Chamber of Commerce and the Downtown Novato Business Association. The objective is to adorn seven utility boxes on or near Grant Avenue with art evoking Novato’s “natural landscapes, cultural moments, historic landmarks and vibrant community life,” according to the city.

The Recreation, Cultural and Community Services Advisory Commission will review submissions in February or March, and the artists will do the work in April or May. Artists will be eligible for up to $850 in reimbursement for supplies.

More information about the project and applications is online at shorturl.at/3swKS.

BELVEDERE

Penalty reduced for construction overrun

The City Council has reduced a $187,200 penalty for construction time limit violations at 30 Cliff Road.

The property owners had an 18-month permit to demolish their home and build a new one, then received a six-month extension, according to a report by the city planning office. The project did not clear final inspections until Nov. 5, exceeding the deadline by 201 days.

The owners appealed the penalty to the City Council, citing pandemic-related labor stoppages, unforeseen soil and logistical problems, weather delays and other factors. The planning staff recommended a partial reduction to knock 45 days and $54,000 off the total.

The council held a hearing on the appeal Monday and followed the staff’s recommendation, said Rebecca Markwick, the city’s planning and building director.

ROSS

Additions approved at ridgetop residence

The Town Council has approved a residential expansion project at 3 Quail Ridge.

The property owners sought permits to allow 536 square feet in additions at the 2,564-square-foot ridgetop home. They also proposed new decks, a spa, a larger driveway and other upgrades, according to the town planning office.

The council held a hearing on the proposal at its meeting on Thursday.

LEGISLATURE

Contest by Connolly seeks ideas for bills

Assemblymember Damon Connolly of San Rafael is accepting ideas for new state legislation as part of his third annual “there ought to be a law” contest.

The contest is open to residents in the 12th District, which includes Marin County and part of Sonoma County. Last year’s contest inspired Assembly Bill 2968, a law that requires schools in high wildfire risk zones to design evacuation plans.

The contest deadline is Jan. 31. Entries can be submitted online at a12.asmdc.org/there-ought-be-law.