HomeMy WebLinkAbout1/27/2021 Item 2, Gordon�.mNQm....
Re: Planning Commission neighborhood park at 533 Broad Street:
I am a resident with a home in close proximity to the proposed neighborhood park. I am writing with the
input other neighbors have shared and suggestions I feel vital to the plan's success.
I have observed the situation over years where the location has not been a place that I would want to sit
or enjoy because it has become a gathering for people who are bringing and leaving a lot of trash and
belongings with them and leaving this behind when they do not want it any longer.
Years ago the situation was different. People without homes did go there to spend time but did not
make it a place to stay. Now, in growing numbers, the number of homeless has increased. Around 10;00
P.M. the purpose to be there becomes shelter, eating and sleeping. Along with this there is a significant
amount of trash: bedding, food packaging, clothing and other items. This is often left -behind in the area
and on the sidewalk. There are instances of items belonging to the community- garden participants
being broken or misused. In one case, a storage piece had the lock broken with strangers leaving their
things inside and having the hose taken and used for a shower. There are also instances of neighbors
being asked for food and when not forthcoming, instances of foul language and threatening attitude
ensue. This also happens when children are present. The residents of the blocks around the area are
having shopping carts left in front of their homes and since the stores no longer pick them up if you call,
they become places to leave unwanted items.
At the very least, I put forward three suggestions to make this project a safe, neighborhood park we can
all be proud of. There must be lighting that will make the comings and goings visible and create a less
desirable sleeping space. There must be maintenance with frequent visits by city staff to see it is clean
and safe and respected. And there must be monitoring of exactly how the park is being used and what
problems may be arising before they become serious.
This city is well aware of the serious and increasing problem of those without homes. And San Luis
Obispo residents are well aware of the focus on much less important matters by those we elected to
make this a city that works for all. I will not dwell on that here although it is certainly relevant.
I will simply say that I believe if handled with creativity, responsibility and sensitivity to the needs and
safety of the neighborhood, this neighborhood park could become a very special and vital part of the
Anholm neighborhood.
Thank you, /
Marilyn Gordon
777 Lincoln Avenue
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405
JAN 2 2 2021
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