HomeMy WebLinkAbout5/5/2025 Item 7a, Tjepkema
nate.tjepkema@gmail.com
Sent:
To:Advisory Bodies
Subject:Laurel Lane Property Appeals Hearing
Dear Board of Appeals,
This email is in regards to the Construction Board of Appeals meeting scheduled for Monday, May 5, 2025,
1:00 p.m – concerning the Laurel Lane property.
I am Nathanael Tjepkema and I am grateful to be living in San Luis Obispo where my appeal can be heard and
where I can work, worship, and drink responsibly at 1150 Laurel Lane.
Thank you for holding this hearing.
Our church had been on the move from location to location for years until recently. We were excited to finally
have a place to congregate indoors that could fit our growing church well, with spaces to accommodate
children, babies, and those with special needs. The church has been a blessing to my life and also to the city. I
have been a part of and seen the great work our church has done to help members of our community in need.
It is a cornerstone of our community, and it will be without a home if decided by the city.
I have also been working at office hours, which has given myself and many others the ability to work remotely
amongst each other. There are also numerous local businesses that work out of office hours creating jobs and
services for the city. Dozens of people and businesses will have to relocate if vacated by the city.
Bang the drum already had to move once because of decisions outside their control and for them to be forced
to move again would not be a good look on our city.
From what little I know about the state of the building, what I understand is that construction began just before
covid. I wouldn’t expect any major construction for close quarter tenancy to survive a market such as covid’s
without a major injection of capital. The owner has been gracious to our church, and I hope and pray that the
city is gracious and patient with the building owner.
Thank you,
Nathanael Tjepkema
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