The 93-unit facility, near the American Red Cross, has 27 memory-care units and 66 assisted-living rooms for the area’s senior population. Photo courtesy of Yuba City

YUBA CITY, CA (MPG) - Maintaining one’s independence is critical to the quality of life.

That is one reason the Yuba City Planning Commission approved a permit application at the June meeting for a 93-unit skilled intermediate care facility adjacent to a residential development near the Yuba Sutter Dialysis Center and American Red Cross.

“Many seniors nowadays prefer to live independently and have their own space without having to make significant changes to their lifestyles,” Planning Commission Chair Jackie Sillman said. “To cater to this preference, the Planning Commission has approved a project to build new assisted-living communities.”

With no public opposition, the Planning Commission unanimously approved the project of 27 memory-care units and 66 assisted-living rooms by a 5-0 vote to allow the use permit application submitted by Galloway Group LLC. 

AICP Deputy Director of Development Services Doug Libby said California housing goals encourage various housing types at different price points to accommodate all citizens.

“Yuba City hasn’t had a facility such as this constructed in many years, and a project like this will provide an additional option and expand available inventory for aging residents,” Libby said.

 The Yuba City Planning Commission approval of the permit requires the developer to add more trees or hedges to the project for privacy. Photo courtesy of Yuba City

The Planning Commission chair noted how the new facility offers autonomy.

“These communities offer amenities such as a community dining room, a range of activities and the option for residents to eat in their rooms or dine out,” Sillman said. “This allows residents to enjoy their freedom while still having access to support when needed.”

Before any construction comes paperwork.

“The Yuba City Municipal Code requires approval of a use permit for this type of use when the property is zoned Office Commercial District (C-O) to address any compatibility, aesthetic or traffic issues that may be identified,” Libby said.

According to the staff report, the quality of the site and building design was a major component of the review for this project. Yuba City Design Guidelines mandated architectural elements consistent with area aesthetics, including inset windows and color and material types.

According to the Yuba City Municipal Code, there are also landscape mandates, which call for the developer to add more screening trees or hedges to the adjacent residential development.

Not just any tree can be planted. According to the staff report, the saplings must be on the Yuba City-approved street tree list.

“A final landscape plan will be provided at the time of building permit demonstrating compliance with State water-efficient landscape requirements,” the staff report states.

Along with the new assisted living facility, Libby said, it’s important to ensure that the senior population enjoys city amenities, including the Yuba Senior Center.

“The Senior Center, although funded by the City of Yuba City, is a regional asset because, in addition to Yuba City residents, it receives visitors from unincorporated Sutter County, Yuba County, Browns Valley, Colusa area and the cities of Gridley and Live Oak,” Libby said.

Libby said a construction timeline for the project was not provided.

“This is not unusual and would typically be developed after a use permit is approved,” Libby said. “The applicant has indicated they would like to construct the facility next year.” 

 The Yuba City Planning Commission approved a new 93-assisted living facility permit at the June 12 meeting. Photo courtesy of Yuba City